foundation load test. If the proposed foundation were to consist of piers founded on rock,
then test piers could be constructed and load tested. Performing load tests would be the most accu-rate method of determining the load-settlement behavior of a foundation element supported on rock
(i.e., see ASTM D 1143-94, 2004, “Standard Test Method for Piles Under Static Axial Compressive
Load”). Unfortunately, such a test would be very expensive and time consuming and would normally
only be justified for essential facilities or very high foundation loads.