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REINFORCED EARTH

Construction and Quality ControlProcedures Manual

Cruciform Panels

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CONSTRUCTION AND QUALITY CONTROLPROCEDURES MANUAL

CONTENTS

I. Preface................................................................................................................................................4

II. Non-Disclosure and Disclaimer...........................................................................................................5

III. Introduction..........................................................................................................................................6 A. Purpose......................................................................................................................................6 B. Responsibilities..........................................................................................................................6 C. Plans,Specifications,Layout.....................................................................................................6 D. Components..............................................................................................................................7 E.MaterialsandServicesProvidedbyTheReinforcedEarthCompany.......................................7 F. Equipment,MaterialsToolsandWorkSuppliedbytheContractor............................................8

IV. HandlingReinforcedEarthMaterials A. Concrete Facing Panels...........................................................................................................10 B. Reinforcing Strips, Fasteners and Joint Materials...................................................................11

V. Construction Procedures...................................................................................................................13A. Overview..................................................................................................................................13ErectingTolerances.................................................................................................................15

B. Foundation Preparation...........................................................................................................15 C.ErectingtheInitialPanelCourse.............................................................................................16 D. Joint Materials..........................................................................................................................17 E.Backfilling................................................................................................................................18 F. Reinforcing Strips....................................................................................................................20 G. Constructing Second and Subsequent Courses.....................................................................21 H. CompletionofWall..................................................................................................................22

VI. Condition-CauseRelationships..........................................................................................................23

VII. Appendix A. FacingPanelTypesandNomenclature...................................................................................24 B. GlossaryofTerms....................................................................................................................27 C. SafetyTipsforUnloadingReinforcedEarthProducts.............................................................28 D. CompanyLocationsandContactInformation..........................................................................29

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I. Preface

This Construction and Quality Control Procedures Manual has been prepared as a guide in buildingReinforcedEarthstructures.

ItscontentsshouldbethoroughlyreviewedbytheContractor,thesuperintendentandtheforemanresponsibleforconstructionpriortothedeliveryofReinforcedEarthmaterialstothejobsite.

TheReinforcedEarthCompanywillprovideconstructionadvisorstoassisttheContractorintheimplementationofcorrectconstructionprocedures.However,intheeventofanyconflictbetweenthePlans,SpecificationsorContractDocumentsandthisManual, theformerwillprevail. If there isanydoubtwithregardtoanyaspectoftheReinforcedEarthconstruction,contactTheReinforcedEarthCompanybeforecommencingorcontinuingwork.

TheReinforcedEarthCompanysuppliesprecast concrete facingpanelsandaccessories tobeused inconjunctionwithothermaterials in theconstructionofReinforcedEarth retainingwallsdetailed from theconstructiondrawings.TheconstructionandqualitycontrolproceduresmanualfurnishedbyTheReinforcedEarthCompanyisintendedtoprovideageneralexplanationofthesystem.ItistheContractor’sobligationtodeviseandexecuteaprojectspecificerectionsequence,panelunloading,handlingandbracingsystem,andfallprotectionsystem.Thebracingsystemshown in theconstructionandqualitycontrolproceduresmanualisgeneralinnatureanddoesnotaccountforprojectspecificcriteria.Compliancewiththeguidelinesinthismanualdoesnotrelievethecontractorofitsresponsibilitytoadheretotheprojectplans,specificationsandcontractdocumentsorcompliancewithallfallprotection,safetylaws,standardsandproceduresatthejobsite.Contractorsshouldtakespecialprecautionstopreventthepanelsfromshiftingorfallingduringtheerection process.

©2011TheReinforcedEarthCompany.TheinformationcontainedinthisConstructionandQualityControlProceduresManualisprovidedasaguidelinefortheconstructionofReinforcedEarth®structurescomprisedofcertainmaterialssuppliedbyTheReinforcedEarthCompany.ThisManualisnotbeusedforanyotherpurpose.ReproductionofthecontentsofthisdocumentinwholeorpartwithoutthewrittenconsentofTheReinforcedEarthCompanyisexpresslyprohibited.Allrightsreserved.

“ReinforcedEarth”,thecruciformshapeofthepanelsandtheReinforcedEarthlogoareregisteredtrademarksofTheReinforcedEarthCompany.

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II. Non-Disclosure Notice and Disclaimer

1. ThisDocumentisthepropertyofTheReinforcedEarthCompany,withheadquartersat8614WestwoodCenterDrive,Suite1100,Vienna,Virginia,22182,andcontainsinformation,whichisproprietarytoTheReinforcedEarthCompany.ThisDocument isbeingmadeavailablesolely foruse inconnectionwithyourinterestorparticipationintheproposedReinforcedEarthproject,andfornootherpurpose.

2. Exceptasspecifiedintheparagraphaboveyoumustnot,withoutthepriorexpresswrittenconsentofTheReinforcedEarthCompany,useanyoftheinformationcontainedinthisDocumentwhethertoconstruct,design,manufacture,fabricate,assemble,produceorinstall,orotherwiseutilize-orcausethesameoranyofthemtobedone-anyelementsofReinforcedEarth(whetherornotpatented),orspecialformsofequipmentuniquetotheproduction,manufacture,fabrication,assembly,installation,orutilizationofReinforcedEarth,orforanyotherpurpose.

3. ThisDocumentandtheinformationcontainedhereinmustnotbecopiedordisclosedinanymannerorform,inwholeorinpart,toanythirdpartywithoutthepriorexpresswrittenconsentofTheReinforcedEarthCompany.

4. ReceiptofDocumentgivesnoentitlementtoanypropertyright intheDocumentor intheinformationcontainedthereinbyvirtueofthetemporarysupplyoftheDocumentinaccordanceherewith.

5. ReinforcedEarthstructuresdesignedbyTheReinforcedEarthCompanycompriseorarebasedsolelyupon:

(a) TheinternalstabilityoftheReinforcedEarthstructurebaseduponthedesignassumptions notedonalldrawingsprovidedbytheTheReinforcedEarthCompanyrelatingtothe structureandtheexternalloads,surchargesandsitegeometriessuppliedbyoronbehalfof theOwner.

(b) Thelayoutandgeometryofthestructurebaseduponsurveydetails,plansand drawingssuppliedbyoronbehalfoftheOwner;and

(c) TheJobSpecifications.

Thedesigndoesnotincludeacheckoftheoverallstabilityofthefoundationsoilsbeloworbehindthestructure,noracheckofanypotentialfailureplanesexternaltothestructure,noracheckofthestabilityofanypermanentortemporaryslopesaboveorbelowthewallortemporaryexcavations.Basedonthecompletenessandaccuracyoftheaboveinformationusedorrelieduponindesigningthestructure,TheReinforcedEarthCompanywarrantstheinternalstabilityofthestructureonly.

6.Upondemand,theDocumentandallcopiesthereofmustbeimmediatelysurrenderedandreturnedtoTheReinforcedEarthCompany.


