ICC SI Soils Codes Module - ECCY Exam Book Package Guide

The ICC Soils Codes Module is intended for construction inspection professionals preparing to demonstrate their knowledge of soil classification, earthwork, excavation, fill placement, compaction, moisture control, foundations, field density testing, laboratory testing, building-code requirements, and special inspection responsibilities.

The ICC SI Soils Codes Module - ECCY Exam Book Package provides printed soils, earthwork, building-code, and ASTM references selected to support organized exam preparation.

The package is listed at a sale price of $1,595.00, reduced from the regular price of $1,695.00.

This guide explains the purpose of the Soils Codes Module, the references included in the package, the responsibilities of a Soils Special Inspector, important testing procedures, soil-classification concepts, inspection documentation, and practical strategies for preparing for the examination.

ICC SI Soils Codes Module - ECCY Exam Book Package

The ICC SI Soils Codes Module - ECCY Exam Book Package is intended for candidates who prefer preparing directly from printed technical references.

Soils inspection requires candidates to connect geotechnical recommendations, approved construction documents, building-code provisions, field observations, laboratory reports, moisture-density relationships, soil-classification systems, and ASTM test procedures.

The package is listed at a sale price of $1,595.00, reduced from the regular price of $1,695.00.

This package may be appropriate for candidates who:

• Prefer studying with printed reference materials
• Need the soils text, building code, and ASTM standards in one package
• Want to practice reference navigation under timed conditions
• Already have construction or geotechnical field experience
• Need to strengthen soil-classification and testing knowledge
• Want professional references that remain useful after testing
• Are preparing for the ICC ECC Soils Codes examination

What Is Included in the ECCY Exam Book Package?

Current ECCY package listings identify the following books and standards:

• Soils, Earthwork and Foundations: A Practical Approach; Based on the 2015 IRC and IBC
• International Building Code, 2021
• ASTM D698-12(2021)
• ASTM D1556/D1556M-24
• ASTM D1557-12(2021)
• ASTM D2487-17(2025)
• ASTM D2488-26
• ASTM D4318-17e1
• ASTM D6938-23
• ASTM D7557/D7557M-09(2021)
• ASTM D4718/D4718M-15(2023)
• ASTM D4959-24

These references support study of soil behavior, site preparation, excavation, foundations, fill placement, laboratory compaction, field density, water content, soil classification, Atterberg limits, oversize-particle corrections, nuclear testing, sand-cone testing, and expanded-polystyrene geofoam sampling.

Candidates should verify the exact editions and package contents before ordering because reference requirements may change with the selected code cycle.

What Is the ICC Soils Codes Module?

ICC officially identifies the national soils codes examination as ECC – Soils Codes. The exam book package uses the product designation ECCY, which may identify the preparation package or applicable code-cycle path.

ICC currently lists the ECC examination with 60 questions and a two-hour testing period.

The exam evaluates a candidate’s ability to locate, understand, and apply requirements involving soil conditions, excavations, fill materials, compaction, field and laboratory testing, foundation support, geotechnical reports, approved construction documents, and special inspection responsibilities.

Candidates should confirm the current exam title, code cycle, approved references, testing method, and administrative policies through the ICC Exam Catalog before registering.

Soils Special Inspector Certification Requirements

The Soils Codes Module is one component of the ICC Soils Special Inspector certification pathway.

ICC currently identifies the following examination components:

• Special Inspector General Requirements – GR
• Soils Codes – ECC
• Soils Plans – ECP

The ECC module focuses on technical code knowledge, soil principles, earthwork requirements, and testing procedures. The ECP module focuses more heavily on plans, reports, details, specifications, and project-document interpretation.

Candidates should confirm whether they must complete the GR module. ICC requirements may depend on whether the candidate already holds another active ICC Special Inspector certification.

ICC Certification and Jurisdictional Approval

ICC certification does not automatically authorize an individual to perform soils special inspections in every jurisdiction. Final approval of a special inspector is generally controlled by the applicable building official or authority having jurisdiction.

Additional qualification requirements may include:

• Documented construction or geotechnical experience
• Education in engineering, geology, or construction technology
• Employer or approved-agency affiliation
• Laboratory or field-testing experience
• Professional references
• Jurisdictional registration
• Project-specific qualifications
• Knowledge of locally adopted codes
• Continuing education
• Active certification status

Candidates should review both ICC requirements and the requirements of the jurisdiction where they plan to perform inspection work.

What Does a Soils Special Inspector Do?

A Soils Special Inspector observes earthwork and foundation-related construction activities and verifies that the work complies with approved construction documents, the geotechnical report, project specifications, and applicable code requirements.

Common responsibilities may include:

• Reviewing approved plans and geotechnical reports
• Observing existing site soil conditions
• Verifying excavation depth and bearing material
• Confirming unsuitable material removal
• Observing subgrade preparation
• Identifying fill materials
• Observing fill placement and lift thickness
• Evaluating moisture conditioning
• Performing or witnessing field density tests
• Reviewing laboratory compaction results
• Calculating relative compaction
• Observing foundation excavations
• Documenting groundwater and drainage conditions
• Reporting discrepancies and corrective work
• Preparing daily inspection reports

The special inspector verifies compliance but does not replace the responsibilities of the contractor, geotechnical engineer, testing laboratory, registered design professional, or building official.

