CPII Construction Inspection Techniques 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During a structural steel erection inspection, the inspector observes a high-strength bolt that spins freely after installation. What does this indicate?
- The bolt has been properly snug-tightened to the first step
- The bolt threads are stripped or the nut has failed, and the connection is non-functional (Correct answer)
- The bolt meets the turn-of-nut tightening method requirements
- The bolt is a tension-control type that has reached proof load
Correct answer: The bolt threads are stripped or the nut has failed, and the connection is non-functional
A freely spinning bolt after installation indicates the threads are stripped or the nut has failed, meaning the bolt provides no clamping force and the connection is structurally deficient.
Question 2: What is the primary distinction between a hold point and a witness point in a construction quality inspection program?
- Hold points apply to structural work; witness points apply to utilities only
- At a hold point work must stop until the inspector approves; at a witness point the inspector should attend but work may proceed if the inspector is not available (Correct answer)
- Witness points require written sign-off; hold points are verbal approvals only
- Hold points are for laboratory testing; witness points are for field observation only
Correct answer: At a hold point work must stop until the inspector approves; at a witness point the inspector should attend but work may proceed if the inspector is not available
A hold point mandates that work stop and not proceed without inspector approval, while a witness point documents intent for the inspector to observe but does not prohibit continuation if the inspector is unavailable.
Question 3: An inspector is checking anchor bolt placement for a steel column base plate. Which tolerance is typically specified for anchor bolt center-to-center spacing per AISC standards?
- ±1/32 inch
- ±1/8 inch (Correct answer)
- ±1/4 inch
- ±1/2 inch
Correct answer: ±1/8 inch
AISC specifies that anchor bolt center-to-center spacing for individual columns should be within ±1/8 inch to ensure proper fit of the base plate and column.
Question 4: When inspecting a flexible pavement base course, the inspector observes pumping of subgrade material into the base aggregate during compaction. What does this indicate?
- Optimum compaction has been achieved in the base layer
- The subgrade is saturated and weak, requiring stabilization before base placement can continue (Correct answer)
- The base aggregate gradation is too open and needs additional fines
- The compaction equipment is too heavy for the layer thickness being placed
Correct answer: The subgrade is saturated and weak, requiring stabilization before base placement can continue
Pumping indicates a saturated, weak subgrade that cannot support compaction loads, requiring subgrade stabilization, over-excavation, or drainage improvement before proceeding.
Question 5: What is the inspector's responsibility when a contractor proposes a material substitution during construction?
- Approve the substitution immediately if the contractor provides a product data sheet
- Document the request and forward it to the engineer of record for formal review and approval before allowing the substitution (Correct answer)
- Reject all substitutions regardless of merit since they deviate from contract documents
- Allow the substitution only if it costs less than the original specified material
Correct answer: Document the request and forward it to the engineer of record for formal review and approval before allowing the substitution
Material substitutions must be formally reviewed and approved by the engineer of record, as the inspector does not have authority to approve changes to specified materials.
Question 6: During reinforced concrete column inspection, the inspector measures a clear cover of 1.25 inches where 1.5 inches is specified. What is the consequence of insufficient concrete cover over reinforcing steel?
- Reduced compressive strength of the concrete section
- Increased risk of reinforcement corrosion and reduced fire resistance (Correct answer)
- Decreased bond strength between concrete lifts
- Higher probability of honeycombing in the concrete mix
Correct answer: Increased risk of reinforcement corrosion and reduced fire resistance
Insufficient concrete cover allows chlorides and moisture to reach the reinforcement more quickly, accelerating corrosion and reducing structural fire resistance.
Question 7: What is the primary safety requirement an inspector must verify before entering a trench greater than 5 feet in depth?
- That a traffic control plan has been submitted and approved
- That a competent person has classified the soil and that appropriate protective systems (sloping, shoring, or trench box) are in place per OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P (Correct answer)
- That the contractor has installed dewatering pumps at the trench bottom
- That a confined space entry permit has been issued by the local fire department
Correct answer: That a competent person has classified the soil and that appropriate protective systems (sloping, shoring, or trench box) are in place per OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P
OSHA 29 CFR 1926 Subpart P requires that a competent person classify soil type and that appropriate cave-in protection be installed in all trenches 5 feet or deeper before workers or inspectors enter.
CPII Construction Inspection Techniques 5
During a structural steel erection inspection, the inspector observes a high-strength bolt that spins freely after installation.
What does this indicate?