Construction Program Management and Inspection Guide

D–8
Appendix D: Inspections-in-Depth
CONSTRUCTION PROGRAM MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION GUIDE (5/01/04)
Verify that certifications, inspections, and test reports on
manufactured materials document conformity with the
specification and that the test reports on file cover the
materials actually delivered to the project. Determine
whether certifications for iron and steel products conform to
Buy America requirements.
Witness the sampling and testing of quality control and
acceptance tests to the extent practical. Take independent
measurements of width and depth of bases, surfaces, and
other components of the construction, including structures,
to validate that the project is being constructed in substantial
compliance with the plans and specifications.
Measurement of Quantities
Ensure that the methods used in the measurement of
quantities meet contract requirements (23 CFR 635.123).
Determine the frequency of contractor progress
payments. Verify that the appropriate quantities of
completed work are reported for progress payments.
Comment on whether or not a new overall estimate is made
for each progress estimate or if computed monthly work
quantities are merely added on the estimate of work done
during each succeeding period; the latter could result in
cumulative errors of consequence. Check the quantity
calculations for two or three major items and one or more
minor items. Note significant digits. The validity of final
estimates cannot be greater than the accuracy exercised in
making the field measurements used in the computations.
Careless field measurements are difficult to detect, but an
examination of the field books will provide some indication
as to the extent to which good survey and measurement
practices are being followed. Identify in the report what bid
items or stockpiled materials were reviewed, if properly
identified, dates and personnel making the measurements,
proper explanations and initials on corrections, and overall
legibility.
At the final estimate stage, review final quantities in
considerable detail on a few items. Note assumptions made,
significant figures, accuracy observed, and amount of
checking done. Indicate the extent of checks and reviews
made beyond the project level, such as in the district and
central offices. Where appropriate, evaluate the additional
checks to assure the sufficiency of the validation.
The following is a summary of recommended inspection
techniques:
▼ Verify that the items reviewed were measured in the
units called for in the contract provisions and that the
methods of measurement prescribed in the contract and
in authorized instructions were followed.
▼ Examine project records to insure that all materials
measured for payment were delivered and incorporated
into the project or stockpiled for future incorporation.
▼ When payment is based on weight or mass, verify the
accuracy of the measurements; consider the calibration
of scales, checking of truck tare weights, and weighing
of haul loads.
▼ Where payment is based on loads delivered to the
project, either on a weight or volume basis, verify the
procedures followed for assuring validity in receipt of
haul tickets. Discuss the procedures in effect with the
project personnel. Focus on practical concepts (falsified
haul tickets can be determined by analyzing project
records and determining that the number of trips
reported was impossible considering time and length of
haul involved).
▼ Where area methods of measurement are specified,
make dimensional checks to the extent necessary to
verify the actual work performed. Ensure that
measurements were made at the proper time and prior
to the subsequent placement of other courses of
materials.
▼ Where final quantities are determined by volume
computations, verify the method of measurement and
documentation of calculations.
Construction Changes and Extra Work
On full oversight projects, be aware of circumstances that
required the changes in the plans and specifications.
Comment on the need for the construction change and
whether the revisions and additions are necessitated by
conditions that could not be reasonably anticipated before
the project was advertised for bids. Discuss weaknesses in the
preparation of plans, specifications, and estimates, and other
deficiencies of this nature to assist in funding determinations
and in strengthening the State’s design procedures and the
FHWA’s review procedures. Document the steps taken by
the Construction Unit to inform Design of plans errors and
omissions resulting in change orders.