Inspection and test plans are one of the most essential documents for the Quality Control of a construction project.
A precise, robust, and concise inspection and test plan (ITP) will make fabrication and inspection sequences fluid and painless. It will define each party’s responsibilities during the work. It will be the “Bible” for compiling the as-built packages at the end of the project.
The ITP is the primary document that will plan and manage the test/inspection activities. It provides assurance, control, and documented evidence over the construction or fabrication work.
This item is something that would make your clients happy.
Starting the work without writing an inspection and test plan is not a recommended practice. You should have at least one ITP submitted to the Project Manager for approval.
During the last 20 years, there has been a significant change in the industry regarding health and safety management. The existence of a method statement before the commencement of the actual work on-site is now standard practice in every construction project.
Can we say the same thing about ITPs? Not exactly.
As mentioned in a previous article, (Third Party Inspections and What it Means?) this inspection must be carried out by a controlled plan. The inspection agency can check the ITP as a checklist to confirm whether all inspections are completed and inspection reports are on hand.
6 Tips To Keep In Mind When Writing An ITP
TIP 1
Every ITP should follow (as much as possible) the sequence of the works described in the works method statement. The contractual requirements for tests and frequencies should be precise. In the case of non-clarity, the contractor should issue a request for information(RFI) from the Client.
TIP 2
The ITP should have explicit references to the documents that specify the requirements. You should refer to specific clauses for quick reference and clarity.
TIP 3
The responsibilities for each test/inspection should be established before the works start. These responsibilities include hold points, witness points, review points, etc. Otherwise, there will be confusion and compromises from all the parties.
TIP 4
You will need a system to invite the Client to witness the inspections. It is essential that the Client or representatives on-site are timely informed about seeing and sign-off the relevant forms.
TIP 5
The ITP should clearly state every form, check sheet, and other records that need to be completed during the inspection.
TIP 6
ITPs are living documents, so you shouldn’t be afraid to add or subtract steps. A clear record of finished actions, progress steps, and future operations needs to be recorded.
TIP 7
Expect that something will change, issues will arise, or repairs/modifications will happen in fabrication. For example, in advice 7, in a document that says six tips, things change, so document it.
Keep This In Mind
Writing an inspection and test plan is essential for quality control in construction projects. A well-written ITP will make life on-site easier and avoid confusion and contract disputes. If you keep these seven tips in mind when writing your ITP, you’ll be sure to create a document that will serve its purpose well. Contact us today for more information on how we here at PMET can help you!
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