2012 Special Inspection Manual

Special
Inspection
Manual
2012 Edition
Sandra Hyde, P.E.

Copyright © ICC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Accessed by John Masters on Sep 12, 2017 7:59:23 AM pursuant to License Agreement with ICC. No further reproduction or
distribution authorized. ANY UNAUTHORIZED REPRODUCTION OR DISTRIBUTION IS A VIOLATION OF THE FEDERAL COPYRIGHT ACT AND THE LICENSE
AGREEMENT, AND SUBJECT TO CIVIL AND CRIMINAL PENALTIES THEREUNDER.
Special Inspection Manual: 2012 Edition
ISBN: 978-1-60983-522-4
Cover Art Design: Duane Acoba

Project Manager: Doug Thornburg
Author: Sandra Hyde
Publications Manager: Mary Lou Luif
Editor: Phil Arvia
Typesetting/Interior Design: Sue Brockman
COPYRIGHT © 2014
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First Printing:February 2014

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.
Table of Contents
Foreword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
Preface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . x
Acknowledgements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xi
About the Author . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .xi
About the International Code Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Chapter 1 – Special Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Special Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Key Aspects of Special Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
The Major Players of Special Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Special Inspector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Organization of the Special Inspection Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Chapters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Chapter 2 – Special Inspector’s Duties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Who Becomes a Special Inspector? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Approval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Duties and Responsibilities of the Special Inspector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Prior to the Job Site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
At the Job Site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
At the End of the Project . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Working with the Building Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Who Hires the Special Inspector? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Inspection of Fabricators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Chapter 3 – Other Stakeholders’ Duties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Duties and Responsibilities of the Project Owner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Duties and Responsibilities of the Registered Design
Professional in Responsible Charge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Duties and Responsibilities of the Contractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Duties and Responsibilities of the Building Official . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Preconstruction Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
ii Special Inspection Manual: 2012 Edition
Chapter 4 – Jurisdictional Inspection vs. Special Inspection. . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Why is jurisdictional inspection insufficient in some cases?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Complex, Uncommon or Unique Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Jurisdictional Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Comparison of Timing of Jurisdictional and Special Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Inspections in the International Residential Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Materials Requiring Special Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Steel Construction (Section 1705.2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Concrete Construction (Section 1705.3) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Masonry Construction (Section1705.4) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Wood Construction (Section 1705.5) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Soils (Section 1705.6) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Deep Foundations (Sections 1705.7, 1705.8 and 1705.9) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Wind Resistance (Section 1705.10) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.11). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Testing and Qualification for Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.12) . . . . . . 51
Sprayed Fire-resistant Materials (Section 1705.13) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Mastic and Intumescent Fire-resistant Coatings (Section 1705.14) . . . . . . . 52
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, EIFS (Section 1705.15) . . . . . . . . . 52
Fire-resistant Penetrations and Joints (Section 1705.16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Smoke Control Testing (Section 1705.17) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Chapter 5 – Structural Special Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
New Inspections over the Last Three Code Cycles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Required Verification and Inspection - Structural Materials (Section 1705) . . . . 56
Periodic and Continuous Special Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Steel Construction (Section 1705.2, AISC and AWS Standards). . . . . . . . . 56
Cold-formed Steel Construction
(Section 1705.2.2 and AWS Standards) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Reinforcing Steel
(Section 1705.2.2, AWS and ACI Standards) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Concrete Construction
(Section 1705.3, IBC Chapter 19 and ACI Standard) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Masonry Construction (Section 1705.4 and MSJC Standard) . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Wood Construction (Section 1705.5 and IBC Chapter 23). . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Soils (Section 1705.6 and IBC Chapter 18) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Deep Foundation Construction
(Sections 1705.7, 1705.8, 1705.9 and IBC Chapter 18) . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Special Inspections for Wind Resistance (Section 1705.10) . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
iii
Special Inspections for Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.11) . . . . . . . . . . .95

Testing and Qualification for Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.12). . . . . .100
Special Cases (Section 1705.1.1) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
Chapter 6 – Nonstructural Special Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
New Inspections over the Last Three Code Cycles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Periodic and Continuous Special Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Required Verification and Inspection – Life Safety and
Nonstructural Materials (Section 1705) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
Sprayed Fire-resistant Materials (Section 1705.13). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106
Mastic and intumescent fire-resistant coatings (Section 1705.14). . . . . . . .109
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) (Section 1705.15) . . . . . . . .110
Fire-resistant Penetrations and Joints (Section 1705.16) . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
Smoke Control Systems (Section 1705.17) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
Chapter 7 – Structural Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Process of Structural Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
When Structural Observations are Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121
Determining Components Requiring Structural Observation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .122
Chapter 8 – Alternative Products and Methods of Construction . . . . . . . . 125
Alternative Materials and Methods of Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
Approvals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .127
Labeling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .128
Prefabricated Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130
Fabricators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131
Design Strength of Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133
Alternative Test Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
Test Safe Load. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134
In-situ Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135
Preconstruction Load Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136
Material and Test Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .140
Joist Hangers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141
Rigid and Nonrigid Heavy Roof Tiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .142
Evaluation Reports. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143
New Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .143
iv Special Inspection Manual: 2012 Edition
Chapter 9 – Approved Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
Approved Agency Characteristics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Chapter 10 – Building Departments . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Duties of the Building Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
Responsibilities of the Building Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Special Inspection Program Staffing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150
Responsibilities Outside the Building Department . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
Ensuring Competence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Approval Criteria. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152
Existing Special Inspection Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Establishing a Special Inspection Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153
Step 1: Establish Qualifications and Quality Assurance Requirements . . . 154
Step 2: Special Inspection Agency Application and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . 157
Step 3: Special Inspector Application and Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Step 4: Prescribe On-site and Final Report Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . 159
Step 5: Issuing Special Inspection Agency Agreements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163
Step 6: Developing a Report Review Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Step 7: Implement the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 167
Step 8: Revaluating the Program Periodically . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Appendix A – Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Appendix B – Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 177
B.1 Technical Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
B.1.1 Quality Control Manual Guideline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
B.2 Approval Listing Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
B.2.1 Approval Requirements Check Sheet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188
B.2.2 Special Inspection and Testing Agency Approval Listing Form . . . . 189
B.2.3 Fabrication/Manufacturer Approval Listing Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 190
B.3 Inspection Records – Report Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
B.3.1 Daily Report Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192
B.3.2 Weekly Report Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
B.3.3 Discrepancy Notice Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196
B.3.4 Final Report Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
v
B.4 Inspection Agreement Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .198

B.4.1 Special Inspection Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .198
B.4.2 Addendum to the Special Inspection Agreement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203
B.4.3 Statement of Special Inspections Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205
B.4.4 Special Inspection Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208
B.5 Audits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
B.5.1 Technical Guidelines for Special Inspection/
Testing Agency Project Audits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .209
B.5.2 Field Operations Audit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .218
B.5.3 Field Testing Audit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .220
B.6 Structural Observer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .222
B.6.1 Structural Observer Discrepancy Notice. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .222
B.7 Preconstruction Meetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .223
B.7.1 Preconstruction Meeting Form – Samples. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .223
B.8 Contractor Statement of Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .227
B.8.1 Contractor Statement of Responsibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .227
Appendix C – Inspector Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 229
Model Program for Special Inspection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .229
Areas of Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .230
Recommended Special Inspector Qualifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .231
Code Knowledge and Plan-reading Competency Standards . . . . . . . . . . .231
Experience Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .233
Performance Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .236
Performance Standards: Job Task Lists for Special Inspectors . . . . . . . . . . . .236
Special Inspectors - General Duties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .237
Steel: Structural, Cold-formed and Reinforcing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .237
Concrete: Reinforced and Prestressed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .242
Structural Masonry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .245
Spray-applied, Mastic and Intumescent Fireproofing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .247
Soils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248
Deep Foundations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249
Becoming a Special Inspector— Paths to Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251
Reinforced Concrete ICC Certification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251
Other Certifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252
vi Special Inspection Manual: 2012 Edition
Appendix D – Manufacturer Certification and Evaluation Reports . . . . . . 253

Code Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Acceptance Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254
Evaluation Service Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 257
Appendix E – Third-Party Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 263
Entities Which Accredit Third-party Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 264
Accreditation Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265
Testing Laboratories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
Special Inspection Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 266
Fabricator Inspection Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267
Inspection Agencies (Third Party) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 268
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281
Foreword
From a Special Inspector’s Perspective –
The special inspection manual is written to be a general overview of all the Special Inspection
Categories listed in Chapter 17 of the International Building Code (IBC). From this
reference guide, special inspectors, inspection firms, and code officials can gain a wealth of
basic knowledge concerning the requirements for special inspection in each listed category.
For special inspectors, the manual will become the hands-on reference for project inspections
as well as for certification testing.
The building codes, in a nutshell, are the written version of hard-won knowledge gained over
years by numerous code officials and inspectors. The special inspection manual is similar in
its construction. The individuals who gathered the knowledge on which this manual is based
have had years of experience in dealing with special inspections whether in the
implementation of a special inspection program or out on the building site with hands-on
experience. It will be the task of future generations to add to this knowledge as new ideas,
methods, categories, and techniques become available.
As a master special inspector, I have spent the last 28 years employed for engineering firms
directly responsible for the special inspections listed in this manual. The inspections were
performed on schools, shopping centers, high-rise structures, parking garages, bridges and
heavy industrial plants. I have worked for the federal government, state and local
jurisdictions, and public and private owners. The wealth of knowledge in the manual aids all
who seek employment in the inspection field and those preparing to take certification exams.
For jurisdictions, the manual is a great hands-on tool concerning the basic requirements for
the individual items of Chapter 17 and the procedures and methodology used in inspecting
these items. For the journeyman special inspector, the manual is an excellent reference
volume for continued monitoring and updating of the current inspection program.
I would like to thank Mr. Steven D. Weidenhammer, P.E., for teaching me what it truly means
to be an inspector, for teaching me the importance of giving back to the industry, and for
never giving up on me.
vii
viii Special Inspection Manual: 2012 Edition
Finally, if I have but one request for all Journeyman and Master Special Inspectors, it is simply
get involved. Join your local and regional ICC Chapters. Participate. Go to meetings and
events. Join ICC Exam Development Committees. You are part of the ICC family as a whole.
Sincerely,
Kenneth C. Morong, MSI
ICC Board of International Professional Standards (BIPS)
Alfred Benesch & Company
From a Building Official’s perspective –
This manual is intended to assist building officials in designing and regulating their own
special inspection programs and to tailor Chapter 17 to their needs. I have employed many of
the elements and key points presented in this manual when assisting jurisdictions with
establishing their own quality assurance programs, ranging from one-person shops to
departments of over 500 employees. I have lectured across the country on special inspections
and establishing special inspection initiatives, and I believe the use of this manual will be
invaluable for anyone wishing to learn a practical approach to establishing an effective
program.
As the Code Official for Clark County, Nevada, I have, over the past 33 years, been responsible
for the code enforcement, plan review and inspection of pyramids, castles, volcanoes,
sphinxes, pirate ships, dragons, reproductions of the Venice canals, Eiffel Tower and Empire
State Building, and just about every other type of unconventional, unusual and eccentric
structure dreamed up by designers to attract and entertain world travelers in Las Vegas,
Nevada. The intricacies and complexity of these structures were staggering, requiring design
and code enforcement expertise that were as unusual as the structures themselves and
normally not part of a building department code enforcement arsenal. Even more challenging
than the eccentricity of these structures was the sheer quantity of them. During peak years, at
any one time, the Clark County building department was inspecting more than a dozen
structures with valuations in excess of $2 billion combined, while meeting the needs of a
population that doubled every 7 years, resulting in 750,000 inspections. Clark County could
not have met the needs of our community, as well as the 43 million visitors we host each year,
without a premier special inspection program designed and tailored to Clark County’s specific
needs. That program enabled me, the building official, to temporarily and inexpensively
augment my staff and my staff’s expertise during unusually heavy construction years and with
unusual construction projects.
A well-developed special inspection program is one of the most valuable tools a code official
can have in his arsenal to assist his jurisdiction. It expands the technical expertise of the
organization; it provides expert input and support for code development and adoption; it
represents an effective public/private partnership; and it provides for assistance to the
jurisdiction during the sometimes erratic cycles in the construction industry.
“Special Inspections” were part of the Uniform Codes for many years, added to the National
Building Code in the 1990s and included as a requirement under Chapter 17 since the
inception of the International Building Code in 2000. Many jurisdictions adopt the model
code without consideration of Chapter 17. When adopted, the administration of a special
Foreword ix
inspection program becomes a mandate, requiring building officials to tailor their special
inspection programs to their jurisdictions’ needs.
Sandra Hyde, P.E., has covered the full gamut of topics ranging from duties and appropriate
certifications to some of the technical details regarding such varied topics as steel, concrete,
wood and exterior insulation and finish systems. This manual goes into details regarding
participants’ duties and responsibilities, and the need and requirements for structural
observation. The appendices provide a wealth of information, including references on
inspector certifications and sample special inspection forms.
Ms. Hyde has gathered insights from renowned contributors in both the public and private
sectors, reflecting time-tested procedures as well as current best practices in the field of quality
assurance.
I strongly recommend this manual be on every code official’s desk, whether you develop a
program or not. In your professional life there will come a time that an unusual structure,
such as a 550-foot Ferris wheel or a volcano or even an ancient Egyptian sphinx, will appear
under your purview, and having this tool available will be critical to your effective
administration of the building code and to serving your community.
Sincerely,
Ron Lynn
Director/ Building and Fire Official
Clark County Department of Building & Fire Prevention Bureau
x Special Inspection Manual: 2012 Edition
Preface
In extreme natural events such as earthquakes and hurricanes, the most common contributing
factor to significant structural damage and building failure is construction that fails to comply
with codes, standards and design documents. Increasing inspection frequency, duration and
detail and having specialized oversight during the construction process can help mitigate
construction issues. The primary objective of Chapter 17 of the International Building Code is
to improve construction quality in the field through special inspection, structural observation
and testing.
The purpose of the Special Inspection Manual is to provide a comprehensive overview of the
varied aspects of special inspection, with an emphasis on the role and responsibilities of
special inspectors, building departments, design professionals, contractors and owners.
The publication is organized into 10 chapters and five appendices. The duties of the
individuals and agencies involved in the special inspection process are described. A
comparison of special inspector and building department inspections is included. The details
of 17 specific types of special inspection required by the 2012 International Building Code®
(IBC®) are covered. An extensive discussion addresses the development of special inspection
programs by building departments. Also included are discussions regarding structural
observations, proprietary products and accreditation of special inspection agencies. The
appendices include detailed information on certification requirements for special inspectors;
development of evaluation reports; and requirements for accreditation as a special inspection
agency, third-party inspection agency, fabricator or testing laboratory. Online resources
available as an extension of this manual include modifiable forms for special inspection
activities.
The Special Inspection Manual incorporates content previously published in the International
Code Council’s Model Program for Special Inspection. Much of the Model Program’s
information is now located in Appendix C. Forms originating in the Model Program are
located in Appendix B and available online at www.iccsafe.org/siforms.
Preface xi
Acknowledgements
Grateful appreciation is due to many people for their assistance in creating this publication.
ICC staff members Steve Van Note and John Henry, P.E., provided expert review and
comments on special inspection oversight within the building department. Staff from the
Clark County, Nevada Building Division also provided review of the chapters related to
development and operation of a special inspection program.
Members of special inspection agencies gave thoughtful, expert review of the chapters
discussing special inspectors and special inspection agencies. Kenneth Morong, a Master
Special Inspector at Alfred Benesch and Company, spent countless hours reviewing the text
and provided a valuable perspective to the publication. Rusty Boicourt, P.G., NDE specialist of
Materials, Testing & Inspection; David Cram, P.E., president of Materials, Testing &
Inspection; and Gary Cappa, president and CEO of Consolidated Engineering Laboratories,
reviewed sections pertaining to special inspectors and special inspection agencies, tightening
and clarifying the sections.
Russ Krivchuk, Regional Engineering Manager, and Kurt Stochlia, Vice President of External
Operations of ICC Evaluation Services (ICC-ES), provided expert review of special inspection
practices for nonstructural components and systems, as well as feedback on the process of the
creation and use of an evaluation report.
About the Author
Sandra Hyde, P.E., is a Staff Engineer with the International Code Council (ICC) Product
Development Group, where she develops technical resources in support of the structural
engineering provisions of the International Codes. She reviews publications authored by ICC
and engineering associations, and develops technical seminars based on the structural
engineering and materials provisions of the International Residential Code (IRC) and
International Building Code (IBC). Ms. Hyde has previous experience in manufacturing and
research with an engineered wood products company and is a Registered Civil Engineer in
Idaho and California.
xii Special Inspection Manual: 2012 Edition
About the International Code Council
The International Code Council is a member-focused association. It is dedicated to

developing model codes and standards used in the design, build and compliance process to
construct safe, sustainable, affordable and resilient structures. Most U.S. communities and
many global markets choose the International Codes. ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) is the
industry leader in performing technical evaluations for code compliance fostering safe and
sustainable design and construction.
Headquarters: 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor,

Washington, DC 20001-2070
District Offices: Birmingham, AL; Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA

1-888-422-7233
www.iccsafe.org
Chapter 1 – Special Inspection
Introduction
The most common contributing factor to significant structural damage and building failure in
extreme natural events such as hurricanes, tornados and earthquakes is construction that fails
to comply with codes, standards and design documents. One way to help mitigate the problem
is to have increased, specialized oversight and inspection during the construction process. The
main objective of special inspection is to provide this verification of construction practices in
the field to ensure that construction meets submittal document, code and standard require-
ments.
The Special Inspection Manual covers these requirements in detail and presents the informa-
tion in a format particularly helpful to prospective special inspectors and building depart-
ments planning to initiate special inspection oversight programs. Design professionals will
find the manual helpful when writing statements of special inspection. The manual is also a
good resource for current special inspectors and building departments.
In the United States, building departments are a part of the state or local government, often
called jurisdictions, which oversee construction with the primary goal of providing public
safety within and around the buildings. Each building department observes the construction
of the structures in its jurisdiction. Each department inspects construction practices and
methods at each building site.
But what about the precise details of critical structural elements?
Who, for example, oversees conditioning and testing of concrete at predetermined intervals?
Or verification of 2,000 welds in a 10-story building? Who oversees the quality of construction
when the special knowledge and expertise required to observe and inspect are greater than the
building department has available? Who oversees construction using a new hybrid material
fresh on the market?
1
2 Special Inspection Manual: 2012 Edition
This is the special inspector’s role: to step in and oversee construction that requires specific
knowledge and expertise exceeding the level of scrutiny that the building department is
responsible for providing—whether due to limitations of time or specialized expertise.
Note: “Building official” = “building department” in the terminology of this manual. Either
term refers to the jurisdiction or the duties and actions of building department personnel that
occur during a construction project.
History
Special inspection has existed for as long as building construction codes have existed in the
United States. Section 204 of the 1927 Uniform Building Code (1927 UBC) gave the building
official the power to require additional inspection with the following provision:
“The Building Inspector may designate any building and/or structure as requiring a
‘registered inspector’ when deemed necessary or where there is a complicated design
or where new materials or methods of construction are intended to be used. The
‘registered inspector’ shall be approved by, registered with, deputized by and
assigned to a particular building or structure by the Building Inspector. Such
‘registered inspector’ shall be thoroughly qualified….”
By 1943, Chapter 3 of the UBC listed certain methods of design and construction for which a
“registered inspector” was required. These types of work were:
1. Use of reinforced concrete with a design strength (f ’c) greater than 2000 psi
2. Masonry design using unit stresses greater than 50 percent of the stresses listed in the
UBC at the time.
3. All structural welding.
The building official continued to have the ability to require additional inspections when
needed due to potential hazards.
By 1976 the terms “special inspection” and “special inspector” were in use. Section 305 of the
1976 UBC required special inspection for 11 types of work:
1. Concrete.
2. Ductile moment-resisting concrete frame.
3. Reinforcing steel and prestressing steel.
4. Welding.
5. High-strength bolting.
6. Structural masonry.
7. Reinforced gypsum concrete.
8. Insulating concrete fill.
Chapter 1 – Special Inspection 3
9. Sprayed-on fireproofing.
10. Piling, drilled piers and caissons.
11. Special grading, excavation and filling.
Code provisions continued to allow the building official to require special inspections for work
that involved additional hazards not listed in the 11 types of work.
The 1976 UBC listed the duties and responsibilities of the special inspector for the first time.
Approved fabricator status was defined and the requirements for achieving this status listed.
This code edition also defined periodic special inspection. The provision stated:
“Periodic Special Inspection. Some inspections may be made on a periodic basis and
satisfy the requirements of continuous inspection, provided this periodic scheduled
inspection is performed as outlined in the project plans and specifications and
approved by the Building Official.”
The International Code Council (ICC) continued the legacy codes’ history by clarifying and
adding to the special inspection provisions in the International Building Code (IBC). Many
building departments have established special inspection programs that ensure improved
organization and better communication on construction projects. Those building departments
that have a well-designed program in place have not only saved lives, but have also spared their
government and community unnecessary damage and financial losses.
Special Inspection
Special inspection is required of materials, installation, fabrication, erection or placement of

components, assemblies and connections requiring special knowledge and expertise to ensure
compliance with approved construction documents and applicable referenced standards.
Chapter 2 of the 2012 International Building Code defines special inspection as inspection of
construction requiring the expertise of an approved special inspector in order to ensure com-
pliance with the IBC and the approved construction documents.
Special inspections can also be described as:

• The monitoring of the materials and workmanship critical to the integrity of the building
structure warranting special attention as dictated by the architect or engineer of record (reg-
istered design professional in responsible charge) or the building official.
• A quality assurance measure that ensures critical structural or fire and life safety design fea-
tures are incorporated into the construction of the building structure. Special inspection is
required to ensure compliance with the approved construction documents (plans) and stan-
dards referenced in the applicable codes.
Special inspections are in addition to the typical jurisdictional inspections required by the
building department specified in Section 110 and the structural observations performed by the
registered design professional (RDP) and required by Section 1704.5. Within the IBC, special
inspection is not a discretionary activity. The conditions under which it must be used are
clearly stated in Chapter 17.
Key Aspects of Special Inspections
Special inspections are in addition to the work performed by

the building department inspector (jurisdictional inspection)
“The purpose of special
and RDP (structural observation). The building department
inspection is to provide addi-
checks typical details of construction against construction
tional evaluation above and
beyond inspections normally plans, the code and referenced standards. Special inspections
performed by the building are done by people experienced and knowledgeable in a spe-
department in areas of con- cific type of construction.
struction where strength, safety,
and construction practices have Special inspectors also check the details of construction
been determined by the building
against submitted plans, codes and standards. Special inspec-
code, engineer, or architect of
record, or the building official to tion reviews the fine detail of a few portions of the structure,
be sufficiently critical to warrant while jurisdictional inspection reviews broader details within
a special inspector.” the entire structure. For certain buildings, there may be no
special inspection required or only a few items listed by the
By David P. Tyree and James RDP in the Statement of Special Inspections. For larger, taller
D. Bowman in Wood Design
and more complex buildings, the number of special inspec-
Focus Volume 18, No. 2, pub-
lished by the Forest Products tions increases as the need to verify the safety of the construc-
Society. tion process and materials becomes more complex.
A building department does not hire special inspectors. The

special inspector is hired and paid by the owner. The IBC does not allow the contractor to hire
or pay a special inspector (Section 1704.2). This is a conflict of interest for the contractor. The
owner can designate another person to oversee the special inspector, but that person may not
be the contractor.
Special inspections apply principally to the structural framing system of the building. The
structural framing system includes the foundation, walls and columns, floors and beams, and
roof. Improper or inadequate construction of these systems can cause a building to collapse.
This life safety issue necessitates additional inspection beyond the jurisdictional inspection.
Some nonstructural components, used for fire safety, require special inspection as well. These
include fireproofing, the smoke control system, and sealing of fire-resistant penetrations and
joints. Improper construction of these systems can lead to deaths due to smoke inhalation, fire
and collapse of the building.
Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) also require special inspection. The life safety
issue for this system is a moisture control issue. Improperly constructed EIFS can lead to
moisture inside the building, growth of molds and, in extreme cases, partial collapse of a build-
ing.
The special inspector is to be qualified and should demonstrate his or her qualifications for the
type of construction requiring special inspection to the satisfaction of the building official. As
failure to properly construct a building can result directly in loss of life or property, a special
inspector must know both the code requirements for adequate construction and be competent
in recognizing construction following both the approved plans and all applicable code require-
ments. Typically, special inspectors have many years of experience in the discipline for which
they are certified. Many have been contractors and others have spent years designing and
observing unusual methods of construction. Practical field experience, combined with blue-
print reading and excellent communication skills, is an absolute requirement for this profes-
sion. Knowledge of the code only adds to experience already gained through practice.
In some cases, special inspection is not required for a particular project or portion of the proj-
ect. This may occur when work is minor and omitting the special inspection has been
approved by the building official. Special inspection is not needed when construction does not
require design by a registered design professional. One such example is construction of a light-
frame wood structure using the conventional construction provisions of Section 2308 of the
IBC. Additionally, work not specifically listed in Section 1705 and covered in the statement of
special inspections does not require special inspection. For example, a single-story light-frame
structure does not have special inspections listed in the statement, but the prestressed founda-
tion slab below the building does. Therefore the slab is inspected during construction, and no
additional special inspections for the light-frame structure occur later.
As construction must always meet public safety requirements, diligence must be maintained in
completing special inspections.
The Major Players of Special Inspection
Multiple groups and individuals work within the special inspection process. The following
agencies and individuals are involved:
• Building Department—administers the special inspection process.
• Special Inspector—carries out the necessary special inspections.
• Contractor or Builder—builds according to approved construction documents and receives
verification from special inspectors that construction is following the approved documents
and building code.
• Approved Agencies—specialized personnel who carry out testing during special inspec-
tions; including field and laboratory technicians, and soils and construction material engi-
neers.
• Registered Design Professional in responsible charge (RDP)—engineer or architect in
charge of identifying all work that will need special inspection. The RDP in responsible
charge prepares the "statement of special inspections" that outlines the special inspections
to be performed.
Special Inspector
A special inspector is an individual with specialized skills who observes critical building or
structural elements identified in the statement of special inspections for compliance with plans
and specifications approved by the building official.
Organization of the Special Inspection Manual
The Special Inspection Manual addresses the job characteristics of a special inspector. The
manual outlines the skills, knowledge and experience required to achieve approval in a special
inspection subject area. The manual also describes how a building department can develop
and administer a special inspection program and what oversight requirements apply. Further,
the manual describes the roles and activities of the owner, contractor, engineer or architect,
special inspector and building official in carrying out a program of special inspection.
Chapters
Chapter 2 addresses the role of a special inspector. This chapter describes the general duties of
all special inspectors when working with the contractor and the building department.
Code requirements for who is able to hire a special inspector are outlined. Certification to
inspect fabricators is discussed briefly. Appendix C describes certification requirements for
each type of structural special inspection in detail.
Chapter 3 addresses roles during the special inspection process of the RDP in responsible
charge, owner, contractor and building official.
Chapter 4 addresses the differences between jurisdictional inspection and special inspection.
This chapter compares jurisdictional inspections following or occurring simultaneously
with special inspection. Chapter 5 describes structural special inspections in detail. Chap-
ter 6 describes nonstructural special inspections in detail.
Chapter 5 addresses the types of structural special inspection required in the 2012 IBC.
Descriptions of all structural special inspections are included. Details from the 2012 IBC
and material standards are included for each type of inspection.
Chapter 6 addresses the types of nonstructural special inspection required in the 2012 IBC.
Descriptions of all nonstructural special inspections are included. Details from the 2012
IBC and material standards are included for each type of inspection.
Chapter 7 describes the requirements of structural observation in contrast to special inspec-

