SHAs QPL Evaluation Process | Erosion and Sediment

Alabama DOT

Alabama DOT’s QPL evaluation process starts with the submission of a new product evaluation form. Submitters are required to include product information: product description, type, uses, advantages, manufacturer details, previous product evaluation history, material composition, and patent details; standardized testing data: NTPEP, independent lab test reports and others; information on the product status on meeting specifications: ALDOT, AASHTO, ASTM, MUTCD, federal; inspections, cost, availability and warranty information; details about other SHAs considerations; and required documentation: drawings, sketches, pictures, installation details, MSDS, product/ material literature, test data/ laboratory reports, certifications, and warranty. The application fee is $50. After the submission, ALDOT’s Product Evaluation Section verifies the application and gives the Project Evaluation Board (PEB) number. If the product meets current specifications, it will be forwarded to lab testing. Based on test results, the product may be approved for inclusion on the QPL (AL DOT Process Flowchart 2019, AL DOT NPAF 2017).

Alaska DOT

Alaska DOT includes products on the QPL system after satisfying standard specifications. Alaska DOT specifies QPL products into two categories: (1) highway construction products and (2) airport construction products. Manufactures and suppliers can submit an online application with supporting documents of their product for QPL inclusion. Approved products are listed in the Alaska DOT QPL for three years, before requiring for re-evaluation (AK DOT QPL 2019).

Arizona DOT

Arizona DOT’s (ADOT) approved product list (APL) evaluation process includes an application submission for product inclusion. In the application, the submitter is required to provide product details, applicable categories, answers to a product-related questionnaire, past evaluations information, Globally Harmonized System (GHS) and Safety Data Sheets (SDS) information, NTPEP data, other state DOT approval data, product description, uses, and specifications and test procedures from ADOT, ASTM, and AASHTO. Additional documents, i.e., safety data sheets, product information/specifications sheets, test data, design sheets, laboratory report, certification of analysis, and a certificate of compliance, should be submitted through email. The response regarding the product evaluation is anticipated within two weeks. The recertification period for E&SCPs is 5 years. (AZ DOT AF 2017, Arizona DOT APL 2019).

Arkansas DOT

Arkansas DOT QPL evaluation process includes sending a request letter by the manufacturer/submitter for product evaluation to the materials engineer. Manufacturers/submitters can find details about the approval process and specifications of each product type in the QPL. Arkansas DOT accepts recent NTPEP audits, AASHTO requirements, and ASTM testing procedures. The time span for the evaluation process to complete is three months. After the product evaluation, the results will be notified to the manufacturer. Prior to the inclusion on QPL, the manufacturer is required to sign a certification agreement (Arkansas DOT FAQ 2018).

California DOT

California DOT’s new product evaluation process includes an application submission from the manufacturer/vendor. The manufacturers/vendors are required to include their company information, product information and answers to a product related questionnaire, , NTPEP evaluation information, and details about the product meeting Caltrans, AASHTO, ASTM, FHWA, other DOTs, and national agency specifications. Test methods specified by ASTM, AASHTO, and another national agency should be included. The package list for this process consists of the new product evaluation submittal form, product literature, test data, SDS, a quality control plan, a contact or reference list, other related information, suggested specification language, and a product warranty. After applying, the Program Evaluation Coordinator will review the overall application and send it to the Technical Committee Chair (TCC) and the Office of Health and Safety (OHS). After a review by both offices, the priority of the product will be decided, and the offices further verify the data and attached documents. The product may be sent to testing if it is needed, or the vendor will be notified about the acceptance if the testing is not required. The average time for the product evaluation is 90 days (Caltrans Flowchart 2019.; Caltrans 2018).

Colorado DOT

Colorado DOT’s (CDOT) product acceptance process consists of four methods, i.e., Pre- Inspection (PI), Certified Test Report (CTR), Certificate of Compliance (COC), and Pre- Approved. PI is performed at the manufacturer’s facility, CTR and COC are submitted along with the products that are delivered to the projects, and Pre-Approved products are tested and placed on the CDOT’s APL. CDOT’s product evaluation includes submitting a pre-approved product evaluation request and summary. The submitter should include product details; category; description; specifications, i.e., CDOT, ASTM, AASHTO, FHWA and others; COC; product testing CTR from NTPEP- AASHTO, FHWA and others; and other state DOTs approvals. A Product Evaluation Coordinator will review the application and forward the product to the relative CDOT Expert Product Evaluator (EPE) or Subject Matter Expert (SME). The experimental feature of the product is sent to the Research Director. A decision will be made after evaluation: if accepted, then the product will be added to the QPL. The recertification period for E&SCPs is 5 years (CDOT Notice 2019a, CDOT Application Form 2019b).

