Which of the following is NOT a component of proper concrete specimen handling?

The selection of the option related to dropping concrete specimens from a height during transport as the correct answer highlights a critical principle in concrete handling. Proper specimen handling is essential to maintain the integrity and accuracy of the strength testing of concrete. When specimens are dropped, the risk of damaging them significantly increases. Physical stress from impacts can lead to cracks or fractures, which would compromise the quality of the sample and could yield misleading results in strength tests.

Transporting specimens upright is crucial to prevent spillage and to maintain the correct orientation for curing and testing. Minimizing exposure to extreme temperatures helps protect the concrete's properties, as temperature fluctuations can alter the hydration process and strength development. Preventing damages from rolling or falling is equally important to maintain the structural integrity of the specimens. These practices ensure that the concrete samples will provide accurate data reflective of their true strength when subjected to testing. Thus, handling procedures must avoid any actions that could introduce damage, making dropping the specimens an unequivocal misstep in proper handling protocol.