tion.
Chapter 8 focuses on alternative products and methods of construction that are not addressed
in the provisions of the IBC. This chapter describes what is meant by “Alternative Materi-
als” and “Methods of Construction”. The role of fabricators is explained. Additional testing
that may be required is outlined and reasons for testing are described. Appendix D
describes the process of obtaining an evaluation report for an alternative material or prod-
uct in detail.
Chapter 9 describes the approval process for a special inspection agency. ASTM E 329 and ISO
17020 are discussed. Appendix E is an example of the process of accreditation as done by
the International Accreditation Service (IAS) for special inspection agencies, testing labo-
ratories, fabricators and third-party inspection agencies.
Chapter 10 addresses the process for a building department to establish and administer a spe-
cial inspection program. Topics include determining responsibilities of the building
department, determining and approving criteria for ensuring special inspector competence
and designing an effective program. Appendix B contains samples of many of the forms
described in this chapter.
Appendices
Appendix A lists definitions for the terminology used in the IBC and this manual.
Appendix B contains sample forms for use in establishing and maintaining a special inspec-
tion program as well as those used in the day-to-day duties of a special inspector. Included
in the appendix are approval listing forms, inspection record forms, inspection agreement
forms, audit forms and structural observer forms. These forms are also available for down-
load from www.iccsafe.org/siforms.
Appendix C details ICC inspector certification for the required structural special inspections
in the IBC. Areas of certification are described, suggested minimum required experience
and certification are outlined, job tasks for each type of structural special inspection are
listed, and discussion of how to select appropriately qualified inspectors is discussed when
no criteria exist.
Appendix D details the manufacturer certification of products through evaluation reports

offered by the International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES). ICC-ES’s evalua-
tion process is offered as an example of the steps a product goes through to achieve certifi-
cation. The information available on an evaluation report is also outlined.
Appendix E details the process for a special inspection agency to be approved for a given type
of special inspection. International Accreditation Service (IAS) criteria for approval are
listed as an example. This appendix also discusses the path for accreditation as an approved
fabricator, a third-party inspection agency and a testing lab.
Chapter 2 – Special Inspector’s Duties
Special inspection is only required for the materials and types of construction described in
Section 1705. In the case of unique construction or a new material, element or method of erec-
tion, a special inspector should be familiar with similar materials and any construction strat-
egy on which the new method is based.
Some examples of materials and construction that require special inspection are:
• Welds in structural steel elements, cold-formed steel elements and reinforcement.
• Location, type, lap length and hook in reinforcement in concrete and masonry construc-
tion.
• Prestressing of concrete or masonry elements.
• Nailing type, pattern, and location in high-load wood diaphragms.
For more common construction materials and components, the special inspector must verify
that the materials at the job site conform to the approved construction documents. Thus, the
review and approval of the contractors’ submittals by the design team are often key compo-
nents of the special inspection. Review and approval of deferred submittals are also important
components.
Deferred submittals address those systems or elements for which approval is not sought until
after the issuance of the permit. Deferred submittals are completed by the design team and
given to the building official for approval prior to construction of those systems. The special
inspector should check the approved drawings for a schedule of deferred approval items. The
special inspector must be aware of the submittal requirements of the project in order to know
which documents will be available during inspection.
This requires familiarity with the construction documents—including the project specifica-
tions and deferred submittals. Alternatively, the special inspector must rely on others (i.e. the
engineer or architect, the owner’s authorized representative, or the contractor) to provide the
special inspector with all information relevant to each special inspection.
9
Who Becomes a Special Inspector?
A special inspector is an individual with specialized knowledge and skills who observes erec-
tion or construction of critical building components and systems identified in the statement of
special inspections by the registered design professional (RDP) in responsible charge for com-
pliance with plans and specifications approved by the building official. Although Section
1704.2 requires the owner or the RDP (engineer or architect) acting as the owner's agent to
provide for specially qualified inspectors, approval of special inspectors and special inspection
agencies is solely the responsibility of the building official.
Special inspectors must be familiar with the type of construction proposed and are often for-
mer construction workers who have worked decades on similar construction, RDPs who have
designed similar elements, or individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in a special
inspection area by passing an exam. In order to determine whether a complex construction
process is done correctly, the knowledge gained from tens or hundreds of such projects is
essential. Prospective special inspectors often spend time working with another inspector to
gain this experience when they do not have years of construction experience in a particular
specialty area.
Special inspectors become approved in a jurisdiction by submitting to the building department

written documentation of their knowledge and experience in the types of construction they
wish to inspect. Relevant knowledge and experience must be equivalent to the level of com-
plexity planned for the project. As noted in Section 1704.2.1 of the International Building Code,
the RDP in responsible charge and the engineers of record who have been involved in the
design of the structural system in the submitted plans may also act as the special inspection
agency if they are RDPs who qualify as special inspectors with sufficient experience.
1704.2.1 Special inspector qualifications. The special inspector shall provide written docu-
mentation to the building official demonstrating his or her competence and relevant experi-
ence or training. Experience or training shall be considered relevant when the documented
experience or training is related in complexity to the same type of special inspection activities
for projects of similar complexity and material qualities. These qualifications are in addition to
qualifications specified in other sections of this code.
The registered design professional in responsible charge and engineers of record involved in the
design of the project are permitted to act as the approved agency and their personnel are per-
mitted to act as the special inspector for the work designed by them, provided they qualify as
special inspectors.
Certification
Special inspectors are expected to be experts in their given field. As a result, inspectors with
different areas of expertise are needed to inspect different types of work. In order to ensure
that inspectors are qualified to perform special inspections, and to validate their level of exper-
tise, certification is offered for special inspectors in various areas, for example:
Chapter 2 – Special Inspector’s Duties 11
• Reinforced concrete.
• Structural masonry.
• Structural steel and welding.
• Spray-applied fireproofing.
For detailed information on certification and organizations offering certification, see Appen-
dix C.
Approval
Before beginning his or her first job in a new jurisdiction, the special inspector should contact
the building official to receive approval to work as a special inspector. Documentation of certi-
fications and a summary of work experience will allow the building official, when reviewing a
plans submittal, to match a special inspector’s qualifications with the requirements of a proj-
ect’s statement of special inspections. If new certification and experience is achieved, special
inspectors should make the building official aware of the additional areas in which they are
qualified.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Special Inspector
The building code requires that a statement of special inspections be submitted with the appli-
cation of a permit. A special inspector must thoroughly review and understand the scope of
the statement prior to beginning special inspector. If there are questions, the special inspector
should contact the registered design professional who developed the statement of special
inspections during the review. The special inspector should not wait until he or she is on site to
ask questions.
Duties of a special inspector include tasks to complete before arriving on the job site, tasks
during inspection and tasks to complete after the last inspection. The following tasks should
always be done by the special inspector.
Prior to visiting the job site:

• Review the statement of special inspections, clarify any questions.
• Review approved plans and specifications.
• Review additional requirements from the jurisdiction for special inspection (if any).
• Discuss frequency of progress reports with building official.
• Review the project schedule.
• Attend any preconstruction meetings.
• Determine if special inspection of materials from a nonapproved fabrication facility will be
required.
At the job site:

• Notify contractor personnel of presence and responsibilities at the job site.
• Follow site requirements for safety and sign in.
• Observe the assigned work.
• Perform or observe required testing.
• Report on nonconforming items immediately (any discrepancies).
• Provide timely progress reports (on a daily or weekly basis as predetermined with building
official).
At the end of the project:

• Submit a final report.
Prior to the Job Site

Review the Statement of Special Inspections
The statement of special inspections lists the job requirements. This form spells out the tasks
to be completed on the project. If only a portion of the tasks are assigned to you as special
inspector, verify that the other inspectors are aware of the division of tasks and that there are
no overlapping or unassigned tasks.
Review the frequency of assigned inspection or testing. Are inspections listed as continuous?
Are there periodic tasks? Is the frequency of the periodic inspection defined by the statement
of special inspections? Is the frequency of the inspections and required testing in the statement
at least the frequency required by the applicable standards?
After review, if you have any questions, contact the RDP who wrote the statement of special
inspections. Before the bid is submitted, clarify any inconsistencies. Regardless of services ren-
dered, payment is based on the scope of work outlined within the statement. Verify that
required services are included.
Review the content of the statement of special inspections for answers to the following ques-
tions:
• What inspections and tests are required?
• What is the frequency of testing required?
• Will offsite testing be done by a third party?
• Who conditions the test specimens?
• Who transports test specimens?
• Are there nonapproved fabricator facilities sending materials? If so, when and where is spe-
cial inspection of the materials occurring?
In some jurisdictions, one special inspection agency and its special inspectors will do all
inspections and testing. In other regions, multiple agencies or individual inspectors on a proj-
ect will be typical. In either case, the special inspector should be aware of the answers to the
above questions before accepting a job. Bids based on false assumptions can leave the inspector
responsible for unanticipated costs.
Periodic and Continuous Special Inspection
There is more confusion surrounding continuous vs. periodic special inspection than any
other aspect of inspections. The International Building Code defines periodic and continuous
special inspection as:
Continuous special inspection. Special inspection by the special inspector who is

present when and where the work to be inspected is being performed.
Periodic special inspection. Special inspection by the special inspector who is

intermittently present where the work to be inspected has been or is being
performed.
Various interpretations of the definitions have led to building departments having one inter-
pretation, RDPs another and special inspectors a third. Further complicating the matter is the
fact that, depending upon the material inspected, the intent of a continuous vs. periodic spe-
cial inspection may change.
Continuous Special Inspection
For example, there have been jurisdictions that interpreted the term “continuous” to mean
attendance of a special inspector at a job site 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This was never
the intent of the code provision. Rather, the intent of a continuous special inspection is to have
an inspector on site during the entire process of the work being inspected. Some examples of
continuous special inspection include:
Welding shear reinforcement continuous special inspection—an inspector is observing the

weld preparation and welding of each bar intended to be shear reinforcement.
Concrete placement continuous special inspection—during concrete placement the special

inspector observes concrete placement and vibration continuously throughout the process.
The sampling of the concrete is also listed as continuous in Table 1705.3 and is intended to
occur repeatedly during placement at a set interval. The placement process is continuous.
During placement, sampling occurs once a truck load, every specified number of cubic
yards or at a specified time interval, depending upon the minimum frequency required by
the RDP.
Compacted fill continuous special inspection—verification of placement and compaction of

fill is listed as a continuous special inspection in Table 1705.6. While the inspector is
observing the compaction process continuously, samples are taken and tested at a predeter-
mined interval during the process.
Periodic Special Inspection
The previous examples show that for continuous inspection, there are activities that occur
periodically. Is periodic special inspection more clearly defined? Examples of periodic inspec-
tion include:
Concrete formwork periodic special inspection—the forms are inspected once before con-
crete placement begins. The inspector need not be present when the forms are being
erected.
Footing periodic special inspection – measurement and verification of the footing excavation
size and the suitability (acceptance of the bearing capacity) of the underlying subsoil are
done once. An inspector does not need to be present during the entire excavation process,
but the verification measures are performed for all footings excavated prior to placement
of concrete.
AISC Quality Assurance
Some materials use standards referenced in the IBC to determine frequency of special inspec-
tion. Terminology in the standards often does not match terminology of the IBC. For example,
AISC 360 Specification for Structural Steel Buildings uses the terms “Observe” and “Perform.”
The “Observe” task is similar to the IBC’s “periodic” category. AISC 360 defines the task as
‘Observe these items on a random basis. Operations need not be delayed pending these inspec-
tions.” The “Perform” task is similar to the IBC’s “continuous” category in some cases and the
“periodic” category in others. AISC 360 defines the “Perform” task as “Perform these tasks for
each joint, connection or member.” Examples of “observe” and “perform” tasks include:
Inspection of bolting structural steel members—documentation of acceptance or rejection

of each connection is a task performed for each connection (Perform). This is the equiva-
lent of the IBC’s periodic task. Each connection is inspected once.
Inspection of welding technique during welding passes—observation of the welding of

joints is done during the welding process (Observe). AISC 360 does not require this action
to occur continuously. According to the definition of “Observe,” operations do not have to
wait for the inspector to begin. This inspection occurs periodically to verify that the welder
is correctly performing the welding process, but continuous monitoring of the individual
welder need not be performed. Verification inspection of individual welders should be
clearly defined in the statement of special inspections. The inspection can be performed
once, daily, weekly, or as directed by the RDP.
MSJC Special Inspection
Masonry special inspection is referenced in TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5 and TMS 602/ACI
530.1/ASCE 6. The special inspection requirements in the two standards are identical. Inspec-
tion is defined as continuous or periodic, similar to the IBC. For masonry, the following
inspections are examples of periodic and continuous special inspection:
Placement of reinforcement periodic special inspection: Level B Quality Assurance—for

engineered buildings in Risk Categories I, II, and III, inspection of the location of rein-
forcement and connectors is periodic. Prestressing tendons, anchors, connectors and rein-
forcement are checked for proper location daily or once per grouted element according to
the approved statement of special inspections:
Placement of reinforcement continuous special inspection: Level C Quality Assurance—

for engineered buildings in Risk Category IV, inspection of the placement of reinforce-
ment, connectors and anchorage is continuous. This is an increase in attention to detail as
each prestressing tendon, anchor, connector and section of reinforcement is checked for
proper location according to the approved construction documents. Continuous special
inspection means being present on site during all aspects of the placement of reinforce-
ment within the masonry.
In general terms, the requirement for continuous special inspection in masonry construction
emphasizes an increase in Risk Category, the need for accuracy in the placement of materials
and verification of tolerances.
The statement of special inspections states how frequent each inspection should be, whether
each individual weld, bolt, section of reinforcement, etc. needs to be inspected, when the
inspection should begin and when it should end. Since the definitions of periodic and continu-
ous special inspection are vague as to the frequency of inspection, clarification of the fre-
quency with the RDP will be necessary if it is not clearly defined in the statement of special
inspections.
Review approved plans and specifications
100426502
Before submitting a bid for special inspection services, a
review of all construction documents should be made.
• Review approved plans and specifications for special
inspection requirements.
• Make sure the statement of special inspections is consistent
with the approved plans and specs.
• Note any questions that arise in the review of the plans and
make time to ask the RDP in responsible charge the ques-
Figure 2.1: Construction Documents
tions.
• If the material, element or method of construction is new or unique, contact the RDP to
confirm understanding of all unique aspects of the inspection. In some regions the main
purpose of the preconstruction meeting is to clarify understanding of these unique details.
Timing, tests or details of a special inspection could be different from the referenced stan-
dard’s procedure. This information should be included in the statement of special inspec-
tions and covered in detail in the preconstruction meeting.
Review additional requirements from the jurisdiction for special inspection
Some larger jurisdictions, drawing from decades of experience in special inspection, have
added additional requirements beyond those specified in the code. They have found that the
additional requirements improve flow and accuracy of the construction process. Before bid-
ding on the job, discuss and be prepared to comply with any additional special inspection
requirements of the enforcing jurisdiction.
Optional documentation
Though not required by code, special inspectors and inspection agencies can document accep-
tance of their responsibilities and scope of work for a project by signing an agreement that
includes a detailed schedule of services.
These forms confirm what services the special inspector or inspection agency is providing and
the schedule of inspections. The building official will confirm the department’s understanding
of what the agreement entails.
There are examples of these forms in Appendix B, Sections B.4.1 and B.4.3:
• Special Inspection Agreement.
• Statement of Special Inspections Schedule.
Discuss Frequency of Progress Reports With Building Official
Before the project begins, the special inspector should have a meeting with the building
department to discuss how frequently the department wishes to receive the progress reports
and to whom the reports should be delivered. Typically, departments wish to receive the
reports each day special inspection occurs or weekly. This is also a good time to verify under-
standing of any additional requirements the department may have for special inspection.
Attend Preconstruction Meeting
Many contractors will schedule a preconstruction meeting. Find out when it will occur and
attend it. This is the best opportunity to measure how well the contractors understand the
unusual conditions they have and whether they are accustomed to having special inspectors on
the job site. This is also a great time to walk the site with the RDP in responsible charge to
review critical aspects of the construction project.
At the Job Site

Presence On Site
When arriving at the job site, check in with the contractor or designate. When checking in,
determine the progress of construction and what inspections are expected that day. A compar-
ison of the contractor’s expectations against the list of anticipated work and discussion of any
changes saves time. Lastly, check that the jurisdictional inspector has been through to verify
that prior work is complete and the site is ready to proceed to the next stage of construction.
Safety
Following the site requirements for sign-in and safety may include signing in on a form posted
with the building permit, if required by the building official. Before signing in, check that all
required personal protection equipment (PPE) is on and all materials needed for the first set of
inspections and/or testing are ready.
Inspections
Observing assigned work may include observation of construction, testing, and sampling for
off-site testing. Before the observation is completed, record the following items:
• Each location of inspection.
• Type of inspection.
• Frequency of inspection.
• Note any nonconforming items on the discrepancies report and give it to the contractor.
• Document any changes, requests for information (RFI) or email corrections to the con-
struction process. If a change to a particular item is made, for example, through an email
discussion between the general contractor and the project engineer, documentation show-
ing that change is required.
Example: At Grade Beam located from A to B on Line

1, six No. 5 top bars were substituted for the four No. 4
top bars per email dated 5/5/2013 between ABC Gen-
eral Contractor and DEF Engineering.
Nonconforming Items
Special inspectors shall bring all nonconforming items

to the immediate attention of the contractor. If any such
item is not resolved in a timely manner or is soon to be
covered up without resolution, the RDP in responsible
charge and the building official should be notified Figure 2.2: Preparation of Concrete Cylinders
immediately and the item noted in the special inspec- Photo Courtesy of Peter Kulczyk
tor's written report.
Some jurisdictions may require this report to be separate from progress reports. The building
official may require this report to be posted in a conspicuous place on the job site and/or
require that the discrepancy report be signed by the project manager of the general contractor.
The special inspector should include in the report, at a minimum, the following information
about each nonconforming item:
• Description and exact location.
• Reference to the applicable detail of the approved plans and specifications.
• Name and title of each individual notified and method of notification.
• Any resolution or corrective action taken.
More discussion of discrepancy reports is in Chapter 10. An example of a discrepancy report is

located in Appendix B, Section B.3.3.
Progress Reports
Special inspectors shall complete written inspection reports for each inspection visit and pro-
vide the reports on a timely basis as determined by the building official. The special inspector
or inspection agency shall furnish these reports directly to the building official and to the RDP
in responsible charge. These reports should be organized in a daily format and may be submit-
ted weekly at the option of the building official. In these reports, special inspectors should:
• Describe inspections and tests made with applicable locations and whether the work meets
the requirements of the statement of special inspections.
• Indicate nonconforming items (discrepancies) and how they were resolved.
• List unresolved items, parties notified, and time and method of notification.
• Itemize changes authorized by the RDP in responsible charge if not included in noncon-
forming items.
In a small jurisdiction, all information will pass directly between the special inspector and the
building official. In larger jurisdictions, the building official may select a contact person for the
special inspector to work with. Be aware of whom to contact with questions and where to
deliver reports. Some jurisdictions will require use of their own forms.
Detailed discussion of what should be added to daily or weekly reports is in Chapter 10. Exam-
ples of daily and weekly reports are located in Appendix B, Sections B.3.1 and B.3.2.
At the End of the Project
Special inspectors or inspection agencies shall submit a final signed report to the building
department stating that all items requiring special inspection and testing by the statement of
special inspections are in conformance with the approved plans and specifications. Jurisdic-
tions may also require the RDP in responsible charge to sign the report before it is submitted to
the building official.
Items not in conformance, unresolved items or any discrepancies in inspection coverage (for
example, missed inspections or periodic inspection when continuous was required) should be
specifically itemized in this report.
Section 1704.2.4 of the IBC lists report requirements during construction and for the final
report.
1704.2.4 Report requirement. Special inspectors shall keep records of inspections. The spe-
cial inspector shall furnish inspection reports to the building official, and to the registered
design professional in responsible charge. Reports shall indicate that work inspected was or
was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents.
Discrepancies shall be brought to the immediate attention of the contractor for correction. If
they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building offi-
cial and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of
that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and correction
of any discrepancies noted in the inspections shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon
prior to the start of work by the applicant and the building official.
Working with the Building Department
Besides working with the contractor on the timing of inspections and with the RDP on what
inspections are required and their frequency, the special inspector also works with the building
department. A special inspector needs to determine certain essential items involving the build-
ing department, including:
• Which jurisdiction has authority at the job site?
• What additional requirements for special inspection does the jurisdiction have?
• What certification is required by the jurisdiction to do the various special inspections?
• How many of the inspections is the special inspector or inspection agency qualified do?
• Are reports due daily or weekly?
• Does the jurisdiction require use of its report forms?
• Do nonconforming items need to be submitted on a separate discrepancy report?
• Do any of the items above affect the content of the statement of special inspections?
• Are additional inspections and tests required?
• Is greater frequency of testing required?
Prior to accepting a job, if this will be the first time to work in the jurisdiction, verify that
approval by the building department is complete for the special inspection services to be
offered for the project.
Who Hires the Special Inspector?
IBC Section 1704.2 describes who hires a special inspector and when the inspector or agency is
required. Regulation of the hiring of a special inspector limits conflict of interest between the
contractor and special inspector. The owner or the RDP in charge acting as the owner’s agent is
required to hire the special inspector. The inspector then completes special inspections listed
in the statement of special inspections.
Note that although there are exceptions to the requirement of special inspection within the
IBC, the RDP may require special inspection within a statement of special inspections and the
building official may require additional special inspections as well. Section 1704.2 requires the
following:
1704.2 Special inspections. Where application is made for construction as described in this
section, the owner or the registered design professional in responsible charge acting as the
owner’s agent shall employ one or more approved agencies to perform inspections during con-
struction on the types of work listed under Section 1705. These inspections are in addition to
the inspections identified in Section 110.
Inspection of Fabricators
The inspection of fabrication facilities (manufacturers) requires a different knowledge base

than the typical special inspection. A number of special inspection agencies specialize as third-
party inspectors for fabricators and manufacturers.
The inspector must be familiar with the fabrication of steel, concrete or other elements similar
to those constructed for the project. Section 1704.2.5 and its subsections list the requirements
for special inspection of fabricators and the materials to be reviewed at the plant. Section
1704.2.5.2 exempts approved fabricators from needing to have special inspection for each proj-
ect’s materials. Rather, periodic inspection is made of the plant’s production and documenta-
tion to verify that the plant continues to fabricate products to their quality requirements.
1704.2.5 Inspection of fabricators. Where fabrication of structural load-bearing members and

assemblies is being performed on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspection of the
fabricated items shall be required by this section and as required elsewhere in this code.
1704.2.5.1 Fabrication and implementation procedures. The special inspector shall verify
that the fabricator maintains detailed fabrication and quality control procedures that provide a
basis for inspection control of the workmanship and the fabricator’s ability to conform to
approved construction documents and referenced standards. The special inspector shall review
the procedures for completeness and adequacy relative to the code requirements for the fabri-
cator’s scope of work.
Exception: Special inspections as required by Section 1704.2.5 shall not be required where the
fabricator is approved in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.2.
1704.2.5.2 Fabricator approval. Special inspections required by Section 1705 are not required
where the work is done on the premises of a fabricator registered and approved to perform
such work without special inspection. Approval shall be based upon review of the fabricator’s
written procedural and quality control manuals and periodic auditing of fabrication practices
by an approved special inspection agency. At completion of fabrication, the approved fabricator
shall submit a certificate of compliance to the building official stating that the work was per-
formed in accordance with the approved construction documents.
Where work is done in an approved fabricators shop, on-site special inspection is not required.
A good example is premanufactured metal building manufacturers who are approved fabrica-
tors. No special inspection of the frames is required on the job site, although special inspection
is required for the high-strength bolting during field erection of the frames. More discussion of
fabricator facility inspection is found in Chapter 8 and Appendix E.
Chapter 3 – Other Stakeholders’ Duties
Everyone involved in the special inspection process has a responsibility to perform their
agreed upon duties correctly and in a timely fashion during the project. In order for the special
inspection program to run smoothly, all parties must perform their duties as required and
must work cooperatively. Communication between all parties is an essential element to the
special inspection process.
Alone, a statement of special inspections does not ensure consensus regarding the scope of
work and duties of the special inspector. A signed Special Inspection Agreement form verifies
that consensus has been reached on the specific processes and frequency of special inspection
tasks. An example of the form is available in Appendix B, Section B.4.1.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Project Owner
Building owners understand that they have a role to play in the construction administration
and quality assurance practiced for the project. By hiring experienced, qualified design profes-
sionals, construction contractors, and special inspection agencies, the owner affects construc-
tion.
The project owner, the design professional in responsible charge, or an agent of the owner is
responsible for funding special inspection services.
The project owner supplies funds, approves the design, and employs all who work on a project.
Ultimately, their vision drives the project. The owner or an agent of the owner hires the special
inspector. When choosing special inspectors or special inspection agencies, the owner or des-
ignate should consider:
• Project size and complexity — experience with similar projects.
• Inspection staffing — sufficient qualified inspectors.
• Site location — proximity of inspection and testing facilities.
• Off-site inspection — capabilities for inspection at remote locations.
21
Duties and Responsibilities of the Registered Design