Approved Construction Documents and Geotechnical Reports

Soils inspection begins with a review of the approved construction documents and project geotechnical information.

Important documents may include:

• Approved site plans
• Foundation plans
• Grading plans
• Earthwork specifications
• Geotechnical investigation reports
• Soil-boring logs
• Laboratory test reports
• Compaction requirements
• Foundation recommendations
• Retaining-wall details
• Drainage plans
• Material submittals
• Requests for information
• Approved revisions and field changes
• Statement of special inspections

The inspector should compare actual field conditions with the approved project requirements rather than relying only on typical construction practices.

Understanding the Geotechnical Report

The geotechnical report describes subsurface conditions and provides recommendations for earthwork, foundations, slabs, retaining structures, drainage, and other soil-related construction.

Important report information may include:

• Site history
• Exploration methods
• Soil-boring locations
• Soil descriptions
• Groundwater observations
• Laboratory test results
• Allowable bearing capacity
• Required excavation depth
• Unsuitable-soil removal requirements
• Acceptable fill materials
• Lift-thickness requirements
• Compaction percentage
• Moisture-conditioning requirements
• Foundation recommendations
• Drainage and groundwater recommendations

Candidates should understand that boring logs represent conditions at specific locations. Actual conditions between borings may vary and should be documented when encountered.

International Building Code Soils Requirements

The 2021 International Building Code contains provisions addressing special inspections, soils, foundations, excavations, fill placement, and geotechnical investigations.

Important code topics may include:

• Special inspection responsibilities
• Required soils inspections and tests
• Existing site soil conditions
• Foundation-bearing materials
• Excavation depth
• Controlled fill materials
• Fill placement and compaction
• Geotechnical investigation requirements
• Shallow foundations
• Deep foundation systems
• Expansive soils
• Drainage and groundwater conditions
• Retaining structures
• Site grading

Candidates should become familiar with the organization of the IBC and know how to move between special-inspection requirements and foundation-related provisions.

Existing Site Soil Conditions

Before construction begins, the inspector may need to compare exposed site conditions with the conditions described in the geotechnical report.

Conditions to observe may include:

• Native soil types
• Existing fill
• Topsoil
• Organic material
• Construction debris
• Soft or loose soil
• Wet or pumping soil
• Rock or weathered rock
• Groundwater
• Evidence of previous excavation
• Buried structures or utilities
• Unexpected soil layers
• Contaminated or unusual material

Unexpected conditions should be documented and referred to the appropriate geotechnical or design professional before affected construction proceeds.

Site Preparation

Proper site preparation creates a suitable surface for foundations, slabs, pavements, and structural fill.

Site-preparation activities may include:

• Clearing vegetation
• Removing topsoil
• Removing organic material
• Demolishing existing structures
• Removing debris
• Stripping unsuitable fill
• Proof-rolling
• Scarifying the subgrade
• Moisture conditioning
• Recompacting disturbed soil
• Establishing drainage
• Protecting prepared areas from weather

The inspector should verify that unsuitable materials have been removed to the required limits before fill or foundation construction begins.

Excavation Inspection

Excavation inspection helps verify that foundations and earthwork reach the required depth, dimensions, and supporting material.

Inspection considerations may include:

• Excavation depth
• Excavation width
• Foundation elevation
• Bearing-surface condition
• Soil type at the excavation bottom
• Loose or disturbed material
• Water accumulation
• Soft spots
• Overexcavation
• Slope stability
• Adjacent structures
• Utility conflicts
• Weather damage
• Required geotechnical approval

Foundation concrete should not be placed over loose, frozen, saturated, disturbed, or otherwise unacceptable material unless an approved corrective procedure has been completed.

Foundation-Bearing Materials

The soil or rock below a shallow foundation must provide the bearing conditions required by the approved design.

Inspection may involve:

• Comparing exposed material with the geotechnical report
• Verifying allowable bearing assumptions
• Checking excavation depth
• Identifying loose or disturbed material
• Observing groundwater
• Identifying undocumented fill
• Documenting soft zones
• Confirming required overexcavation
• Observing replacement fill
• Obtaining geotechnical approval when required

The inspector generally does not independently establish bearing capacity. Questions involving design suitability should be referred to the geotechnical engineer or registered design professional.

Fill Materials

Fill used below structures, slabs, pavements, and other improvements should satisfy the material requirements in the approved documents.

Fill evaluation may include:

• Soil classification
• Particle-size distribution
• Plasticity
• Organic content
• Moisture condition
• Oversize particles
• Debris or contamination
• Source of material
• Approved borrow material
• Recycled or processed material
• Compatibility with adjacent soils
• Suitability for the intended use

Material that is acceptable for general grading may not be suitable as structural fill below foundations or slabs.

Controlled Structural Fill

Controlled structural fill is placed and compacted according to defined material, lift, moisture, and density requirements.