Connecticut DOT

Connecticut DOT’s new product evaluation includes an application submission to the CDOT personnel. The application form can be obtained by sending an e-mail with detailed information, value of the product, material or process. The application is not available online. New product applications are reviewed at quarterly meetings. The personnel will notify the submitter on the decision (Conn DOT Product Evaluation 2019).

Delaware DOT

Delaware DOT recommends the manufacturers to submit their products to the contractors who work on DOT projects. The contractors will send the new products to the materials and research section that verifies the products meeting standard specifications. Delaware DOT accepts NTPEP testing data for RECPs (Delaware DOT evaluation 2019).

Florida DOT

Florida DOT’s product evaluation process includes submitting a ‘Request for product consideration’ application. The application form requires adding product and manufacturer details, FDOT’s specification section numbers that are mentioned in DOT specifications, test reports or material certifications, plans, and drawings. After receiving the application from manufactures/submitters, the DOT’s personnel will proceed after confirming QPL requirements for the product and the completion of the application. Incomplete applications will be returned to the manufacturer/submitters. A Technical Expert (TE) will review the application package with the available standard specification and technical data (NTPEP). After verification, the TE will inform product evaluation process about product compliance to the standard specifications. The decision on the inclusion will be notified to the manufacturer/submitters. If the submitted product requires field testing, the program evaluator may ask to provide a certificate about the product posing no harm on DOT’s test deck. According to the Florida DOT, all approved products should be recertified on a timely basis. The recertification schedule varies between products. Erosion control products and geosynthetic materials require to be notarized for every two years. The DOT’s recertification program ensures that the properties of approved products remain constant. The state program evaluation administrator may investigate the products that are not complying with the department documents. If any deficiencies are found, the product may be removed from the APL, and a notification will be sent to the manufacturer (FDOT Evaluation Process 2019, FDOT Flow Chart 2003, FDOT Application 2016a, FDOT Recertification b).

Georgia DOT

Georgia DOT’s new product evaluation includes an application submitted by the product manufacturer/supplier. The manufacturer/suppliers are required to provide product and representor information; patent details; information about the country in which the material was produced; product description; advantages; material compositions; relative comparable product details; specifications, including AASHTO, ASTM, and federal specifications; cost and installation details; corresponding educational courses; company description; and previous proposals. Manufacturer/suppliers are also required to attach details about specifications, drawings, sketches, pictures, warranty, installation instructions, Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), product literature, and test data. The fee for product evaluation is $100. An initial review of the submitted product application is done by a New Product Evaluation (NPE) committee member. In the preliminary study, documentation, performance details, and the necessity and economic efficiency of the product are reviewed. After initial review, the committee member, along with pertained technical experts, may review the product to make a decision. The decision may be postponed to NPE meetings. The NPE committee meets quarterly. The NPE committee may delay the decision and may recommend the product for testing. The manufacturer is required to pay a $500 fee for testing. The testing may be done in a lab or in the field. The field evaluation is further divided into two types: standard field test and a proposed pilot field test. Based on the collected test data, the committee may decide and notify the result to the manufacturer (GA DOT Application 2017a, GA DOT NPE Guidelines b).

Hawaii DOT

Hawaii DOT’s (HDOT) new product evaluation contains an application submission by the manufacturer. Manufacturers are required to include their company information, product details such as HDOT specification numbers, product description, and specifications including AASHTO, ASTM, and HDOT. Submitters are required to include physical sample and relevant HDOT specifications, a Quality Control Plan, a Quality Control Test Report, HDOT Material Testing and Research Branch Test Data, other independent lab test data, and product literature. Previous performance, maintenance practices, and environmental problems may be examined during the approval process. The APL may be updated once every year. Manufacturers may need to submit a recertification request one month before the expiry date. HDOT may conduct a random testing and auditing for the material at the manufacturing plant, project sites, and other locations. HDOT holds the right to remove products from the QPL at any time if the standard requirements are not met during testing. The erosion control products require to be renewed once a year (HDOT APL process 2019, HDOT application form 2017).