III. IntroductionReinforcedEarth®isacompositematerial formedbytheinteractionbetweenafrictionalsoilandreinforcingstrips.Inconcept,itislikereinforcedconcrete;thatis,ReinforcedEarthisaneconomicalmeansofimprovingthemechanicalpropertiesofbasicmaterial,earth,byreinforcingitwithanother,steel.

The reinforcing strips resist stressesproducedwithinthesoilmass;stressesaretransferredtothestripsviafriction.

A Reinforced Earth structure constructed using thistechniqueisshownasthe“reinforcedvolume”inFigure1.PrecastConcretepanelsareusedatthefaceofthereinforcedvolumetopreventerosionofthebackfillandtoprovideanattractive,finishedappearance.

The Contractor and Owner should verify that the Contractor’s on-site erection personnel are in possession of and are familiar with the recommendations of this Procedures Manual.

TechnicalAdvisorsfromtheReinforcedEarthCompanyare available on site during initial construction and thereafter on a request basis. They may assist theContractor withmaterial scheduling and coordinationand provide advice on recommended construction proceduresforReinforcedEarthstructuresassetoutinthismanual.

Technical Advisors are not available on-site on a full-time basis, and are not provided with the intent of replacing the Owner’s and Contractor’s designated quality control and/or inspection staff.

C. Plans, Specifications, and Layout

• Priortocommencinganysitework,thecontractorshould verify that the latest issue of the Plans,Specifications,andContractDocuments-approvedforconstruction-arebeingusedtobuildtheretainingwall.

• TheContractorshouldalsoconfirmthattheretainingwallisbeingconstructedattheproperlocationbyverifyingelevation,line,grade,offset,andallotherlocation criteria.

Only the Engineer can Enforce the requirements of the Plan, Specifications, and Contract Documents. A. Purpose

This document is intended to provide the Owner,Contractor,Engineerandtheinspectionstaff,thosewhoareresponsibleforoverallqualitycontrolandinspectionduring construction with the criteria necessary tomonitortheerectionofReinforcedEarthstructuresforcompliancewiththePlans,Specifications,andContractDocuments.

Figure 1

B. Responsibilities

It is the Contractor’s responsibility to completeconstruction in strict accordance with the Plans,Specifications, and Contract Documents. To assistthe Contractor in this regard, The Reinforced EarthCompanyprovidesrecommendederectionproceduresinthismanual.NothinginthisdocumentisintendedtorelievetheContractoroftheresponsibilityofcomplyingwithallsafetystandardsandconstructionprocedures,includingfallprotection,atthejobsite.

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D. Components

ReinforcedEarthstructuresconsistofthefollowing:

Concrete Leveling Pad – A cast-in-place or precast unreinforcedconcretelevelingpadservesasasmooth,level surface for placing panels. Generally this padis6-in. thickand12-in.wide.Refer to thePlansandSpecificationsfordimensionsandrequirements.

Precast Concrete Facing Panels• Full-size–orAn–panelsareusedforthemajority

of the structure. The subscript “n” in paneldesignations indicates the number of reinforcingstripconnectionsortiestripsoneachpanel.

• HalfsizeorBn–panelsarealternatelyusedintheinitial coursewith the full sizepanels. PnandQn panelsmayalsobeusedontheinitialcourse.Top-course panels are designated Cn, Dn, En, Fn, Gn, Hn, Kn,andLn panels.Thesepanelsallhaveaflattop.

Speciallycut,bent,orslopingpanelsasrequiredbythegeometryofthestructure.

For further information, see theAppendix,which listsmostpaneltypes,designationsandsurfaceareas.

Facing Panel Joint Materials • Rubberbearingpadsareplaced in thehorizontal

jointsthroughoutthestructuretopreventconcreteto concrete contact. Rubber shims are used asneededtoadjustforminorvariationsinpanelheight.

• Filtercloth isappliedwithadhesive to thebackfillside of the panels to cover all the horizontal andverticalpaneljoints.

Reinforcing Strips • Ribbedstripsaresuppliedina50-mm(2-in.)width

andvaryinglengthsasrequiredbythedesignofthestructure.

• HighAdherence(HA)ladderstripsaresuppliedin100-mm(4-in.)widthandvaryinglengthasrequiredbythedesignofthestructure.

Both types of reinforcing strips are either galvanizedforpermanentapplicationsorblacksteelfortemporaryapplications.

Fasteners – During construction, reinforcing strips arefastenedtotiestripconnectionsembeddedinthebackofeachfacingpanelusing½-in. diameter bolts, washersandnutsmadeofgalvanizedstructuralsteel.

Select Granular Backfill – Backfill conforming toContract Specifications must be used within the reinforced volume.

E. Materials and Services Provided by The Reinforced Earth Company

• Engineering and design of the Reinforced Earthstructure

• Precast concrete facing panels• Horizontalandverticaljointmaterialandadhesive• Reinforcing strips• Bearingpadsandshims• Structuralbolts,washerandnuts• One set of panel lifting devices• Delivery of The Reinforced Earth Company

furnished materials to the site (F.O.B.) with twohoursoftimeallowedforunloading

• Initialon-sitetechnicalassistanceReinforcing strips, bolt sets, filter fabric, adhesive,bearingpads,andotherspecialitemsprovidedbyTheReinforcedEarthCompanyarebundledandpackedtominimizedamageinunloadingandhandling.

Materials should be thoroughly inspected upon delivery to the job site. Any damaged items should be set aside and The Reinforced Earth Company notified immediately. Materials should be handled and stored to prevent damage or theft. Filter fabric must be stored in a sheltered location and protected from sunlight. Adhesive must be stored in dry location and protected from the elements.

Certificates of compliance with project specificationsforallmaterialsarefurnishedbyTheReinforcedEarthCompany.However,itistheContractor’sresponsibilitytoverify thatallmaterials receivedat the jobsitearein accordance with shipping documents and projectrequirements. Anydiscrepancies shouldbe reportedtoTheReinforcedEarthCompanyimmediately.

To prevent construction delays, the Contractor should continuously monitor the quantity of materials on hand to ensure an adequate supply consistent with the Plans, Specifications, and Contract Documents.


Summary of Work Performed by Contractor

• Site preparation including shoring, excavation andinstallationofdrainagesystemsasrequired.

• Formingandpouringconcretelevelingpad(s).• Markwalllayoutlineonlevelingpad(s).• Construction of the Reinforced Earth structure

consistingof theerectionandpositioningof facingpanels, installation of joint materials, connectionof reinforcing strips, placement and compaction of SelectGranularBackfill.

• Placementofanyconcretecoping,trafficbarrier,orotherC.I.P.Concreteasrequired.