Inspection considerations may include:

• Approved fill source
• Material classification
• Subgrade approval
• Lift thickness
• Moisture conditioning
• Compaction equipment
• Number of equipment passes
• Field density testing
• Required compaction percentage
• Corrective work
• Test frequency
• Final fill elevation

Inspection records should identify where each lift was placed and where testing was performed.

Fill Lift Thickness

Fill is typically placed in controlled layers or lifts so that compaction equipment can effectively densify the material.

Lift-thickness considerations may include:

• Specified loose-lift thickness
• Specified compacted-lift thickness
• Soil type
• Maximum particle size
• Compaction-equipment type
• Moisture condition
• Access restrictions
• Confined areas
• Utility trenches
• Areas adjacent to foundations
• Evidence of incomplete compaction

Placing lifts that are too thick may leave inadequately compacted material below the surface even when the top appears firm.

Moisture Conditioning

Soil moisture strongly affects compaction behavior. Soil that is too dry may resist particle rearrangement, while soil that is too wet may pump, rut, or lose stability.

Moisture-conditioning activities may include:

• Adding water
• Mixing or blending soil
• Aerating wet soil
• Disking or scarifying
• Allowing drying time
• Protecting soil from rain
• Blending different materials
• Removing excessively wet soil
• Retesting after conditioning

The required moisture range should be determined from the project specifications, geotechnical recommendations, and applicable laboratory compaction results.

Soil Compaction

Compaction mechanically increases soil density by reducing air voids. Proper compaction can improve strength, reduce settlement, and create more uniform support.

Factors affecting compaction include:

• Soil type
• Moisture content
• Lift thickness
• Compaction effort
• Equipment type
• Number of passes
• Particle size
• Plasticity
• Confinement
• Weather conditions

Different soils respond differently to smooth-drum rollers, sheepsfoot rollers, vibratory equipment, plate compactors, and impact equipment.

Maximum Dry Density and Optimum Moisture Content

Laboratory compaction testing establishes a relationship between soil water content and dry density.

The resulting compaction curve is used to identify:

• Maximum dry density
• Optimum moisture content
• Soil response to compactive effort
• Reference values for field compaction
• Potential differences between soil samples

Field dry-density results are compared with the applicable laboratory maximum dry density to calculate relative compaction.

Relative Compaction

Relative compaction compares the in-place dry density of compacted soil with the laboratory maximum dry density established for the applicable material.

The basic relationship is:

Relative Compaction = In-Place Dry Density ÷ Laboratory Maximum Dry Density × 100

Candidates should be able to:

• Identify the correct laboratory compaction curve
• Determine field wet density
• Determine field water content
• Calculate field dry density
• Calculate relative compaction
• Compare the result with the project requirement
• Recognize when the wrong laboratory curve may have been used

Accurate soil identification is important because comparing field results with a laboratory curve for a different material can produce misleading results.

ASTM D698 Standard Compaction

ASTM D698 addresses laboratory compaction characteristics of soil using standard compactive effort.

Important study topics may include:

• Soil-sample preparation
• Test mold selection
• Rammer weight and drop
• Number of layers
• Number of blows
• Permitted maximum particle size
• Wet-density determination
• Water-content determination
• Dry-density calculation
• Moisture-density curve preparation
• Maximum dry density
• Optimum moisture content

Candidates should understand how the standard-effort test differs from the modified-effort test.

ASTM D1557 Modified Compaction

ASTM D1557 addresses laboratory compaction characteristics of soil using modified compactive effort.

Modified compaction applies greater energy than standard compaction and may produce a higher maximum dry density with a different optimum moisture content.

Study areas may include:

• Sample preparation
• Mold selection
• Rammer requirements
• Number of layers
• Number of blows
• Compactive effort
• Particle-size limitations
• Moisture-density calculations
• Maximum dry density
• Optimum moisture content
• Test-report requirements

Candidates should verify whether project compaction requirements are based on ASTM D698 or ASTM D1557 before evaluating field density results.

ASTM D1556 Sand-Cone Method

ASTM D1556/D1556M addresses determination of in-place soil density and unit weight using the sand-cone method.

The procedure generally involves:

• Preparing a level test location
• Excavating a test hole
• Collecting all removed soil
• Determining the mass of excavated soil
• Filling the hole with calibrated sand
• Determining the volume of the test hole
• Determining soil water content
• Calculating wet density
• Calculating dry density
• Comparing results with the laboratory maximum

The method requires careful control of calibrated sand, test-hole excavation, sample recovery, and moisture determination.

ASTM D6938 Nuclear Density Testing

ASTM D6938 addresses in-place density and water-content testing of soil and soil-aggregate using nuclear methods at shallow depth.

Inspection and testing considerations may include:

• Gauge calibration
• Standard-count checks
• Direct-transmission testing
• Backscatter testing
• Test-site preparation
• Probe-hole preparation
• Test depth
• Gauge seating
• Wet-density result
• Water-content result
• Dry-density calculation
• Material-specific correction
• Radiation-safety requirements
• Test documentation

Nuclear gauges provide rapid field results, but proper operation, calibration, site preparation, and authorized radiation-safety procedures are essential.

