This test method quantifies the ability of a sediment retention device (SRD) to retain eroded sediments caused by sheet flowing water under full-scale conditions. This test method may also assist in identifying physical attributes of SRDs that contribute to their erosion control performance.

The effectiveness of SRDs is installation dependent. Thus, replicating field installation techniques is an important aspect of this test method. This test method is full-scale and therefore, appropriate as an indication of product performance, for general comparison of product capabilities, and for assessment of product installation techniques.

Note 1—Test Method D 5141 is an alternate test method for evaluating sediment retention device effectiveness, if it is not necessary to simulate field installation conditions.

Note 2—The quality of the result produced by this standard is dependent on the competence of the personnel performing it, and the suitability of the equipment and facilities used. Agencies that meet the criteria of Practice D 3740 are generally considered capable of competent and objective testing/sampling/inspection/etc. Users of this standard are cautioned that compliance with Practice D 3740 does not in itself assure reliable results. Reliable results depend on many factors: Practice D 3740 provides a means of evaluating some of those factors.

1.1 This test method establishes the guidelines, requirements and procedures for evaluating the ability of Sediment Retention Devices (SRDs) to retain sediment when exposed to sediment-laden water "sheet" flows.

1.2 This test method is applicable to the use of an SRD as a vertical permeable interceptor designed to remove suspended soil from overland, nonconcentrated water flow. The function of an SRD is to trap and allow settlement of soil particles from sediment laden water. The purpose is to reduce the transport of eroded soil from a disturbed site by water runoff.

1.3 The test method presented herein is intended to indicate representative performance and is not necessarily adequate for all purposes in view of the wide variety of possible sediments and performance objectives.

1.4 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. The inch-pound values given in parentheses are provided for information purposes only.

1.5 All observed and calculated values shall conform to the guidelines for significant digits and rounding established in Practice D 6026.

1.5.1 The procedures used to specify how data are collected/recorded and calculated in this standard are regarded as the industry standard. In addition, they are representative of the significant digits that should generally be retained. The procedures used do not consider material variation, purpose for obtaining the data, special purpose studies, or any consideration for the users objectives; and it is common practice to increase or reduce significant digits of reported data to commensurate with these considerations. It is beyond the scope of this standard to consider significant digits used in analysis methods for engineering design.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.