F. Equipment, Materials, Tools and Work Supplied by ContractorMaterials and Equipment supplied by the Contractor:

• Panel lifting – A hydraulic crane, boom truck orsimilar equipment is required. A standard 5½-in. thickAn facingpanelsweighs1,700lbs:a71/6-in.thickAnpanelsweighs2,100lbs;theheaviestplainfinishpanelweighs 3,000 lbs. Panelswith architecturalfinishmaybeheavier.

• Backfilling – Dump trucks, scrapers, dozers,graders, front-end loaders, water trucks, etc, areused for hauling dumping and spreading backfill.(Specificequipmentselectionwilldependonbackfill,liftthickness,compactionspecifications,etc).

• Compaction–Largesmooth-drumvibratoryrollersare used for mass compaction of most backfills.Fineuniformsandsarecompactedusingasmooth-drum static roller.

• Small walk-behind vibrating rollers or flat-platecompactorsareneeded forcompactionwithin3 ft.of facing panels.

• ¾-in.WoodenSpacers(Figure2D).• Woodenwedges inaquantityat leastsufficient to

provide4to6wedgesperverticaljointforthelengthofstructureunderconstruction(Figure2C).

• Clamps, one per vertical joint for the length ofstructure under construction. Additional clamps willbeneededtobracetheinitialcourseofpanels(Figure2Aand2B).

• Nylonslingsforunloadingpanelstacks.• Lumberfortheinitialcourseofpanels(Figures13,

17and18)• 24-in.to30-in.Crowbars(pinchbars)• A 4 ft. carpenter level• Wrenchesorsocketsets(7/8-in.)• Clawhammersand16pennyduplexnails• A Sledge Hammer• Chalkline• Broomsorbrushes• A plumb bob• Equal length cables with shackles to connect to

panel lifting devices• LargeSizeCaulkingGunfor(2)lbtubes• SurveyEquipment

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Requiredclampopeningmaybewiderthan7”ifpanelshaveanarchitecturalfinsih

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Figure 2C

Figure 2D


IV. Handling Reinforced Earth MaterialsA. Concrete Facing Panels

Panel Delivery-Priortothestartofconstruction,theContractorshouldestablishapaneldeliveryschedulethat will allow The Reinforced Earth Company’sprecastertomatchtheirpanelproductionanddeliverytotheContractor’sconstructionschedule.

Panelsareusuallydeliveredonflatbedtrailersinstacksoffourorfivepanelshigh.Thedeliverypointismadeasclosetotheretainingwallsasatruckcanbedrivenunder its own power.

Panelsshouldbefreeofanysurfacedefectsthatmayoccur in transportation, unloading, or storage at theconstruction site, including:• Chippedorbrokenfrontcorners.• Permanent stains on exposed face.• Acrackinpanel’sexposedface.Thesepanelsmayberepairedbeforetheyareusedinthestructure.

Unloading Panels -Undernormalconditions,a two-hourunloadingperiodisallowedperdeliverytounloadpanels.Inthistime,panelsmaybeplaceddirectlyintothestructurebeingconstructedortemporarilystackedfollowingeitherofthesemethods:

1. byusingliftingdevicestoliftandhandleindividualpanels(Figure3)OR

2. byusingnylonslingstoliftandhandleindividualorstacksofpanels(Figure4)

Care must be taken to protect facing panels fromdamageduringhandlingandstorage.

Panels can be stored at the job site by re-stacking.Select a location with firm, level ground for bothstabilityandtoprotectpanelsfromstaining.Carefullyliftandplaceeachpanelfacedownonthenylonpadsof thedunnage. Stacksshouldbenomore thanfivepanelshighwithdunnageusedbetweeneachpanelasillustrated in Figure 5.

Figure 3

Never re-stack panels without dunnage. Never place panels face down directly on the ground. Never stand panels up on end.

Figure 4

Any repairs to panels must be completed to the satisfaction of the Engineer.

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Note: All dunnage and pallets remain the property of The Reinforced Earth Company. They should be stacked and made available for pick-up as soon as they are no longer needed for panel storage.

Panel Storage - Panels should be securely set andblockedonfirm, levelgroundtopreventdamageandstaining during storage.

Figure 5

B. Reinforcing Strips, Fasteners, and Joint Materials

Reinforcing strips - Stripsmaybeup to 32 ft. longand are delivered to the site in bundles of 25 each.Eachbundleweighsapproximately30lbs.perlinearft.Storageintheopenisacceptablebutbundlesshouldnotbeplaceddirectlyontheground(Figure6A).

High Adherence (HA) Ladder Reinforcing Strips - alternatereinforcementtype(Figure6B).

Figure 6A

Figure 6B

Figure 5


Bearing Pads - Rubber bearing pads are packed incartonseachweighing50to75lbs(Figure7).

Fasteners -Setsof500bolts,washersandnutsarepacked in containers, eachweighing 125 lbs (Figure7A).

Figure 7

Figure 7A

Filter cloth-Filterclothissuppliedin18-in.widerolls.Foamstrips (if required)aresupplied inplasticbags,eachcontainingupto100ofthe2-in2,7to9ft.strips.Inadditiontonormalsecurity,filterclothandfoammustbe stored in a sheltered location, protected from theelements(Figure8).

Figure 8

Adhesive - Adhesive for filter cloth is supplied inappropriatecontainers.Adhesivetubesmustbestoredin a dry location and protected from the elements(Figure9).

Figure 9

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V. Construction ProceduresA. Overview

The basic erection sequence for a Reinforced Earthstructurecanbesummarizedinthesesteps:• Preparethesiteincludingexcavationandinstallation

ofdrainagesystemsifrequired.• Form and pour leveling pad (see Step B-3 for

tolerances).• Set and brace the initial course of facing panels,

which consists of alternating half- and full-heightpanels.

• Usewood wedges and clamps to hold panels inposition.

• Attachfilterclothwithadhesive.• Spread and compact backfill in lifts up to 1 to 2

inchesabovethelowestlevelofpaneltiestrips• Connect reinforcing strips to panel tie strips.• Spreadandcompactbackfillinliftstowithin3to5

inchesofthetopofthehalfpanels.• Placebearingpadsandset thesecondcourseof

full panels• Repeatcycleofbackfillingandcompactinginlifts,

connecting strips, placing filter cloth and bearingpads and setting panels until design height isreached.

• Aseachcourseiscompleted,removethewoodenwedgesfromthepanelsinthecoursethreelevelsbelow.

• Settoppanels;connectstrips,completebackfillingand compaction.

• Remove all wedges and clamps.• Installconcretecoping,trafficbarriers,oranyC.I.P.

concrete as required.

The finished appearance of a Reinforced Earthstructuredependstoalargeextentonthecaretakeninerectingandpositioningfacingpanels.Forthisreason,particularattentionmustbepaidtotheinitialcourseoffacingpanelsandtobackfillplacement.

Closeattentiontodetailandaccuracyatthispointwillhelpensuretroublefreeandrapidconstructionoftheremainderofthestructure.

