Issue link: http://itf.uberflip.com/i/450983
36 3. GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS It is preferred that surfaces are tested in situ, although it is accepted that the testing of samples in a laboratory may be more practical (and effective) in some cases. The test method for court pace (ITF CS 01/02) is applicable to both laboratory and on-site testing. On-site testing Following installation, on-site tests should not be carried out until the court surface has been given sufficient time to stabilise. Typically, the playing surface of an acrylic court requires a week to stabilise, whereas clay or artificial grass may need several months. Factors that affect stabilisation time include: surface type, site conditions, e.g. climate and shade, usage and maintenance. The stabilisation time should be agreed with the contractor in advance of testing. Prior to testing, the court shall be prepared using the manufacturer's, supplier's and/or contractor's procedures. Testing commences with a visual inspection of the court. At a minimum, the court should have a uniform appearance, with no gaps between joins or cracks, and straight court markings. During testing, the prevailing environmental conditions should be recorded, including: Maximum and minimum temperature of the air, surface and test balls. Maximum and minimum relative humidity. Maximum and minimum atmospheric pressure. Condition of the surface, i.e. dry, damp, etc. Unless the surface is designed to be damp/wet when in its optimum condition, tests should be made when the surface is dry. To minimise the effects of changes in ambient conditions, the test should be completed as soon as is reasonably possible. Tests for court pace (ITF CS 01/02) should not take place if the average temperature of the test balls cannot be maintained within the range 10-30°C. Tests conducted at above 1,219 m (4,000 feet) must use balls permitted for play at high altitude as defined in the Rules of Tennis. Tests for court pace (ITF CS 01/02) and ball rebound should be carried out in at least four different locations. Recommended locations – representative of high, medium and low usage areas, and court markings – are shown in Figure 1 (the arrowheads indicate the location and direction of testing). Note: In addition to the recommended locations, any area of particular concern, such as joins between modular systems, should be tested.