An extremely important and relatively difficult phase of an inspection is in the checking of a project as it nears completion to make sure that every item required for the completion of the project has actually been provided. The use of a checkoff system is essential for this purpose. This system should be adopted and initiated early enough to allow ample time for delivery and installation of any items that might be overlooked. This is particularly necessary in times of emergency when long lead time between ordering and delivery is encountered for many critical items of material and equipment. Inspectors must maintain a strict watch over cleanup items particularly where portions of the work may be concealed in later stages. Because of the inherent tendency of construction projects to drag out to a slow finish, the inspectors will have to exert greater pressure to obtain full and rapid compliance with the time requirements for completing the project.
Inspectors may be responsible for maintaining accurate and detailed records of performance of their work and of various pertinent matters. Records and reports should be in a clear, complete form so that no possible misinterpretation of the facts or uncertainty about events may arise.
As an inspector, you have contact with other people and need an understanding of human relations. You must use tact and courtesy in dealing with others. If you give criticism, you should do so constructively and in a manner that will not cause resentment. You must avoid showing any favoritism or partiality. And, in particular, you must avoid making any statements or taking any action that might discredit any supervisors or foremen when their subordinates are present.
It is imperative that you, as an inspector, conduct yourself at all times in a manner commensurate with the highly responsible position you occupy. You must be absolutely honest in your dealings with others. Integrity is a fundamental requisite. You must be trustworthy, loyal, diligent, and punctual. You must be dignified, steady, and poised in all your actions. When your job involves supervising others, as the inspector, you must be firm, but fair, in handling your subordinates. You must maintain your self-respect and win the respect of all your associates, always keeping in mind that a harmonious relationship is more successful than one hampered by friction and discord.
The rest of this chapter covers commonly encountered problems in the inspection of construction projects or maintenance of facilities. This chapter is not intended to identify every inspection processor identify new construction technology. For more information, refer to the
Construction Inspector's Guide, NAVFAC P-456 (series), or the Construction Inspector's Guide, EP-415-1-261, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
When assigned to inspect concrete construction, you must have a thorough understanding of the standard specifications and the best techniques and methods for meeting those specifications. Concrete construction must meet the requirements set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), A10.9, "Safety Requirements for Concrete Construction and Masonry Work."
The standard specifications cover a wide range of possible conditions and allow a choice of types of cement, sizes and types of aggregates, and classes of concrete. The specific requirements for each project must, therefore, be set forth in a definitive manner in the drawings and specifications for the work. You should verify that all variables and options permitted by the standard specifications are fixed by the project documents and you should call any apparent omissions to the attention of a superior.
As soon as the batch plant is set up or a local batch plant has been identified for producing and delivering concrete, familiarize yourself with the functional arrangement, transportation, and check all equipment to make sure it is in good working order. You should be present at any trial runs made and make sure that any deficiencies that develop are corrected. If any serious deficiencies are apparent that cannot be readily overcome and that might affect the efficiency of the operations, you should inform your superior of the situation.
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