Lifting, Placing and Spacing Panels - Panels can be liftedfromthehorizontal,orstackedposition,directlytoaverticalpositionbyattachingaliftingdevicetoeachof the twocast-in-place lifting insertsat the topedgeof thepanel (Figure3). Usedunnageasblocking topreventdamageaseachpanelrotatesfromhorizontaltovertical(Figure10).

Figure 10

The following position, alignment and procedures should be reviewed prior to the start of construction.

Figure 10 Figure 11

Figure 9

Aseachpanelisloweredintoitsplaceinthestructure,usethe¾-in.woodenspacertoachieveapproximatelya ¾-in.joint(Figure11).


Check alignment - Visually check the alignment ofeachpanel inrelationtoeitherthecontrol lineontheleveling pad for the initial course of panels or to thepanelbelowinsubsequentcourses.Makeadjustmentswith a crowbar on the fill sides of the panel (Figure12)so that thesurfacesofsuccessivepanelcoursesare aligned. Do not attempt to adjust the panel byusingthecrowbaronthefrontside–thiscanresultinunacceptablechippingorspalling.

Adjustpanelbasetothefront

Adjustpanelbasetotherear

ADJUST PANEL ALIGNMENTFigure 11

Figure 12

Check horizontal level. Thehorizontallevelofeachpanelshouldbecheckedandadjustedinordertoassureauniformappearanceandeven joints throughout thestructure. Small rubber shims are provided to aid inlevelingthepanels.

Figure 12

Figure 13

Set Batter -Panelsmustbegivenaslightbatter,ortilt, toward the backfill in order to compensate for asubsequent outwardmovement, which occurs duringbackfill placement and compaction. This movementwill tend topush thepanel toa trueverticalposition.Measurebatterusinga4ft.level(Figure14).

Figure 14

Setthebatterbypullingbackonthetopof thepanelfromthefillside.Batteroftheinitialcoursecanbesetwith turn buckles. To maintain the batter, drive onewoodenwedgefromthefaceofthestructureintoeachoftheshorthorizontalpaneljointsattheshoulderofthepaneland/or thevertical jointandclampthepanel totheadjacentpanels(Figures16,17and18).

The horizontal panel joint wooden wedges should remain in place during the erection of three subsequent courses but must be promptly removed. If wedges are left in place for more than three courses, removal will be difficult and spalling can occur. Vertical joint wooden wedges must be removed prior to placement of the next panel course.

Asshown inFigure13,usea4 ft. level toverify thatthenewpanelislevel.Thensightbackalongthetopsof the panels to ensure that the new panel is at theelevationoftheothersinitscourse.

Correctanyvariationsby lifting thepanelslightlyandinsertingrubbershimsinthehorizontaljointatthepanelbase. Recheckthehorizontalspacingandalignmentafteranysuchadjustment.

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Monitor the actual movement of panels during theplacementandcompactionofeachliftofbackfill;adjusttheamountofbatteraccordingtofieldconditions.

Vertical Alignment Check-Duringconstruction,checktheoverallverticalityofthestructureusingaplumbbob.Thisshouldbedoneonpanelscompletelybackfilled.Makeanychangesinbatternecessarytoassurethatfinalverticalityiswithintolerances(seespecifications),in subsequent lifts of panels.

Erection Tolerances• The overall vertical alignment tolerance, or

plumbness, from top to bottom of the structure,shallnotexceed¾-in.,per10ft.ofheight.

• The maximum allowable offset between any twopanelsshallnotexceedoneinch.

• Horizontalandvertical jointsshouldbeuniform inappearance.

Vertical and horizontal alignment tolerance, and plumbness, shall not exceed 3/4-in. when measured with a 10 ft. straight edge on a selected wall section. Vertical and horizontal alignment should be checked at every course throughout the erection process.

Corrective action should be taken immediately when any of the specified tolerances are exceeded.

Evaluation and approval of foundation suitability is the responsibility of the Engineer. Any foundation soils found to be unsuitable shall be removed and replaced with material approved by the Engineer. The material shall then be compacted, as directed by the Engineer, to a density suitable for the bearing pressure as shown on the Plans, Specifications, and Contract Documents.

Foundation evaluation and control are critical; the behavior and performance of a Reinforced Earth structure is largely dependent upon the foundation on which the reinforced volume is placed.

The amount of batter varies and depends on thetype and moisture content of the backfill, requiredcompaction,typeofcompactionequipment,andlengthof the reinforcing strips. A batter of½-in. in 4 ft. is generally used as a starting point. Coarse backfill,suchascrushedstone,mayrequirelessbatter,whilefinebackfill,suchassand,mayrequiremore.

B. Foundation Preparation

Step B-1: Excavation-ExcavatethesitetothedepthandwidthspecifiedonthePlansforthelengthofthesection to be built. Remove all unsuitable material and replaceit,asnecessary,withcompactedfillasdirectedbytheEngineer.

Step B-2: Drainage System(s) - Installanydrainagesystem(s)asrequiredbythePlansandSpecificationsorasdirectedbytheEngineer.

Step B-3: Leveling Pad -An unreinforced smoothfinishconcretelevelingpadisformedandcastateachfoundation elevation. Leveling pads have nominaldimensionsof6-in.thickby1ft.wideandarecastusinga minimum 2,000-psi, 28-day compressive strengthconcrete.Levelingpadsshouldcureforaminimumof12hoursbeforethesettingofpanels.

Leveling padsmust be cast to the design elevationsas shown on the Plans. The allowable elevationtolerancesare+0.01 ft (1/8-in) and–0.02 ft. (1/4-in.) atdesign elevation.

If the Plans call for the structure to have a step-upin elevation, pour the higher leveling pad so that itssurfaceis1.23or2.46ft.abovethoseofthelowerpaddependingonthePlans.Leavea1ft.maximumgapbetweenthehigherpadandthestartofthelowerpadatthestep-uplocation(Figure15).

An improperly placed leveling pad can result in subsequent panel misalignment and decreased wall construction productivity.

IfrequiredbytheSpecificationsandasdirectedbytheEngineer,proof-rollthefoundationtoadensitysuitablefor thebearingpressureshownon thePlans. In theevent of an over-excavation of the sub-grade, theEngineermustapprovethegradation,placement,andcompaction of replacement material.


Figure 14 Figure 15

Step B-4: Wall Line -On the levelingpadestablisha layout line for the face of the structure. This maybedifferent than thewall’sLOLgiven in thecontractdocuments.

C. Erecting the Initial Panel Course

Step C-1: Panel Placement -Panel layoutusuallybeginsatthelowestlevelingpadorafixedpointsuchasacornerorexistingstructure(Figure16).PlacethefirstBn(half)panel(1)onthelevelingpad.Checkthehorizontallevelandshimasneeded.Alignthefaceofthe panel along the layout line; and using bracing inaddition towoodenwedgesat thebaseof thepanel,setthebatterforthepanel.

Throughout construction it is of utmost importance that the panel type and number of tie strips of each panel match the requirements as shown on the approved Plans.