Idaho DOT

Idaho DOT’s new product evaluation application for QPL inclusion can be submitted by manufacturers, distributors, sales representatives, and contractors. All submitters except the contractor can directly submit to the program administrator, and the contractor is required to send the application to the local engineer. Submitters are required to include information such as product applications, satisfying specifications, advantages, plans, product demonstrations, instructions for installation and application, product availability, information about testing by the AASHTO NTPEP product panel, other DOTs approval information, product-specific questionnaire, and manufacturer details. Product review teams pertained to the specific products are responsible for reviewing the products. The products may be approved, provisionally approved, or disapproved. There is no particular time limit for evaluations; applications from contractors may be prioritized, which can ease up in applying the products on current construction projects. Approved products may require appropriate testing and certifications to use in the project; provisional approved products may require additional requirements. The product may be removed from the QPL if the performance does not match the specifications. Existing product and manufacturer name changes may be requested by sending a change application with previous test results, updated product data sheets, MSDS, and test reports. According to the Idaho DOT, all products on QPL are required to recertify every five years (ID DOT QPL 2019, ID DOT QPL Review 2019, ID DOT FAQ 2019, ID DOT QPL application 2006).

Illinois DOT

Illinois DOT’s QPL inclusion process consists of producer/supplier approvals. The producers/suppliers are required to be authorized by the DOT personnel to supply their products for the projects. In-state material producers/suppliers may begin the process for approval by calling the regional DOT materials representative. Out-of-state producers/ suppliers can contact the central office. The representative allocates a unique identifier code (P/S number) for each producer and supplier. After obtaining the P/S number, the producers/suppliers can decide the materials and assign a related material code to the P/S number. The regional district inspector may plan to visit the manufacturing plant for material inspection and further decide on testing (ILDOT approval process 2019).

Indiana DOT

Indiana DOT’s (IN DOT) APL inclusion process differs from product to product. The approval process begins by sending a request for product approval by the submitter to the office of materials management. For geotextiles, the submitter should include product and manufacturer details; SDS; product testing certifications specified on the IN DOT’s form ‘ITM-804’, NTPEP test report; details about product meeting the ASTM requirements; manufacturing facility’s annual ISO-9001 certification. The geotextile manufacturers are required to pass the NTPEP audit process to maintain their products on APL. The product may be removed if the products fail in testing or meeting the IN DOT’s required performance standards, or manufacturer fails in notifying any product changes or completing NTPEP audit process and ISO certification (Indiana DOT Requirements 2019).

Iowa DOT

Iowa DOT’s (IA DOT) QPL approval process varies from product to product. The approval process for each product type is described in the QPL section. Erosion control products are required to satisfy the IA DOT specifications. Manufacturers are required to submit product information to the office of construction and materials for obtaining the approval. The product information should include product identification, brand name, product number, product sample for testing, NTPEP test data, company and contact information, and product literature. Wattles and filter socks are an exception for the approval process; these products may be accepted with certifications submitted by the manufacturer (IA DOT Approval process 2019).

Kansas DOT

Kansas DOT’s (KS DOT) QPL approval process relies on the product type and its reference in the plans and/or specifications. The product approval process is categorized into three types: products that are approved on certification; products that require prequalification; and products that require both certification and prequalification. Manufacturers/Submitters are recommended to verify their product standards with KS DOT standard specifications, special provisions, and pre-qualified materials list. If the products are meeting the standard specifications and require prequalification, the manufacturers/submitters can submit product-related documents and samples to the materials and research center for testing. Manufacturers/submitters may submit the products that are not mentioned in the specifications by providing product information in form 1190, product engineering package, marketing brochure, test data, and other relevant information (KS DOT Approval Process 2019).

Kentucky DOT

Kentucky DOT’s (KY DOT) AML inclusion process differs from product to product. The approval process for each product type is mentioned in the AML. The standards of erosion control products should confirm with NTPEP data section, and products may be removed but not added from the AML if the test data does not match with the field performance. Geotextile and Geosynthetics manufacturers or suppliers are recommended to participate in the NTPEP program, submit three months of quality control data, and provide samples for testing. Geotextile and Geosynthetic products will be added to the AML after reviewing the documentation and test data of the submitted samples. Geotextiles and Geosynthetic field samples will be taken down from the project applications or considered at a reduced price if they are not meeting standard specifications. Also, if the products were continuously failing and found defective for three times during laboratory analysis within the calendar year, the product will be removed from the AML. KY DOT updates the AML daily (KY DOM&DOH 2019).

Louisiana DOT

Louisiana DOT’s (LA DOT) new product approval process includes an application form submitted by the manufacturers. In the application, the manufacturer should include the company and its product representative information, advantages, composition, NTPEP submittal number, installation details, product-related tutorials, drawings, warranty, MSDS, materials literature, test data sheets, certifications, and test data. Submitted products may be tested in the field and the laboratories. After evaluation, the submitter will be notified about the product inclusion in the AML. The DOT has the right to re-evaluate any material at any time. Also, manufacturers are required to submit a COC of the product every two years to be in the AML. The DOT authorities may remove any product from the AML if any discrepancies are found (LA DOT Application Form 2017a, LA DOT Geotextiles testing b, LA DOT ECP testing c).

