Material Quality Control and Testing on Construction Sites
Supervising and Applying Quality Standards to Material Selection
FINAL EXAM REVISION
1. Safe Material Handling on Site: A Practical Example
One common example of correct and safe material handling on site, using appropriate equipment and safe work practices, is the removal of asbestos. When dealing with asbestos, it is essential that personnel are licensed with proper and up-to-date training. They must also have the correct PPE, such as overalls, gloves, boots, and respiratory masks. Once asbestos removal is complete, it’s crucial to immediately dispose of or clean clothing, as asbestos fibers are airborne and can adhere to fabric.
2. Inspection Test Plans (ITPs) in Material Management
a. Implementation of ITPs:
An Inspection Test Plan (ITP) is a tool used to inspect the quality of all deliveries on site, including materials and equipment. A visual inspection and a checklist are essential components of the ITP process. The purpose of the ITP is to prevent incorrect orders and to verify that materials are fit for their intended purpose.
b. Examples of ITP Use:
- Detailed examples were requested but not provided in the original text.
3. Training for Handling Defective Materials
Detailed training plan was requested but not provided in the original text.
4. On-Site Material Testing: Concreting and Welding
a. Concrete:
The slump test measures the consistency of fresh concrete before it sets. It checks the workability of freshly made concrete, indicating the ease with which it flows. It can also identify an improperly mixed batch. The test involves using a cone-shaped mold, which is filled with fresh concrete before being tested.
b. Welding:
After removing slag, visual inspection is used as a non-destructive testing method. In this weld quality testing process, a weld is examined visually to determine surface discontinuities. It is the most common method of weld quality testing.
5. Impact of Test Results on Project Progress
Concrete Slump Test: If the initial slump test fails, a second test should be conducted. If the concrete fails again, it cannot be used, leading to delays, financial losses, and time wasted.
6. Identifying and Sending Material Samples for Laboratory Testing
- Chain of Custody: Document the who, what, where, when, why, and how of the sample collection.
- Laboratory Communication: Clearly communicate the specific testing requirements to the laboratory.
7. When to Send Materials for Off-Site Testing
A concrete sample, for instance, would be sent off-site to check its compressive strength and suitability for its intended use. Testing is conducted before its intended use to prevent issues during the concrete pouring process.