Step C-2: Second Panel Placement-Placethesecondpanel(2)onthelevelingpadandplacea¾-in. spacer between it andpanel (1) (Figure 16).These spacersshouldremaininplaceuntilthewallisbackfilledtotheheightofthehalfsizepanels.Spacersmustbe used during panel erection. Spacers are supplied by theContractorandmaybe fabricated fromanyavailable¾-in. material.

Figure 16

Step C-3: Setting Panel Batter-Setthepanel’sbatteras before. Wooden wedges are used temporarily atthepanelshoulderstosetbatterinthepanels.Thesewedgesmustberemovedoncethewallisthreepanelshigh.Clampthepaneltopanel(1)asshowninFigure17. Tighten clamps sufficiently to hold the panel inpositionwithoutmovement.Bracetheinitialcourseofpanelsbysecurelyattachinganadequatelumberbracetoabracingclampattachedtothetopofeachfullpanelandtoanypanelinexcessof3 ft. inheight (Figures18and19). Bracing isnotrequired on subsequent courses

Panels must be braced as shown in Figure 18 and 19 prior to releasing the crane from the panel.

Bearing pads are not used under the first course ofpanels between the leveling pad, unless specificallyshownonthePlansorseparatelyauthorizedinwritingby The Reinforced Earth Company. If needed, onlyrubbershimsmaybeusedtoshimbetweenthelevelingpadandfirstcourseofpanels.Permanentwoodshimsarenotpermittedatanypointinthestructure.Brace the initial course of panels by securing anadequate lumber brace to each full height (A or P)bottompanelandtoanypaneltallerthan3ft.Externalbracing is not required on subsequent courses.

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Figure 17

Figure 18

Bracing must remain in place until the braced panel has all the reinforcing strips attached and the backfill has been placed and compacted up to the top of the braced panel.

Figure 18

BRACED INITIAL COURSE OF PANELS

2 X 4Lumber 2 X 4

Lumber(minimum)

StakeorPin

Figure 19

Step C-4: Placea thirdpanel (3),aligning thepanelwith thecontrol lineandusea¾-in.spacer to ensure spacing.Check the horizontal level of the panel andshimasnecessary.Setthepanel’sbatter.

Step C-5:Continuesetting thepanels in thismannerandsitebackalong the topsof the fullheightpanelsto assure that each new panel is at the elevation oftheothersinthatcourse(Figure13).Aftertenpanelshavebeenset,recheckthewall’salignmentbysightingalongthewallface.Adjustpanelsifneededtoobtainatrue line.

D. Joint Materials

Step D-1:Jointmaterialsareinstalledfromthebackfillsideofthestructureonly.Filterclothpreventsthelossoffinebackfillparticleswhileallowingthestructuretobe free draining. Bearing pads prevent concrete-to-concretecontactbetweenfacingelementsvertically.

• FilterClothisaffixedtothebackfillsideofboththeverticalandthehorizontalpanel joints(Figure20)usingseveraldabsofacontactadhesive.

Theadhesiveprovidesatemporaryattachmentforthefilterclothandshouldbeusedsparingly.It is not recommended that the filter cloth begluedsolidtothebackofthepanel.Filterclothisnotgenerallyrequiredatthebaseofthewallwherethepanelrestsonthelevelingpad.

• Bearingpadsareplacedingroovesontopofeachpanel.Thicknessand/orquantityatvarious levelswithinthestructuremaydifferandmustbeinstrictaccordancewiththePlans.


Figure 19 Figure 20

E. Backfilling

TheconstructabilityandperformanceofaReinforcedEarth structure directly relates to the quality of theSelectGranularBackfillandtothemannerinwhichitis installed.

Prior to placing the Select Granular Backfill, theContractorshallcertifytotheEngineerthatthematerialconforms to the requirements stated in the Plans,Specifications,andContractDocumentsforReinforcedEarthstructures.

Bearing pads are designed to compress during the construction process. The initial joint created by the bearing pads may decrease in size when the wall is completely constructed.

Step E-1: Place and compact initial lifts of Select GranularBackfill up tobottom rowof panel tie strips(Figure 21). Note that the uniform loose thicknessplacement of each lift of backfill material must notexceed1ft.Thelevelofthecompactedbackfillshouldbe2+ inchesabove the tiestripsasshown inFigure22.Inordertoavoidpushingthebracedpanelsoutofalignment, initial liftsofbackfillareneitherplacednorcompactedagainstthebackofthepanels

OnlyafterthefirstlayerofreinforcingstripshasbeenconnectedtothepaneltiestripsasdetailedinSectionE and a lift of backfill placed and compacted overthestripscanbackfill thenbeplacedandcompactedagainstthebackofthepanelsillustratedinFigure23.

Compacteachbackfill lift usinga largesmooth-drumvibratoryrollerexceptwithina3ft.zonedirectlybehindthe panels where a small hand-operated vibratorycompactor must be used to avoid undue panel movement.

Aftercompactionhastakenplace,checkwallalignmentvisuallyandwithaleveladjustpanelsasnecessary.

Figure 20 Figure 21

Figure 21

2’-0”+

Bolt connection

Reinforcing Strip

Placebackfilltolevelasshown

2”+

BACKFILL SLOPE AT CONNECTION

Figure 22

Select Granular Backfill material to be used in the reinforced volume must be tested and shown to strictly conform to the Specifications. Material, which does not conform, cannot be used as Select Granular Backfill.

Bearing padhorizontal-jointmaterial

191-800-446-5700

Figure 22 Figure 23The gradation of the Select Granular Backfill shouldbe tested periodically during construction to assurecompliance with the Specifications. This gradationtestingshouldbeperformedforevery2,000cubicyardsofmaterialplacedand/orwhenevertheappearanceorbehaviorofthematerialnoticeablychanges.

Step E-2: Compaction -Largesmooth-drumvibratoryrollers are used to accomplish mass compaction ofSelect Granular Backfill materials, except for fineuniform sands.

Immediate gradation and moisture testing is required if either excessive panel movement or backfill pumping occurs during construction.

3’-4’

Sheep foot Rollers are never to be used for compaction of Select Granular Backfill.

Moisture content of Select Granular Backfill materialduringplacementshouldbeapproximately1% to2%lessthanitsoptimummoisturecontent.

Vibratory compaction equipment should not be used to compact fine uniform sands.

Compaction within 3 feet of the back face of the panels shall be achieved by at least three passes using a lightweight mechanical tamper, roller or vibratory compactor. Compaction testing should not be performed in this 3 foot zone.

If 30% of the Select granular Backfill material is greater than 3/4-in. in size, AASHTO T-99 is not applicable. For such material, the acceptance criterion for compacting is either a minimum of 70% of the Relative Density of the material as determined by ASTM D-4253 and D-4254, or a Method Specification based on a test compaction section which defines the type of equipment, lift thickness, number of passes of the specified equipment and placement moisture content.

