North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

What is the leading reason for erosion and sediment control plan failure?

1. Poor materials

2. Lack of maintenance

3. Improper design

4. Environmental conditions

The correct answer is: Lack of maintenance

The leading reason for erosion and sediment control plan failure is often attributed to a lack of maintenance. An erosion and sediment control plan outlines measures to minimize soil erosion and manage sediment runoff during construction and land-disturbing activities. However, for these measures to be effective, they require regular inspection and maintenance. If maintenance is overlooked, even the best-designed erosion controls can become ineffective. For instance, sediment traps can fill up with sediment over time, reducing their effectiveness, and vegetation that stabilizes soil may not thrive without proper care. Constant monitoring allows for timely interventions to address any failures or deterioration in the control systems. Therefore, consistent and proactive maintenance is crucial in sustaining the effectiveness of erosion and sediment control plans. While other factors like poor materials, improper design, and environmental conditions can contribute significantly to failures, the absence of diligent maintenance directly hampers the intended function of these control measures and is a common oversight that leads to challenges in managing erosion effectively.