Louisiana Contractors License Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of sediment control measures?

1. A retaining wall

2. A silt fence

3. A concrete barrier

4. A drainage ditch

The correct answer is: A silt fence

Sediment control measures are specifically designed to prevent sediment from leaving a construction site and entering water bodies or other areas. A silt fence is an effective and common sediment control measure that is used to filter out sediment from runoff water. It typically consists of a geotextile fabric that is supported by posts and is installed around the perimeter of a construction site. The silt fence effectively captures sediment from water flowing over the disturbed soil, allowing the water to pass while retaining the sediment. In contrast, retaining walls, concrete barriers, and drainage ditches serve different purposes. Retaining walls are primarily used for structural support and soil retention on slopes; concrete barriers can provide traffic control or structural support but do not function to control sediment specifically; and drainage ditches are utilized for managing water flow rather than directly preventing sediment movement. Therefore, the silt fence stands out as a focused solution for controlling sediment, fulfilling the definition of a sediment control measure effectively.