Testing

Inspection is almost always accompanied or closely followed by testing. Tests are carried out on the materials of construction, components, (such as mixed concrete), completed parts of the structure or the structure itself. Tests can be classified as 

1. those carried out on the work-site by the Supervisor himself (e.g. silt in sand slump test, moisture content etc.), 
2. those carried out in the laboratory by sending the samples of materials (e.g. steel bars, concrete cubes), 
3. Tests carried out on site by experts, in the presence of the supervisor (e.g. non-destructive tests on the built components of the structures, 

Supervisor has to prepare a schedule of tests to be carried out in all the above categories. He should ensure that 

• test schedules are strictly adhered to, 
• the instruments/equipments are as per standards, they are calibrated and well maintained, 
• tests are carried out as per procedure laid down in the specifications or as per codes and specifications prescribed by Bureau of Indian Standards. 

A record should be maintained showing the details of tests such as date and time of testing. materials or part tested, result of the test.