Professional in Responsible Charge
The registered design professional (RDP) in responsible charge, an engineer or architect, pre-
pares the statement of special inspections, which is submitted with the permit application.
Requirements for the statement of special inspections are located in IBC Sections 1704.2.3 and
1704.3. Section 1704.2.3 specifies the statement as part of the construction documents
required to obtain a building permit.
1704.2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special
inspections in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for permit issuance. This statement
shall be in accordance with Section 1704.3.
Exception: A statement of special inspections is not required for portions of structures designed
and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of
Section 2211.7 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308.
Section 1704.3 describes when the statement of special inspections is required to be completed
and contains an exception allowing certain statements to be prepared by someone other than a
registered design professional (engineer or architect).
1704.3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspection or testing is required by

Section 1705, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement
of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704.3.1 for submittal by the applicant in
accordance with Section 1704.2.3.
Exception: The statement of special inspections is permitted to be prepared by a qualified per-
son approved by the building official for construction not designed by a registered design pro-
fessional.
The statement of special inspections is to be submitted with the construction documents. Sec-
tion 107.1 details the documents required for submittal.
107.1 General. Submittal documents consisting of construction documents, statement of spe-

cial inspections, geotechnical report and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets with
each permit application. The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered design
professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be con-
structed. Where special conditions exist, the building official is authorized to require additional
construction documents to be prepared by a registered design professional.
The registered design professional in responsible charge also responds to reports of uncor-
rected discrepancies from the special inspector and approves remedial measures. The RDP
submits to the building official and the special inspector written approval of any verbally
approved deviations from the approved plans. The revised plans are also submitted for build-
ing official approval in accordance with Section 107.4.
Chapter 3 – Other Stakeholders’ Duties 23
107.4 Amended construction documents. Work shall be installed in accordance with the
approved construction documents, and any changes made during construction that are not in
compliance with the approved construction documents shall be resubmitted for approval as an
amended set of construction documents.
The RDP is ultimately responsible for the special inspection program and has the following
duties and responsibilities:
• Identifies special inspection requirements.
• Develops the special inspection program and prepares the statement of special inspections.
• Takes part in the submittal of documents.
• Conducts a preconstruction meeting.
• Outlines the duties of the special inspector.
• Makes periodic site visits as part of the structural observation program.
• Specifies tests and testing procedures.
• Reviews special inspection reports.
• Documents plan revisions to be submitted to the building official.
• Designates an “alternative” registered design professional.
The RDP is also a signatory of the Special Inspections Agreement and of any subsequent
agreements affecting the work of special inspection on the project.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Contractor
Each contractor responsible for construction of the wind- or seismic-force-resisting systems

and components listed in the statement of special inspections is required to submit a written
statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner prior to any work on the sys-
tem or component. IBC Section 1704.4 defines the duties and responsibilities of the contractor.
1704.4 Contractor responsibility. Each contractor responsible for the construction of a main
wind- or seismic force-resisting system, designated seismic system or a wind- or seismic-resist-
ing component listed in the statement of special inspections shall submit a written statement of
responsibility to the building official and the owner prior to the commencement of work on
the system or component. The contractor’s statement of responsibility shall contain acknowl-
edgement of awareness of the special requirements contained in the statement of special
inspection.
The contractor is responsible for coordinating with special inspectors, building officials and
the registered design professional. Although the code does not require a preconstruction
meeting, for projects with a statement of special inspections the meeting is commonly sched-
uled to review the unique aspects of the project and verify attendees understanding of the proj-
ect requirements. Typically, the contractor schedules and the registered design professional in
responsible charge conducts the meeting. Some jurisdictions require a preconstruction meet-
ing if a project requires special inspections.
Lastly, the contractor coordinates the on-site special inspection activities.
Figure 3.1: Contrator Statement of Responsibility Form
The contractor's Statement of Responsibility contains the following:

1. Acknowledgement of awareness of the special requirements pertaining to construction of
a main wind- or seismic-force-resisting system, designated seismic system or a wind- or
seismic-resisting component contained in the statement of special inspections.
2. Acknowledgement that control will be exercised to obtain conformance with the con-
struction documents approved by the building official.
3. Procedures for exercising control within the contractor's organization.
4. Method and frequency of reporting, distribution of the reports.
5. Identification and qualifications of the person(s) exercising such control and their posi-
tion(s) in the organization.
In addition to the responsibilities mentioned by code, the contractor should:

1. Give adequate notice to the special inspector so the inspector is prepared to perform spe-
cific inspection tasks or tests.
2. Provide the special inspector with access to approved plans, including all changes and
RFI's, pertaining to the inspections to be performed, on the job site.
3. Retain at the job site all discrepancy reports submitted by the special inspector and pro-
vide these records for review by the building department's inspector upon request.
4. Provide access for the special inspector on the job site for inspection.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Building Official
The building official has the legal authority to enforce the special inspection provisions of the
code. The employment of a special inspector or agency shall not relieve the building depart-
ment of responsibility for jurisdictional inspections or overseeing structural observations as
required by the code and stated in the statement of special inspections. Building department
inspections of items also requiring special inspection should not be signed off without the con-
currence of the special inspector. The building official gives or denies the final approval of the
special inspection program.
104.4 Inspections. The building official shall make all of the required inspections, or the build-
ing official shall have the authority to accept reports of inspection by approved agencies or indi-
viduals. Reports of such inspections shall be in writing and be certified by a responsible officer of
such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The building official is authorized to
engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report upon unusual technical issues that
arise, subject to the approval of the appointing authority.
The specific duties and responsibilities of the building official relating to special inspection
include the following:
• Review of submittal documents for compliance with special inspection requirements. The
building official is charged with the legal authority to review the plans and specifications
pertaining to work and materials.
• Checking special inspection programs and other submittal documents for compliance with
code requirements.
107.3 Examination of documents. The building official shall examine or cause to be examined
the accompanying submittal documents and shall ascertain by such examinations whether the
construction indicated and described is in accordance with the requirements of this code and
other pertinent laws or ordinances.
• Approval of materials in accordance with Sections 104.9 and 104.11.
104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by
the building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
104.11 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment. The pro-
visions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit
any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that
any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or method of construc-
tion shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory
and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or
work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code
in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.
• Approval of fabricator(s) used for building components installed on-site (Section

1704.2.5.2).
where the work is done on the premises of a fabricator registered and approved to perform such
work without special inspection. Approval shall be based upon review of the fabricator’s written
procedural and quality control manuals and periodic auditing of fabrication practices by an
approved special inspection agency. At completion of fabrication, the approved fabricator shall
submit a certificate of compliance to the building official stating that the work was performed
in accordance with the approved construction documents.
• Approval of the special inspection program. The building official is responsible for approv-
ing the special inspection program, in the form of a statement of special inspections
included in the construction documents, submitted by the RDP in responsible charge. (Sec-
tion 107.3.1).
• Approval of special inspectors and inspection agencies (Section 1703.1). Review qualifica-
tions and determine competence of the special inspectors for the types of work they will be
inspecting. Require special inspectors and inspection agencies to notify the building
department of each permit they do work on.
1703.1 Approved agency. An approved agency shall provide all information as necessary for
the building official to determine that the agency meets the applicable requirements.
• Review of special inspection work with owner, RDP in responsible charge and contractor.
• Review of project documents and special inspection work with special inspection agency or
special inspector.
• Requiring a preconstruction conference, if needed, to review the program with all applica-
ble members of the construction team.
• Monitoring/auditing special inspection activities at the job site to assure that qualified spe-
cial inspectors are performing their duties when work requiring special inspection is in
progress.
• Withholding approval to proceed or cover current work when discrepancies have not been
resolved.
• Issuing stop work orders when all other efforts have failed. The building official is recog-
nized as having the authority to stop work at the job site (Section 115). The special inspec-
tor does not have this authority. Stop work orders are issued as a last resort when
discrepancies have not been resolved and all other recourse has been explored by the build-
ing official.
115.1 Authority. Whenever the building official finds any work regulated by this code being
performed in a manner either contrary to the provisions of this code or dangerous or unsafe,
the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
115.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the
property involved, or to the owner's agent, or to the person doing the work. Upon issuance of a
stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the
reason for the order, and the conditions under which the cited work will be permitted to
resume.
• Performing regular inspections at the job site as required by code (Section 110).
• Giving approval to proceed. There are certain points of completion where work shall not
proceed until approval by the building official has been given. The building official receives
and reviews special inspection progress reports and final reports for conformance with the
statement of special inspections, approved plans, specifications and workmanship provi-
sions of the code (Section 110.6).
• Review of special inspection reports (Section 1704.2.4). The building official should not
perform the final inspection and issue a certificate of occupancy for a project until the final
special inspection report has been reviewed and approved.
1704.2.4 Report requirement. … A final report documenting required special inspections and
correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections shall be submitted at a point in time
agreed upon prior to the start of work by the applicant and the building official.
• Issuing final acceptance/certificate of occupancy (Section 111)
Preconstruction Meeting
A preconstruction conference may be required prior to the start of major projects and will be
initiated by the general contractor and conducted by the registered design professional. This
conference is useful in achieving cooperation, coordination and cohesion among all parties
involved with the project. Participants are provided with an outline of all required actions and
documentation, including responsibilities of each participant. Any pertinent issues that may
pose a challenge to special inspections or the building process should be addressed.
The parties that should attend the preconstruction meeting are:

• Registered design professional in responsible charge.
• Additional RDPs involved with writing the statement of special inspections.
• Project superintendent.
• Building department.
• Quality assurance agency for the project.
• Representatives of all subcontractors and material suppliers.
• Fire department.
• Sanitation district.
• Public works.
• Regional flood control.
• Any utility company involved.
Chapter 4 – Jurisdictional Inspection vs.
Special Inspection
While this manual discusses special inspection, it is important to be clear about the difference
between general (jurisdictional) inspections and special inspections. This chapter will discuss
special inspection in the context of the jurisdictional inspections which overlap or occur at the
same time.
Chapter 5 discusses the details and requirements for each type of structural special inspection.
Chapter 6 describes the details and requirements of nonstructural special inspection.
Why is jurisdictional inspection insufficient in some cases?
Jurisdictional inspection occurs in all structures without regard to the type of construction. It
focuses on life safety and basic structural concerns. The more complex or critical aspects—
including certain structural, life or fire safety systems or components—of a building’s con-
struction require special oversight to ensure proper construction. Special inspection provides
this oversight. For each material type there are a number of unique inspections that are neces-
sary. Some materials have only one or two special inspections while other materials require
frequent inspections during multiple stages of the construction cycle.
A second factor in determining whether special inspection is required above and beyond gen-
eral inspection is the Risk Category to which a building is assigned. In the structural design
requirements of the 2012 International Building Code (IBC) Table 1604.5, Occupancy Catego-
ries were renamed as Risk Categories. A building with a high risk to life safety will require
more inspection. The four Risk Categories (RC) are:
RC I – Primarily agricultural buildings. People infrequently occupy these buildings and there
is low risk to life.
29
RC II – Most commercial and residential buildings. Buildings not placed in RC III, IV or I are
in this category.
RC III – Buildings which represent a substantial hazard to life safety if failure occurs. This
group includes K-12 schools having more than 250 people, public assembly buildings with
a capacity greater than 300 people, adult education with a capacity of more than 500 peo-
ple, and any building which can contain more than 5000 people, typically high-rise build-
ings. RC III also includes hospitals, foster care facilities and nursing homes, in addition to
jails and detention centers. Power generating facilities, water treatment facilities and build-
ings with toxic or explosive materials which pose a threat to the public if released are also
classified as RC III.
RC IV – Buildings designated as essential facilities. In the event of a natural or man-made

disaster, these buildings are intended to continue to function. Examples include: hospitals
with surgery or emergency rooms and fire, rescue, and police stations. Designated emer-
gency shelters for natural disasters; designated emergency operations centers, (i.e. 911 cen-
ters) and power generation facilities required as emergency back-up facilities for Risk
Category IV buildings are in this category. Building with large quantities of highly toxic
materials; air traffic control towers and national defense structures are also assigned to RC
IV.
Complex, Uncommon or Unique Construction
Someone qualified to inspect complex systems typically has many years of experience with the
specific type of construction to be performed, has attained certification in the type of con-
struction to be performed, and has been approved by the building official. Often on one proj-
ect there may be many special inspectors as one person is rarely qualified to perform all the
different types of special inspection needed. Registered design professionals may also be con-
sidered by the building official as qualified without having specific certification when they
have the necessary experience with the type of construction being performed. Having a profes-
sional engineer’s or architect’s license alone does not qualify a registered design professional
(RDP) to perform special inspection.
Inspection agencies employ a number of special inspectors and engineers who may be
assigned to a specific construction project. Each inspector will only do inspections for which
he or she is qualified and approved by the building official to perform.
Jurisdictional Inspections
Construction for which a permit is required is inspected by the building official or designated
representative. According to Section 110.1 of the International Building Code:
Chapter 4 – Jurisdictional Inspection vs. Special Inspection 31
110.1 General. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspec-
tion by the building official and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed
for inspection purposes until approved. Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be con-
strued to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of
the jurisdiction. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of
this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. It shall be the duty of the
permit applicant to cause the work to remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes.
Neither the building official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the
removal or replacement of any material required to allow inspection.
Before work is continued beyond the point requiring inspection, the inspection and approval
of the current work must be completed. Section 110.6 states:
110.6 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each succes-
sive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the building official. The building offi-
cial, upon notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate the
portion of the construction that is satisfactory as completed, or notify the permit holder or his
or her agent wherein the same fails to comply with this code. Any portions that do not comply
shall be corrected and such portion shall not be covered or concealed until authorized by the
building official.
Each structure that receives a permit has jurisdictional inspections performed. This includes
both commercial and residential structures. Commercial structures built using Section 2308,
conventional light-frame construction, of the IBC do not require special inspection unless the
building contains specific elements requiring special inspection. These buildings typically only
have jurisdictional inspections done. Larger, more complex buildings will require both general
and special inspection. The owner and contractor need to understand that both types of
inspection will occur and that no further work should happen until the jurisdictional inspec-
tion is completed and the contractor has been given approval to continue to the next phase of
construction.
Comparison of Timing of Jurisdictional and Special

Inspections
Jurisdictional inspections typically follow a set of special inspections that involve the same sys-
tems within a building. The following sections and tables outline the typical special inspec-
tions that will happen prior to a particular jurisdictional inspection.
A preliminary inspection according to Section 110.2 occurs before a permit is issued.
110.2 Preliminary inspection. Before issuing a permit, the building official is authorized to
examine or cause to be examined buildings, structures and sites for which an application has
been filed.
While this preliminary inspection typically does not have special inspections occurring con-
current with it, there may be instances where the building official requires additional special
inspections. For example, in an urban construction project safeguards during construction
must be provided. Other buildings may need bracing during construction and, with minimum
setbacks from roads, excavation may need bracing as well. Chapter 33 of the IBC contains
more information on safeguards required during construction.
Figure 4.1: Urban Construction
Site grading, compaction testing and foundation special inspections will occur before a footing
and foundation jurisdictional inspection. There are a number of potential special inspections
for soils and deep foundations that may occur at this stage (see Tables 4.1A and 4.1B). The
footing and foundation inspection (Section 110.3.1) is the final inspection before the building
is built on the foundation.
110.3.1 Footing and foundation inspection. Footing and foundation inspections shall be
made after excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place.
For concrete foundations, any required forms shall be in place prior to inspection. Materials
for the foundation shall be on the job, except where concrete is ready mixed in accordance with
ASTM C 94, the concrete need not be on the job.
Figure 4.2: Reinforced Footing
The following tables list the special inspections that, when included in the statement of special
inspections, must occur before the jurisdictional inspection of the footing and foundation is
complete. With completion of both the special inspections and jurisdictional inspection,
approval may be given to continue to the next phase of construction.
TABLE 4.1A: Comparison of Jurisdictional Inspections and Special Inspections—Foundation
Structural Jurisdictional
Special Inspection if Required:
Assembly Inspection:
IBC Sections 110.3.1 1705.3
Before/During
Timing Before Placement After Placement
Placement
Verify maintenance of
Verify placement and
specified curing temperature;
type of reinforcing steel;
in-situ strength; application of
welding in accordance
prestressing forces, grouting of
with Table 1705.2.2, Item
bonded tendons; erection of
2b
prestressed members
Materials for foundation
at job site, excavation Verify design mix;
Concrete Members placement of formwork;
complete, rebar and Verify maintenance of
forms in place Fabricate specimens for
strength tests; Perform
slump and air content
prestressing forces, grouting of
tests, determine the
bonded tendons; erection of
temperature of the
prestressed members
concrete; Verify proper
application techniques
TABLE 4.1B: Comparison of Jurisdictional Inspections and Special Inspections—Foundation

Structural IBC Jurisdictional IBC
Special Inspection
Assembly Section Inspection Section
Verify materials below shallow foundations
are adequate to achieve the design
bearing capacity.
1. Verify excavations are extended to
proper depth and have reached proper
material.
Soils, 2. Perform classification and testing of
1705.6 compacted fill materials.
3. Verify use of proper materials, densities
and lift thicknesses during placement
and compaction of compacted fill.
4. Prior to placement of compacted fill,
observe subgrade and verify that site
has been prepared properly.
Verify element materials, sizes and
lengths.
1. Determine capacities of test elements
and conduct additional load tests, as
required.
2. Observe driving operations and maintain
complete and accurate records for each
element.
Materials for 3. Verify placement locations and plumb-
Driven ness, confirm type and size of hammer,
foundation at job
Footing/ deep record number of blows per foot of pene-
site, excavation
Soils Foundation, foundation tration, determine required penetrations
complete, rebar
110.3.1 elements, to achieve design capacity, record tip
and forms in
1705.7 and butt elevations and document any
place
damage to foundation element.
4. For steel elements, additional inspec-
tions (Section 1705.2)
5. For concrete elements and concrete-
filled elements, additional inspections
(Section 1705.3)
6. For specialty elements, additional
inspections as determined by the RDP
Observe drilling operations and maintain
complete and accurate records for each
element.
Cast-in-
Verify placement locations and plumbness;
place deep
confirm element diameters, bell diameters,
foundation
lengths, embedment into bedrock and
elements,
adequate end-bearing strata capacity.
1705.8
Record concrete or grout volumes.
For concrete elements, additional
inspections (Section 1705.3).
Helical Installation equipment used.
piles, Pile dimension, tip elevation, final depth,
1705.9 final installation torque.
Preplacement concrete special inspections will occur before a slab and under-floor inspection
is done for the subfloor or foundation slab. This inspection verifies placement of equipment
and services that will be later covered by concrete or a floor system. A concrete slab and under-
floor jurisdictional inspection following Section 110.3.2 will also be done.
110.3.2 Concrete slab and under-floor inspection. Concrete slab and under-floor inspections
shall be made after in-slab or under-floor reinforcing steel and building service equipment,
conduit, piping accessories and other ancillary equipment items are in place, but before any
concrete is placed or floor sheathing installed, including the subfloor.
Figure 4.3: Concrete Slab and Under-floor Inspection
Table 4.1C shows a list of special inspections that must occur before the jurisdictional inspec-
tion is complete for concrete slab and under floor inspections where required by the statement
of special inspections.
TABLE 4.1C: Comparison of Jurisdictional Inspections and Special Inspections—Foundation
Structural Jurisdictional
Special Inspection if Required:
Assembly Inspection:
IBC Section 110.3.2 1705.3
Timing Before Placement Before/During Placement After Placement
Verify placement and type of specified curing temperature;
reinforcing steel; welding in in-situ strength; application of
accordance with Table prestressing forces; grouting
In-slab or under-floor 1705.2.2, Item 2b of bonded tendons; erection
steel, accessories of prestressed members
Concrete Slab/ and other equipment
Under-floor in place, before Verify design mix; placement of
concrete or floor formwork; fabricate specimens
sheathing is placed for strength tests; perform
slump and air content tests;
prestressing forces; grouting
determine the temperature of
of bonded tendons; erection
the concrete; verify proper
of prestressed members
application techniques
A lowest floor elevation inspection occurs in designated flood hazard areas. Elevation of the
lowest floor of the structure including the basement needs to be provided. If enclosed spaces
are below this elevation, additional requirements for construction occur. In some cases, local
jurisdictions will not allow construction below the design flood elevation.
In the lowest floor elevation inspection, the elevation of the basement floor, crawl space floor
or slab on grade is verified and a certificate is issued stating the elevation. Section 110.3.3 con-
tains the requirements for the lowest floor elevation inspection:
110.3.3 Lowest floor elevation. In flood hazard areas, upon placement of the lowest floor,
including the basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the elevation certification
required in Section 1612.5 shall be submitted to the building official.
There are no special inspections required to be completed before or during this jurisdictional
inspection.
Once the foundation is completed, the frame of the structure is erected. The frame inspection
is required per Section 110.3.4 when the roof deck and walls are in place, bracing and fire
blocking are installed where required, and electrical, mechanical and plumbing work that will
be concealed has been installed and approved. The frame inspection is the final structural
inspection verifying that construction complies with the code; that all utilities have been cor-
rectly installed and the walls, floor and roof are ready for interior finish work.
110.3.4 Frame inspection. Framing inspections shall be made after the roof deck or sheathing,
all framing, fireblocking and bracing are in place and pipes, chimneys and vents to be con-
cealed are complete and the rough electrical, plumbing, heating wires, pipes and ducts are
approved.
Figure 4.4: Framed Walls and Roof Trusses

Photo Courtesy of Peter Kulczyk
Many special inspections may be required during the construction of the walls, floors and roof.
These special inspections should occur before the frame inspection takes place. Tables 4.2A
and 4.2B list the special inspections by material that must occur before the frame inspection is
complete. These special inspections are listed in the statement of special inspections.
TABLE 4.2A: Comparison of Jurisdictional Inspection vs. Special Inspection – Frame
Inspections – Steel and Concrete
Jurisdictional Special Inspection
Inspection: if Required:
110.3.4 1705.2 1705.3
IBC
Sections STEEL: CONCRETE:
All Materials Structural Cold-
Before/During After
steel formed
Placement Placement
members steel
After the roof Require- Material Placement and Maintenance
deck or ments per verification of type of reinforcing of specified
sheathing, all AISC 360, cold-formed steel, including curing
framing, 341 – see steel deck prestressing temperature
fireblocking and Chapter 5 tendons and
bracing are in for details techniques
place
Pipes, chimneys Inspection of Steel welding in Verification of
and vents to be welding: accordance with in-situ
concealed are 1. Cold- Table 1705.2.2, strength
complete formed steel Item 2b
deck
Rough electrical, Anchors cast in Application of
2. Reinforcing
plumbing, concrete where prestressing
steel
heating wires, allowable loads forces
pipes and ducts have been
are approved increased or where
strength design is
used
Frame,
Verify use of Grouting of
110.3.4 required design mix bonded
tendons
Verify placement of Erection of
formwork prestressed
Perform slump and members
air content tests
Fabricate
specimens for
strength tests
Determine the
temperature of the
concrete
Proper application
techniques
(concrete or
shotcrete)
TABLE Table 4.2B: Comparison of Jurisdictional Inspection vs. Special Inspection – Frame
Inspections – Masonry and Wood
Jurisdictional Special Inspection
Inspection: if Required:
IBC
110.3.4 1705.4 1705.5
Sections
MASONRY (Level B Quality
All Materials WOOD:
Assurance Inspection):
After the roof deck or Requirements per TMS 402/ACI 530/ Verify grade and
sheathing, all framing, ASCE 5 and TMS 602/ACI 530.1/ thickness of wood
fireblocking and bracing
are in place ASCE 6 (MSJC)1 structural panels
Pipes, chimneys and Verification of slump flow and visual

vents to be concealed are stability index (vsi) of mortar and grout Verify size of framing
complete delivered to the project site at adjoining panel
edges
Rough electrical, Verification of masonry f'M and f'AAC
plumbing, heating wires,
Verify compliance with the approved Verify nail diameter
pipes and ducts to be
construction documents for: & length, number of
concealed are approved
• Mortar joints, grade, location & size fastener lines and
steel, mortar proportions, spacing between
prestressing technique nails, lines and to
Frame • Grout space, grade, type, location, & panel edges
size of steel, proportions of site-
prepared grout, mortar joint
construction
• Structural elements, type, location &
size of anchors, welding
• Cold/hot weather requirements
• Prestressing force if applicable,
placement of prestressing grout
• Placement of AAC units and thin-bed
joints if used
Observe preparation of grout
specimens, mortar specimens and/or
prisms
1. TMS – The Masonry Society
ACI – American Concrete Institute
ASCE – American Society of Civil Engineers
MSJC – Masonry Standard Joint Committee, also refers to the book which contains the combined TMS 402 and
TMS 602 standards
There are additional requirements for Level C Quality Assurance Inspections for masonry.
With the frame inspection complete, interior finish work begins. The lath and gypsum board
inspection, per Section 110.3.5, is done for fire-resistance-rated assemblies when the lath or
board has been properly installed and attached to the framing and before plastering and tap-
ing. This step verifies correct attachment of the gypsum board or lath to framing. It also veri-
fies that the specified materials have been used. Once this inspection is complete, the lath or
gypsum board is concealed by plaster or tape and finish.
110.3.5 Lath and gypsum board inspection. Lath and gypsum board inspections shall be
made after lathing and gypsum board, interior and exterior, is in place, but before any plaster-
ing is applied or gypsum board joints and fasteners are taped and finished.
Exception: Gypsum board that is not part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly or a shear assem-
bly does not require an inspection.
There are no special inspections required to be completed before or during this inspection.
The fire- and smoke-resistant penetration inspection looks at only penetrations of rated
assemblies and smoke partitions and barriers. Each assembly is checked for remaining holes
through which fire and smoke could potentially pass. The intent of the inspection is to verify
that penetrations of fire-rated assemblies are built according to the construction plans, the
code and the referenced standard and will adequately resist the passage of smoke or flame.
The requirements for this inspection are found in Section 110.3.6:
110.3.6 Fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-
-
resistance-rated assemblies, smoke barriers and smoke partitions shall not be concealed from
view until inspected and approved.
Figure 4.5: Fire- and Smoke-resistant Penetrations
Special inspections may be required for fire-resistant coatings or materials, penetrations and
smoke control. For penetrations and joints, special inspections only occur in high-rise build-
ings and buildings in Risk Categories III and IV. All of these special inspections should occur
before the fire- and smoke-resistant penetration (Section 110.3.6) jurisdictional inspection is
completed. Table 4.3 contains the special inspections listed in the statement of special inspec-
tions that must occur before approval for the jurisdictional inspection is complete.
Table 4.3: Comparison of Jurisdictional Inspection vs. Special Inspection – Fire Resistance
Jurisdictional Special Inspections
IBC Inspection: if Required:
Sections
110.3.6 1705.13 1705.14 1705.16 1705.17
Fire- and Mastic &
Sprayed fire- Fire-resistant
smoke- intumescent Smoke
resistant penetrations
resistant fire-resistant control
materials and joints
penetrations coatings
Before Requirements Through- Leakage testing
Physical and
concealing joints per AWCI 12-B, penetrations, and recording of
visual tests
and penetrations see Chapter 6 for membrane device location
Fire from view Structural details. penetration fire Pressure
member surface stops, fire- difference
conditions resistant joint testing, flow
systems, and measurements
Application perimeter fire and detection
Thickness barrier systems and control
Density verification
Bond Strength
Energy-efficiency inspections check that insulation, windows, air barriers and other energy-
conserving components have been installed following the construction documents and appli-
cable standards. Section 110.3.7 defines, at a minimum, the installed products which need ver-
ification:
110.3.7 Energy-efficiency inspections. Inspections shall be made to determine compliance

with Chapter 13 and shall include, but not be limited to, inspections for: envelope insulation R-
and U-values, fenestration U-value, duct system R-value, and HVAC and water-heating equip-
ment efficiency.
There are no special inspections required to be completed before or during this inspection.
Other inspections may be required by the building official according to Section 110.3.8. These
additional inspections are added where a concern for the public’s safety in a building exists and
the typical inspections do not address the concern.
110.3.8 Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified in Sections 110.3.1

through 110.3.7, the building official is authorized to make or require other inspections of any
construction work to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that
are enforced by the department of building safety.
The final inspection according to Section 110.3.10 is made after all work required by the build-
ing permit is completed.
Inspections in the International Residential Code
Inspections of detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses not greater than three
stories above grade plane, as required by the International Residential Code (IRC), are similar
to the jurisdictional inspections required by the IBC.
In the IRC, the section defining the duty of the building official to inspect is Section R109.1.
This section, similar to Section 109.1 in the IBC, requires the building official to make the nec-
essary inspections to determine that a new house or townhouse is safe for the residents and the
public in general.
R109.1 Types of inspections. For onsite con-

struction, from time to time the building
official, upon notification from the permit
holder or his agent, shall make or cause to be
made any necessary inspections and shall
either approve that portion of the construc-
tion as completed or shall notify the permit
holder or his or her agent wherein the same
fails to comply with this code.
Figure 4.6: Residential Construction