Fineuniformsands,whichcontainmorethan60percentpassingaNo.40sieveusedforSelectGranularBackfill,mustbecompactedusingasmooth-drumstaticroller.

Ataminimum,SelectGranularBackfillmaterialmustbecompactedto95%ofmaximumdensity,perAASHTOT-99, methods C or D (with oversize correction asoutlinedinNote7).

The minimum frequency of compaction testing shall be one test per lift of Select Granular Backfill material placed. Test locations are determined by the Engineer.

Step E-3: Grading - At theendofeachday’swork,backfillmustbegraded toslopeaway from thebackof the panels in order to divertwater runoff from thestructure area.

Failure to properly grade the backfill can result in excessive water in the Select Granular Backfill and cause subsequent movement of the panels beyond alignment tolerances.


F. Reinforcing Strips

Step F-1: Place reinforcing strips on the compactedbackfill. Position strips perpendicular to the facingpanels, unless otherwise shown on the Plans.Reinforcingstripsaresuppliedinlengthsasshownonplans,withatoleranceinlengthfrom0-in.to+8-in.

Connecteachreinforcingstriptotheembeddedpaneltiestripbyinsertingtheendofthereinforcingstripintothegapbetweenthetwoexposedendsofthetiestrip.Match the three holes and push a bolt through theholes frombelow,placingawasherontop, threadingonanut(Figure24),andtightening.Boltsmustfitupthroughbothtiestripflanges,perpendiculartothesteelsurfaces, and have full bearing of the bolt head andwasher/nutagainstthetiestripflanges.Useacrescentorsocket-headratchettosecurelyhandtightenthenut.

Figure 23 Figure 24

Step F-2:Dumpbackfillontothereinforcingstripssothatthetoeofthebackfillpileis3-4ft.fromthepanels.Spread thebackfillbypushing thepileparallel to thepanelsandwindrowingittowardthepanelsandtowardthefreeendstrips.Ifstripsarelong,asecondloadmaybe required tobackfill to theendsof thestrips. Ifso,dump and spread this load only after spreading thefirst.Continue to backfill to the full height of the halfpanels(Figure23).

Design of the Reinforced Earth structure is based on the perpendicular placement and connection of reinforcing strips, unless otherwise detailed on the Plans, and on installation of the correct density and length of strips to each panel.

The placement of any reinforcing strip in a skewed manner, unless shown on the Plans, Specifications, and Contract Documents, must be authorized in writing by The Reinforced Earth Company prior to placement in the field.

Step F-3: Step-up: If required tomakeastep-up inelevationofthewall,usethefollowingprocedure.

Markawalllayoutlineontheupperlevelpadtoestablishawall-facecontrolline.Placethenextrequiredpanelalong the control line, space¾-in. set its batter and braceifnecessary.Thencontinueconstructionoftheuppercourseusing theprocedureusedon the lowerlevel.

Metal tracks of earthmoving equipment must never come in contact with the reinforcing strips. Rubber-tired vehicles, however, can operate directly on the exposed strips if backfill conditions permit and care is exercised.

Figure 24 Figure 25

Reinforcing strips should be placed perpendicular tothebackoffacingpanels.However,inspecific,limitedsituations, itmaybenecessary toskewa reinforcingstrip from its design location (perpendicular to thefacingpanel)ineitherthehorizontalorverticalplane.

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G. Constructing Second and Subsequent Courses

Step G-1:OnlyafterbackfillhasreachedthetopoftheB(half)panelscanconstructionofthesecondcoursebegin.Throughoutconstruction,panelsshouldonlybesetafterbackfillingandcompactiontogradehasbeencompleted.

Placing any panel atop a panel, which has not been completely backfilled can create an unstable situation, and lead to misalignment of panels, and is strictly prohibited.

Beginthesecondandsubsequentcoursesofpanelsattheendof thewallwhereconstructionbegan(Figure26).

Step G-2: Remove the two shoulder clamps holdingApanels (2)and (4) toBpanel (3). (Aseachcourseproceeds, removeonly twoclampsata time toallowforsettingofeachnewpanel.)(Figure26)Topreventconcrete-to-concrete contact at horizontal joints, settwobearingpadsontothetopedgeofpanel(3).

Figure 25 Figure 26Step G-3:SetApanel(101)ontoBpanel(3)(Figure26),centeringthepaneltoensureequalverticaljointsand matching the panels front face to that of panel(3).Set the batter of the panel the sameas the firstcourseusingwedgesattheear.ClampthenewApanel(101)totheinitialcoursepanels(2)and(4).Don’tovertightentheclampsastheymayremovethebattersetinthepanel(101).

ContinuetosetApanelsinthesamesequence.Astheworkproceeds,check thewall’salignment frequently.InstalljointmaterialsasinstepD-1.

Step G-5: When the course of panels is completeand after vertical and horizontal filter cloth has beeninstalled,placebackfill in liftsaccording to thePlans,Specification,andContractDocumentsupto2-in.abovethetiestriplevel.Figure27illustratesthesequenceforbackfillingthesecondandsubsequentcourses.

Step G-6: After backfilling, recheck the batter andalignmentofthewall,thenplaceandconnectthenextlayerofreinforcingstripsasinstepF-1.

Figure 26 Figure 27

Step G-4: Remove the next pair of clamps; placebearingpadsontothehalfpanel(5);andsetApanel(102)onto it.Match the faceof thepanel justplacedtothatofthepanelbelow,andsetitsbatter.Clampthepanel(102)toadjacentpanels(4)and(6).


Step G-7:BackfilluptothetopoftheA(full)panelsoftheinitialcourseandthebracingcannowberemoved.IfafterbackfillingtothetopoftheApanels,panelsofthe initial course did not become almost vertical, orif panels have gone beyond the vertical, adjust theamountofbatterinthesecondcoursesothatthethirdrowwillbecomeverticalafterbackfilling.

Placement and compaction of part or all of a berm or an embedmentatthelowerfrontsurfaceofthestructurecanbegin(Figure28).Removalofthespacersatthebaseofthewallmustbecompletepriortoplacingthismaterial.

Step G-8:Whenbackfill reaches the topof the initialcourseof fullpanels(which ishalfwayupthesecondcourse),beginplacingthenextcourseofpanels.

Repeat steps G-1 throughG-5 for panel installation,backfill placement and compaction, reinforcing stripinstallation, and placement of horizontal/vertical jointmaterials.Followthesesameproceduresforthesecondand subsequent panel courses until the structure isready to be topped off. No external panel bracing isrequired for second or subsequent courses.

Aftertheerectionofeachcourseofpanels,thewoodenwedges of that course and the two courses below itshould be checked to ensure that they are securelyseated.

Panelbattershouldbecheckedafterbackfillingeachcoursewithnecessaryadjustmentsmadeinsubsequentcourses to ensure plumbness.

