Practice Test Geeks(CESSWI) Certified Erosion, Sediment, and Storm Water Inspector Practice Test
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Sediment Control BMPs Flashcards

7 cards from real CESSWI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Sediment Control BMPs flashcards as text

  1. A construction site inspector finds silt fence buried under 18 inches of sediment. What is the CORRECT action?

    Answer: Remove accumulated sediment and restore fence height

    When sediment accumulates to one-third to one-half the fence height, it must be removed to restore the fence's storage capacity and structural integrity.

  2. What is the purpose of the J-hook or 'J-turn' method when installing silt fence at the ends of a run?

    Answer: To prevent runoff from flowing around the ends of the fence

    Turning the ends of a silt fence upslope in a J-hook formation prevents concentrated flow from bypassing the barrier at the fence endpoints.

  3. According to general CESSWI standards, what minimum freeboard should remain above accumulated sediment in a sediment basin before cleanout is required?

    Answer: The basin should be cleaned when 50% of design storage is lost

    Most design standards require cleanout when sediment has reduced the basin's design storage volume by 50%, ensuring adequate capacity remains for future storm events.

  4. Which BMP is BEST suited to slow concentrated flow in a vegetated swale on a construction site?

    Answer: Fiber rolls or compost socks placed perpendicular to flow

    Fiber rolls or compost socks placed as check dams in vegetated swales slow flow velocity and trap sediment without completely blocking the swale.

  5. What is the recommended maximum ponding depth behind a silt fence before the fabric is considered overstressed?

    Answer: 12 inches

    Most silt fence installations are designed for a maximum ponding depth of 12 inches (1 foot); greater depths can cause fabric or post failure from hydrostatic pressure.

  6. Why should sediment control BMPs be installed BEFORE grading activities begin on a construction site?

    Answer: To intercept sediment before it can leave the site during the first rain event

    Installing sediment controls before grading ensures that any runoff from the first storm event after disturbance is captured before sediment leaves the site.

  7. A wattled straw roll is placed on a slope. Which orientation relative to the slope contours is CORRECT?

    Answer: Perpendicular to the slope, along the contour

    Straw wattles must be installed perpendicular to the slope (along the contour) to intercept sheet flow across the slope and allow sediment to settle behind the roll.