The following inspections are required by the IRC:

TABLE 4.4: Residential Inspection Requirements
Residential IRC
Details
Inspection Section
Inspection of the foundation shall be made after poles or piers are set or trenches
or basement areas are excavated, any required forms erected and any required
reinforcing steel is in place and supported prior to the placing of concrete. The
Foundation R109.1.1
foundation inspection shall include excavations for thickened slabs intended for
the support of bearing walls, partitions, structural supports, or equipment and
special requirements for wood foundations.
Frame and Inspection of framing and masonry construction shall be made after the roof,
R109.1.4 masonry, all framing, firestopping, draftstopping and bracing are in place and after
masonry the plumbing, mechanical and electrical rough inspections are approved.
Fire- Where fire-resistance-rated construction is required between dwelling units or due

resistance- to location on property, an inspection is done after all lathing and/or wallboard is in
R109.1.5.1
rated place, but before any plaster is applied, or before wallboard joints and fasteners
construction are taped and finished.
Other The building official may make or require other inspections to ascertain
R109.1.5
inspections compliance with this code and other laws enforced by the building official.
There are no special inspections required for structures built entirely using the IRC. However,
it is conceivable that a building constructed under the IRC could have specific elements engi-
neered under the IBC that require special inspection, see Section R301.1.3 for more informa-
tion. Also, for some proprietary products used in residential foundations, special inspection is
required in the evaluation report of the anchorage product to verify correct installation.
Materials Requiring Special Inspection
Recall from Chapter 1 that special inspection is required for the specific items listed in Section
1705 of the IBC or for proposed work that is, in the opinion of the building official, unusual in
its nature or requires special expertise to comply with code and construction documents.
The requirements for materials requiring special inspection in Section 1705 of the IBC are
listed below by material or function for both structural and life safety issues. More detailed
information is given about each type of special inspection in Chapters 5 and 6.
Steel Construction (Section 1705.2)
Requirements for special inspection of structural steel construction are defined in Chapter N
of AISC 360, Specification for Structural Steel Buildings, which is referenced in Section 1705.2
of the IBC. High-strength bolting and welding of steel members both require special inspec-
tion, with some exceptions. Structural members require special inspection during fabrication
unless they are fabricated at an approved fabricator, who has a separate quality control review
which replaces the special inspection.
For seismic systems, there are additional requirements defined in AISC 341, Seismic Provisions
for Structural Steel Buildings, and referenced in Sections 1705.11 and 1705.12.
Figure 4.7: AISC 360 Specification for Structural Steel Buildings and
AISC 341 Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings
Figure 4.8: Structural Steel Construction
The IBC includes special inspection requirements for steel products other than structural steel.
Table 1705.2.2 gives requirements for periodic or continuous special inspection of cold-
formed steel decks and reinforcing steel.
Figure 4.9: Cold-formed Steel Construction
Concrete Construction (Section 1705.3)

Requirements for special inspection of concrete construction are
listed in Table 1705.3, which references ACI 318, Building Code
Requirements for Structural Concrete and Commentary, AWS D1.4,
Structural Welding Code - Reinforcing Steel, and a number of ASTM
standards.
In certain cases, special inspection of concrete construction is not

required. Special inspection is not required for continuous concrete
footings supporting walls of light-frame construction, foundation
walls designed using Table 1807.1.6.2, or isolated spread concrete
Figure 4.10: ACI 318-11, footings when one- to three-story buildings are fully supported on
Building Code soil or rock. Special inspection is not required when nonstructural
Requirements for Structural concrete slabs are supported directly on the ground and when con-
Concrete and Commentary
crete patios, driveways and sidewalks are built on grade.
Some examples of concrete construction

include a multiuse prestressed concrete
building containing a parking garage and
office building in support of a light rail
stop (Figure 4.11), and a parking garage
for high capacity parking in the inner city
(Figure 4.12).
Figure 4.11: Concrete Construction
When there is no documentation provid-

ing evidence of conformance to the qual-
ity standards for materials in Chapter 3 of
ACI 318, the building official shall
require special inspection in the form of
testing of materials. For example, this
requirement covers buildings which do
not typically have special inspection and
are using a concrete for which there is no
paper trail from the supplier confirming
the concrete’s strength. Figure 4.13 shows
an example of concrete cylinders being Figure 4.12: Concrete Construction
made for a concrete strength test. Photo Courtesy of Peter Kulczyk
Figure 4.13: Concrete Cylinders for Strength Test

Specimens
Masonry Construction (Section1705.4)
Requirements for special inspection of masonry construction

are listed in TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5, Building Code
Requirements for Masonry Structures, and TMS 602/ACI
530.1/ASCE 6, Specification for Masonry Structures, in the
quality assurance program requirements.
In certain cases, special inspection of masonry construction is

not required. Special inspection is not required for empiri-
cally designed masonry, glass unit masonry or masonry
veneer; masonry foundation walls designed using the pre-
scriptive foundation wall tables in Chapter 18 of the IBC, and
masonry fireplaces, masonry heaters or masonry chimneys.
Figure 4.14: TMS 402/ACI 530/ Special inspection is required for all structures in Risk Cate-
ASCE 5 and TMS 602/ACI 530.1/ gory IV built using empirically designed masonry, glass unit
ASCE 6
masonry or masonry veneer, some examples of which include
emergency response, emergency shelters and backup power
facilities.
Figure 4.15 is an example of typical masonry construction of a strip mall building with con-
crete masonry unit (CMU) walls. With an engineered design, the building requires Level B
quality assurance (special inspection). The building materials must meet minimum materials
standards through testing. The special inspection tasks required are primarily periodic inspec-
tions. See Chapter 5 for greater detail on specific special inspection requirements of masonry.
Figure 4.15: Masonry Construction
Wood Construction (Section 1705.5)
In general, wood construction is limited in height and area, and a familiar construction mate-
rial for jurisdictional inspectors. Typically, wood construction doesn’t require special inspec-
tion. Jurisdictional inspection is considered sufficient to determine whether the construction
complies with the code. But as new construction procedures are developed, proprietary prod-
ucts added and the cause of structural issues during natural disasters identified, special inspec-
tion may be required on the statement of special inspections or by the building official for a
system or the connection of certain members.
Figure 4.16 depicts a wood-frame apartment complex under construction. Potential special
inspection on this structure might include high-load floor or roof diaphragms.
Figure 4.16: Wood Construction

For proprietary products, special inspection of the fabrication process of prefabricated wood
structural elements and assemblies are done separately. In some cases, fabricators apply to
qualify as approved fabricators as defined by the IBC. These inspections occur at the plant dur-
ing the fabrication process or, if approved fabricators, at random times to verify ongoing prod-
uct quality. An example of a proprietary assembly in wood construction is structural insulated
panel (SIP) assemblies (Figure 4.17). These assemblies are formed in a plant, shipped to a job
site and erected at the job site. Inspection of materials occurs during fabrication. At the job site,
inspection verifies approved connection of the elements within the assembly.
Figure 4.17: SIP Assembly

Photo Courtesy of Fire Tower Engineered Timber
High-load diaphragms designed in accordance with Section 2306.2 require special inspection
(Figure 4.18). These diaphragms carry a larger load than typical and require inspection of the
spacing, end and edge distance of nails or staples. Care must be taken during construction to
avoid wood blowout (failure of wood fibers around the fastener). Special inspection verifies
that blowout of wood fibers has not occured.
Figure 4.18: Wood Construction Testing of High Load Diaphragm

Photo Courtesy of APA - The Engineered Wood Association
If a truss clear span is 60 feet or greater, a special inspection is required to check temporary and
permanent bracing of the trusses. Long-span trusses are flexible and difficult to manuver,
requiring caution during construction. Extra care is taken during erection to prevent injury to
contractors, damage to trusses and potential collapse of the roof. Figure 4.19 is an example of a
roof containing long-span truss elements.
Figure 4.19: Wood Construction – Long Truss Spans

Photo Courtesy of Spates Fabricators
Soils (Section 1705.6)
Requirements for the special inspection of

existing soil conditions are defined in Sec-
tion 1705.6. Special inspections are done to
check site soil conditions, adequate compac-
tion and proper placement of fill, and load-
bearing capacity of the soil on which the
foundation will be laid. An approved geo-
technical report and the construction docu-
ments are used to determine adequacy and
capacity of the soil.
Figure 4.20: Soils – Excavation
Deep Foundations (Sections 1705.7, 1705.8 and 1705.9)
The purpose of a foundation is to

provide support for a building
and control settlement. The code
divides foundations into two gen-
eral groups: shallow foundations
and deep foundations. Shallow
foundations, such as spread foot-
ings and mats, distribute loads
over a large enough area of soil to
support the loads with little set-
tlement. Deep foundations are
underground columns, often
placed in groups, which typically
extend multiple stories into the
ground to reach rock or stable
soils. Steel columns driven 30 feet
Figure 4.21: Driven Steel Piles
into the soil or grout piles drilled
and placed 45 feet deep are exam-
ples of deep foundations. Deep
foundations are used to stabilize a building when soil quality is very poor or the structure that
will be built on the foundation is very tall. Deep foundations are typically located beneath sky-
scrapers and in former marshy areas (areas with very poor soils).
Deep foundations, with no visual inspection possible due to their underground location and
potential depth, require special inspection. The inspection verifies that the materials, locations
and connection details of the deep foundation meet the requirements of the geotechnical
report and the construction documents.
Wind Resistance (Section 1705.10)
Requirements for special inspection for wind resistance evolve in an effort to improve con-
struction practices after damaging high wind events. Hurricane Andrew, in particular,
increased concern over construction practices in regions which routinely experience high
winds. Hurricanes and tornados since Andrew have increased our knowledge of roof assem-
blies that are particularly susceptible to high winds.
High winds kill more Americans and destroy more property than any other natural disaster,
including earthquakes. The most common reason for this tragic loss is inadequate attention to
wind-critical details—especially connections—during design, construction and inspection.
Special inspection of windforce-resisting systems

and designated wind systems is now required by
Section 1705.10. The special inspections examine
wood connections, cold-formed steel welding and
connections, and roof and wall cladding attach-
ment.
The requirements are only applicable to buildings

assigned to:
•Wind Exposure Category B with nominal design
wind speed, Vasd, of 120 mph or higher (Vult = 155
mph or higher).
•Wind Exposure Categories C or D with nominal
design wind speed, Vasd, of 110 mph or higher
(Vult = 142 mph or higher).
A statement of special inspection for wind require-

ments is only mandatory in high-wind areas. Fig-
Figure 4.22: High Wind – Roof Connections ure 4.22 shows a common mechanical connector
for truss to top plate connection in light-frame
wood construction.
Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.11)
Requirements for special inspection for seismic resistance evolved in an effort to improve con-
struction practices after a number of damaging earthquakes. Throughout the world, there are a
great number of people and structures in areas that are at risk during an earthquake due to
ground movement, liquefaction of the soil, and landslides. These at-risk areas will eventually
experience some form of seismic activity. Post-earthquake damage reports indicate that many
cases of severe damage and collapse could have been prevented by better construction prac-
tices. Special inspection verifies that good construction practices are being followed and that
seismic force-resisting systems and designated seismic systems are built according to the con-
struction documents.
Special inspections are required in Seismic Design Categories D, E and F (SDC D, E and F).
For some systems, special inspection is also required in SDC C. Systems that require special
inspection in moderate and/or high seismic regions include seismic force-resisting systems,
designated seismic systems, seismic isolation systems, tall storage racks and listed architec-
tural, mechanical and electrical components.
Seismic force-resisting systems are systems or sections of the structural frame of a building
specifically designed to resist the lateral (side to side) motion of an earthquake. For each build-
ing material type there are one or more types of seismic force-resisting systems. A single build-
ing may also use this system to resist gravity loads (dead, live, snow and rain) or have separate
systems for the gravity loads.
Seismic Steel Concrete Masonry Wood

force- • Heavily reinforced
• Braced frames • Reinforced and
resisting moment frames
• Moment frames fully grouted • Shear walls
• Heavily reinforced
systems • Shear walls
shear walls
shear walls
Designated seismic systems are typically nonstructural systems that are designed to resist seis-
mic forces. Some common examples are the braces and ties for lighting systems and sprinkler
lines suspended from ceilings. Although not structural components, failure of the systems to
remain attached to the ceiling has caused loss of life and high building damage costs in past
earthquakes. The systems are required to be designed to resist the expected design earthquake
forces.
Seismic isolation systems are typically placed in the foundation of structures to isolate the
building from the surrounding soil movement, or placed below large machinery to isolate the
machine from the surrounding building’s movement during an earthquake. Isolation systems
can be designed and constructed to isolate the building or machine from lateral movement
only, or for lateral and vertical movement caused by the earthquake ground motion.
Tall storage racks have a history of falling over or dropping their contents onto the floor during
an earthquake. As this is a safety hazard for people in the building, the code requires the stor-
age racks to be able to resist the design earthquake in high seismic regions.
Figure 4.23: Storage Rack
Listed architectural components including exterior cladding, veneer and nonbearing walls are
inspected to verify that the attachments used meet plan specifications and code requirements.
Interior veneer and nonbearing walls are also inspected to verify anchorage and attachments.
Mechanical and electrical components

require inspection of anchorage of emer-
gency equipment and piping and duct
systems carrying hazardous materials.
Any system that can cause a significantly
increased hazard to life during an earth-
quake requires verification that sufficient
anchorage is installed to resist the design
earthquake forces.
Figure 4.24: Emergency Electrical System
Testing and Qualification for Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.12)
Some of the seismic systems mentioned in the last section are prequalified for use as a desig-
nated seismic system or a seismic force-resisting system. The term “prequalified” means the
system has been tested and, if the contractor builds the system exactly as specified, the strength
and ductility of the system is sufficient to resist the design earthquake forces.
Systems that are not prequalified

require testing. For example, when a
designated seismic system is of a new,
modified or unusual design, it requires
testing. Testing and qualification are
required when the system or compo-
nent is used in SDC C or higher. Seis-
mic isolation systems must be tested
regardless of seismic design category.
Figure 4.25: Component Testing
Sprayed Fire-resistant Materials (Section 1705.13)
Requirements for special inspection of sprayed fire-resistant materials applied to floor, roof
and wall assemblies and structural members are defined in Sections 1705.13.1 through
1705.13.6. This material protects steel components from the high temperatures of fires. Steel
softens when heated in a fire, losing a portion of its strength. Structural members can fail when
the load hasn’t changed but the capacity of the steel beam, column or wall is reduced. The fire-
resistant material may also be used on concrete components of the structural frame. When
exposed to fire, concrete spalls and may become powdered on the surface of the beam, column
or wall, exposing reinforcement beneath. With long exposure to fire, concrete components can
become weakened and lead to structural collapse. Special inspections are based on the fire-
resistance design in the construction documents. The tests are based on sampling from spe-
cific floor, roof and wall assemblies and structural members. Samples are checked for material
thickness, density, bond strength and uniformity of the finished surface. Cracks, thin spots or
boils in material point out potential areas where high temperatures could affect the steel earlier
than the design requires. Requirements for design and use of spray-applied fire-resistive mate-
rials are found in Sections 704.13 and 722.5.1.3 of the IBC.
Special inspections are performed after the rough installation of electrical, automatic sprinkler,
mechanical, plumbing systems and ceiling suspension systems.
Figure 4.26: Sprayed Fire-resistant Materials
Mastic and Intumescent Fire-resistant Coatings (Section 1705.14)
Requirements for special inspection of mastic and intumescent fire-resistant coatings applied
to structural elements and decks are defined in AWCI 12-B, which is referenced in Section
1705.14 of the IBC. Like sprayed fire-resistant material, mastic and intumescent materials are
applied to steel members for protection from the damaging heat of fires. These materials are
relatively thin film products that expand rapidly in a fire to insulate structural steel. Intumes-
cent coating is generally spray-applied in thicknesses of 0.005 to 0.03 inches (50 to 300 mils).
Special inspections are based on the fire-resistance design in the construction documents.
Requirements for design and use of mastic and intumescent fire-resistive materials are found
in Section 722.5 of the IBC.
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems, EIFS (Section 1705.15)
Requirements for special inspection of exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) are
defined in Section 1705.15. An EIFS mimics stucco in appearance, but is constructed of foam
plastic insulation with thin synthetic coatings. Due to the inability of water to exit through the
coating, issues with water pooling inside the structure and growth of mold may occur, particu-
larly in wood-frame structures. Special inspection verifies that there is a drainage path for
moisture inside the building. Special inspection is required for all EIFS applications except
when an EIFS is installed over a water-resistive barrier with a means of drainage to the exte-
rior. Special inspection is also not required when an EIFS is installed over masonry or concrete
walls. Requirements for EIFS are found in Section 1408 of the IBC. As EIFS are a proprietary
product, installation must follow the manufacturer’s requirements as well as the requirements
in Section 1408.
Figure 4.27: EIFS Installation

Fire-resistant Penetrations and Joints (Section 1705.16)
Requirements for special inspection of fire-resistant penetrations and joints are defined in Sec-
tion 1705.16. In high-rise buildings or in buildings assigned to Risk Category III or IV special
inspections for through-penetration and membrane penetration firestop systems, fire-resistant
joint systems and perimeter fire-barrier systems are required. Both smoke and fire need to be
contained in the rooms in which a fire has occurred. Risk Category III and IV buildings
require fire-resistant barriers and walls. Some examples of such buildings include emergency
response and shelter buildings, high-rise buildings and large buildings that allow hundreds of
people to assemble. If there are holes in the walls for plumbing and duct work, the gaps in the
holes must be filled to maintain the wall or barrier’s fire-resistance. This special inspection ver-
ifies closure of the gaps in the walls. Requirements for design and use of fire-resistive penetra-
tion and joint material are found in Sections 714.3, 714.4 and 715 of the IBC
Chapter 17 of the IBC now differentiates

between special inspections for fire-resistant
joints (Figure 4.28) and fire-resistant penetra-
tions or “firestops” (Figure 4.29).
Figure 4.28: Fire-resistant Penetrations

Photo Courtesy of EMSEAL Joint Systems, Ltd.
Figure 4.29: Firestop
Smoke Control Testing (Section 1705.17)
Requirements for special inspection of smoke control systems are defined in Section 1705.17.
Smoke control testing occurs once during erection of ductwork and a second time prior to
occupancy.
Smoke-control systems have been utilized in high-rise buildings since the mid-1970s. The
IBC requires smoke-control systems for minimum three-story atriums and covered malls, and
for underground buildings. Stages may use smoke control systems instead of smoke venting.
A smoke control system is a combination of fans, dampers, warning devices and other equip-
ment working together to contain smoke at the location of the fire. A smoke control system
should slow or prevent the movement of smoke into areas leading to exits and safe zones in a
building.
Smoke control may be achieved passively or through pressurization, airflow or exhaust. With
pressurization, passive and airflow methods, smoke is maintained in the zone of origin to pre-
vent its spread throughout a building. The exhaust method keeps the smoke layer above the
highest walking surface to maintain a breathable environment in which to exit the building.
Requirements for the design and use of smoke control systems are found in Sections 402.7.2,
404.5, 405.5, 410.3.7.2 and 909 of the IBC.
Figure 4.30: Smoke Control Test

Photo Courtesy of InterAmerica Stage
Chapter 5 – Structural Special
Inspections
Section 1705 contains requirements for 17 separate categories of construction and conditions
requiring special inspection. This chapter discusses each special inspection category and its
requirements. Special attention is given to the structural materials that are referenced in a
number of standards. For information on certification of special inspectors, see Appendix C.
New Inspections over the Last Three Code Cycles
Over the past three code cycles, a few categories requiring special inspection have been added
to those of earlier codes. One such addition, to the 2009 IBC, concerned structural special
inspection of helical piles, which are used to tie down the footing of a structure where the soil
is poor or has failed around a foundation. Large rods with plates welded at a regular distance
along the shaft, helical piles are driven, screw-like, into the soil, where the plates create addi-
tional bearing surface.
Helical piles are not referenced in the code. These products require evaluation reports or test
reports. However, procedures for verifying their correct installation are contained within the
IBC.
Other proprietary products, such as epoxied anchors, have special inspection requirements
within their evaluation reports. Although the IBC does not contain specific provisions for spe-
cial inspection of proprietary products, a statement of special inspections should include any
requirements for special inspection stated in evaluation reports.
55
Required Verification and Inspection - Structural Materials