Sand-Cone and Nuclear Testing Comparison

Both sand-cone and nuclear methods may be used to evaluate compacted fill, but the procedures and limitations differ.

• Sand-cone testing determines test-hole volume using calibrated sand and requires collection of excavated soil.
• Nuclear testing uses a calibrated gauge to estimate density and water content rapidly.

Selection of a test method may depend on:

• Project specifications
• Soil type
• Maximum particle size
• Surface condition
• Required accuracy
• Testing speed
• Equipment availability
• Radiation licensing
• Safety requirements
• Acceptance by the geotechnical professional

Candidates should understand the strengths, limitations, and reporting requirements of each method.

ASTM D2487 Soil Classification

ASTM D2487 addresses classification of soils for engineering purposes using the Unified Soil Classification System.

Classification may depend on:

• Particle-size distribution
• Percentage passing the No. 200 sieve
• Gravel content
• Sand content
• Fines content
• Liquid limit
• Plasticity index
• Organic characteristics
• Gradation
• Position on the plasticity chart

Common classification groups include:

• Well-graded gravel
• Poorly graded gravel
• Silty gravel
• Clayey gravel
• Well-graded sand
• Poorly graded sand
• Silty sand
• Clayey sand
• Low-plasticity silt
• Low-plasticity clay
• High-plasticity silt
• High-plasticity clay
• Organic soil

ASTM D2488 Visual-Manual Soil Identification

ASTM D2488 addresses description and identification of soils through visual and manual procedures.

Field identification may consider:

• Gravel, sand, and fines content
• Particle size
• Color
• Odor
• Moisture condition
• Consistency
• Density
• Dry strength
• Dilatancy
• Toughness
• Plasticity
• Structure and cementation
• Organic content
• Angular or rounded particles

Visual-manual identification supports field decisions but should not be confused with laboratory classification under ASTM D2487.

Coarse-Grained and Fine-Grained Soils

Soils are commonly separated into coarse-grained and fine-grained groups according to particle-size distribution.

• Coarse-grained soils are primarily gravel and sand.
• Fine-grained soils are primarily silt and clay.

Important distinctions may include:

• Drainage behavior
• Compaction response
• Plasticity
• Moisture sensitivity
• Strength
• Settlement potential
• Volume-change potential
• Field-testing limitations

Candidates should connect soil classification with the material’s likely behavior during excavation, moisture conditioning, and compaction.

ASTM D4318 Atterberg Limits

ASTM D4318 addresses determination of the liquid limit, plastic limit, and plasticity index of soils.

• Liquid limit represents a water content associated with the transition between liquid and plastic behavior.
• Plastic limit represents a water content associated with the transition between plastic and semisolid behavior.
• Plasticity index is calculated by subtracting the plastic limit from the liquid limit.

These values help:

• Classify fine-grained soil
• Evaluate plasticity
• Identify moisture sensitivity
• Assess potential volume change
• Compare soil samples
• Support engineering judgments

Candidates should understand the calculations and how the results are used with the plasticity chart.

Expansive Soils

Expansive soils can increase in volume when moisture content rises and shrink when moisture content falls.

Indicators and concerns may include:

• High clay content
• High plasticity index
• Seasonal moisture changes
• Surface cracking
• Foundation movement
• Slab heave
• Uneven settlement
• Drainage conditions
• Vegetation and irrigation
• Required soil treatment

Project recommendations may require removal and replacement, moisture conditioning, deepened foundations, structural slabs, drainage controls, or other engineered measures.

Collapsible, Organic, and Unsuitable Soils

Some soils may be unsuitable for structural support because of low strength, excessive compressibility, organic content, collapse potential, or uncontrolled fill conditions.

Potentially unsuitable materials may include:

• Topsoil
• Peat
• Organic silt
• Loose undocumented fill
• Construction debris
• Highly compressible soil
• Wet or pumping soil
• Collapsible soil
• Frozen soil
• Contaminated material

Corrective work should follow approved geotechnical recommendations and may include removal, replacement, stabilization, dewatering, recompaction, or foundation redesign.

ASTM D4718 Oversize-Particle Corrections

ASTM D4718/D4718M addresses correction of unit weight and water content for soils containing oversize particles.

The practice may be needed when:

• A laboratory compaction test excludes larger particles
• Field material contains gravel or cobbles
• The tested fine fraction differs from the full field material
• A corrected maximum dry density is needed
• Field water content must account for oversize material

Candidates should understand that uncorrected comparisons may be misleading when the field soil contains a significant quantity of particles larger than those included in the laboratory test specimen.

ASTM D4959 Water Content by Direct Heating

ASTM D4959 addresses rapid determination of soil water content through direct heating.

The procedure may involve:

• Obtaining a representative soil sample
• Determining the initial mass
• Applying controlled direct heat
• Stirring or redistributing the soil
• Drying in increments
• Checking for a constant mass
• Calculating water content
• Recording the heating method

The method can provide faster field-control results than conventional oven drying, but it may be less suitable for soils containing certain minerals, organics, salts, or materials affected by overheating.

ASTM D7557 Expanded Polystyrene Geofoam Sampling

ASTM D7557/D7557M addresses sampling of expanded-polystyrene geofoam specimens.

