Best Practices for Zero Retaining Wall Failures - Inspection and Testing Recommendations

With any retaining wall project, inspection and testing requirements should be established before providing a design. An independent testing firm should be hired by the owner to provide these services.

The size and scope of a project will determine the levels of testing and inspection, and testing frequency should be set to establish a proper compaction protocol.  

Typically, the following testing frequency should be followed:

One test for every 8 in (20 cm) of vertical fill placed and compacted, for every 25 lineal ft (7.6 m) of retaining wall length, starting on the first course of block.

Compaction test locations should vary to cover the entire area of the reinforced zone, and slopes above the wall should be compacted and checked in a similar manner.  (ref. BP, Chapter 6.6)

Allan Block is working to achieve our industry initiative of Zero Wall Failures. With our Best Practices Manual and experience in the industry we are trying to expand the knowledge base for the design of segmental retaining walls (SRW's) by communicating and educating the professionals in the industry.  To see the full Best Practices Manual, visit allanblock.com to download today and keep an eye out for more industry Best Practice recommendations here.