(Section 1705)
Many structural materials have complex construction methods, connections, tolerances or

material requirements. Correct construction or installation of these elements and assemblies
must be verified by a trained specialist familiar with the specific type of construction. In some
cases, special inspection is required for common types of structural materials. This section
details special inspections by material type and construction process.
The statement of special inspections, required in Section 1704.3, defines the frequency of spe-
cial inspection. If an inspection should be continuous during an element’s construction, the
statement will specifically require continuous special inspection. For less frequent inspection,
the statement will require periodic special inspection.
The statement of special inspections must specifically state how often the inspection will
occur. If this information isn’t included in the statement, contact the registered design profes-
sional (RDP) in responsible charge to determine the minimum inspection frequency required.
It is important to predetermine inspection frequency. Too infrequent an inspection cycle may
result in the rejection of a system by the building department while too frequent inspection
may exceed the agreed upon costs (fee) for inspection. For more information on frequency of
special inspection, see Chapter 2.
Steel Construction (Section 1705.2, AISC and AWS Standards)
Special inspection of structural steel construction is defined in IBC Section 1705.2 by refer-
ence to the steel standards. AISC 360 added provisions for quality assurance, the steel industry
term for special inspection. Rather than the IBC listing the specific requirements for special
inspection, the requirements of the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Specifica-
tion for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 360) are referenced. In turn, AISC 360 references the
Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings (AISC 341) for additional seismic special
inspection requirements and American Welding Society (AWS) standards for welding.
Because the standards are separate from the IBC and written by the steel and welding indus-
tries, there is some variation in terminology. As this occurs, the difference in meaning between
terms is discussed.
Section 1705.2.2 specifies the special inspection requirements for steel not classified as struc-
tural steel. This includes cold-formed steel decks and steel reinforcement for concrete and
masonry construction.
Chapter 5 – Structural Special Inspections 57
1705.2 Steel construction. The special inspections for steel elements of buildings and struc-
tures shall be as required in this section.
Exception: Special inspection of the steel fabrication process shall not be required where the
fabricator does not perform any welding, thermal cutting or heating operation of any kind as
part of the fabrication process. In such cases, the fabricator shall be required to submit a
detailed procedure for material control that demonstrates the fabricator's ability to maintain
suitable records and procedures such that, at any time during the fabrication process, the mate-
rial specification, and grade for the main stress-carrying elements are capable of being deter-
mined. Mill test reports shall be identifiable to the main stress-carrying elements when
required by the approved construction documents.
1705.2.1 Structural steel. Special inspection for structural steel shall be in accordance with the
quality assurance inspection requirements of AISC 360.
1705.2.2 Steel construction other than structural steel. Special inspection for steel construc-
tion other than structural steel shall be in accordance with Table 1705.2.2 and this section.
Requirements for special inspection of structural steel are defined in AISC 360, which is refer-
enced in the IBC. Bolting and welding of steel members both require special inspection.
For seismic systems, there are additional requirements defined in AISC 341 and referenced in
Sections 1705.11 and 1705.12 of the IBC as well as AISC 360.
Figure 5.1: AISC 360 and AISC 341
AISC 360 and 341 reference the following standards for welding requirements:
• AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code - Steel
• AWS D1.8, Structural Welding Code Seismic Supplement
• AWS B5.1, Specification for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors
The IBC includes special inspection requirements for steel con-

struction other than structural steel. Table 1705.2.2 gives require-
ments for periodic or continuous special inspection of cold-
formed steel decks and reinforcing steel. The IBC references two
additional standards, AWS D1.3, Structural Welding Code - Sheet
Steel, for welding of cold-formed steel decks and AWS D1.4, Struc-
tural Welding Code - Reinforcing Steel, for welding of reinforce-
ment.
The welding standards primarily describe inspection as work done

by the contractor’s inspector. To qualify as special inspection, work
must be done by a special inspector hired by the owner, not the
Figure 5.2: AWS D1.1
contractor, who meets requirements and has been approved by the
jurisdiction. The welding standards refer to special inspectors as
verification inspectors.
Table 5.1 lists the code sections in the IBC and the standards referenced for special inspection
of steel.
TABLE 5.1: Provisions for Steel Construction
1705.2 Steel Construction
Special inspection in accordance with the quality assurance
1705.2.1 Structural Steel
inspection requirements of AISC 360
Other than
1705.2.2 Special inspection in accordance with Table 1705.2.2
Structural Steel
1705.2.2.1 Welding
Welding inspection and welding inspector qualification for floor and
1705.2.2.1.1 Cold-Formed Steel
roof decks in accordance with AWS D1.3.
Welding inspection and welding inspector qualification in
1705.2.2.1.2 Reinforcing Steel
accordance with AWS D1.4 and ACI 318.
Cold-Formed Steel Special inspector to verify that temporary installation and permanent
1705.2.2.2 Trusses Spanning individual truss member restraint/bracing are installed in accordance
60 feet or greater with the approved truss submittal package
AISC 360 Quality Assurance (Special Inspection) Requirements
Chapter N of AISC 360, Quality Control and Quality Assurance, addresses minimum require-
ments for quality control, quality assurance and nondestructive testing for structural steel sys-
tems and steel elements of composite members for buildings and other structures. The
requirements are considered adequate and effective for most steel structures. Within the state-
ment of special inspections, the provisions of Chapter N become the minimum requirements
of special inspection for structural steel.
Quality Control vs. Quality Assurance
What is the difference between quality control and quality assurance? Which quality check is
done by the special inspector?
Quality control is provided by the fabricator and erector. It is a quality check done by the man-
ufacturer as the steel members are produced. Quality control is also done at the job site by the
contractor during erection of the steel members or assembly.
Quality assurance (special inspection) is provided by special inspectors when required by the
code, the registered design professional in responsible charge or the building official. Quality
assurance occurs on the job site. If the fabricator is not approved by the building official, addi-
tional special inspections will also occur at the fab shop. The statement of special inspections
will list all required special inspections.
Special Inspection of Structural Steel Buildings
Special inspection of fabricated items occurs at the fabricator’s plant. Special inspection of an
erected steel system occurs at the project site. The special inspector reviews the material test
reports and certifications as listed in AISC 360 Section N3.2 for compliance with the construc-
tion documents.
AISC 360 Tables N5.4-1, N5.4-2, N5.4-3 (welding) and N5.6-1, N5.6-2, and N5.6-3 (bolting)
contain the inspections required to ensure that erection work is performed in accordance with
the statement of special inspections. Nondestructive testing (NDT) is performed by the special
inspection agency responsible for the steel special inspection or an approved subcontractor of
the inspection agency. This is testing that does not require removal of a portion of the erected
assembly for testing.
Welding Special Inspection
Special inspection of welding is done by observation of welding operations and visual inspec-
tion of in-process and completed welds. For structural steel, all the applicable provisions of
AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code—Steel are required. Special inspection in AWS D1.1 is
referred to as verification inspection. Section J2 of AISC 360 contains exceptions to AWS D1.1
that should be applied.
Welding inspections occur prior to, during and after welding. Tables N5.4-1, N5.4-2, and
N5.4-3 of AISC 360 list the frequency and type of required special inspection during these
stages. Inspection and observation of the tasks may be continuous or periodic. AISC uses the
terms “perform” and “observe” rather than “continuous” and “periodic.” “Perform,” or “P,” indi-
cates a task the special inspector should do for each weld. “Observe,” or “O,” indicates an
inspection that needs to occur during a specific phase of construction but is not continuous.
Check the statement of special inspections for the frequency determined by the registered
design professional in responsible charge. AISC 360’s inspection requirements are a minimum.
Table 5.2, AISC 360 Table N5.4-1, lists the special inspection tasks required prior to the start of
the primary welds. Inspection of the specifications for welding and certificates for welding
materials should be completed prior to each round of welding. Other tasks prior to the start of
welding need to be performed on some of the areas to be welded. Check the statement of spe-
cial inspections for the frequency of inspection required for each task.
TABLE 5.2: Modified from AISC 360 Table N5.4-1: Inspection Tasks Prior to Welding
Special Inspection Tasks Prior to Welding Action
Welding procedure specifications (WPSs) available P
Manufacturer certifications for welding consumables available P
Material identification (type/grade) O
1 O
Welder identification system
Fit-up of groove welds (including joint geometry)
• Joint preparation
• Dimensions (alignment, root opening, root face, bevel)
O
• Cleanliness (condition of steel surfaces)
• Tacking (tack weld quality and location)
• Backing type and fit (if applicable)
Configuration and finish of access holes O
Fit-up of fillet welds
• Dimensions (alignment, gaps at root)
O
Check welding equipment A
O = Observe these items on a random basis. Operations need not be delayed pending these inspections (periodic
inspection).
P = Perform these tasks for each welded joint or member.
A = As needed.
1. The fabricator or erector, as applicable, shall maintain a system by which a welder who has welded a joint or member
can be identified. Stamps, if used, shall be the low-stress type.
Table 5.3, AISC 360 Table N5.4-2, lists the special inspection tasks required during welding.
All tasks should be performed periodically at a rate at least as frequent as described in the
statement of special inspections.
TABLE 5.3: Modified from AISC 360 Table N5.4-2: Inspection Tasks During Welding
Special Inspection Tasks During Welding Action
Use of qualified welders O
Control and handling of welding consumables
• Packaging O
• Exposure control
No welding over cracked tack welds O
Environmental conditions
• Wind speed within limits O
• Precipitation and temperature
WPS followed
• Settings on welding equipment
• Travel speed
• Selected welding materials
O
• Shielding gas type/flow rate
• Preheat applied
• Interpass temperature maintained (min./max.)
• Proper position (F, V, H, OH)
Welding techniques
• Interpass and final cleaning
O
• Each pass within profile limitations
• Each pass meets quality requirements
inspection).
Table 5.4, AISC 360 Table N5.4-3, lists the special inspection tasks required after completion of
the welds. Most tasks performed after the completion of the welds are to be done on each weld.
TABLE 5.4: Modified from AISC 360 Table N5.4-3: Inspection Tasks After Welding
Special Inspection Tasks After Welding Action
Welds cleaned O
Size, length and location of welds P
Welds meet visual acceptance criteria
• Crack prohibition
• Weld/base-metal fusion
• Crater cross section
P
• Weld profiles
• Weld size
• Undercut
• Porosity
Arc strikes P
1 P
k-area
Backing removed and weld tabs removed (if required) P
Repair activities P
Document acceptance or rejection of welded joint or member P
inspection).
1. When welding of doubler plates, continuity plates or stiffeners has been performed in the k-area, visually inspect the
web k-area for cracks within 3 in. (75 mm) of the weld.
Nondestructive Testing of Welded Joints
Nondestructive testing (NDT) is performed by the special inspector as required by AWS D1.1.
Acceptance criteria are in accordance with AWS D1.1, unless otherwise designated in the state-
ment of special inspections.
Types of testing listed in the statement of special inspections may include:

1. Ultrasonic testing (UT).
2. Magnetic particle testing (MT).
3. Penetrant testing (PT).
4. Radiographic testing (RT).
Table 5.5 lists welds and cut surfaces which require nondestructive tests and when they are
required. This information is found in AISC 360 Sections N5.b thru N5.d.
TABLE 5.5: Types of Nondestructive Testing

Weld Risk Category1
Subcategory Thickness I II III or IV
> 5/16 in. Not 10% of 100% of
Welds subject to transversely material required welds welds
CJP Groove
applied tension loading in butt, T-
Weld < 5/16 in. Not Not Not
and corner joints
material required required required
Thermally cut surfaces of access Any crack shall be deemed
Access Flange >
holes using MT or PT for built-up or unacceptable regardless of size or
Hole 2 in.
rolled shapes location.
1. Risk Category – a categorization of buildings based on the risk associated with structural failure. RC 1 = low risk to life
if building fails. RC IV = high risk to life if building fails. See Chapter 4 for more specific information on risk catego-
ries.
All nondestructive testing (NDT) must be documented. In shop fabrication, the NDT report
will identify the tested weld by:
1. Piece mark.
2. Location in the element.
For welding in the field, the NDT report will identify the tested weld by:
1. Location in the structure.
2. Piece mark.
When a weld is rejected due to failure in nondestructive testing, the special inspector shall
indicate the location of the defect and the basis of rejection in the NDT documentation.
Welded Joints Subjected to Fatigue
Welded joints requiring weld soundness to be established by radiographic or ultrasonic inspec-

tion are inspected when required by Table A-3.1 of AISC 360 Appendix 3. Reduction in the
rate of ultrasonic testing is prohibited.
Reduction and Increase in the Rate of Ultrasonic Testing
In cases other than joints subjected to fatigue, the rate of ultrasonic testing is permitted to be
reduced when allowed in the statement of special inspections and approved by the building
official.
According to Section N5e of AISC 360,
Where the initial rate for UT is 100%, the NDT rate for an individual welder or welding opera-
tor is permitted to be reduced to 25%, provided the reject rate, the number of welds contain-
ing unacceptable defects divided by the number of welds completed, is demonstrated to be
5% or less of the welds tested for the welder or welding operator. A sampling of at least 40
completed welds for a job shall be made for such reduction evaluation. For evaluating the
reject rate of continuous welds over 3 ft (1 m) in length where the effective throat is 1 in. (25
mm) or less, each 12 in. (300 mm) increment or fraction thereof shall be considered as one
weld. For evaluating the reject rate on continuous welds over 3 ft (1 m) in length where the
effective throat is greater than 1 in. (25 mm), each 6 in. (150 mm) of length or fraction
thereof shall be considered one weld. AISC 360 Section N5e
.
Increase in the rate of ultrasonic testing will occur when

the reject rate for a welder or group of welders exceeds 5
percent of tested welds. A minimum of 20 welds must be
tested before the increase. Testing will then occur on 100
percent of the welds until the reject rate is less than or
equal to 5 percent for at least 40 completed welds.
High Strength Bolting Special Inspection
Special inspection is required for both welding and bolt-

ing operations for steel structures. Special inspection of
bolting operations is used to confirm that the materials,
procedures and workmanship in the structure are in con-
formance with construction documents and the Specifica-
tion for Structural Joints Using High-Strength Bolts (RCSC
Figure 5.3: Welded Structural Steel specification).
The RCSC specification, similar to AWS standards for welding, gives specific requirements for
high strength bolting and the inspection of the bolts. Requirements are organized by type of
bolted connection.
Connections described in AISC 360 and the RCSC are:

1. Snug-tight connections
2. Pretensioned connections
3. Slip-critical connections
High-strength bolting inspections occur prior to, during and after bolting. Tables N5.6-1,
N5.6-2, and N5.6-3 of AISC 360 list the frequency and type of required special inspection dur-
ing these stages. Inspection and observation of the tasks may be continuous or periodic. AISC
uses the terms “perform” and “observe” rather than “continuous” and “periodic.” “Perform,” or
“P,” indicates a task the special inspector should do for each bolt. “Observe,” or “O,” indicates
inspections that need to occur during a specific phase of construction but are not continuous.
The statement of special inspections contains the frequency of inspection determined by the
registered design professional (RDP) in responsible charge. AISC 360’s inspection require-
ments are a minimum. The RDP may choose to have more frequent inspections or add addi-
tional details to a particular inspection.
Table 5.6, modified from AISC Tables N5.6-1, N5.6-2 and N5.6-3, lists inspection require-
ments prior to, during and after bolting. The majority of the inspections are periodic. Only
verification of the correct material in construction of the fastener (material certifications or
“certs”) and documented acceptance of the bolt are required for all bolts.
TABLE 5.6: Modified from AISC 360 Tables N5.6-1, N5.6-2, and N5.6-3: Inspection Tasks for
Bolting
Special Inspection Tasks Prior to Bolting Action
Manufacturer’s certifications available for fastener materials P
Fasteners marked in accordance with ASTM requirements O
Proper fasteners selected for the joint detail (grade, type, bolt length if threads are to be
O
excluded from shear plane)
Proper bolting procedure selected for joint detail O
Connecting elements, including the appropriate faying surface condition and hole
O
preparation, if specified, meet applicable requirements
Pre-installation verification testing by installation personnel observed and documented for

O
fastener assemblies and methods used
Proper storage provided for bolts, nuts, washers and other fastener components O
Special Inspection Tasks During Bolting Action
Fastener assemblies, of suitable condition, placed in all holes and washers (if required) are
O
positioned as required
Joint brought to the snug-tight condition prior to the pretensioning operation O
Fastener component not turned by the wrench prevented from rotating O
Fasteners are pretensioned in accordance with the RCSC Specification, progressing
O
systematically from the most rigid point toward the free edges
Special Inspection Tasks After Bolting Action

Document acceptance or rejection of bolted connections P
O = Observe these items on a random basis. Operations need not be delayed pending these inspections
(periodic inspection).
P = Perform these tasks for each bolted connection.
In certain situations, special inspection may be required only during or after bolting. These are
minimum requirements and the statement of special inspections may include additional
inspection beyond the minimum required by AISC 360. The conditions in which special
inspection is exempted in AISC 360 are listed below.
1. Snug-tight connections: Special inspection following bolting (Table N5.6-3) is required.
Special inspection listed in AISC 360 Tables N5.6-1 and N5.6-2 is not required. Because
there is no pretensioning requirement for nuts and washers of snug-tight bolts, the only
inspection required is a check of whether all parts of the assembly have full contact and
the bolts are tensioned to a minimum snug-tight connection. Snug-tight connections do
not require tightening measurement of torque, only hand tightening using a spud
wrench.
2. Pretensioned joints and slip-critical connections: Special inspection during and after
bolting (Tables N5.6-2 and N5.6-3) is required. When bolts are installed using the turn-
of-nut method with matchmarking techniques, the direct-tension-indicator method, or
the twist-off-type tension control bolt method, special inspection prior to bolt tightening
is not required.
For pretensioned joints and slip-critical joints, if the bolts are installed using the calibrated
wrench method or the turn-of-nut method without matchmarking, bolting special inspection
tasks must occur before, during and after bolting [Tables N5.6-1 through N5.6-3 (Table 5.6)].
No inspection task is exempted.
Lastly, for structural steel members, the fabricated steel or erected steel frame is inspected to
verify compliance with brace and stiffener details, member location and proper application of
joint details at each connection. These details are shown in the construction documents. Con-
struction is to match the documents.
Discrepant Material and Workmanship
Noncomplying (also referred to as ‘discrepant’) material and workmanship shall be brought to

the immediate attention of the contractor for correction using a discrepancy report. In many
cases, the fabricator or erector will fix the member or connection. When the registered design
professional in responsible charge changes the approved construction documents to match the
constructed structure, the documents must also be approved by the building official.
According to Section N8 of AISC 360, when discrepancy reports are submitted to the RDP in
responsible charge and the building official, the special inspection agency shall also submit its
report to the fabricator and erector. Reports to the fabricator and erector should include:
1. Notification of discrepancies.
2. Reports on repair, replacement or acceptance of discrepant items
The special inspector should clarify with the owner or owner’s representative at the beginning
of the project whether discrepancy reports should be submitted directly to the fabricator and
erector. In some cases, the owner will choose to be the conduit for such reports. This happens
primarily with public projects.
Figure 5.4: Bolted Steel Frame
For structures in regions with low, moderate or high seismicity, there are additional welding
and bolting inspection requirements in AISC 341 to meet as well as the requirements in AISC
360 and AWS D1.1.
AISC 341 Seismic Quality Assurance (Special Inspection) Requirements
Chapter J of AISC 341, Seismic Provisions for Structural Steel Buildings, covers the require-
ments for special inspection of seismic force-resisting systems (SFRS) in steel and composite
structures. The provisions of Chapter N of AISC 360 also apply, except where modified by
AISC 341.
There are some cases where steel structures are exempt from the requirements of AISC 341.
1. All steel and composite structures in Seismic Design Category A (SDC A) are exempt
from the special inspection requirements of AISC 341. The structures do require special
inspections following AISC 360 for bolting and welding operations.
2. Steel and composite structures in SDC B and C are required to meet the requirements of
AISC 341 for special inspections. For steel structures, if the assigned response modifica-
tion coefficient, R, is 3.0, a lower R value than is typically chosen, then design with AISC
360 alone is allowed and structures do not need to be inspected to AISC 341 require-
ments. ASCE 7 Table 12.2-1 lists response modification factors for most types of struc-
tural frames.
This exemption assumes that structures in low to moderate seismic risk regions will be suffi-
ciently strong and ductile if the building is designed with a low R factor. Low R factors force
the designer to build more strength into the frame as less ductility is assumed. This typically
creates a design using a greater number of steel elements, usually of a larger size.
Inspection Tasks
Special inspection requirements for seismic force-resisting systems (SFRS), at a minimum,

shall meet the requirements listed in the tables of AISC 341 Sections J6-Welding, J7-Bolting,
J8- Reduced Beam Sections, J9-Composite Structures and J10-H-piles when applicable.
Welding Special Inspection using AISC 341
Welding inspection and nondestructive testing shall satisfy the requirements of Section J6 of
AISC 341 and AWS D1.8. AWS D1.8 contains additional requirements for ultrasonic and mag-
netic particle testing and flaw sizing when using ultrasonic testing.
Welding inspections occur prior to, during and after welding. Visual welding inspection shall
include the tasks listed in Tables J6-1, J6-2 and J6-3 of AISC 341. The tables list the frequency
and type of required special inspection during these stages. Inspection and observation of the
tasks may be continuous or periodic. AISC uses the terms “perform” and “observe” rather than
“continuous” and “periodic.” “Perform,” or “P,” indicates a task the special inspector should do
for each weld. “Observe,” or “O,” indicates an inspection that needs to occur during a specific
phase of construction but is not continuous.
It is important to review the statement of special inspections for the frequency determined by
the registered design professional in responsible charge. AISC 341’s requirements are a mini-
mum for SFRSs.
Table 5.7, Table J6-1 of AISC 341, lists the tasks to complete before the primary welds are done.
All the tasks are periodic in nature. Review the statement of special inspections for the mini-
mum frequency required.
TABLE 5.7: Modified from AISC 341 Table J6-1: Visual Inspection Tasks Prior to Welding
Special Inspection – Visual Tasks Prior to Welding Action
Material identification (Type/Grade) O
Welder identification system O
Fit-up of Groove Welds (including joint geometry)
• Joint preparation
• Dimensions (alignment, root opening, root face, bevel)
O
• Backing type and fit (if applicable)
Configuration and finish of access holes O
Fit-up of Fillet Welds
• Dimensions (alignment, gaps at root)
O
inspection).
Table 5.8, Table J6-2 of AISC 341, lists the tasks to complete during welding. All the tasks are
periodic in nature. Review the statement of special inspections for the minimum frequency
required.
TABLE 5.8: Modified from AISC 341 Table J6-2: Visual Inspection Tasks During Welding
Special Inspection – Visual Tasks During Welding Action
WPS followed
• Settings on welding equipment
• Travel speed
• Selected welding materials
• Shielding gas type/flow rate O
• Preheat applied
• Interpass temperature maintained (min./max.)
• Proper position (F, V, H, OH)
• Intermix of filler metals avoided unless approved
Use of qualified welders O
Control and handling of welding consumables
• Packaging O
• Exposure control
Environmental conditions
• Wind speed within limits O
• Precipitation and temperature
Welding techniques
• Interpass and final cleaning
O
• Each pass within profile limitations
• Each pass meets quality requirements
No welding over cracked tack welds O
inspection).
Table 5.9, Table J6-3 of AISC 341, lists the tasks to complete after welding. This section of AISC
341 requires additional documentation to occur along with the inspection of the welds. The
majority of these tasks are to be completed for each weld.
TABLE 5.9: Modified from AISC 341 Table J6-3: Visual Inspection Tasks After Welding
Action
Special Inspection – Visual Tasks After Welding
Task Doc.
Welds cleaned O NA
Size, length, and location of welds P NA
Welds meet visual acceptance criteria
• Crack prohibition
• Weld/base-metal fusion
• Crater cross section P D
• Weld profiles and size
• Undercut
• Porosity
Placement of reinforcing or contouring fillet welds (if required) P D
Backing removed, weld tabs removed and finished, and fillet welds added (if
P D
required)
Repair activities P D
inspection).
D = Documentation required.
NA = Not applicable.
Nondestructive Testing of Welded Joints
Nondestructive testing of welds should occur once welds are complete. Table 5.10 summarizes
the testing of welded joints for seismic force-resisting systems from AISC 341 Section J6. The
table includes the requirements of AISC 360 as well as additional requirements for seismic
force-resisting systems (SFRS). The term “nondestructive testing” (NDT) refers to testing that
does not cut out or destroy any portion of the weld. These tests may use ultrasonic, penetrant
or magnetic testing to determine weld quality.
TABLE 5.10: Additional Testing When Welding Seismic Force-resisting Systems (SFRS)
Location, Frequency
NDT Element Thickness
and Timing
Doubler plates,
Magnetic > 48 hours after welding
continuity plates or
k-area Particle Any k-area base metal within 3
stiffeners in the k-
Testing (MT) in. of the weld
area
100% of welds
> 5/16 in. (8 mm)
Ultrasonic All CJP groove Use AWS D1.1 Table 6.2
material
Testing (UT) welds criteria to accept/reject
< 5/16 in. material Not Required
Magnetic
Particle Beam-to-column Any 25% of welds
CJP Groove Testing (MT)
Weld1
Identify any discontinuities
T- and corner joints behind or adjacent to
loaded in tension Base metal > 1½ in. fusion line of CJP welds
Ultrasonic Base metal discontinuities
with connected Connected material
Testing (UT) within t/4 of surface
material having > ¾ in.
CJP groove welds accepted or rejected using
AWS D1.1 Table 6.22
Thermally cut
Magnetic
surfaces of access Flange > 1½ in.
Beam Cope Particle Any crack shall be deemed
holes and beam (rolled shape)
and Access Testing (MT) unacceptable regardless of
copes at welded Web > 1½ in. (built-
Hole or Penetrant size or location.
splices and up shape)
Testing (PT)
connections
Weld and adjacent area of
cut surface repaired by
Magnetic welding
Reduced Beam Reduced beam
Particle Any
Section Repair section On base metal of RBS cut
Testing (MT)
surface if notch removed by
grinding
Beam-to-column
Magnetic joints which are End of welds where weld
Weld Tab
Particle required to have UT Any
Removal Sites
Testing (MT) testing on CJP tabs removed1,3
groove welds
Ultrasonic May be reduced in accordance with AISC 360 Section N5.5e
Testing (UT) No reduction for demand critical welds
MT on CJP groove welds may be reduced when approved by the building
Reduction of official and so stated in the Statement of Special Inspection.
Testing Magnetic
The testing rate for an individual welder may be reduced to 10% provided
Particle
the reject rate is less than 5% in 20 welds
Testing (MT)
Reduction is not allowed at repair sites, backing removal sites, and access
holes or in k-areas
1. The rate of UT and MT may be reduced in accordance with Sections J6.2g and J6.2h of AISC 341, respectively. For
ordinary moment frames, UT and MT of CJP groove welds are required only for demand critical welds.
2. T = thickness of part subjected to through-thickness strain
3. MT of continuity plate weld tabs removal sites is not required.
All nondestructive testing must be documented. In shop fabrication, the NDT report will
identify the tested weld by:
1. Piece mark.
2. Location in element.
For welding in the field, the NDT report will identify the tested weld by:
1. Location in the structure (reference grid lines and floor or elevation).
2. Piece mark.
When a weld is rejected due to failure in nondestructive testing, the special inspector shall
indicate the location of the defect and the basis of rejection in the NDT documentation.
Bolting Special Inspection using AISC 341
Special inspection of bolting operations for seismic force-resisting systems (SFRS) confirms
that the materials, procedures and workmanship in the SFRS are in conformance with con-
struction documents and the Specification for Structural Joints Using High-Strength Bolts
(RCSC specification). AISC 341 requires bolt inspections to cover the task requirements of
AISC 360 Section N5.6 and the additional requirements of AISC 341 Section J7. The task
requirements of AISC 360 are listed in the tables of AISC 341 Section J7.
High-strength bolting inspections occur prior to, during and after bolting. Tables J7-1, J7-2,
and J7-3 of AISC 341 list the frequency and type of required special inspection during these
stages. Inspection and observation of the tasks may be continuous or periodic. AISC uses the
terms “perform” and “observe” rather than “continuous” and “periodic.” “Perform,” or “P,” indi-
cates a task the special inspector should do for each weld. “Observe,” or “O,” indicates an
inspection that needs to occur during a specific phase of construction but is not continuous.
It is important to review the statement of special inspections for the frequency determined by
the registered design professional in responsible charge. AISC 341’s requirements are a mini-
mum for SFRS. The RDP may add additional inspections or additional steps to inspections
required in the standard.
Table 5.11, modified from AISC Tables J7-1, J7-2 and J7-3, lists inspection requirements prior
to, during and after bolting. The AISC tables have been combined in this manual. Inspections
before and during bolting are periodic. Check the statement of special inspections for the min-
imum frequency of inspection. Documentation of acceptance of bolts is noted for every bolt.
TABLE 5.11: AISC 341 Tables J7-1, J7-2, J7-3: Inspection Tasks for Bolting
Action
Special Inspection Tasks Prior to Bolting
Task Doc.
Proper fasteners selected for the joint detail O NA
Proper bolting procedure selected for joint detail O NA
Connecting elements, including the appropriate faying surface condition and hole
O NA
preparation, if specified, meet applicable requirements
Pre-installation verification testing by installation personnel observed for fastener
O D
assemblies and methods used
Proper storage provided for bolts, nuts, washers and other fastener components O NA
Action
Special Inspection Tasks During Bolting
Task Doc.
Fastener assemblies placed in all holes and washers
O NA
(if required) are positioned as required
Joint brought to the snug tight condition prior to the pretensioning operation O NA
Fastener component not turned by the wrench prevented from rotating O NA
Bolts are pretensioned progressing systematically from the most rigid point toward the
O NA
free edges
Action
Special Inspection Tasks After Bolting
Task Doc.
Document accepted and rejected connections P D
O = Observe these items on a random basis. Operations need not be delayed pending these inspections
(periodic inspection).
NA = Not applicable.
Other Steel SFRS Inspections
Lastly, for structural steel members in SFRS, additional inspection of the reduced beam section
(RBS) and protected zone is required. Table 5.12, AISC 341 Table J8-1, lists additional inspec-
tion tasks for areas of reduced beam section. These tasks are done for every applicable beam
and girder.
TABLE 5.12: Modified from AISC 341 TABLE J8-1: Other Inspection Tasks
Action
Other Inspection Tasks
Task Doc.
RBS requirements, if applicable
• Contour and finish P D
• Dimensional tolerances
Protected zone—no holes and unapproved attachments made by fabricator or erector, as
P D
applicable1
1. The protected zone should be inspected following completion of the work of other trades, including those involving the
curtain wall, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and interior partitions.
Discrepant Material and Workmanship
Noncomplying material and workmanship must be brought to the attention of the contractor
for correction using a discrepancy report. In many cases, the fabricator or erector will fix the
member or connection. When the registered design professional in responsible charge changes
the approved construction documents to match the constructed structure, the documents
must also be approved by the building official.
Figure 5.5 (a) Adequate Bolting (b) Inadequate Bearing (c) Bolting Repair
According to Section N8 of AISC 360, when discrepancy reports are submitted to the regis-
tered designer in responsible charge and the building official, the special inspection agency
inspecting the fabricator shall also submit their report to the fabricator and erector. Reports to
the fabricator and erector should include:
1. Notification of discrepancies.
2. Reports on repair, replacement or acceptance of discrepant items.
The special inspector should clarify with the owner or owner’s representative at the beginning
of the project whether discrepancy reports should be submitted directly to the fabricator and
erector. In some cases, the owner will choose to be the conduit for such reports. This happens
primarily with public projects.
Cold-formed Steel Construction