Maine DOT

Maine DOT’s (ME DOT) QPL approval process begins with the submission of an application by the manufacturer/vendor. In the new product submittal form, the manufacturer/vendor should provide company, submitter, and product distributor details as well as product information. Submitters are recommended to attach the test data of NTPEP, AASHTO, ASTM, FHWA, and any other nationally recognized agency. Overall, manufacturers should provide a submittal form, product literature, SDS, and a contact list of other agencies. After receiving the application from the manufacturer/vendor, the application is added to the database and forwarded to the relevant sub-committee for review. After review, the sub-committee may recommend the product for pre-qualification or trail use, ask for additional information, or express no interest in the product. If the product trail use is successful, the product may be added to QPL, and the manufacturer/ vendor will be notified. The product may be rejected if the manufacturer/vendor fails in providing the information (ME DOT Evaluation Flow Chart 2008, Maine DOT Application Form 2018).

Maryland DOT

Maryland DOT’s (MD DOT) QPL inclusion process begins with manufacturer/vendor registration on the Maryland Product Evaluation List (MPEL) website. After registering, manufacturer/vendor can request product inclusion on MPEL and submit contact information, product name, description, and uses. After submitting the application, the DOT request the manufacturer/vendor complete any one of three actions: statewide new products, traffic new products, and the QPL. The manufacturers/vendors are required to attach third-party test data, MSDS, and payment information. Concerned sub-coordinators verify the submitted information, test data complying to the specifications, and test fee payment. The sub-coordinator also guarantees that the sample reaches the testing laboratory and updates the QPL and MPEL after testing. Manufacturers/Vendors are required to submit NTPEP data and pay a testing fee of $200 for geotextiles. Rejected products are ineligible for reevaluation for six months (MD DOT Evaluation Procedures 2016, MD DOT Geotextile evaluation 2018).

Massachusetts DOT

Massachusetts DOT’s (Mass DOT) Qualified Construction Material List (QCML) approval process starts with the submission of an application by the manufacturer. The submitter is required to provide a product description; supplier information; confirmation standards such as AASHTO, ASTM, FHWA, and Mass DOT Highway Division; previous evaluation information; and costs. Submitters are required to attach Product data sheets, MSDS, testing data from an independent lab that confirms Mass DOT highway division specifications, and other states’ product approval information. The application will be evaluated by the Material Management Quality Assurance Program Engineer and forwarded to the New Product Evaluation Committee for further evaluation. The submitter will be notified about the decision on adding the product to the QCML after evaluation (Mass DOT QCML 2018).

Michigan DOT

Michigan DOT’s (MI DOT) product approval process consists of application submissions by the manufacturer. The manufacturer is required to include their company and product information plus standards that are confirmed by the product such as: AASHTO, ASTM, federal Specifications, Michigan and Others, and previous evaluation history. After receiving the request, the new product evaluations are given to MI DOT's Subject Matter Expert. In the preliminary review, the SME will decide whether further product evaluation is needed or not. The SME may close the application if the product has been previously tested by MI DOT. After the preliminary review, the SME may contact the manufacturer for more product-related information. After the final evaluation, the SME may reject the product, accept the product to QPL, or stall the decision for further study (MI DOT 1022Q 2017, MI DOT evaluation process 2018).

Minnesota DOT

Minnesota DOT’s (MN DOT) product approval process begins with the submission of a product-based application by the manufacturer. The manufacturer is required to provide their company and distribution information, erosion control products that meet MN DOT specifications, previous test results, MSDS, and other product-related questionnaires. If the erosion control product comes in the HECP category, the manufacturer is required to answer HECP related questions. The submitter is required to provide samples to MN DOT if the product is either RECP or silt fence. The evaluation process contains the application review, a preliminary environmental evaluation, an engineering evaluation, and the final decision. Products on APL may be decertified at any time if the product performance does not comply to the standard specifications. The product evaluation process may take up to 90 days. The products on APL expire after five years, and reapplication is needed to list on QPL (MN DOT Approval Process 2015a, MN DOT E&SC Application Form b).