Quality control requirements for Select GranularBackfilling, includingdensityandplacementmoisture,arethesameforthesecondandsubsequentcoursesasforthefirstcourse,unlessotherwiseindicatedinthePlansorSpecifications.

Figure 27 Figure 28

At least two, but no more than three rows of panel wedges should remain in place at all times during erection. When construction is complete, all wedges must be removed.

ReinforcedEarth structureswith a leveling pad at orabove existing grade requires placement of an earthbermastoeprotectionalongtheface.Structureswithalevelingpadbelowexistinggraderequiretheplacementofanembedmentinfrontofthewall.TheheightofthebermorthedepthoftheembedmentisshownonthePlans.

Thebermorembedmentmustbeplacedimmediatelytopreventerosionbeforethewall reaches50%of itsheightor20ft.,whicheverisless.

H. Completion of the Wall

Step H-1:Inplacingtopcoursepanels,theconstructionsequencecontinuesaspreviouslyoutlined.However,top course panels have either a flat or a slopingedgeandmaybesuppliedinvaryingheightstomeetfinished-elevationrequirements.RefertothePlansforthelocationofspecifictoppanels.Step H-2: After backfilling is complete, remove allclampsandwoodenwedgesfromthestructure.Step H-3: Install top wall treatment. If required. Several typesarecommonlyused:• Cast-in-Place - If required, rebar for connection will

protrudefromtoppanels.Allnecessaryattachmentdetailsforabarrier,coping,parapet,orpavedditchwillbeshownintheplans.

• Precast Coping - If approved, precast coping will besupplied.AttachmentdetailswillbeshowninthePlans.

• Plain-Thetopofpanelswillremainexposedwithno further treatmentnecessary.Sometimescalledstepped top.

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ReinforcedEarthstructuresaretobeerectedinstrictcompliancewiththestructuralandaestheticrequirementsofthePlans,Specifications, and Contract Documents. The desired results can be achieved through the use of quality materials, correctconstructionprocedures,andproperinspection.However,consideringthenatureofconstructionwork,theremaybeoccasionswhendimensionaltolerancesand/oraestheticlimitsareexceeded.Correctivemeasuresmustbetakenimmediatelytoreturnthestructure to acceptable tolerances.

VI. Condition-Cause Relationships

CAUSECONDITION 1. Distortion in Wall

(a)Differentialsettlementorlowspotinwall(b)Overallwallleaning(c)Panelcontact,resultinginspalling/chipping

2.(a)Firstcoursedifficulttosetand/ormaintain level.

(b)Panel-topanelcontactresultinginspalling and/orchipping.

3. Wall Leaning Out

4. Wall Leaning In

5. Wall Out of Horizontal Alignment Tolerance, or Bulging

6. Panels Do Not Fit Properly in IntendedLocations Resulting In Subsequent Panels Spalling or Chipping

Foundation (subgrade) material too weak or wet forproperbearing.Iffillmaterial,poorqualityorimpropercompaction.

Levelingpadnotwithintolerance.

a) Panelsnotbatteredsufficiently.b) Largebackfillplacingand/orcompaction

equipmentworkingwithin3-ft.zoneofbackofwall.c) Backfillmaterialplacedwetofoptimummoisture

content.d) Backfillcontainsexcessivefinematerials(beyond theSpecificationsforpercentofmaterialspassing

aNo.200sieve).e) Backfillmaterialpushedagainstbackofwall before being compacted on strips.f) Excessiveorvibratorycompactiononuniform

finesand(morethan60percentpassingaNo.40sieve).

g) Backfillmaterialdumpedclosetofreeendofreinforcingstrips,thenspreadtowardsbackofwall,causingbulgeinstripsandpushingpanelout.

h) Wedgesnotseatedsecurely.i) Clampsnottight.j) Excessivecompactiveeffort.k) Excessiveliftthickness.l) Plasticityindexofbackfillmaterialinexcessof

specificationlimits.

a) ExcessivebattersetinpanelsforSelectGranularBackfillmaterialbeingused.

b) Inadequatecompactionofbackfill.

(a)Seecauses3C-G,and3I.(b)Backfillsaturated(heavyrainorimpropergradingofbackfillaftereachday’soperation).

(a)Panelsarenotlevel.(b)Differentialsettlement(seeCondition1).(c)Failuretousespacersbetweenpanels.(d)Levelingpadincorrect.


VII. Appendix

A. Facing Panel Types and Nomenclature

A. Panel Designations: Alldesignand/orshopdrawings,andprecastpanels,aredesignedasfollows:

Key to Panel Designation: XX – X – RX – X.XX

BasicPanelTypePanelModificationNumberofTieStrips Panel ReinforcementPanelWidth OrDeflectionAngle(forbentpanels) Where(X)canbealetterordigit

B. Standard and Top Panels:Thefollowingtabletotherightliststhedesignationsofstandardandtop-course panel types and their surface areas.The standard panel width is 4.92 ft., measuredbetweenpanelalignmentlocationsatthecenterofthepanelear(s).

SURFACEAREA SURFACEAREAA 24.2 sq. ft 2.25m2 G22.9sq.ft1.94m2

B 12.1 sq.ft 1.12m2 H 24.2 sq. ft 2.22m2

C8.8sqft0.82m2 K 27.0 sq. ft 2.50m2

D12.1sq.ft1.09m2 L30.0sq.ft2.78m2

E14.9sq.ft1.38m2 P30.0sq.ft2.81m2

F17.9sq.ft1.66m2 Q17.9sq.ft1.68m2

AB

P

Q

251-800-446-5700

C. Cut Panels: Anystandardpanelmaybecutverticallytofitspecificfieldordesignconditions.

Cut panels are indicated by the letter L (left) orR (right) after the panel designation (e.g., AL,AR). Widths of cut panels are indicated on theconstruction drawings

X=WIDTHSHOWNON REINFORCED

EARTHCONSTRUCTIONDRAWINGS

(frontviews)

ALAR

D. Sloping Top Panels: Paneltopswhichslopedownward at a 2:1 slope are indicated by theletter M or N after the panel designation. Paneltops which slope downwards at an 8:1 or 4:1slopeareindicatedbythedesignationI,J,orII,JJrespectivelyafterpaneldesignation.

E. Blocked-out Panels/Specials:Anystandardpanel may require special modification in orderto meet job specific requirements. Designationcontains letter of standard panel type with anadditionalletterplusnumbersuffix,asrequiredtoname panel.

HN HM

HI HJ

HII HJJ

A1Q AX


G. Slip Joint Cover: Slip jointsaredesignedtoacceptverticalcutpanelsandprovidesystemflexibility and rapid changes in elevation. Thecover designation is the letter J. The followingletterindicatesthejointheight.

H. Blind Slip Joint: Again, the slip joint isdesigned to accept vertical cut panels and provide systemflexibilityforvaryingfoundationconditions.The cut panels are assembled with a¾-in. butt joint. The letter Y designates the back-up panelandthefollowingletterindicatesthepanelheight.