(Section 1705.2.2 and AWS Standards)
IBC Section 1705.2.2 lists requirements for steel other than structural steel. Cold-formed steel
(CFS) is light-gage steel often used in conventional construction of light-frame buildings. Spe-
cial inspection of cold-formed steel is not required in convention construction, only in the
applications listed below.
Special inspection of cold-formed steel is required for:

1. CFS floor and roof decks.
2. CFS trusses spanning 60 feet or more between bearing walls or other points of bearing.
IBC Section 1705.2.2.1.1 requires welding special inspection and inspector qualifications
meeting the requirements of the American Welding Society (AWS) Standard D1.3 for floor
and roof decks. AWS D1.3 Section 6 requires that welds meet the criteria in Table 5.13 to be
accepted.
Figure 5.6: Cold-formed Steel Truss
TABLE 5.13: Summary of acceptance criteria from AWS D1.3 Section 6

Action
Special Inspection Tasks After Welding
Task Doc.
Verify welds meet visual acceptance criteria
• No cracks
• Fusion at toes of weld passes
• Crater cross section
P D
• Minimum reinforcement of 1/32 in. for square, groove, arc spot and arc seam
welds
• Undercut < L/8
• Porosity
Verify submittal document requirements met for weld:
• Location
P D
• Size
• Length
P = Perform these tasks for each bolted connection
D = Documentation required
L = Specified length of the weld or circumference of an arc spot weld
Section 1705.2.2.2 requires special inspection of temporary and permanent truss member
bracing to verify that the trusses are installed in accordance with the approved truss submittal
package.
When truss spans increase, the trusses can be unstable during erection and bracing stages. The
IBC requires special inspection of bracing for spans exceeding 60 feet. Each project requires
temporary and permanent bracing designed specifically for the project.
Reinforcing Steel
(Section 1705.2.2, AWS and ACI Standards)
Steel construction other than structural steel requiring special inspection includes steel used
for reinforcement (rebar) in certain special cases.
Rebar requires special inspection when:

1. Verifying weldability of non-ASTM A 706 steel.
2. Resisting flexural and axial forces in intermediate and special
moment frames in concrete construction.
3. In boundary elements of concrete special structural walls.
4. Used as shear reinforcement.
5. Other reinforcing steel.
Table 1705.2.2 references a number of standards for special inspec-

tion of the reinforcing steel. AWS D1.4, Structural Welding Code -
Reinforcing Steel, and ACI 318, Building Code Requirements for
Structural Concrete, contain requirements for inspection of rebar. Figure 5.7: ACI 318
ACI 318 Section 3.5.2 requires welding of rebar to meet the provisions of AWS D1.4. The type
and location of welded splices and any other welding must be indicated on the construction
documents. The minimum material properties necessary to meet AWS D1.4 requirements
must also be submitted.
Concrete Construction
(Section 1705.3, IBC Chapter 19 and ACI Standard)
Concrete construction varies widely, from a residential foundation using a minimum strength
concrete mix to high-rise construction requiring high-strength mixes for use in narrow col-
umns increasing available space. With higher concrete strength assumed in a design, the need
for special inspection to verify concrete strength and proper placement becomes critical for a
safe structure.
There are a few exceptions to this requirement. The following types of concrete construction
are exempted from special inspection (IBC Section 1705.3 exceptions):
1705.3 Exception: Special inspections shall not be required for:

1. Isolated spread concrete footings of buildings three stories or less … fully supported on
earth or rock.
2. Continuous concrete footings supporting walls of buildings three stories or less … fully
supported on earth or rock where:
2.1 The footings support walls of light-frame construction;
2.2 The footings are designed in accordance with Table 1809.7; or
2.3 The structural design of the footing based on a specified compressive strength, f 'c,
no greater than 2,500 pounds per square inch (psi) ….
3. Nonstructural concrete slabs supported directly on the ground, including prestressed
slabs on grade, where the effective prestress in the concrete is less than 150 psi.
4. Concrete foundation walls constructed in accordance with Table 1807.1.6.2.
5. Concrete patios, driveways and sidewalks, on grade.
Special inspection is required for all

other concrete construction. IBC Table
1705.3 (Table 5.14) lists inspection
requirements for preplacement, placing
and post-placement inspections. Spe-
cial inspection compares as-delivered
concrete to construction document
requirements and collects concrete
samples for later testing to verify con-
crete strength. Special inspection also
verifies temperature and moisture
requirements are met during the place-
ment and curing stages.
Figure 5.8: Concrete Foundation Walls

The difference between continuous
and periodic special inspection are
important for concrete construction. A
number of activities must be done continuously during certain stages. For example, while
welding reinforcing steel, loading (prestressing) tendons, grouting tendons and placing con-
crete or shotcrete, continuous inspection must occur to quickly identify any errors or issues
that may arise and resolve the problem before the steel is under load or the concrete has hard-
ened.
Other activities require periodic inspection which occur once or on a schedule defined by the
RDP in the statement of special inspections. Construction requiring periodic inspection is
considered easier to repair when an issue is identified, thus careful and continuous observation
is not required.
TABLE 5.14: Modified IBC Table 1705.3, Required Verification and Inspection of Concrete
Construction
Referenced
Verification and
Continuous Periodic Standard
Inspection
Sections1
1. Inspection of reinforcing steel, including prestressing ACI 318: 3.5,
tendons, and placement. X
7.1-7.7
2. Inspection of reinforcing steel welding in accordance AWS D1.4,
Frequency varies
with Table 1705.2.2, Item 2b. ACI 318: 3.5.2
3. Inspection of anchors cast in concrete where allowable
ACI 318:
loads have been increased or where strength design is X
8.1.3, 21.1.8
used.
4. Inspection of anchors post-installed in hardened con- ACI 318: 3.8.6,
X
crete members.2 8.1.3, 21.1.8
ACI 318: Ch. 4,
5. Verifying use of required design mix. X
5.2-5.4
ASTM C 172
6. At the time fresh concrete is sampled to fabricate speci-
ASTM C 31
mens for strength tests, perform slump and air content X
ACI 318: 5.6,
tests, and determine the temperature of the concrete.
5.8
7. Inspection of concrete and shotcrete placement for ACI 318:
X
proper application techniques. 5.9, 5.10
8. Inspection for maintenance of specified curing tempera- ACI 318:
X
ture and techniques. 5.11-5.13
9. Inspection of prestressed concrete:
ACI 318:
a. Application of prestressing forces. 18.20,
X
b. Grouting of bonded prestressing tendons in the 18.18.4
X
seismic force-resisting system.
ACI 318: Ch.
10. Erection of precast concrete members. X
16
11. Verification of in-situ concrete strength, prior to stressing
of tendons in post-tensioned concrete and prior to
X ACI 318: 6.2
removal of shores and forms from beams and structural
slabs.
12. Inspect formwork for shape, location and dimensions of
X ACI 318: 6.1.1
the concrete member being formed.
1. Where applicable, see also Section 1705.11, Special inspections for seismic resistance.
2. Specific requirements for special inspection shall be included in the research report for the anchor issued by an
approved source in accordance with ACI 355.2 or other qualification procedures. Where specific requirements are not
provided, special inspection requirements shall be specified by the registered design professional and shall be approved
by the building official prior to the commencement of the work.
The remainder of this section includes some examples of periodic and continuous special
inspection. Figure 5.9 depicts the layout of reinforcement and prestressing tendons, a periodic
special inspection. The rebar and tendons need to be checked for proper layout and support.
Each individual bar or tendon is checked once.
Concrete placement (Figure

5.10) requires continuous special
inspection, beginning with veri-
fication of the time at which the
concrete was batched. Subse-
quent inspections include verifi-
cation of the placement, depth
and slump of each layer; proper
vibration of the concrete to
remove voids; and consistency of
batches. The special inspector
needs to be on site and aware of
whether the concrete has aged
beyond its allowed use and
whether each batch meets the
Figure 5.9: Concrete Construction – Layout of Rebar and minimum requirements of the
Prestressing Tendons (Periodic Inspection) construction documents.
Erection of tilt-up walls (Figure

5.11) requires periodic inspec-
tion to verify adequate support
and bracing. Precast walls can be
damaged when placed due to
unbalanced connections and
lack of design for erection forces.
Figure 5.10: Concrete Construction – Concrete Placement

(Continuous Inspection)
During concrete placement, samples

of the concrete are taken to check
slump (Figure 5.12), which indicates
consistency between batches. Slump
is a measure of workability that
reflects the water to cement ratio,
admixtures, and supplementary
cementitious materials (SCM) pres-
ent in the mix. A slump that is out of
tolerance may indicate a problem
with the quantities of the various
materials. With the use of admix-
tures, slump tests may be performed
to verify compliance with project
specifications prior to the addition of
the admixtures.
Figure 5.11: Concrete Construction – Tilt-up Walls
(Periodic Inspection) Photo Courtesy of R I Carr Concrete test cylinders are made to
check concrete strength over time.
Verification of air content and temperature of the concrete is also completed. These tasks are
continuous during concrete placement. In other words, for each truck, concrete samples are
collected and tested for appropriate consistency, air content and temperature. The registered
design professional will list the minimum number of tests and concrete cylinders made during
each day’s placement in the statement of special inspections. The frequency may be based on
truck batches or cubic yards of concrete.
IBC Section 1705.3.1 requires testing

when documentation is lacking for
items such as reinforcement and con-
crete mix. To verify that as-built con-
crete construction will achieve the
assumed design strength, inspec-
tions are required for reinforcement
type, concrete strength and weldabil-
ity. Section 1705.3.1 states this
requirement as follows:
Figure 5.12: Concrete Special Inspection – Slump Test

(Continuous Inspection) Photo Courtesy of Peter Kulczyk
1705.3.1 Materials. In the absence of sufficient data or documentation providing evi-

dence of conformance to quality standards for materials in Chapter 3 of ACI 318, the
building official shall require testing of materials in accordance with the appropriate
standards and criteria for the material in Chapter 3 of ACI 318. Weldability of rein-
forcement, except that which conforms to ASTM A 706, shall be determined in accor-
dance with the requirements of Section 3.5.2 of ACI 318.
Reinforcement needs to be of a material quality that forms a strong weld where welding is
required (Figure 5.13). ASTM A 706 reinforcement is designed to form good welds. Other
rebar must be tested before welding begins to determine whether welding is an option or if
mechanical splices are required for the rebar. Ideally, this is determined before construction
begins.
Figure 5.13: Concrete Construction – Welded Rebar

Photo Courtesy of WSDOT
Masonry Construction (Section 1705.4 and MSJC Standard)
Special inspection of masonry is required for masonry designs

that require an engineer’s seal. Empirically designed masonry
(conventional construction) and brick veneer do not require spe-
cial inspection unless used in a Risk Category IV structure.
IBC Section 1705.4 references TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5, the

Building Code Requirements for Masonry Construction, and TMS
602/ACI 530.1/ASCE 6, the Specification for Masonry Construc-
tion. These documents are written by the Masonry Standard Joint
Committee and are often called the MSJC. The standards have
been combined into one document and list the special inspection
requirements for masonry. Special inspection for masonry com-
Figure 5.14: The MSJC
pares site-prepared or delivered grout and mortar to construction document requirements and
collects grout and prism (masonry unit) samples for later testing to verify strength.
IBC Section 1705.4 states the following:
1705.4 Masonry construction. Masonry construction shall be inspected and verified in accor-
dance with TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5 and TMS 602/ACI 530.1/ASCE 6 quality assurance pro-
gram requirements.
Exception: Special inspections shall not be required for:
1. Empirically designed masonry, glass unit masonry or masonry veneer... where they are
part of structures classified as Risk Category I, II or III in accordance with Section
1604.5.
2. Masonry foundation walls constructed in accordance with Table 1807.1.6.3(1),
1807.1.6.3(2), 1807.1.6.3(3) or 1807.1.6.3(4).
3. Masonry fireplaces, masonry heaters or masonry chimneys installed or constructed in
accordance with [the IBC].
IBC Section 1705.4.1 requires special inspection for empirically designed masonry construc-
tion when used in a Risk Category IV building to comply with MSJC Level B Quality Assur-
ance. The term “quality assurance” (QA) in the MSJC and in this section’s text refers to special
1705.4.1 Empirically designed masonry, glass unit masonry and masonry veneer in Risk
Category IV. The minimum special inspection program for empirically designed masonry,
glass unit masonry or masonry veneer designed by Section 2109, 2110 or Chapter 14, respec-
tively, in structures classified as Risk Category IV, in accordance with Section 1604.5, shall
comply with TMS 402/ACI 530/ASCE 5 Level B Quality Assurance.
Level B quality assurance is the special inspection level for most structures, including engi-
neered structures (having construction documents with a registered design professional’s
stamp on the structural plans) assigned to Risk Categories I, II and III. Level C quality assur-
ance is used for engineered structures in Risk Category IV.
Level B quality assurance requires testing and inspection of mortar, grout, and prism strength.
The specific requirements of Level B quality assurance are listed in Table 5.15.
TABLE 5.15: Modified MSJC Table 1.19.2 Level B Quality Assurance

Minimum Tests
Verification of slump flow and Visual Stability Index (VSI) as delivered to the project site in accordance with
Specification Article 1.5 B.1.b.3 for self-consolidating grout
Verification of f'm and f'AAC in accordance with Specification Article 1.4 B prior to construction except where
specifically exempted by this code.
Minimum Inspections
Frequency1 Reference for Criteria
Inspection Task
Continuous Periodic TMS 402 TMS 602
1. Verify compliance with the approved X Art. 1.5
submittals
2. As masonry construction begins, verify
that the following are in compliance:
a. Proportions of site-prepared mortar X Art. 2.1, 2.6A
b. Construction of mortar joints X Art. 3.3B
c. Grade and size of prestressing
X Art. 2.4B, 2.4H
tendons and anchorages
d. Location of reinforcement,
connectors, prestressing tendons X Art. 3.4, 3.6A
and anchorages
e. Prestressing technique X Art. 3.6B
f. Properties of thin-bed mortar for AAC
masonry X2 X3 Art. 2.1C
3. Prior to grouting, verify that the following

are in compliance:
a. Grout space X Art. 3.2D, 3.2F
b. Grade, type and size of
reinforcement and anchor bolts, and
X Sec 1.16 Art. 2.4, 3.4
prestressing tendons and
anchorages
c. Placement of reinforcement,
Art. 3.2E, 3.4,
connectors, prestressing tendons X Sec 1.16
3.6A
and anchorages
d. Proportions of site-prepared grout
Art. 2.6B,
and prestressing grout for bonded X
2.4G.1.b
tendons
e. Construction of mortar joints X Art. 3.3B
1. Frequency refers to the frequency of inspection, which may be continuous during the task listed or periodically during
the listed task, as defined in the table.
2. Required for the first 5,000 square feet of AAC masonry.
3. Required after the first 5,000 square feet of AAC masonry.
TABLE 5.15: Modified MSJC Table 1.19.2 Level B Quality Assurance continued
Minimum Inspections
Inspection Task
4. Verify during construction:
a. Size and location of structural
X Art. 3.3F
elements
b. Type, size and location of anchors,
including other details of Sec
anchorage of masonry to structural X 1.16.4.3,
members, frames or other 1.17.1
construction
Sec.
2.1.7.7.2,
c. Welding of reinforcement X
3.3.3.4(c),
8.3.3.4(b)
d. Preparation, construction and
protection of masonry during cold
weather (temperature below 40°F) X Art. 1.8C, 1.8D
or hot weather (temperature above
90°F)
e. Application and measurement of
X Art. 3.6B
prestressing force
f. Placement of grout and
prestressing grout for bonded X Art. 3.5, 3.6C
tendons is in compliance
g. Placement of AAC masonry units
and construction of thin-bed mortar X2 X3 Art. 3.3B.8
joints
Art. 1.4B.2a.3,
5. Observe preparation of grout speci-
1.4B.2.b.3,
mens, mortar specimens and/or X
1.4B.2.c.3,
prisms
1.4B.3, 1.4B.4
2. Required for the first 5,000 square feet of AAC masonry.
3. Required after the first 5,000 square feet of AAC masonry.
Level C quality assurance requires verification of mortar and grout mixes as well as testing and
inspection of mortar, grout, and prism strength. The specific requirements of Level C quality
assurance are listed in Table 5.16.
TABLE 5.16: Modified MSJC Table 1.19.3 Level C Quality Assurance

Minimum Tests
Verification of f'm and f'AAC in accordance with Specification Article 1.4 B prior to construction and for every 5,000 sq. ft.
during construction
Verification of proportions of materials in premixed or preblended mortar, prestressing grout and grout, other than self-
consolidating grout, as delivered to the project site
Verification of slump flow and Visual Stability Index (VSI) as delivered to the project site in accordance with Specification
Article 1.5 B.1.b.3 for self-consolidating grout
Minimum Inspections
Inspection Task
1. Verify compliance with the approved submit- X Art. 1.5
tals
2. Verify that the following are in compliance:
a. Proportions of site-prepared mortar,
Art. 2.1, 2.6A-C,
grout and prestressing grout for bonded X
2.4G.1.b
tendons
b. Grade, type and size of reinforcement
and anchor bolts, and prestressing X Sec 1.16 Art.2.4, 3.4
tendons and anchorages
c. Placement of masonry units and
X Art. 3.3B
construction of mortar joints
d. Placement of reinforcement, connectors,
X Sec 1.16 Art. 3.2E, 3.4, 3.6A
prestressing tendons and anchorages
e. Grout space prior to grouting X Art. 3.2D, 3.2F
f. Placement of grout and prestressing
X Art. 3.5, 3.6C
grout for bonded tendons
g. Size and location of structural elements X Art. 3.3F
h. Type, size and location of anchors,
Sec
including other details of anchorage of
X 1.16.4.3,
masonry to structural members, frames
1.17.1
or other construction
Sec.
2.1.7.7.2,
i. Welding of reinforcement X
3.3.3.4(c),
8.3.3.4(b)
j. Preparation, construction and protection
of masonry during cold weather
X Art. 1.8C, 1.8D
(temperature below 40°F) or hot weather
(temperature above 90°F)
k. Application and measurement of
X Art. 3.6B
prestressing force
l. Placement of AAC masonry units and
X Art. 3.3B.8
construction of thin-bed mortar joints
m. Properties of thin-bed mortar for AAC
X Art. 2.1C.1
masonry
Art. 1.4B.2a.3,
3. Observe preparation of grout specimens, 1.4B.2.b.3,
X
mortar specimens and/or prisms 1.4B.2.c.3, 1.4B.3,
1.4B.4
Some tasks in masonry special inspection are continu-

ous, others are periodic. A number of activities must be
done continuously during certain stages of masonry con-
struction. Additionally, Level C quality assurance
increases the frequency of certain inspections. For exam-
ple, while welding of reinforcing steel and grouting are
continuous inspection tasks for both Level B and C qual-
ity assurance, continuous inspection of the type, size and
location of anchors is only required for Level C inspec-
tions. As with concrete, continuous inspections are
required when quick identification of any errors or issues
that may arise is critical.
Other construction activities require periodic inspection

which is scheduled as specified by the RDP in the state-
ment of special inspections. Construction requiring peri-
Figure 5.15: Masonry Construction odic inspection is easier to repair when an issue is
identified and the necessity of careful and continuous
observation is not required. Examples of special inspections that are periodic include verifica-
tion of mortar and grout mix proportions from the plant paperwork, compliance with
approved submittals and protection of masonry due to hot or cold weather. For more examples
of periodic and continuous special inspection, see Chapter 2.
Wood Construction (Section 1705.5 and IBC Chapter 23)
Most wood construction does not require special inspection. Generally, only designs which
include a high-load diaphragm or trusses spanning 60 feet or more require it. Section 1705.5
lists requirements for special inspection. The safety issue for wood construction is wood blow-
out when nailing in multiple rows with tight spacing as happens in high-load diaphragms. The
flexibility of long-span trusses is also a safety concern during erection.
1705.5 Wood construction. Special inspections of the fabrication process of prefabricated

wood structural elements and assemblies shall be in accordance with Section 1704.2.5. Special
inspections of site-built assemblies shall be in accordance with this section.
Special inspection of high-load diaphragms verifies that materials meet the minimum require-
ments in the submittal and fasteners are of the correct size and placed with the correct spacing,
end and edge distance. While this inspection is similar to the jurisdictional inspection, it is
focused on the diaphragm and more time is taken confirming use of specified fasteners
throughout the diaphragm as well as checks for loosened fasteners due to wood failure or
blowout. Wood trusses are inspected for appropriate placement of temporary and permanent
bracing similar to the requirements for cold-formed steel trusses.
Special inspection requirements for high-load diaphragms (Figure 5.16) are listed in IBC Sec-
tion 1705.5.1. Material compliance with approved construction documents is verified. Sheath-
ing grade and thickness, framing member size, fastener frequency, size and spacing are all
verified.
1705.5.1 High-load diaphragms. High-load diaphragms designed in accordance with Section

2306.2 shall be installed with special inspections as indicated in Section 1704.2. The special
inspector shall inspect the wood structural panel sheathing to ascertain whether it is of the
grade and thickness shown on the approved building plans. Additionally, the special inspector
must verify the nominal size of framing members at adjoining panel edges, the nail or staple
diameter and length, the number of fastener lines and that the spacing between fasteners in
each line and at edge margins agrees with the approved building plans.
Figure 5.16: Wood Construction – High Load Diaphragm

Photo Courtesy of APA - The Engineer Wood Association
Special inspection requirements for metal-plate-connected wood trusses with spans 60 feet or
more are in IBC Section 1705.5.2. These requirements exist because trusses spanning greater
than 60 feet tend to be very unstable during erection. In fact, it may be easier to install the
trusses in groups rather than individually to keep them rigid. Each project has an individual-
ized erection and restraint design done by the truss manufacturer or registered design profes-
sional. The statement of special inspections will define what is required for the special
inspection.
1705.5.2 Metal-plate-connected wood trusses spanning 60 feet or greater. Where a truss

clear span is 60 feet or greater, the special inspector shall verify that the temporary installation
restraint/bracing and the permanent individual truss member restraint/bracing are installed in
accordance with the approved truss submittal package.
Figure 5.17:Long Span Wood Trusses

Photo Courtesy of Select Trusses & Lumber, Inc
Prefabricated wood structural elements and assemblies may also require special inspection.
Inspection of the fabrication process is in accordance with Section 1704.2.5 of the IBC. If the
fabricator is approved under Section 1704.2.5.2, no special inspection of the product or assem-
bly is required at the plant. A job-site special inspection will be included in the statement of
special inspections by the RDP in responsible charge when the manufacturer requires special
inspection to be done at the time of installation. The RDP finds the detailed requirements for
special inspection in the manufacturer’s evaluation report or installation instructions for the
product.
Figure 5.18: Wood Construction – Structural Insulated Panels (SIP)