Mississippi DOT

Mississippi DOT’s (MS DOT) product approval process consists of submitting a product evaluation form by the manufacturer. The manufacturer should provide product details, company information, product uses and specifications, NTPEP test data and previous proposal history. Products are required to meet MS DOT standard specifications as well as AASHTO and FHWA standards (MS DOT APL 2019, MS DOT Evaluation Form 2018).

Missouri DOT

Missouri DOT’s (MO DOT) product approval process begins with the submission of a new product evaluation form by the manufacturer. The manufacturer should provide their company information, product details, AASHTO, ASTM, federal specifications, NTPEP information, and other product-related questionnaires. Missouri DOT’s APL adopts erosion control products from Texas DOT’s APL (MO DOT ECB 2014, MO DOT Application Form 2016).

Montana DOT

Montana DOT’s (MT DOT) QPL inclusion process starts with the submission of a request form by the manufacturer. The manufacturer should include submitter details, product descriptions and uses, ASTM, AASHTO, MT DOT, other specifications, and other states’ product approval information. Submitters should also provide product samples; photographs; technical data sheets; MSDS; test reports from NTPEP; state, federal, or independent testing agencies; and quality control plans. The submitted product is required to be in production for six months to qualify for evaluation. The MT DOT may add the new product to the QPL if it meets all requirements. The MT DOT holds rights to test and audit the products at any time and may disqualify the products that are not in compliance with MT DOT requirements (MT DOT QPL Process 2019, MT DOT Request Form 2019).

Nebraska DOT

Nebraska DOT’s (NE DOT) APL inclusion process consists of submitting a new product evaluation form by the manufacturer. The manufacturer is required to provide product information; specification details: AASHTO, ASTM, federal, and NE DOT specifications; and NTPEP test data. The product review team reviews the application if the manufacturer provides NTPEP testing data, and the DOT may test the product if the manufacturer does not provide previous testing data. After evaluation, the product review team may approve and add into the QPL or reject the product. The Nebraska DOT has specified approval procedures for E&SCPs. All RECPs used in the NE DOT are required to submit testing data from NTPEP. Large scale testing must be performed to RECPs within 18 months to stay in QPL. The NE DOT recommends full-scale testing to find minimum permissible shear stress and conduct slope erosion protection tests at a pre-approved testing facility. Pre-approved testing facilities are the Texas Transportation Institute, College Station, Texas; Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado; San Diego State University, California; Utah State University, Logan, Utah; and the Erosion Lab, Rice Lake, Wisconsin. The NE DOT also reserves the right to test or temporarily approve new products or techniques for understanding the product feasibility in the state of Nebraska. The product may be removed from NE DOT’s APL if they fail in 3-6 consecutive tests. Re-certification is required for RECPs every three years (NE DOR APL Policy 2004, NE DOR E&SC APL Testing Process 2007a, NE DOR APL Flow Chart b; NE DOT Application Form 2018).

Nevada DOT

Nevada DOT’s (NV DOT) QPL approval process consists of submitting a new product evaluation form by the manufacturer/vendor/distributor. The submitter is required to include their information and product details, other product-related questionnaires, and attach applicable documents. Documents should include FHWA letters, SHA acceptance letters, certifications, SDS, lab analysis, plans, drawings, pictures, product data, specifications, NTPEP test data, handling precautions, health hazards, etc. The evaluation process shall start after confirming all documentation from the submitter. The application package will be forwarded to the relative division personnel to verify the product meeting current specifications. The product may be added to the QPL if testing is not required, or the product may be forwarded to field testing. In some cases, considering product evaluation, the division personnel may also recommend revising specifications (NV DOT RM 2006, NV DOT Evaluation Form 2014).

New Hampshire DOT

New Hampshire DOT’s product evaluation process includes submitting an application form by the manufacturer. The submitter is required to include NTPEP specification number, product details, AASHTO, ASTM, federal specifications, and other product-related questionnaires. The Product Evaluation Unit (PEU) reviews the information and documents included in the application form with the NHDOT specifications. Some products may be forwarded to NTPEP testing or required to meet NTPEP testing standards. The Product Evaluation Subcommittee may approve the products and list them on the QPL if the products meet the NHDOT requirements (NH DOT QPL Submittal Form 2015, NH DOT QPL Evaluation 2018).

New Jersey DOT

New Jersey DOT’s qualified products inclusion process begins with a submission of a “New Technologies and Product Evaluation Form” by the manufacturer. The submitter should include their company information; product details; MSDS; NTPEP data; details about products confirming AASHTO, ASTM, federal, and NJDOT specifications; and other product-related questionnaires. The DOT’s subject matter experts will review and prioritize the applications. After formal evaluation, the SME may ask the submitters for a formal presentation. Later, the tests are conducted, and results are submitted to the SMEs. The SMEs shall review and decide on the product addition into the QPL. The evaluation process may take two to three years (NJDOT FAQ 2019, NJDOT Flow Chart 2011, NJ DOT Evaluation Form 2018).

