What should a stockpile be visually inspected for?

A stockpile should be visually inspected for discernable variations to ensure uniformity and quality of the materials contained within it. This inspection involves looking for inconsistencies in particle size, composition, and texture, which can indicate contamination or mixing of different materials that could affect testing and application. Identifying these variations is crucial because they can impact the mechanical properties and performance of the soil or aggregate when used in construction.

In contrast, while aspects such as color, weight, and moisture presence are relevant, they are less critical in identifying the overall quality and integrity of the stockpile. Color may provide some indication of material type but does not assess quality comprehensively. Weight is not typically observable through visual inspection, and while moisture detection is important, it is often evaluated through other methods rather than just visual assessments. Therefore, focusing on discernable variations provides a more direct assessment of the stockpile's suitability for use in construction projects.