For a project to have a truly successful outcome, a team needs targets to hit along the way. Hitting these targets — meeting deadlines, maintaining budgets, reaching project milestones, meeting sustainability standards, and other major accomplishments — ensures the customer is happy and projects are correct and can stand the test of time.
That’s what quality control in construction provides. Each project has specific quality “targets” to hit, and when they’re prioritized, the project’s outcome is generally better, and customers are happier. Project teams can also avoid rework, unnecessary delays, and potential legal issues.
Why Quality Control in Construction Matters
Quality control in construction refers to processes and systems that ensure all work meets standards, specifications, and client expectations. This involves monitoring materials, workmanship, safety, and overall project carryout to deliver consistent quality.
Like most definitions, that’s a lot to break down. Quality control essentially catches smaller issues before they become bigger problems by implementing a system of checks and balances. It ensures the project stays on track, meets the customer’s expectations, and satisfies legal requirements.
In 2006, quality control was an afterthought during Boston’s Big Dig project. After a large chunk of concrete fell from the ceiling of a tunnel and killed a motorist, it was determined that deviating from design specs and using substandard materials were key factors in the incident. Specs and safety standards exist for a reason, and quality control ensures they’re met.
Key Quality Control Measures
In essence, quality control consists of different measures for meeting the project goals, including:
Submittal Review
A thorough submittal review can catch quality issues before anything is set in motion. When designers collect submittal packages, they should review the materials and shop drawings closely before the subcontractors place orders. If the materials or fabrications will cause quality issues, designers can quickly send notes so subcontractors understand the issues and course correct.
Inspections and Testing
It’s important to schedule inspections at specific phases throughout the project. Inspections and walkthroughs can catch issues in real time and prevent rework or delays. For example, inspections and testing can:
- Identify soil stability or reinforcement issues early during site work when they’re easily handled with minimal delay.
- Discover structural issues like undersized headers or inaccurate layouts during framing.
- Spot routing challenges or missed specifications during MEP installation that will prevent systems from working properly.
Compliance With Standards
Projects that meet industry-standard building codes and local regulations can avoid legal issues and safety violations. This is challenging and complex, as different jurisdictions, specs, and project requirements can dictate varying compliance requirements which change from project to project.
Regulatory agencies that can impact compliance include:
- County and local building departments
- Nationwide building regulations such as those in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and National Electric Code (NEC)
- Safety and wellness agencies such as Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
An eye for code compliance is critical to passing inspections the first time and avoiding delays and rework. Teams should stay updated on evolving or changing regulations to ensure they adhere to the correct requirements.
Tips for Implementing Quality Control in Construction
Here are some tips for implementing those measures.
Create a Quality Control Plan
Teams can prioritize quality control with a QC plan. It should involve a thorough submittal review phase, defining quality benchmarks, outlining timelines for inspection and testing, and assigning specific responsibilities to team members.
Train the Project Team
Train your team to be quality-focused. Provide regular training on expectations and standards to create a culture that values quality. Training should involve both traditional methods and on-the-job examples, helping teams apply QC concepts to the real world. Also, workforce development can improve morale and productivity, furthering the chances of quality improvement.
Use Technology
Modern tools can support quality control without hindering progress. Some examples of technology teams can implement include:
- Tablets that help facilitate on-site inspections and update teams in real-time
- Construction management software that makes tracking, commenting, and sharing information instantaneous
- Wearable technology that allows team members to experience the project in augmented reality, highlighting issues that don’t align with the plans
Technology can foster better communication and improve the efficiency of corrections. Also, don’t overlook the data these tools can log — it’s useful for better planning in the future.
Common Quality Control Issues and How to Fix Them
Certain quality control issues in construction are more common than others, often stemming from factors such as inadequate planning or insufficient oversight. These issues underscore the importance of rigorous quality control procedures and continuous monitoring throughout the construction process. Here are some additional QC issues to watch out for.
Noncompliance
Specifications give contractors and subs the information they need to hit the mark. Deviation can result in components that don’t meet code, don’t fit, or aren’t strong enough for the application.
Encourage subcontractors to review specifications and designers to carefully review submittal packages. Discovering these issues early can avoid these problems altogether.
Defects or Shortages
Material defects and shortages are always challenges. They delay the project and prevent contractors from working. If the materials are defective and installed anyway, client dissatisfaction is almost a guarantee.
Contractors can avoid these challenges in two ways: One, schedule inspections during deliveries to identify quality deficiencies early. Two, maintain relationships with multiple materials suppliers and quickly switch when delays or shortages arise.
Poor Communication
Communication is a common issue in the construction industry and can cause quality control headaches. They can exist between the project owner, the design team, the subcontractors, or any other party on the project, often resulting in inadequate work.
Avoid communication issues by scheduling regular check-ins with all teams. Also, use a centralized platform, such as quality control software, to improve communication and allow teams to share accurate information effectively and in real time.
Quality Control is Key to Project Success
Quality control isn’t just another process we should trod through — it’s really the foundation of a successful project. When we prioritize a system of inspections, embrace the use of technology, and create a culture of meeting excellence standards, construction firms will build better projects. Projects that stand the test of time, earn client trust, and enhance your business’s reputation.