New Mexico DOT

New Mexico DOT ‘s APL inclusion process consists of an application submission to the program evaluation coordinator. The submitter should include their information, manufacturer, and distributor details; details about the product meeting NMDOT, AASHTO, ASTM, federal, and other DOT specification numbers; MSDS; and other product-related questionnaires. The product evaluation coordinator reviews the application and may add to the QPL or request for testing. Products listed on the QPL will expire in five years and renewal is required before the expiration date (NM DOT PE Instructions 2014, NM PE Application 2016).

New York State DOT

New York State DOT’s (NYSDOT) new product evaluation process begins with an application submitted by the manufacturer. The submitter is required to provide their company information; the product maintenance description; details about the product meeting standard specifications such as AASHTO, ASTM, FHWA, and/or NYSDOT; previous evaluations; costs; and department contacts. After submission, the application may be forwarded to New Product Evaluation Committee members for review. After review, the committee members may decide and notify the submitter (NYS DOT Application 2014).

North Carolina DOT

North Carolina DOT’s (NCDOT) product approval process consists of an online application submission by the manufacturer. The Technical Work Group (TWG) in the NCDOT’s Product Evaluation Program (PEP) reviews the product application to see if the product is needed. After review, the TWG may assess the product standards with NCDOT specifications; if there are no specifications, then the evaluation criteria is designed. After evaluation, a decision will be made on product inclusion, and the submitter will be notified. If denied, the submitter can send an appeal to the PEP engineer that they are not satisfied with the product status. PEP sends recertification requests to vendors annually. Manufacturers who submit geotextiles for APL inclusion are required to maintain a “complaint” status in the current NTPEP audit. NTPEP does not perform testing for some properties such as wide width tensile strength. In such cases, the geotextile products are to be tested in laboratories accredited by Geosynthetic Accreditation Institute (GAI) to find the properties that are available on NTPEP (NCDOT VMO 2018; NCDOT PEP 2017).

North Dakota DOT

North Dakota DOT (ND DOT) does not maintain the APL. The contractors are required to use products that satisfy the contract requirements. Contractors should notify the engineer about the product, and the engineer may approve with COC, sampling, testing, and inspection. The engineer may waive the material inspection if the material value is less than $5000. Manufacturers may apply for new product inclusion if the performance of their products exceeds ND DOT specifications. Manufacturers are required to include their company information; product details; meeting specifications such as NDDOT, AASHTO, ASTM, federal, and other DOTs; test data reports from NTPEP, AASHTO Product Evaluation List (APEL), National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP), and others; product literature; technical data sheets; test data; SDS; and product samples. Submitted applications will be forwarded to the Technical Experts and New Product Review Teams. The teams will have ten days to comment on the application and material. The teams may reject, approve, or forward the application for further evaluation (NDDOT Specs 2014, NDDOT Application Form 2018a, NDDOT Product Evaluation b).

Ohio DOT

Ohio DOT’s (OHDOT) QPL inclusion process consists of manufacturers sending a product description to the Office of Materials Management (OMM) to obtain the OHDOT’s product requirements. The OMM may review the product description and send the product requirements to the submitter based on in-house historical data. If there is no in-house historical data, the OMM may evaluate the material variability, manufacturers efficiency in producing quality material, other state approval methods, and costs for product testing. If there is in-house historical data, the OMM may evaluate previous performance of producers and test data, historical variability of the material, other states approval process, and costs for product testing. The OMM is responsible for developing new product acceptance criteria for inclusion on the QPL. The manufacturers can apply for inclusion of their products on the QPL by submitting the requirements. The OMM will evaluate and may add the products to the QPL if they comply with OHDOT’s requirements. Manufacturers are required to recertify the products by January 1st of every calendar year, and uncertified materials will be removed from the QPL by February 1st. The OMM may conduct random testing on QPL materials. If the products fail in meeting the requirements, the manufacturers will be notified and are required to respond within 15 days. Manufacturers have the right to dispute the validity of department test results. Failing to respond within 15 days may result in removal of the products from the QPL, and they will not be reviewed for reinstatement for a year (OH DOT QPL 2019, OH DOT QPL Process 2014).