Photo Courtesy of the Federation of American Scientists
Soils (Section 1705.6 and IBC Chapter 18)
Special inspections for existing site soil conditions, fill placement and load-bearing require-
ments shall meet the requirements of IBC Table 1705.6. The approved geotechnical report and
the construction documents prepared by registered design professionals shall be used to deter-
mine compliance. During fill placement, the special inspector shall determine that proper
materials and procedures are used in accordance with the provisions of the approved geotech-
nical report.
Where Section 1803 does not require reporting of materials and procedures for fill placement,
the special inspector shall verify that the in-place dry density of compacted fill is not less than
90 percent of the maximum dry density determined in accordance with ASTM D 1557.
IBC Table 1705.6 (Table 5.17) requires verification of in-situ materials, excavation depth and
any additional materials used below the foundation.
TABLE 5.17: Modified IBC Table 1705.6 - Required Verification and Inspection of Soils
Special Inspection Tasks Continuous Periodic
1. Verify materials below shallow foundations are adequate to achieve the X

design bearing capacity.
2. Verify excavations are extended to proper depth and have reached
X
proper material.
3. Perform classification and testing of compacted fill materials. X
4. Verify use of proper materials, densities and lift thicknesses during
X
placement and compaction of compacted fill.
5. Prior to placement of compacted fill, observe subgrade and verify that
X
site has been prepared properly.
These soil inspections occur periodically, except that use of specified materials, density and lift
thickness must be checked continuously during placement and compaction. Large amounts of
soil may be excavated or placed during construction (Figure 5.19); special inspection verifies
that soil material and density remain consistent across the foundation area.
Figure 5.19: Soils – Excavation
Deep Foundation Construction

(Sections 1705.7, 1705.8, 1705.9 and IBC Chapter 18)
A deep foundation is defined in the IBC as any foundation that is not a shallow foundation. A
shallow foundation is defined as:
Shallow Foundation: A shallow foundation is an individual or strip footing, a mat foundation,

a slab-on-grade foundation or a similar foundation element. Chapter 2 - Definitions
Deep foundations require greater oversight and inspection as no visual inspection may be
made of the angle and depth to which a pile is driven.
Historically, deep foundations were categorized as piers or piles. Today, deep foundations are
subdivided into main two categories in the IBC; driven and cast-in-place foundations. Driven
foundation elements are typically steel cylinders or H-shapes pounded into the soil by a pile
driver at the surface. Cast-in-place elements may be made in holes drilled to the required
depth and then filled with concrete or by placing the concrete during the drilling process.
Material quality, pile length, angle, and load capacity all need to be observed and verified dur-
ing deep foundation special inspection. Helical piles, a subset of driven piles, were added to the
list of categories requiring special inspections in the 2009 IBC (Figure 5.20).
Figure 5.20 Helical Pile

Photo Courtesy of Foundation Supportworks, Inc.
Special inspections are typically continuous for deep foundations. Errors in placement, angle
and load capacity of piles need to be discovered and remediated swiftly. For all deep founda-
tion construction, the approved geotechnical report and construction documents, prepared by
registered design professionals, shall be used to determine compliance. Table 5.18 summarizes
the special inspection requirements for deep foundations.
TABLE 5:18: Summary of Deep Foundation Provisions

Driven deep Special inspections shall be performed during installation and testing of driven
1705.7
foundations deep foundation elements as required by Table 1705.7.
Cast-in-place Special inspections shall be performed during installation and testing of cast-
1705.8
deep foundations in-place deep foundation elements as required by Table 1705.8.
Special inspections shall be performed continuously during installation of
helical pile foundations. The information recorded shall include
• Installation equipment used
• Pile dimensions
Helical pile
1705.9 • Tip elevations
foundations
• Final depth
• Final installation torque
• Other pertinent installation data required by the registered design
professional in responsible charge
Driven deep foundation elements, typically steel hollow elements or H-piles, require continu-
ous special inspection during driving and load testing once in place (Figure 5.21). IBC Table
1705.7 (Table 5.19) lists the required inspections for driven deep elements. Inspection of the
elements includes special inspection requirements for the materials. For example, a concrete-
filled hollow steel element needs to be inspected in accordance with IBC Section 1705.2 for the
steel member and Section 1705.3 for the concrete quality and capacity in addition to the spe-
cial inspections in Section 1705.7.
Figure 5.21: (a) Driven Deep Foundation Elements, (b) Foundation Bracing
TABLE 5.19: Modified IBC Table 1705.7, Required Verification and Inspection of Driven Deep
Foundation Elements
Verify element properties comply with the requirements:
1. Material
2. Size X
3. Length
Determine capacities of test elements and conduct additional load tests,
X
as required.
Observe driving operations and maintain complete and accurate records
X
for each element.
Verify:
1. Placement location and plumbness
2. Confirm type and size of hammer
3. Record number of blows per foot of penetration X
4. Determine required penetrations to achieve design capacity
5. Record tip and butt elevations
6. Document any damage to foundation element
For steel elements, perform additional inspections in accordance with
Frequency varies, see Section 1705.2
Section 1705.2.
For concrete elements and concrete-filled elements, perform additional
Frequency varies, see Section 1705.3
inspections in accordance with Section 1705.3.
For specialty elements, perform additional inspections as determined by Frequency varies, see statement of
the registered design professional in responsible charge. special inspections
Cast-in-place deep foundation elements (Figure 5.22) require continuous special inspection
during drilling and concrete or grout placement. Table 1705.8 (Table 5.20) lists required
inspections for cast-in-place elements. Inspection of the elements includes special inspection
requirements for the materials. For example, a concrete element needs to be inspected in
accordance with IBC Section 1705.3 for concrete quality and capacity in addition to the special
inspections in Section 1705.8.
Figure 5.22: Cast-in-place Pier
TABLE 5.20: Modified IBC Table 1705.8, Required Verification and Inspection of Cast-In-Place
Deep Foundation Elements
Observe drilling operations and maintain complete and accurate records for
X
each element.
Verify
1. Placement location and plumbness
2. Confirm element diameter
3. Bell diameter (if applicable)
4. Length X
5. Embedment into bedrock (if applicable)
6. Adequate end-bearing strata capacity
7. Record concrete or grout volumes
For concrete elements, perform additional inspections in accordance with Frequency varies, see Section
Section 1705.3. 1705.3
Helical pile foundations (Section 1705.9) require continuous special inspection during instal-
lation. The following information should be recorded during inspection:
• Installation equipment used.
• Pile dimensions.
• Tip elevation.
• Final depth.
• Final installation torque.
• Other installation data required by the RDP in responsible charge.
Special Inspections for Wind Resistance (Section 1705.10)
High winds kill more people and destroy more property than any other natural disaster,
including earthquakes. The most common reason for this tragic loss is inadequate attention to
wind-critical details, especially connections, during design, construction and inspection. This
is particularly true for light-frame buildings.
In addition to the special inspection requirements for each structural material, there are spe-
cial inspections for wind resistance required by the IBC in high-wind areas. These require-
ments apply only to windforce-resisting systems and designated wind systems. Designated
wind systems may be any system labeled in the construction documents as resisting wind-
forces. This may be a structural system or a connection for nonstructural components. In a
location with Wind Exposure B and basic wind speeds, Vasd, of 120 mph or higher (Vult = 155
mph), special inspection is required. In locations with Wind Exposure C or D and basic wind
speeds, Vasd, of 110 mph or higher (Vult = 142 mph), special inspection is required. Table 5.21
summarizes the special inspection requirements for wind resistance.
There are continuous and periodic inspections for portions of light-frame wood and cold-
formed steel construction. Special inspection of gluing of the main windforce-resisting sys-
tems of light-frame wood construction is continuous. Fastener placement and welding inspec-
tions are periodic. Additional periodic inspections are required for roof and wall cladding.
TABLE 5.21: Summary of Special Inspection Requirements for Wind Resistance

Special inspections are required for buildings and structures constructed in the following areas:
In wind Exposure Category B, where VASD is 120 mph or greater
In wind Exposure Category C or D, where VASD is 110 mph or greater
Inspection Elements Requiring

Section Inspection Type
Tasks Inspection
Main windforce-resisting
Continuous Field gluing operations
system
Structural wood Nailing, bolting, Main windforce-resisting

anchoring and other system, including wood shear
Periodic
fastening of walls, wood diaphragms, drag
1705.10.1 components struts, braces and hold-downs
Not required for wood shear walls, shear panels and

diaphragms, including nailing, bolting, anchoring and
Exception other fastening to other components of the main
windforce-resisting system, where the fastener spacing
of the sheathing is more than 4 inches on center.
Main windforce-resisting
Periodic Welding operations
system
Cold-formed
steel light-frame Screw attachment, Main windforce-resisting
bolting, anchoring and system, including shear walls,
Periodic
other fastening of braces, diaphragms, collectors
1705.10.2 components (drag struts) and hold-downs
Special inspection is not required for cold-formed steel
light-frame shear walls, braces, diaphragms, collectors
(drag struts) and hold-downs when:
Exception
The sheathing is gypsum board or fiberboard
The sheathing is wood structural panel or steel sheets on
only one side of the shear wall, shear panel or diaphragm
assembly and the fastener spacing of the sheathing is
more than 4 inches on center.
Wind-resisting Tasks determined by
1705.10.3 Periodic Roof and wall cladding
components the RDP
The exceptions to Section 1705.10 exempt shear walls and diaphragms in light-frame con-
struction that are not designed for high loads. When fasteners are spaced greater than 4 inches
on center, special inspection is not required. Also, for cold-formed steel construction, when
the sheathing is gypsum or fiberboard, special inspection is not required.
IBC Section 1704.3.3 states that when Section 1705.10 specifies that wind requirements be
included, the statement of special inspections shall identify the main windforce-resisting sys-
tems and wind-resisting components which require special inspection.
The statement of special inspections must include the following systems and components:
• Wall connections to roof and floor diaphragms and framing.
• Wall connections to the foundation.
• Roof cladding and framing connections.
Figure 5.23: Cold-formed Steel Walls
Special Inspections for Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.11)
While rare, earthquakes can destroy property and even kill people in a wide-spread area. Post-
earthquake damage reports indicate that many cases of severe damage and collapse could have
been prevented by better construction practices. The most common reasons for damage or loss
are age of the structure and inadequate attention to connection details during design, con-
struction and inspection. Older masonry buildings are particularly susceptible to damage from
an earthquake.
Section 1613 requires every structure to be designed and constructed to resist the effects of
earthquake ground motion according to its assigned seismic design category.
Seismic design provisions of the IBC rely heavily on the concept of quality assurance to ensure
adequate performance of the seismic-force-resisting systems (SFRS) during earthquake events.
In addition to the general special inspection requirements for structural and nonstructural
materials, there are specific seismic special inspection requirements in moderate and high seis-
mic areas. Section 1705.11 requires special inspections for:
1. Seismic-force-resisting systems in structures assigned to SDC C, D, E or F.
2. Designated seismic systems in structures assigned to SDC C, D, E or F.
3. Architectural, mechanical and electrical components in SDC D, E or F.
4. Storage racks in structures assigned to SDC D, E or F.
5. Seismic isolation systems.
Special inspections are not required for the following structures:

1. Light-frame construction with an SDS < 0.5 and building height < 35 feet.
2. Seismic-force-resisting systems of reinforced masonry or reinforced concrete with an SDS

< 0.5 and building height < 25 feet.
3. Engineered one- or two-family detached dwellings of one or two stories which do not
have the following irregularities:
a. Torsional or extreme torsional irregularity.
b. Nonparallel walls.
c. Soft story or extreme soft story—where the walls are less stiff than the story above or
below due to either much taller wall height or walls of significantly less length than the
walls above or below.
d. Discontinuity in lateral strength creating a weak story condition—where the walls are
not as strong as the story above or below, usually due to large openings.
See ASCE 7 Tables 12.3-1 and 12.3-2 for irregular building limit information.
Prescriptive one- and two-family detached dwellings follow the requirements of the Interna-
tional Residential Code and do not need to meet the special inspection requirements of this
section.
Table 5.22 summarizes the seismic special inspection requirements organized by material and
section number. Seismic special inspections in moderate or high seismic areas include addi-
tional inspections for the following materials and systems:
• Steel.
• Wood.
• Cold-formed steel.
• Designated seismic systems.
• Architectural components.
• Access floors.
• Mechanical and electrical components.
• Storage racks.
• Seismic isolation systems.
Most of these special inspections are periodic; they require verification of use of the correct
materials during installation of assemblies or components and their anchorage. Applications
requiring periodic special inspection include the verification of:
• Nailing, bolting, anchoring and other fastening of components of the SFRS of wood
structures (drag struts, braces and hold-downs).
• Screw attachment, bolting, anchoring, welding, and other fastening of components (drag
struts, braces and hold-downs) of cold-formed steel framing.
Continuous special inspection is required for:

• Structural welding in accordance with AISC 341.
• Any field gluing operations for structural wood glued to built-up members.
TABLE 5.22: Summary of Structural Special Inspections for Seismic Resistance

Inspection Inspection Elements Requiring
Section
Type Tasks Inspection
Structural Frequency Special inspection for structural steel shall be in accordance with
Steel varies the quality assurance requirements of AISC 341.
1705.11.1 Special inspections of structural steel in structures assigned to

Seismic Design Category C that are not specifically detailed for
Exception
seismic resistance, with a response modification coefficient, R, of
3 or less, excluding cantilever column systems.
Continuous Field gluing operations Seismic-force-resisting system
Structural Seismic-force resisting system,

Nailing, bolting, anchoring
Wood including wood shear walls, wood
Periodic and other fastening of
diaphragms, drag struts, braces,
components
shear panels and hold-downs
1705.11.2
Special inspection is not required for wood shear walls, shear
panels and diaphragms, including nailing, bolting, anchoring and
Exception other fastening to other components of the seismic-force-
resisting system, where the fastener spacing of the sheathing is
more than 4 inches on center
Periodic Welding operations Seismic-force-resisting system

Cold-formed
Steel Light- Required for screw Seismic-force-resisting
frame attachment, bolting, anchoring system, including shear walls,
Periodic
and other fastening of braces, diaphragms, collectors
components (drag struts) and hold-downs
Special inspection is not required for cold-formed steel light-
1705.11.3 frame shear walls, braces, diaphragms, collectors (drag struts)
and hold-downs where either of the following apply:
Sheathing is gypsum board or fiberboard.
Exception
Sheathing is wood structural panel or steel sheets on only one
side of the shear wall, shear panel or diaphragm assembly and
the fastener spacing of the sheathing is more than 4 inches o.c.
Examine designated seismic

systems requiring seismic
Designated seismic systems
qualification in accordance
Designated with Section 1705.12.3
1705.11.4 Seismic Periodic
Systems Verify that label, anchorage or
mounting conforms to the Designated seismic systems
certificate of compliance
For structural steel, an exception to Subsection 1705.11.1 exempts structural steel systems in
SDC C when using an R factor of 3. For wood, an exception in Subsection 1705.11.2 exempts
shear walls and diaphragms that are not designed for high loads in light-frame construction,
similar to the exemption for high wind regions. These exceptions require close examination of
the submittal documents. It is not obvious at the job site that R=3 for the seismic design or that
the shear wall or diaphragm was specifically designed for a lower load.
For wood light-frame construction, when fasteners are spaced greater than 4 inches on center,
special inspection is not required. For cold-formed steel construction, when the sheathing is
gypsum or fiberboard, special inspection is not required. These exceptions are easy to deter-
mine in the field.
Special inspection of the attachment of architectural and mechanical systems has been added
to code requirements during the last two decades as documented earthquakes show significant
damage may occur in a structure due to failure of anchorage of sprinkler systems and lighting,
movement of storage racks (Figure 24) and mechanical or electrical systems (Figure 25). Water
damage and fires may occur due to failure of these systems. Table 5.23 summarizes special
inspection requirements for architectural and mechanical systems.
TABLE 5.23: Summary of Nonstructural Systems Special Inspection for Seismic Resistance
Inspection Elements Requiring
Section SDC During
Type Inspection
Erection and • Exterior cladding
Architectural fastening of • Interior and exterior
D, E, F Periodic
Components components nonbearing walls
• Interior and exterior veneer
Not required when the building elements listed above

are 30 feet or less in height above grade or walking
1705.11.5 surface
Exceptions Not required for exterior cladding or interior and

exterior veneer weighing 5 psf or less
Not required for interior nonbearing walls weighing

15 psf or less
Installation of
1705.11.5.1 Access floors D, E, F Periodic Access floors
anchorage
Electrical equipment for
Installation of
C, D, E, F Periodic emergency and standby power
anchorage
systems
Installation of
E, F Periodic Other electrical equipment
anchorage
Installation and Piping systems designed to carry

C, D, E, F Periodic anchorage of hazardous materials and their
Mechanical piping systems associated mechanical units
1705.11.6 and Electrical
Components Installation and
Ductwork designed to carry
C, D, E, F Periodic anchorage of
hazardous materials
ductwork
Vibration isolation systems where
Installation and
the construction documents
anchorage of
require a nominal clearance of 1/4
C, D, E, F Periodic vibration
inch or less between the
isolation
equipment support frame and
systems
restraint
Storage Anchorage of Storage racks 8 feet or greater in
1705.11.7 D, E, F Periodic
Racks storage racks height
Seismic Seismic isolation systems -
Fabrication and
1705.11.8 Isolation All Periodic isolator units and energy
installation
Systems dissipation devices
The exception for architectural components exempts lightweight cladding, veneer and interior
nonbearing walls 30 feet or less in elevation from special inspection.
For mechanical systems, access floors, storage racks over 8 feet tall and isolation systems, there
are no exemptions from special inspection in moderate or high seismic regions.
Periodic special inspection is required for the verification of:

• Correct installation and anchorage of architectural and mechanical systems and storage
racks in moderate and high seismic regions.
• Correct fabrication, installation and anchorage of seismic isolation systems in all seismic
design categories for both isolator units and energy dissipation devices.
An isolator system creates a separation (discontinuous connection) between the building and
the soil. Movement of the soil does not transfer fully to the building. An energy dissipation
device absorbs a portion of energy from ground movement so the building does not deflect
(move) as great a distance as the soil.
Figure 5.24: Architectural Components
Figure 5.25: Storage Rack
Figure 5.26: Electrical Systems
Testing and Qualification for Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.12)
To identify the ability of a system to resist damage during an earthquake, testing is done to
measure the capacity of an assembly. This is common with components and assemblies new to
the construction market. There are also certain assemblies that always require testing to define
their capacity.
The following components and systems shall be tested and qualified:

1. Seismic-force-resisting systems in structures assigned to SDC C, D, E or F.
2. Designated seismic systems in structures assigned to SDC C, D, E or F and required by
ASCE 7 to be certified.
3. Architectural, mechanical and electrical components in structures assigned to SDC C, D,
E or F and required by ASCE 7 to be certified.
4. Seismic isolation systems in seismically isolated structures.
The registered design professional in responsible charge states the applicable seismic qualifica-
tion requirements for designated seismic systems in accordance with ASCE 7 Section 13.2 in
the statement of special inspections.
Each manufacturer of a designated seismic system’s components has third-party testing or

analysis done to the component and its mounting system or anchorage. A certificate of compli-
ance is submitted for review and acceptance by the registered design professional and for
approval by the building official. The documentation submitted may be an evaluation report.
Table 5.24 lists sections discussing testing and qualification requirements for seismic resis-
tance. The sections are organized by material and use. For concrete, requirements in ACI 318
are referenced. For steel, requirements in AISC 341 are referenced. For nonstructural compo-
nents, the requirements of ASCE 7 Chapter 13 are followed. For isolation systems, the require-
ments of ASCE 7 Chapter 17 are referenced.
TABLE 5.24: Summary of Testing and Qualification for Seismic Resistance
Material or
Section Requirement
System
Where reinforcement complying with ASTM A 615 is used to resist earthquake

induced flexural and axial forces in special moment frames, special structural
walls and coupling beams connecting special structural walls, in structures
assigned to SDC B, C, D, E or F; the reinforcement shall comply with Section
21.1.5.2 of ACI 318.
Concrete
1705.12.1
Reinforcement
Certified mill test reports shall be provided for each shipment of such
reinforcement.
Where reinforcement complying with ASTM A 615 is to be welded, chemical

tests shall be performed on the reinforcement prior to use to determine
weldability in accordance with Section 3.5.2 of ACI 318.
Testing for structural steel shall be in accordance with the quality assurance
1705.12.2 Structural Steel
requirements of AISC 341.
Testing for structural steel in structures assigned to SDC C that are not
Exception specifically detailed for seismic resistance, with a response modification
coefficient, R, of 3 or less, excluding cantilever column systems.
Seismic The RDP shall specify in the statement of special inspections the requirements
Certification of for certification by analysis, testing or experience data of nonstructural
1705.12.3
Nonstructural components and designated seismic systems in accordance with Section 13.2
Components of ASCE 7, where such certification is required by Section 1705.12.
Seismic Isolation Seismic isolation systems shall be tested in accordance with Section 17.8 of
1705.12.4
Systems ASCE 7 using some of the components built for the seismic isolation system.
Special Cases (Section 1705.1.1)
IBC Section 1705.1.1 addresses the fact that assemblies or components in a structure may
require special inspection due to their unusual nature. If a building official deems that pro-
posed work requires special inspection, it will be required. Some examples of instances where
additional special inspection might be required are:
• Construction materials and systems that are alternatives to materials and systems in the
IBC.
• Unusual design applications of materials described in the IBC.
• Materials and systems required to be installed in accordance with additional manufac-
turer’s instructions that require special inspection. An evaluation report for a product
may require a special inspection during installation of the product.
An example of a special case is epoxied anchors. These anchors fall into the category of post-
installed anchors (anchors placed after concrete has hardened). When constructing founda-
tions, or renovating existing structures, it can be beneficial to wait to place anchors until after
the concrete has set.
The IBC does not have provisions for the installation of post-installed anchors, nor does ACI
318, which the IBC references. For the special inspection requirements of a specific post-
installed anchor, the manufacturer’s installation instructions or evaluation report are used.
In order to receive an evaluation report showing compliance of the anchor as an equivalent

method to the code-provided cast-in-place anchor, a post-installed anchor must show equiva-
lent capacity through testing. The acceptance criteria that define test procedures used in evalu-
ation of the anchors are the basis for the ICC-ES evaluation reports. The criterion for epoxied
anchors is ICC-ES AC308, Post-installed Adhesive Anchors in Concrete Elements. To qualify for
an evaluation report, an anchor must also have directions for installation creating an assembly
with equal capacity to cast-in-place anchors.
AC 308 uses additional standards for the requirements for both testing and inspection of adhe-
sive (epoxy)anchors. The requirements for adhesive anchors are found in ACI 355.4, Qualifica-
tion of Post-Installed Adhesive Anchors in Concrete . For the anchors, scrupulous clean-out of
the drilled holes is necessary for the anchor to achieve equivalent capacity to wet-set anchors.
Manufacturers require special inspection to verify that the drilled holes are clean before the
epoxy is applied.
For mechanical anchors (expansion and wedge anchors) requirements are described in ACI
355.2, Qualification of Post-Installed Mechanical Anchors in Concrete.
Typically, for post-installed anchors, the following general steps are required in special inspec-
tion:
Figure 5.27: Post-installed Anchor

Photos Courtesy of Simpson Strong-Tie
TABLE 5.25: Summary of Post-Installed Anchor Special Inspections (ACI 355)

Expansion and Wedge Anchors Continuous Periodic
Before Verify anchor type, anchor dimensions, concrete type, concrete
X
Installation compressive strength, drill-bit type.
Verify hole dimensions, hole cleaning procedures, anchor
During
spacing, edge distances, concrete thickness, anchor embedment, X
Installation
installation torque.
Adhesive Anchors
Overhead Adhesive Anchors Designed to Resist Sustained Tension
Continuous Periodic
Loads
1. Required when adhesive anchors are installed overhead and
designed to resist sustained tension loads, optional for other
installations
2. Use on-site proof-loading program
3. Verify anchor type, adhesive identify and expiration date,
anchor dimensions, concrete type, concrete compressive
strength, hole drilling method, hole dimensions, hole-cleaning
procedures, anchor spacing, edge distances, concrete thick-
During ness, anchor embedment, installation torque X
Installation 4. Verify compliance with proof-loading program:
a. Frequency of proof loading based on anchor type,
diameter, and embedment
b. Proof loads by anchor type, diameter, embedment and
location
c. Acceptable displacements at proof load
d. Remedial action in the event of failure to achieve proof load
or excessive displacement
Other Adhesive Anchors Continuous Periodic
Verify:
• anchor type
• anchor dimensions
Before
• concrete type X
Installation
• concrete compressive strength
• adhesive identification
• expiration date
Verify:
• hole dimensions
• hole-cleaning procedures
• anchor spacing
• edge distances
• concrete thickness
• anchor embedment
• installation torque
Verify initial installations of each type and size of adhesive anchor.
During
Subsequent installations of the same anchor type and size by the X
Installation
same construction personnel may be performed in the absence of
the special inspector.
Except:
Any changes in the anchor product being installed or the
personnel performing the installation require an initial inspection.
For ongoing installations over an extended period, regular
inspections are made to verify correct handling and installation of
the product.
Chapter 6 – Nonstructural Special
Inspections
Section 1705 contains requirements for 17 separate categories of construction and conditions
requiring special inspection. This chapter discusses nonstructural special inspections.
Chapter 5 reviews structural special inspections. For information on certification of special
inspectors see Appendix C.
New Inspections over the Last Three Code Cycles
Over the past three code cycles categories requiring special inspections have been added to the
requirements of the legacy and early I-Codes. In the life safety section of special inspections,
mastic and intumescent fire-resistant coating requirements were added to the 2006 IBC. In
the 2012 IBC, special inspection of fire-resistant penetrations and joints was added.
Intumescent fire-resistant coatings, firestop and fire-resistant joint systems are not referenced
in the code. These products require evaluation reports or test reports. However, procedures
for verifying their correct installation are contained within Chapter 17 of the IBC.
Other proprietary products, such as epoxied anchors, have special inspection requirements
within their evaluation reports. Although the IBC does not contain specific provisions for
special inspection of proprietary products, the statement of special inspections should include
any requirements for special inspection stated in evaluation reports.
The statement of special inspections, required in Section 1704.3, defines the frequency of
special inspection. If an inspection should be continuous during an element’s construction,
105
the statement will specifically require continuous special inspection. For less frequent
inspection, the statement will require periodic special inspection.
The statement of special inspections must specifically state how often the inspection will
occur. If this information isn’t included in the statement, contact the registered design
professional (RDP) in responsible charge to determine the minimum inspection frequency
required. It is important to predetermine inspection frequency. Too infrequent an inspection
cycle may result in the rejection of a system by the building department, while too frequent
inspection may exceed the agreed upon costs (fee) for inspection. For more information on
frequency of special inspections, see Chapter 2.
Required Verification and Inspection – Life Safety and