EPS geofoam may be used as lightweight fill in applications such as:

• Roadway embankments
• Bridge approaches
• Retaining-wall backfill
• Landscape structures
• Load reduction over compressible soil
• Utility protection
• Below-grade construction

Sampling considerations may include:

• Location of samples
• Sampling frequency
• Representative blocks
• Specimen dimensions
• Identification and traceability
• Protection during handling
• Documentation of sampled material

Candidates should recognize that this standard concerns geofoam sampling rather than conventional soil-density testing.

Groundwater and Drainage Conditions

Groundwater and surface water can affect excavation stability, foundation support, fill placement, compaction, and long-term performance.

Inspection considerations may include:

• Groundwater elevation
• Seepage into excavations
• Standing water
• Pumping soil
• Surface runoff
• Dewatering systems
• Sump pumps
• Drainage blankets
• Foundation drains
• Subdrains
• Temporary diversion systems
• Erosion
• Weather protection

Unanticipated water conditions should be documented and evaluated before affected foundation or fill work continues.

Utility Trench Backfill

Utility trenches can create settlement or support problems when backfill is placed without proper material control and compaction.

Inspection considerations may include:

• Pipe bedding
• Initial backfill
• Material around utilities
• Lift thickness
• Moisture conditioning
• Compaction equipment
• Protection of pipes and conduits
• Testing locations
• Compaction near structures
• Final surface restoration

Confined trenches may require smaller compaction equipment and thinner lifts than open fill areas.

Backfill at Foundations and Retaining Walls

Backfill adjacent to foundations and retaining walls should be placed carefully to avoid damage, excessive lateral pressure, settlement, and drainage problems.

Inspection may include:

• Approved backfill material
• Drainage-system installation
• Waterproofing protection
• Lift thickness
• Compaction method
• Distance from the wall
• Equipment weight
• Wall bracing
• Foundation-wall strength
• Final grading
• Surface drainage

Heavy equipment should not be operated too close to retaining or foundation walls unless permitted by the approved construction procedure.

Deep Foundations and Soils Inspection

Deep foundation construction may involve piles, drilled shafts, micropiles, or other systems that transfer loads below shallow soils.

Soils-related inspection considerations may include:

• Subsurface conditions
• Groundwater
• Drilling resistance
• Obstructions
• Bearing layer identification
• Excavated material
• Hole stability
• Slurry conditions
• Tip elevation
• Required penetration
• Construction records
• Unexpected conditions

Detailed deep-foundation inspection requirements may be covered by separate certification categories, but soils candidates should understand the relationship between subsurface conditions and foundation support.

Field Sampling

Representative sampling is necessary for reliable classification, moisture, compaction, and other laboratory testing.

Sampling considerations may include:

• Sampling location
• Sampling depth
• Material source
• Lift identification
• Visual variation
• Sample size
• Prevention of contamination
• Moisture preservation
• Container type
• Labeling
• Chain of custody
• Transportation to the laboratory

A test result is only as representative as the sample used to produce it.

Laboratory Reports

Laboratory reports provide the reference values and soil properties used to evaluate field construction.

A report may include:

• Project identification
• Sample identification
• Sampling location
• Soil classification
• Particle-size information
• Atterberg limits
• Maximum dry density
• Optimum moisture content
• Compaction method
• Oversize-particle corrections
• Test dates
• Technician information
• Applicable ASTM standard
• Comments or limitations

The inspector should confirm that the laboratory result corresponds to the material being placed in the field.

Field Density Test Reports

Field density reports document whether compacted soil satisfies the specified density and moisture requirements.

A complete report may include:

• Project name and location
• Date and time
• Test-area description
• Test elevation or lift
• Test method
• Wet density
• Water content
• Dry density
• Laboratory maximum dry density
• Optimum moisture content
• Relative compaction
• Required compaction
• Pass or fail result
• Corrective work
• Retest information

Test locations should be described clearly enough that the result can be traced to the inspected fill area.

Failed Compaction Tests

When compacted fill does not meet project requirements, corrective work should be completed before additional work conceals or loads the deficient area.

Corrective actions may include:

• Additional compaction
• Moisture adjustment
• Scarification
• Drying wet material
• Adding water to dry material
• Removing unsuitable soil
• Reducing lift thickness
• Changing compaction equipment
• Blending materials
• Retesting

The inspector should document the original result, the corrective action, the retest location, and the final result.

Inspection Frequency and Test Locations

Inspection and testing frequency should follow the approved construction documents, geotechnical recommendations, statement of special inspections, and applicable code requirements.

Selection of test locations may consider:

• Area of fill placement
• Volume of fill
• Each lift or elevation
• Changes in material
• Changes in moisture condition
• Different compaction equipment
• Confined areas
• Utility trenches
• Foundation backfill
• Previously failed areas
• Visibly soft or unstable areas
• Random representative locations

Testing only convenient areas may fail to represent the actual condition of the work.

Inspection Reports and Documentation

Inspection reports provide an official record of earthwork activities observed, testing performed, discrepancies identified, and corrective work completed.