Oklahoma DOT

Oklahoma DOT’s (OKDOT) QPL approval process consists of a “New or Equal Product Evaluation Request” submission by the manufacturer. The manufacturer is required to provide product and their company information, patent details, other product-related questionnaires, NTPEP test data, AASHTO, ASTM requirements, MSDS, and other product-related information. “Equal products” are the products that are specified in the OKDOT specifications and currently mentioned in OKDOT specifications, whereas “New products” are not specified in current OKDOT standards. After evaluation, the products may be accepted and added to the QPL, accepted for conditional use, rejected, or approved for trial installation. Unsatisfactory performance of QPL products may lead to rejection and removal from the QPL at any time (OK DOT QPL Evaluation 2017).

Oregon DOT

Oregon DOT’s (ORDOT) QPL approval process consists of an application submission by the manufacturer. The manufacturer is required to provide a description; advantages; specifications such as ORDOT, AASHTO, ASTM, and others; other agency approvals; MSDS; drawings; installation instructions; test reports; and samples. The materials section confirms the application by the submitter and may forward it to the evaluator. The evaluator reviews the application and may ask the submitter for more information or to send the application to the product evaluation committee. The product evaluation committee may approve the product and add it to the QPL, conditionally approve and recommend it for field evaluation, or reject the product. The products on the QPL will expire within two years, and the manufacturers are required to apply for an extension (ORDOT QPL Evaluation 2004, ORDOT QPL Application 2018).

Pennsylvania DOT

Pennsylvania DOT’s (Penn DOT) approval process consists of an online product evaluation application submission by the manufacturer. According to section 106.02 of bulletin 15 released by Penn DOT on the QPL for construction, manufacturers are not required to submit a product evaluation application for project-specific materials. Project-specific erosion and sediment control materials are temporary and permanent RECPs, inlet filter Bags, Compost Filter Socks, Compost Blankets, and Compost Filter Berms. Contractors who intend to use such materials in their projects are required to list them on form CS-200 and submit the form for local approval (Penn DOT QPL 2019).

Rhode Island DOT

Rhode Island DOT’s (RI DOT) new product evaluation process consists of application submission by the manufacturer. The manufacturer is required to provide their company information; product details; installation details; information about the product meeting specifications such as AASHTO, ASTM, federal, and RIDOT; and other product-related questionnaires in addition to attaching MSDS. The submitter may be notified about the decision after evaluation(RI DOT APL Application Form 2014).

South Carolina DOT

South Carolina DOT’s (SCDOT) E&SCPs approval process is based on submitting the AASHTO NTPEP test data and certifications. Acceptance into the QPL may be granted by the Office of Materials and Research (OMR). The manufacturers should send relative documentation to the OMR such as quality control program sheets, laboratory testing information, and installation instructions. Approved geotextiles for slope applications are listed on QPL for 3 years (SCDOT Geotextile Policy 2007, SCDOT ECB Policy 2014).

South Dakota DOT

South Dakota DOT’s (SDDOT) product evaluation process begins with the submission of an application by the manufacturer. The submitter is required to include their information; product details; meeting specifications such as ASTM, AASHTO, SDDOT, and others; physical samples; photographs; product technical data sheets; MSDS; NTPEP test reports; state or federal agency test reports; independent laboratory test reports; and distributor information. The primary screening of applications is done by the certification engineer, and results may be forwarded to the committee if the application has required information and the product shows strong potential. The committee reviews the application and may evaluate the sample. Based on the results, a decision will be made after the evaluation, and the manufacturer will be notified (SD DOT QPL Application 2009, SD DOT QPL Procedure 2016).

Tennessee DOT

Tennessee DOT’s (TN DOT) QPL approval process consists of application submission by the manufacturer. The manufacturer should include their company and product information; NTPEP test data; AASHTO, ASTM, federal, and TDOT specifications; drawings, sketches, and pictures; warranty information; installation details; MSDS; product/material literature; test data; and certifications. The Research and Product Evaluation Section reviews the application and may evaluate the product. The TN DOT holds the rights to remove the products from the QPL if the performance of the products is not matched with the requirements (TN DOT QPL Evaluation 2019, TN DOT Evaluation Form 2012a).