(Topviews)

YA

3/4”

(Topviews)

JA

(Note):Jointcoversareallplain(noliner)finish

F. Corner Elements: Corner elements are designed to accept vertical cut panels and cover a rangeofbends.Thecornerelementdesignationsare CE1A, CE2A, CE3A, and CE4A. The letterfollowingindicatescornerelementheight.Cornerelementdetailsandshapemayvary.RefertothePlansandSpecifications.

CE2ACE4A

CE3A

CE1A

900 - 1170 300 - 620

1170 - 1620

630 -890

3/4”(typ)

(topview)

Note:Cornersareallplain(nolinerfinish)

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B. Glossary of Terms

Agency

Contract Documents

Contractor

Engineer

Inspector

Owner

Plans

Specifications

Technical Advisor

Work

Theperson(s),firm,orcorporationactingasAgentfortheOwner.

TheOwner-Contractagreement,includingtheconditionsoftheContract(general,supplementary,andotherconditions),thedrawings,Specificationsand the provisions of the agreement between the Contractor andTheReinforcedEarthCompany;andalsoincludingalladdendaissuedpriortoexecutionoftheContract,allmodificationstheretoandanyotheritemsspecificallystipulatedasbeingincludedintheContractDocuments.

Theindividual,firmorcorporationundertakingtheexecutionoftheWorkunderthetermsoftheContract,andactingdirectlythroughitsAgentsoremployees.

Theperson(s)designatedbytheOwner,ashavingauthoritativechargeovercertainspecificengineeringoperationsandduties.

TheauthorizedrepresentativeassignedtomakeadetailedinspectionofanyorallportionsoftheWorkormaterialsthereofintheOwner’sbehalf.

TheOwnerofaproject.Theagency,person,firmorcorporationwithwhichaContracthasbeenmadeforthepaymentoftheWorkperformedundertheContract.

The official approved plans, profiles, typical cross sections, workingdrawings and supplemental drawings, or exact reproductions thereof,whichshowthelocations,character,dimensionsanddetailsoftheWorkto be performed.

Adescription, forcontractpurposes,of thematerialsandworkmanshiprequiredinastructure(s),asalsoshownontherelatedworkingdrawings.The written material containing the standard provisions and specialprovisions,asmaybenecessary,pertainingtothequantitiesandqualitiesofmaterialstobefurnishedundertheContract.

RepresentativeofTheReinforcedEarthCompanywhomaybeavailabletoassist theContractorwithmaterial schedulingandcoordination,andgiveadviceontherecommendedconstructionproceduresapplicabletoReinforcedEarthstructuresassetoutinthismanual.

TheentirescopeoftheWorktobeperformedatthesiteoftheconstructionproject including labor, materials, equipment, transportation and suchotherfacilitiesasarenecessarytofulfillallobligationsundertheContract.


C. Safety Tips for Unloading Reinforced Earth Products

1. Uponarrivaloftruck,examinetheloadforanyshiftingorunstableconditionspriortoremovingtie downs. 2. Thetruckshouldbeonlevelgroundwhenunloading.Unloadingonunlevelgroundcouldresult inshiftingofpanelsorpossiblypanelsfallingfromtrailer. 3. Liftingequipment(straps,cables,ringclutches,etc.)shouldbecheckedforexcessivewearor crackingpriortounloadingtruck. 4. Donotmovethetractorwhileproductisnottieddown. 5. Ifdriversarerequiredtoremovechainsorbindersnexttolaneofmovingtraffic,conesand flagmanshouldbeusedtodirecttrafficawayfromthetraileranddriver. 6. Driversarenottrainedasriggersorswampersandshouldstayincaborclearawayfromunloading operations.Thedriversareactinginadeliverycapacityonly. 7. Personalprotectiveequipmentrequiredbythegeneralcontractoronsiteshouldalsoberequiredof deliverydrivers. 8. Personnelshouldnotbeallowedunderasuspendedload. 9. Onceremovedfromthetrailer,panelsnotplaceddirectlyinthewallshouldbestackedorsecuredon flatgroundtopreventtippingorfalling. 10. Areasbetweenthetruckandcraneshouldberestrictedtopersonnelrequiredtounloadtrailer. 11. IfanyunsafesituationsexistwhileloadingorunloadingRECoproducts,contactTheReinforced EarthCompanyimmediatelytoeliminateanyhazardsorexposuretoillnessorinjury.

D. The Reinforced Earth Company Offices

TheReinforcedEarthCompanymaintainsfull-serviceofficesthroughouttheUnitedStates.Contacttheofficeservingyourareafortechnicalservice:

SoutheastRegion Atlanta,GA (770)242-9415

NortheastRegion Boston,MA (978)664-2830

CentralRegion Dallas,TX (817)283-5503

MidwestRegion Chicago,IL (630)898-3334 SouthwestRegion SanDiego,CA (858)576-2400

WesternRegion Denver,CO (303)790-1481

Central-Northeast&Mid-AtlanticRegion Reston,VA (703)547-8797

FloridaRegion Orlando,FL (407)226-2840

Corporate HeadquartersTheReinforcedEarthCompany

12001SunriseValleyDrive,Ste400Reston,VA20191

Telephone:(703)547-8797or(800)446-5700

www.reinforcedearth.com

SAFETY BULLETINFebruary25,2014

Re: Safety Reminder for Reinforced Earth® Panel Installation

PleasereviewtheReinforcedEarth®ConstructionManualcarefullyandpracticesafetyinallaspectsofhandlingandinstallingReinforcedEarthwallmaterials.Thefollowingprovidesimportantsafetyreminderswhenhandlingandinstallingwallpanels:

1.Panelsatthelevellingpadcourseshouldbeexternallybracedasshownintheconstruction manual upon installation and before additional panels are installed.

2.Panelsmustremainattachedtoliftingequipmentuntilsuchtimeasexternalbracing,wedgesandshoulderclampsareinplaceandsecured.

3.Allsubsequentpanelsmustremainattachedtotheliftingequipmentuntilalignmentadjustmentshavebeenmadeandwedgesandclampshavebeeninstalledandsecured.

4.Cutpanelsadjacenttoacast-in-placestructurerequirespecialattention.Bracing,wedgingandclampingisrequiredbeforereleasingthepanelfromtheliftingequipment.Timberorsteelanglecanbeanchoredtotheverticalsurfaceoftheadjacentcast-in-placestructureandthenthecutpanelcanbewedgedandclampedtothesecuredtimberorangle.

5.Thelastpanelatthefreeendofwallshouldbeexternallybracedonthefreeendaswellassecuredwithwedgesandaclamptotheadjacentpanel.

Pleaseensureyourcrewisawareoftheabovesafetyreminders.

REINFORCED EARTH

Corporate Headquarters12001SunriseValleyDrive,Ste.400

Reston,VA20191800.446.5700

www.reinforcedearth.com