A complete report may include:

• Project name and address
• Permit or project number
• Date and time of inspection
• Inspector name and credentials
• Weather conditions
• Areas inspected
• Soil or fill description
• Equipment used
• Lift thickness
• Moisture condition
• Tests performed
• Test results
• Deficiencies
• Parties notified
• Corrective work
• Outstanding items

Reports should be objective, complete, legible, and based on direct observation or clearly identified test information.

Writing Objective Inspection Notes

Inspection notes should describe what was observed without unsupported opinions or vague conclusions.

Effective notes generally identify:

• What activity was observed
• Where the work occurred
• Which lift or elevation was involved
• What material was placed
• What equipment was used
• What test was performed
• What result was obtained
• Which requirement applied
• What deficiency was identified
• Who was notified
• What correction was completed
• Whether follow-up inspection is required

Specific observations are more useful than statements such as “soil looked acceptable” or “compaction appeared good.”

Discrepancy Reporting

When earthwork or foundation conditions do not comply with approved documents or applicable requirements, the inspector should document and report the condition through the established project procedure.

Possible discrepancies may include:

• Unexpected soil conditions
• Insufficient excavation depth
• Unsuitable bearing material
• Unapproved fill material
• Excessive lift thickness
• Improper moisture condition
• Failed density test
• Incorrect laboratory reference curve
• Unapproved oversize material
• Missing drainage provisions
• Standing water
• Incomplete removal of organic material
• Unapproved field changes
• Incomplete documentation

The inspector should distinguish observed facts from engineering recommendations and should not independently approve design changes.

Professional Responsibility

Soils Special Inspectors must remain objective and work within the limits of their qualifications and assigned authority.

Professional responsibilities include:

• Reviewing project documents before inspection
• Maintaining independence
• Reporting observations accurately
• Communicating discrepancies promptly
• Protecting project records
• Avoiding conflicts of interest
• Using properly calibrated testing equipment
• Following test standards
• Working within personal qualifications
• Referring engineering questions to authorized professionals
• Documenting corrective work
• Maintaining certification requirements

The inspector verifies compliance but does not direct the contractor’s means and methods unless specifically authorized.

Field Safety

Soils inspection may expose inspectors to excavation, heavy-equipment, traffic, unstable-ground, utility, weather, and testing-equipment hazards.

Important safety considerations may include:

• Excavation and trench hazards
• Protective systems
• Safe access and egress
• Heavy-equipment blind spots
• Backing equipment
• Unstable slopes
• Soft or pumping ground
• Overhead and underground utilities
• Traffic control
• Personal protective equipment
• Heat and cold exposure
• Nuclear-gauge radiation safety
• Safe handling of direct-heating equipment
• Site-specific safety rules

Inspectors should never enter an unsafe excavation or position themselves in the path of operating construction equipment.

How to Use the Package References Together

A major part of ECCY preparation is learning which reference applies to each question.

• Use the soils, earthwork, and foundations text for practical explanations of soil behavior, field conditions, earthwork, and foundation concepts.
• Use the 2021 IBC for building-code provisions involving special inspection, soils, foundations, excavations, and fill.
• Use ASTM D698 for standard-effort laboratory compaction.
• Use ASTM D1557 for modified-effort laboratory compaction.
• Use ASTM D1556 for in-place density by the sand-cone method.
• Use ASTM D6938 for in-place density and water content by nuclear methods.
• Use ASTM D2487 for laboratory soil classification.
• Use ASTM D2488 for visual-manual soil description and identification.
• Use ASTM D4318 for liquid limit, plastic limit, and plasticity index.
• Use ASTM D4718 for oversize-particle corrections.
• Use ASTM D4959 for water content by direct heating.
• Use ASTM D7557 for sampling EPS geofoam specimens.

Reference-Book Navigation

An open-book or reference-based examination still requires fast and accurate navigation. Searching the wrong ASTM standard can consume valuable testing time.

A practical lookup method includes:

• Read the complete question
• Identify the soil, earthwork, or testing subject
• Determine whether the question concerns code, classification, compaction, density, water content, plasticity, or geofoam
• Select the most likely reference
• Use the table of contents or index
• Locate the complete section, procedure, or table
• Review notes, limitations, definitions, and calculations
• Confirm that the requirement applies to the stated condition
• Record difficult topics for additional practice

Candidates should practice moving between the IBC, soils text, and ASTM standards without relying on electronic search tools.

Organizing the Exam References

Tabs, bookmarks, highlighting, and permitted notes may improve reference navigation when they comply with current ICC exam rules.

A practical tab system may include:

• Special inspection requirements
• Soils and foundations
• Geotechnical investigations
• Fill placement
• Compaction requirements
• Standard Proctor
• Modified Proctor
• Sand-cone testing
• Nuclear density testing
• Soil classification
• Visual-manual identification
• Atterberg limits
• Oversize corrections
• Water content
• Geofoam sampling

Candidates should confirm current rules before adding tabs, handwritten notes, highlighting, or other markings.

Basic Calculations for the ECC Exam

The codes module may require calculations involving density, water content, relative compaction, plasticity, and oversize-particle corrections.