Texas DOT

Texas DOT’s (TxDOT) product evaluation process begins with a request submitted by the manufacturer. The submitters are required to include their company and product information specifications such as ASTM and NCHRP, MSDS, test reports, and other documentation. The Research and Technology Implementation (RTI) Division in the TxDOT receives and reviews the application. The preliminary evaluation is completed based on the submitted information. The Product Evaluation Committee (PEC) may contact the TxDOT district offices to know their interest in using the product. The PEC may send a ‘No Interest’ letter if the TxDOT district offices do not show any interest. The RTI division may determine the type of evaluation used for the product. The approval of E&SCPs into the QPL is based upon the field performance results. The evaluation process is conducted in the Sedimentation and Erosion Control laboratory of Environmental and Planning Program of the Texas Transportation Institute (TxDOT Evaluation Process 2019, Texas Evaluation Form 2018a, Texas DOT SEC Lab b).

Utah DOT

Utah DOT’s (UT DOT) APL process consists of an application submission by the manufacturer. The submitter is required to provide a product description, details about the product meeting ASTM or AASHTO standard specifications, and other product-related questionnaires. The submitters should include product data sheets, installation details, specifications, handling information, MSDS, and limitations. The project engineer may review the product’s compliance with APL standards and may notify the submitter about the decision (UTDOT APL2019; UT DOT Application 2016).

Vermont DOT

Vermont DOT’s (VTDOT) APL inclusion process begins with the submission of a submittal form by the manufacturer. The submitter is required to include their company information; NTPEP test number; specifications such as AASHTO, ASTM, and federal; and MSDS. The Material Acceptance Program reviews the application and evaluates the product using VTDOT standard specifications that support the Quality Assurance Program (VTDOT Form 2018).

Virginia DOT

Virginia DOT’s (VA DOT) new product inclusion process consists of an application submission by the manufacturer. The submitter is required to provide their company information; satisfying specifications such as AASHTO, ASTM, and NTPEP data; product literature; test data; safety data sheets; and instructions. The information included in the application will be reviewed in the initial evaluation. The new products committee may further evaluate the product and contact the submitters for more details. The product may be added to the QPL based on the results (Virginia DOT Evaluation 2017).

Washington State DOT

Washington State DOT’s (WS DOT) approval product inclusion process consists of an application form submitted by the manufacturer. The manufacturer is required to contact the QPL engineer before applying. The submitter is required to provide their company information; product details and its benefits; and details about products meeting standard specifications such as AASHTO, ASTM, federal, NTPEP, and other agencies. The submitters are required to make a payment of $250 for evaluation. The WS DOT may accept the product application and add the product to the QPL after evaluation. The WS DOT may remove products from the QPL if their performance does not match WS DOT standard specifications (WSDOT QPL 2019, WSDOT QPL Application 2018).

West Virginia DOT

West Virginia DOT’s (WV DOT) product inclusion process begins with the submission of an application by the manufacturer. The submitters are required to include their company and product information; material composition and specifications; plan drawings, pictures, and/or sketches; AASHTO, ASTM specifications, and NTPEP data; other SHA approvals; and other product-related questionnaires. The Material Control, Soils and Testing Division receives the applications and forwards them to the districts/divisions for review. If the districts/divisions show interest in using the products, they may be accepted and added to the QPL or forwarded elsewhere for further evaluation. Based on the results, a decision will be made on products being added to the QPL (WV DOT Evaluation Process 2016a, WV DOT Application Form b).

Wisconsin DOT

Wisconsin DOT’s (WI DOT) Product Acceptability List (PAL) approval process begins with sending a product submittal package through an email by the manufacturer to the New Products Engineer. The WI DOT developed approval requirements for each type of product, and the requirements for each erosion control product defer from one another. The required documents to be included in this package are product data, installation instructions, MSDS, NTPEP test data, and material properties information. The WI DOT accepts erosion control products review applications for approximately 11 months from April 1st to March 31st, and the annual update on the approvals will be posted by April 31st. WI DOT holds the right to remove the products from PAL at any time if there are any discrepancies in the performance (WI DOT PAL 2019).

Wyoming DOT

Wyoming DOT’s (WY DOT) online QPL application does not contain erosion and sediment control criteria. The manufacturers who intend their products to be used in the WY DOT’s projects are required to submit their certification or materials certification. The manufacturers should include their information, WY DOT’s bid item number, product details, specifications met by the product such as AASHTO, ASTM, WYDOT, etc. WY DOT does not require materials certification if a standard testing agency tests them (WY DOT Spec 2010, WY DOT Certification 2012).

District of Columbia

District of Columbia DOT’s (DC DOT) requires ‘Compliance Certification Form’ of all manufactured materials from the construction contractors before applying in the project. Along with the compliance certification, the contractors are required to provide their information, product testing reports, etc. The materials used in the project may be sampled and tested at any time to ensure the products’ compliance with the DC DOT’s standard requirements (DC DOT Specifications 2013).