Project Implementation: Classification of Organic Soils and Classification of Marls—Training of INDOT Personnel

Abstract

This is an implementation project for the research completed as part of the following projects: SPR‐3005 ‐ Classification of Organic Soils and SPR‐3227 – Classification of Marl Soils. The methods developed for the classification of both soils have been incorporated in Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) standard specification 903.05 and 903.06 respectively. Both projects included recommendations for implementation that reflected input from the project administrator and study advisory committee. A specific recommendation from both projects was that INDOT soil technicians be trained to perform the required tests and classify soils based on the revised classification systems. This project was initiated to carry out the implementation of those recommendations. The project scope includes development of training material for instruction about the performance of the revised classification tests and methods, training to pertinent INDOT personnel, integration of the revised classification system into INDOT’s standards, and establishment of a resource database for future training of INDOT personnel. Within the general scope outlined above,the specific objectives of the proposed work were to: 1) administer training to select INDOT personnel and interested representatives from the geotechnical consulting/construction community; and 2) develop training materials to be used by INDOT to train additional personnel. These two general objectives were accomplished through four specific tasks: 1) Collection of Sample Soils for Testing and Classification; 2) Development of Training Material (a PowerPoint presentation with concise instructional handouts; supporting classification examples from a variety of soils; and a short manual summarizing the classification system for both soils with supporting examples); 3) Delivery of Training Sessions for INDOT personnel, as well as representatives from select geotechnical consultants and contractors; and 4) Production of a Training Video.