Useful calculation skills may include:

• Converting wet density to dry density
• Calculating relative compaction
• Calculating water content
• Calculating plasticity index
• Reading moisture-density curves
• Identifying maximum dry density
• Identifying optimum moisture content
• Calculating percentages
• Converting units
• Applying oversize-particle corrections
• Comparing measured values with project limits
• Rounding and reporting results

Candidates should write each calculation step clearly and confirm that all values use compatible units.

How to Prepare for the ICC ECCY Exam

Begin preparing several weeks before the examination and divide the materials into manageable study areas.

A practical study schedule may include:

• Soil behavior and terminology
• Geotechnical reports and boring logs
• IBC special-inspection requirements
• Existing site conditions
• Excavations and foundation-bearing materials
• Fill materials and lift placement
• Moisture conditioning
• Compaction principles
• ASTM D698 and D1557
• ASTM D1556 and D6938
• ASTM D2487 and D2488
• ASTM D4318
• ASTM D4718 and D4959
• ASTM D7557
• Inspection reports and discrepancy procedures
• Timed reference-navigation practice

Use the same reference editions throughout preparation that you expect to use during the examination.

Practice with Soils Inspection Scenarios

Scenario-based study helps candidates connect technical requirements with realistic field conditions.

Useful practice questions may include:

• Does the exposed foundation material match the geotechnical report?
• Has unsuitable soil been completely removed?
• Is the fill material approved for structural use?
• Is the lift thickness within the permitted limit?
• Is the soil too wet or too dry for effective compaction?
• Which laboratory compaction curve applies?
• What is the calculated relative compaction?
• Which field density method is appropriate?
• How should the soil be classified?
• What is the plasticity index?
• Is an oversize-particle correction needed?
• What information belongs in the inspection report?

After answering each question, candidates should locate the supporting code provision, ASTM procedure, table, or reference section.

Time-Management Strategies

The ECC examination is currently listed with 60 questions and a two-hour testing period. This provides an average of approximately two minutes per question.

Helpful time-management strategies include:

• Answer familiar questions first
• Mark difficult questions for later review
• Identify the correct reference before searching
• Avoid spending too much time on one ASTM procedure
• Use permitted tabs efficiently
• Read every unit and percentage carefully
• Eliminate clearly incorrect choices
• Keep calculations organized
• Reserve time for unanswered questions
• Practice under realistic time limits

Timed practice can reveal whether a candidate needs to improve terminology, book selection, calculation accuracy, or navigation speed.

Why Book-Based Study Helps

Printed soils, code, and ASTM references allow candidates to study the same terminology, procedures, tables, calculations, and limitations used in soils inspection.

Book-based preparation may help candidates:

• Learn the organization of every reference
• Recognize which standard applies to each question
• Create a personalized tab system
• Highlight important requirements
• Add permitted notes and reminders
• Compare related test procedures
• Practice without electronic search tools
• Retain the references for professional use

The package is most effective when candidates actively locate and apply requirements instead of relying only on memorization.

Who Should Consider the ECCY Exam Book Package?

The ICC SI Soils Codes Module - ECCY Exam Book Package may be useful for:

• Soils Special Inspector candidates
• Construction inspectors
• Geotechnical field technicians
• Earthwork inspectors
• Materials testing technicians
• Quality-control inspectors
• Quality-assurance personnel
• Engineering technicians
• Building department employees
• Laboratory technicians
• Foundation inspectors
• Grading and site-development personnel
• Professionals preparing for the ICC ECC exam

Candidates should confirm that the listed reference editions match the code cycle approved for their examination.

FAQ

Q. What is the ICC Soils Codes Module?

A. It is the codes examination associated with the ICC Soils Special Inspector certification pathway. It evaluates knowledge of soils, earthwork, foundations, fill, compaction, field testing, laboratory testing, classification, building-code provisions, and inspection responsibilities.

Q. Is the exam identified as ECC or ECCY?

A. ICC officially identifies the national codes examination as ECC. The exam book package uses the ECCY product designation.

Q. How many questions are on the ECC exam?

A. ICC currently lists the Soils Codes examination with 60 questions.

Q. How much time is allowed for the ECC exam?

A. ICC currently lists a two-hour testing period.

Q. How much does the ECCY Exam Book Package cost?

A. The package is listed at a sale price of $1,595.00, reduced from the regular price of $1,695.00.

Q. What is included in the ECCY Exam Book Package?

A. Current package listings identify a soils, earthwork, and foundations book; the 2021 International Building Code; and ten ASTM standards covering compaction, density, soil classification, plasticity, water content, oversize particles, nuclear testing, sand-cone testing, and EPS geofoam sampling.

Q. Is this an online course?

A. No. This product is listed as an exam book package containing printed books and technical standards.

Q. What examinations are required for the Soils Special Inspector certification?

A. ICC currently identifies the GR Special Inspector General Requirements module, ECC Soils Codes module, and ECP Soils Plans module.

Q. Do all candidates need the GR exam?

A. Candidates should confirm current ICC rules. The GR requirement may depend on whether the candidate already holds another active ICC Special Inspector certification.

Q. Does passing ECC automatically authorize me to work as a Soils Special Inspector?

A. No. The applicable building official or jurisdiction determines whether an individual is approved to perform special inspections.

Q. What does ASTM D698 cover?

A. ASTM D698 covers laboratory compaction characteristics of soil using standard compactive effort.

Q. What does ASTM D1557 cover?

A. ASTM D1557 covers laboratory compaction characteristics of soil using modified compactive effort.

Q. What does ASTM D1556 cover?

A. ASTM D1556/D1556M covers determination of in-place soil density and unit weight using the sand-cone method.

Q. What does ASTM D6938 cover?

A. ASTM D6938 covers in-place density and water-content testing of soil and soil-aggregate using nuclear methods at shallow depth.

Q. What does ASTM D2487 cover?

A. ASTM D2487 covers laboratory classification of soils for engineering purposes using the Unified Soil Classification System.

Q. What does ASTM D2488 cover?

A. ASTM D2488 covers visual-manual description and identification of soils.

Q. What does ASTM D4318 cover?

A. ASTM D4318 covers determination of the liquid limit, plastic limit, and plasticity index of soils.

Q. What does ASTM D4718 cover?

A. ASTM D4718/D4718M covers correction of unit weight and water content for soils containing oversize particles.

Q. What does ASTM D4959 cover?

A. ASTM D4959 covers determination of soil water content by direct heating.

Q. What does ASTM D7557 cover?

A. ASTM D7557/D7557M covers sampling of expanded-polystyrene geofoam specimens.

Q. What is relative compaction?

A. Relative compaction compares the in-place dry density of the soil with the applicable laboratory maximum dry density and expresses the result as a percentage.

Q. Should I study geotechnical reports?

A. Yes. Candidates should understand boring logs, soil descriptions, groundwater information, foundation recommendations, fill requirements, compaction criteria, and testing requirements.

Q. Should I practice calculations?

A. Yes. Practice dry-density, water-content, relative-compaction, plasticity-index, percentage, unit-conversion, and oversize-correction calculations.

Q. Is the ECC examination open book?

A. Current package listings describe it as an open-book, reference-based examination. Candidates should confirm the current ICC testing format and approved-reference policy before registering.

Q. Can I highlight and tab the references?

A. Reference-marking rules may change. Confirm current ICC requirements for tabs, highlighting, handwritten notes, and other modifications before exam day.

Q. How should I study with multiple ASTM standards?

A. Learn the purpose of each standard, study its organization, create a permitted navigation system, and complete timed exercises that require selecting the correct reference.

Q. Can field experience replace exam preparation?

A. Field experience is valuable, but candidates should also practice code navigation, soil classification, technical calculations, ASTM procedures, and exam-style questions.

Q. Does the package guarantee that I will pass?

A. No. The package supports reference familiarity and organized preparation, but exam results depend on the candidate’s knowledge, preparation, and test-day performance.

Q. Where can I purchase the ICC ECCY Exam Book Package?

A. The package is available from 1 Exam Prep at https://1examprep.com/collections/icc-si-soils-codes-module-eccy.

Conclusion

The ICC Soils Codes Module requires candidates to understand soil behavior, geotechnical reports, site preparation, excavations, foundation-bearing materials, fill placement, moisture conditioning, compaction, field density testing, laboratory testing, soil classification, Atterberg limits, water content, oversize particles, and inspection documentation.

The ICC SI Soils Codes Module - ECCY Exam Book Package brings together a practical soils reference, the 2021 International Building Code, and ASTM standards for focused, book-based preparation. The package is listed at a sale price of $1,595.00, reduced from the regular price of $1,695.00.

Successful candidates should begin preparing early, confirm current ICC requirements, learn the purpose and organization of every reference, practice soils calculations, review realistic inspection scenarios, and complete timed code-navigation exercises.

Shop the ICC SI Soils Codes Module - ECCY Exam Book Package

Key Takeaways

• The product is designed for ICC Soils Codes Module preparation.
• ICC officially identifies the national codes examination as ECC.
• The exam book package uses the ECCY product designation.
• The package is listed at a sale price of $1,595.00.
• The regular listed price is $1,695.00.
• Current package listings identify a soils text, the 2021 IBC, and ten ASTM standards.
• ICC currently lists the ECC examination with 60 questions and a two-hour limit.
• The full Soils Special Inspector pathway also includes GR and ECP.
• Important study areas include excavations, fill, compaction, density testing, classification, moisture, foundations, and inspection reporting.
• ASTM D698 and D1557 cover laboratory moisture-density relationships.
• ASTM D1556 and D6938 cover common in-place density-testing methods.
• ASTM D2487 and D2488 address soil classification and identification.
• ASTM D4318 addresses liquid limit, plastic limit, and plasticity index.
• ASTM D4718 addresses corrections for soils containing oversize particles.
• ASTM D4959 addresses water-content testing by direct heating.
• ASTM D7557 addresses EPS geofoam sampling.
• ICC certification does not automatically provide jurisdictional approval to perform special inspections.
• Consistent study, realistic scenarios, calculations, and timed reference navigation can improve exam readiness.