Nonstructural Materials (Section 1705)
Sprayed Fire-resistant Materials (Section 1705.13)
Concern has increased in the past decade over loss of strength capacity of structural members
in large fires and under high temperatures. Although steel does not burn, it can be severely
weakened when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods, such as in a building fire.
Special inspection requirements help verify increased resistance to high temperatures through
use of fire-resistant overlays.
Special inspection requirements for sprayed fire-resistant materials (SFRM) applied to

structural members, floor, roof and wall assemblies (Figure 6.1) are listed in Sections
1705.13.1 through 1705.13.6. The special inspections are based on the fire-resistance design
designated in the submittal. Inspection is performed after the rough installation of electrical,
automatic sprinkler, mechanical, plumbing and ceiling suspension systems.
Special inspection of the material to be covered and the

quality of the sprayed application verifies the increased
capacity of the structural member to resist damage. The
surface of the assembly or member is checked for rust, oil
or other material that could cause the application to flake
or peel off.
Then the material is applied and tested for density,

thickness, bond strength and condition of finished
application. Cover quality is verified, as cracks within the
fire-resisting material lower the steel member’s ability to
resist heat and fire damage. Table 6.1 lists the required
physical tests, requirements for the structural member’s
surface condition, and temperature and ventilation
requirements.
Figure 6.1: Sprayed Fire-resistant
Materials
Chapter 6 – Nonstructural Special Inspections 107
TABLE 6.1: Summary of Special Inspections for Sprayed Fire-resistant Materials

Inspection
Section Requirement
Type
The special inspections shall include the following tests and observations to
demonstrate compliance with the listing and the fire-resistance rating:
1. Condition of substrates
Physical and
1705.13.1 2. Thickness of application
visual tests
3. Density in pounds per cubic foot
4. Bond strength adhesion/cohesion
5. Condition of finished application
• The surfaces shall be prepared in accordance with the approved fire-
Structural
resistance design and the written instructions of approved
member
1705.13.2 manufacturers.
surface
• The prepared surface of structural members to be sprayed shall be
conditions
inspected before the application of the sprayed fire-resistant material.
• The substrate shall have a minimum ambient temperature before and
after application as specified in the written instructions of the approved
Application 1705.13.3 manufacturer.
• The area for application shall be ventilated during and after application
as required by the written instructions of the approved manufacturer.
The thickness of the sprayed fire-resistant material (SFRM) may make the difference between
the failure of a structural member during a fire and collapse of a portion of the structure. The
thickness is tested at multiple locations on a member. Table 6.2 summarizes the tests required
for a given member and the minimum thickness required of the SFRM.
TABLE 6.2: Summary of Special Inspections for Sprayed Fire-resistant Material Thickness
Inspection Assembly or
Section Requirement
Type Element
• No more than 10 percent of the thickness
measurements are less than the thickness
Thickness 1705.13.4 Thickness required by the approved fire-resistance design.
• No measurements are less than the minimum
allowable thickness in Section 1705.13.4.1
• For design thicknesses 1 inch or greater, the
minimum allowable individual thickness are the
design thickness minus 1/4 inch.
• For design thicknesses less than 1 inch, the
Minimum minimum allowable individual thickness is the
Minimum
1705.13.4.1 allowable design thickness minus 25 percent.
thickness
thickness
• Thickness is determined in accordance with
ASTM E 605.
• Samples of the SFRM are selected in accordance
with Sections 1705.13.4.2 and 1705.13.4.3.
The thickness of the SFRM for each 1,000 square feet of
Floor, roof and the sprayed area, or portion thereof, in each story is
Assemblies 1705.13.4.2
wall assemblies based on a minimum of four measurements located
symmetrically within the square area.
• Thickness measurements are selected from a
square area, 12 inches by 12 inches in size.
1705.13.4.3 Cellular decks
• A minimum of four measurements are made,
located symmetrically within the square area.
• Thickness measurements are selected from a
Decks square area, 12 inches by 12 inches in size.
• A minimum of four measurements are made,
1705.13.4.4 Fluted decks located symmetrically within the square area,
including one each of the following: valley, crest
and sides.
• The average of the measurements is reported.
Structural Thickness testing is performed on not less than 25
1705.13.4.5
members percent of the structural members on each floor.
Beams and Thickness is measured at nine locations around the
1705.13.4.6
girders beam or girder at each end of a 12-inch length.
Joists and Thickness is measured at seven locations around the
Structural 1705.13.4.7
trusses joist or truss at each end of a 12-inch length.
members
Wide-flanged Thickness is measured at twelve locations around the
1705.13.4.8
columns column at each end of a 12-inch length.
Hollow
structural Thickness is measured at a minimum of four locations
1705.13.4.9
section and pipe around the column at each end of a 12-inch length.
columns
Density and bond requirements are listed in Table 6.3. The sprayed fire-resistant material
must meet a minimum density and thickness. The advantage of a dense material is that the
denser the material, the slower the heat transfer through the material. Bond strength tests
allow a second check beyond visual checks of the member’s surface for the adherence of fire-
resistant material to the member.
TABLE 6.3: Summary of Special Inspections for Sprayed Fire-resistant Material Density and
Bond Strength
Inspection Type Section Requirement
Verify that the density of the SFRM is not less than the density specified in
the approved fire-resistance design.
Density of the SFRM is determined in accordance with ASTM E 605.

The test samples for determining the density of the SFRM are selected as
Density 1705.13.5 follows:
1. From each floor, roof and wall assembly at a rate of not less than one
sample for every 2,500 ft2 or portion thereof of the sprayed area in
each story.
2. From beams, girders, trusses and columns at the rate of not less than
one sample for each type of structural member for each 2,500 ft2 of
floor area or portion thereof in each story.
The cohesive/adhesive bond strength of the cured SFRM applied to floor,
roof and wall assemblies and structural members is not less than 150 psf.
Bond strength 1705.13.6
The cohesive/adhesive bond strength is determined in accordance with
the field test specified in ASTM E 736 by testing in-place samples of the
SFRM selected.
The test samples for determining the cohesive/adhesive bond strength of
Assemblies—floor, the SFRM are selected from each floor, roof and wall assembly at the rate
1705.13.6.1
roof and wall of not less than one sample for every 2,500 ft2 of the sprayed area, or
portion thereof, in each story.
The test samples are selected from beams, girders, trusses, columns and
Structural other structural members at the rate of not less than one sample for each
1705.13.6.2
members type of structural member for each 2,500 ft2 of floor area or portion thereof
in each story.
Bond tests to qualify a primer, paint or encapsulant are conducted when
the SFRM is applied to a primed, painted or encapsulated surface for
Bond tests— which acceptable bond-strength performance between these coatings and
primer, paint and 1705.13.6.3 the fire-resistant material has not been determined.
encapsulant A bonding agent approved by the SFRM manufacturer is applied to a
primed, painted or encapsulated surface where the bond strengths are
found to be less than required values.
Mastic and intumescent fire-resistant coatings (Section 1705.14)
Special inspection for mastic and intumescent fire-resistant coatings applied to structural
elements and decks are in accordance with the Association of Wall and Ceiling Industry
(AWCI) Standard Practice for the Testing and Inspection of Field Applied Thin Film
Intumescent Fire-Resistive Materials, AWCI 12-B. Special inspections shall be based on the
fire-resistance design as designated in AWCI 12-B.
Intumescent fire-resistive coating is applied to structural steel members to protect their

structural integrity in fires. When exposed to fire, an intumescent coating expands its
thickness, forming a thick layer of foam that protects the steel by thermally insulating it from
the heat. As part of the expansion process, coatings create an outer ash-like char layer. With
continued fire attack, the ash coating erodes, exposing the remaining intumescent coating
which forms more char. If the coating is thick, this may be repeated several times.
Effectiveness of intumescent fire-resistive coating is related to its ability to retain a char layer
and the initial coating thickness. Section 1705.14 references AWCI 12-B for minimum
thickness measurements and adhesion requirements. Adhesion is affected by moisture and

temperature at the time of application.
Figure 6.2: a) Testing Intumescent Coating Thickness;

b) Testing Equipment
Photo b) Courtesy of DeFelsko Corporation
TABLE 6.4: Summary of Special Inspections for Mastic and Intumescent Coatings
(from AWCI 12-B)
Inspection Type Requirement
Verify:
Element Condition 1. Surface condition
2. Element temperature
Verify:
1. Ambient temperature
Site Condition 2. Ambient humidity
3. Ventilation
4. Weather protection
The special inspection shall include the following tests and observations to
demonstrate compliance with the listing and the fire-resistance rating:
1. Condition of substrates
Tests
2. Thickness of application
3. Condition of finished application
4. Quality of patching work
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) (Section 1705.15)
Similar in appearance to stucco, Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) insulate and
protect exterior walls (Figure 6.3). These systems may be installed on light-frame stud walls,
masonry or concrete walls. The first component installed is a foam insulation board. The foam
board is mechanically and/or adhesively attached to the exterior sheathing of the building.
Then a synthetic base-coat material, which includes a fiberglass reinforcing mesh, is applied.
Last, a finish coat that gives the material a stucco-like appearance is applied.
EIFS does not breathe and will not allow trapped moisture to evaporate easily. There are two
types of EIFS typically used today. The classic type of EIFS does not include a drainage system
as part of the EIFS. Special inspection requirements are prescribed in ICC-ES Acceptance
Criteria AC 219 for EIFS without drainage. The requirements for classic EIFS are listed in
Table 6.5 of this manual.
A new system, EIFS with drainage, is also commonly used. EIFS with drainage do not have a
prescriptive list of special inspection requirements. The RDP reviews the manufacturer’s
evaluation report or installation instructions for specific special inspection requirements to
place in the statement of special inspections.
Figure 6.3: EIFS

IBC Section 1705.15 requires special inspection for EIFS applications. There are two
exceptions to the requirements. If an EIFS is applied over a concrete or masonry wall, no
special inspection is required. If an EIFS is applied over a water-resistive barrier with a means
to drain moisture to the exterior of the wall, no special inspection is required. This material
may be a building paper type material or other barrier.
Section 1705.15 Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS). Special inspections shall be
required for all EIFS applications.
Exceptions:
1. Special inspections shall not be required for EIFS applications installed over a water-
resistive barrier with a means of draining moisture to the exterior.
2. Special inspections shall not be required for EIFS applications installed over masonry
or concrete walls.
TABLE 6.5: Summary of Special Inspections for classic EIFS (from AC 219)
The criteria for special inspection are based upon the items contained in the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
As a minimum, the following must be included in the list of inspections:
Prior to installation of EIFS, verify:
• Flatness
Condition of • Cleanliness
substrate • Condition of sheathing or substrate surface, (including gypsum sheathing and proper
attachment to building framing)
• Specified brand
Adhesive (for • Specified type
adhesively applied • Cleanliness
systems only) • Proper storage of adhesive
• Correct ingredient mix
Foam plastic material labeled in accordance with AC 219 and the manufacturer’s
Foam boards
requirements
Mesh Material meets manufacturer’s specifications
• Specified brand and type of sealants and primers
Sealant
• Shelf life not exceeded
During installation of EIFS, verify:
• Ambient and surface temperature
Application of
• Thickness of application
adhesive
• Cure/dry temperature and time
(for adhesively
• Attachment of foam plastic board is within time limit after adhesive application
applied systems
• Attachment of foam plastic board has full contact with substrate
only)
• Correct configuration of adhesive application
Application of foam • Substantial contact of the board to substrate
boards • Boards tightly abutted or have proper gap for joint design
• Foam plastic board surface rasped prior to application of base coat
• Mix proportions correct
Application of
• Ambient and surface temperatures
coating
• Cure/dry temperature and time
• Thickness of coating layers
• Fully embedded in base coat
Application of mesh
• Fully covered in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
Installation in accordance with the details tested for wind-driven rain infiltration and drawn in
Penetration details
the evaluation report
• Applied in accordance with the specified configuration
Application of • Proper application of sealants and primers
sealants • Joint configurations in accordance with construction documents
• Cure temperature and time
When a water-resistive barrier coating complying with ASTM E 2570 is installed over a
sheathing substrate before the EIFS is installed, special inspection of the water-resistive barrier
coating is also required. The IBC does not prescribe the special inspection requirements. Each
coating is proprietary and manufacturers are required to list minimum special inspection
tasks in their evaluation reports. Table 6.6 summarizes the special inspection requirements
defined in ICC-ES acceptance criteria AC 212, for water-resistive coatings used as water-
resistive barriers over exterior sheathing which defines in general terms what information is
required in an evaluation report for water-resistive barrier coatings.
1705.15.1 Water-resistive barrier coating. A water-resistive barrier coating complying with

ASTM E 2570 requires special inspection of the water-resistive barrier coating when installed
over a sheathing substrate.
TABLE 6.6: Summary of Special Inspections for EIFS Water-resistive Barrier Coating
(from AC 212)
• Field preparation of materials
• Expiration dates
• Installation of components
Verify: • Curing of components
• Installation of joints and sealants
• Applied dry-film thickness
• Interface of coating material with flashings
Fire-resistant Penetrations and Joints (Section 1705.16)
Fire-resistant construction slows the spread of a fire from one area to another. The IBC
requires special inspection of fire-resistant joints and penetrations through wall and ceiling
assemblies in high-rise buildings and buildings assigned to Risk Category III or IV. Section
1705.16 requires special inspection of fire-resistant penetrations and joints that are tested and
listed.
1705.16 Fire-resistant penetrations and joints. In high-rise buildings or in buildings

assigned to Risk Category III or IV in accordance with Section 1604.5, special inspections for
through-penetrations, membrane penetration fire stops, fire resistant joint systems, and
perimeter fire barrier systems that are tested and listed in accordance with Sections 714.3.1.2,
714.4.1.2, 715.3 and 715.4 shall be in accordance with Section 1705.16.1 or 1705.16.2.
When controlling the spread of fire in high-rise and high-risk buildings, containing a fire in its
initial area is critical. To reduce and delay spread of a fire to other areas of a building, fire
barriers and fire-resistant membranes are used to isolate sections of a building from one
another. In order to maintain the membrane or barrier, all holes placed in the system for
utilities must be sealed. Section 1705.16 lists the systems that must be inspected to determine
their ability to reduce the spread of a potential fire. IBC Sections 714 and 715 list the tests
required to verify sufficient resistance to fire spread. These tests require all openings in an
assembly to be sealed at testing and during construction of the building.
Firestops are used to seal the gaps around conduits, ducts and plumbing (Figure 6.4). The
firestop material may be an expansive liquid or putty-like material. In other applications it
may be concrete, grout or mortar. The firestop is placed in the gap between the edges of a hole
and the conduit or ductwork passing through the hole in the assembly.
Section 1705.16.1 lists the special inspection requirements for firestops and references ASTM
E 2174 requirements that are summerized in Table 6.7.
1705.16.1 Penetration firestops. Inspections of penetration firestop systems that are tested
and listed in accordance with Sections 714.3.1.2 and 714.4.1.2 shall be conducted by an
approved inspection agency in accordance with ASTM E 2174.
Figure 6.4: Firestop
TABLE 6.7: Summary of Special Inspection of Firestops (from ASTM E 2174)
Periodic
Inspection Tasks
Inspection
Before Installation
Verify firestop materials are listed and labeled for intended use and match construction documents X
Verify firestop materials are tested in accordance with Test Method E 814 or UL 1479 if not listed X
During or After Installation
Verify type, quantity and location of firestop X
Verify installation done according to one of the following:
1. Manufacturer’s installation documents X
2. Tested and approved installation documents
Determine Whether to Inspect During or After Installation
• Observe the installation process

Inspection
Minimum of 10% of each type of • Record measurements of substrates
During X
firestop installed • Record measurements of materials
Installation
being installed
Minimum of 2% of each type of • Perform destructive examination of

firestop shall be inspected per floor completed installations
Inspection After when floor area  10,000 ft2 • Failed specimens require repair or
X
Installation If a floor area > 10,000 ft2, replacement and reinspection plus one
inspect a minimum of 2% of each full additional inspection of that type of
area of < 10,000 ft2 firestop
Document:
1. All observed deficiencies
2. Locations where a required firestop has been omitted
3. Locations where installed firestop does not comply with the construction documents --
4. Whether repairs follow manufacturers’ recommended procedures and methods
5. Whether repairs meet requirements of the construction documents
Special inspections for firestops are periodic. In other words, not all locations are inspected.
Observation or testing of the firestop is done during installation (observation) or after
installation (destructive testing with repair required). More frequent observation occurs when
special inspection is done during installation and no repair of the firestop is required. Doing
inspection after installation of the firestop requires destruction (removal of a portion of the
materials to verify correct depth, materials and installation) and repair of the firestop. In this
case, only 2 percent of the firestops are inspected versus a requirement for 10 percent of the
firestops to be observed during installation. Both procedures are valid methods.
Fire-resistant joint systems (Figure 6.5) are materials which fill in gaps at joints which could
potentially allow fire in one area to move into another area without first reducing the fire
barrier or fire membrane.
1705.16.2 Fire-resistant joint systems. Inspection of fire-resistant joint systems that are tested
and listed in accordance with Sections 715.3 and 715.4 shall be conducted by an approved
inspection agency in accordance with ASTM E 2393.
Figure 6.5: Fire-resistant Joint

Photo Courtesy of EMSEAL
Special inspections for fire-resistant joints are also periodic. Observation or testing of the
joints is done during installation (observation) or after installation (destructive testing with
repair required). More frequent observation occurs when special inspection is done during
installation but no repair of the joints is required. Doing inspection after installation of the
joints requires destruction and repair of the joint but less total length of the joints is inspected.
Both procedures are valid methods to inspect fire-resistant joints and are described in Table
6.8.
TABLE 6.8: Summary of Special Inspection of Fire-resistant Joint Systems (from ASTM E 2393)
Periodic
Inspection Tasks During Task
Listed
Before Installation
Verify fire-resistant joint system materials are either:
1. Listed and labeled for intended use and match the type specified in the construction doc-
uments; or X
2. If not listed, materials have been tested in accordance with Test Method E 1966 or UL
2079
During or After Installation
Verify type, quantity and location fire-resistant joints X
Verify installation according to manufacturer’s installation documents X
Determine whether to inspect during or after installation
Minimum of 5% of total • Observe the installation process

Inspection
lineal feet of each type • Record measurements of substrates
During X
of fire-resistant joint • Record measurements of materials being
Installation
system installed installed
Choose one of the following methods:

• Perform destructive examination of fire-
resistant joint system and repair of the
joint system
• Disassemble and verify components and
reinstallation of the joint system
• Visual inspection and verification of the
Minimum of one component or entire joint system, where a
Inspection
sampling per 500 visual inspection is required in the
Post- X
lineal feet for each statement of special inspections
Installation
type of joint system • Other appropriate methods showing
compliance with manufacturers'
instructions or specifications where
approved
Failed specimens require repair or replacement
and reinspection plus one full additional
inspection of that type firestop
Document:
1. All observed deficiencies
2. Locations where a required fire-resistant joint system has been omitted or does not com-
--
ply with the construction documents
3. Whether repairs follow manufacturers’ installation instructions and the requirements of
the construction documents
Smoke Control Systems (Section 1705.17)
IBC Section 1705.17 covers the requirements for special inspection and testing of smoke
control systems taken from Section 909.18.8 of the International Fire Code. Smoke control
systems are tested twice; once during erection of ductwork and a second time when the
structure is complete.
Smoke control systems either prevent smoke from moving from one area of a structure to
another or provide useable air in an area filled with smoke. Historically, systems have
ventilated an area, attempting to remove smoke. Today, the goal is to keep the smoke above
the walking surfaces in the smoke-filled area and stop flow of the smoke to other portions of
the building.
Section 1705.17.1 states the testing scope to be completed by the special inspector.
1705.17 Special inspection for smoke control. Smoke control systems shall be tested by a spe-
cial inspector.
1705.17.1 Testing scope. The test scope shall be as follows:
1. During erection of ductwork and prior to concealment for the purposes of leakage test-
ing and recording of device location.
2. Prior to occupancy and after sufficient completion for the purposes of pressure differ-
ence testing, flow measurements and detection and control verification.
1705.17.2 Qualifications. Special inspection agencies for smoke control shall have expertise
in fire protection engineering, mechanical engineering and certification as air balancers.
Smoke control systems are required to have special inspections and tests sufficient to verify
the proper commissioning (installation and testing) of the smoke control design in its final
installed condition. This is a performance provision. The statement of special inspections
must detail the procedures and methods to be used and the components within the system to
be inspected and tested. Rather than a prescriptive set of inspections and testing, this set of
provisions creates a performance requirement. The smoke control inspection and testing, by
generally accepted engineering practice, must demonstrate acceptable functioning of the
system. When possible, the tests are based on published standards.
Figure 6.6: Smoke Control Testing

Photo Courtesy of Aon Fire Protection Engineering
Chapter 7 – Structural Observation
Structural observation is neither special inspection nor jurisdictional inspection. Rather, it is a

general verification by a registered design professional (RDP) that critical elements of the
structural system are being constructed as specified. Often the RDP works for the company
that has done the structural design.
Section 202 of the IBC states that the purpose of structural observation is:
Structural Observation: The visual observation of the structural system by a registered design
professional for the general conformance to the approved construction documents. Structural
observation does not include or waive the responsibility for inspection required by Section
110, 1705 or other sections of this code.
In the Uniform Building Code (UBC), structural observation was associated with the seismic
hazards and occupancy categories similar to today’s Risk Categories III and IV. Today,
structural observation is required for the lateral force resisting system for wind and seismic
loads when certain conditions described in Section 1704.5.1 or 1704.5.2 exist. It is also
required at times by the RDP responsible for the structural design of the gravity support
system when the system has critical elements, carries high loads, has unusual geometry or
details, or is erected in a nontraditional process.
An RDP does the structural observations looking for general conformance with the
construction documents. The structural observer is on site to check that construction is
occurring as designed and outlined in the construction documents.
The structural observer may be the RDP responsible for the structural design. Structural
observation is in addition to, and does not replace, the need for special inspection and code-
required inspections by the building department.
119
Figure 7.1: Structural Observation of Concrete Sampling

Process of Structural Observation
When structural observation is required by the IBC, the RDP hired to do the work must
submit to the building department the following items:
1. A statement identifying the frequency and extent of the structural observations to be per-
formed.
2. A report stating that the observations have been done and a list of any deficiencies that
have not been resolved.
The text of Section 1704.5 states:
1704.5 Structural observations. Where required by the provisions of Section 1704.5.1 or

1704.5.2, the owner shall employ a registered design professional to perform structural obser-
vations as defined in Section 202.
Prior to the commencement of observations, the structural observer shall submit to the build-
ing official a written statement identifying the frequency and extent of structural observations.
At the conclusion of the work included in the permit, the structural observer shall submit to
the building official a written statement that the site visits have been made and identify any
reported deficiencies which, to the best of the structural observer’s knowledge, have not been
resolved.
Chapter 7 – Structural Observation 121
When Structural Observations are Required
The two sections of the IBC that establish situations in which structural observation is
required are Section 1704.5.1 addressing observations for seismic resistance and Section
1704.5.2 dealing with observations for wind requirements. The registered design professional
in responsible charge of the structural design or the building official may require additional
observations of the lateral or gravity systems as needed for unusual or novel design elements.
Structural observations for seismic resistance are required for structures in seismic design
categories (SDC) D, E and F if certain conditions exist. Section 1704.5.1 lists these conditions.
1704.5.1 Structural observations for seismic resistance. Structural observations shall be pro-
vided for those structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F where one or more of
the following conditions exist:
1. The structure is classified as Risk Category III or IV in accordance with Table 1604.5.
2. The height of the structure is greater than 75 feet above the base.
3. The structure is assigned to Seismic Design Category E, is classified as Risk Category I
or II in accordance with Table 1604.5, and is greater than two stories above grade plane.
4. When so designated by the registered design professional responsible for the structural
design.
5. When such observation is specifically required by the building official.
In other words, in SDC D and higher, if a building is in a high-risk category, has a height
greater than 75 feet, or is in SDC E and a minimum of three stories tall, structural observation
must occur during its construction. Structural observation may also be required by the
engineer responsible for the structural design or the building official.
Figure 7.2: Lateral Force-resisting Elements (Seismic)
Section 1704.5.2 requires structural observation in regions with ultimate design wind speeds
greater than 142 mph (Vult) or 110 mph Vasd for a building in a high-risk category, or where
the structure has a height greater than 75 feet. The observation may also be required by the
RDP responsible for the structural design or the building official.
1704.5.2 Structural observations for wind requirements. Structural observations shall be

provided for those structures sited where Vasd as determined in accordance with Section
1609.3.1 exceeds 110 mph, where one or more of the following conditions exist:
1. The structure is classified as Risk Category III or IV in accordance with Table 1604.5.
2. The building height of the structure is greater than 75 feet.
3. When so designated by the registered design professional responsible for the structural
design.
4. When such observation is specifically required by the building official.
Figure 7.3: Lateral Force-resisting Elements (Wind)
Determining Components Requiring Structural Observation
The code doesn’t list what needs to be done during structural observation. The RDP in
responsible charge determines what the critical elements are and which require structural
observation in a project. The structural observer completes the observations during
construction of these elements. Typically, an RDP will require observation of connections and
critical elements tying into to those connections.
Chapter 7 – Structural Observation 123
The Structural Engineer’s Association of Northern California (SEAONC) published

Guidelines for Special Inspection and Structural Observation, which describes structural
observations an RDP should do for a building. While this book was based on the 1997
Uniform Building Code, the systems and connections that should receive structural
observation remain the same today.
Some examples of systems that might require structural observation include bolted steel
moment frame connections (Figure 7.4), concrete beam-column connections (Figure 7.5),
drag strut connections in light-frame construction (Figure 7.6) and roof-wall connections in
masonry construction (Figure 7.7).
Figure 7.4: Steel Moment Frame Figure 7.5: Concrete Beam-column
Figure 7.6: Light-frame Drag Strut Figure 7.7: Roof Truss Connection in
Masonry Walls
Observed deficiencies must be reported in writing to the contractor (Figure 7.8). The
contractor must resolve all identified deficiencies to the satisfaction of the structural observer.
If the deficiencies are not resolved, the structural observer must be report the deficiencies in
writing to the building official and owner’s representative, typically the registered design
professional in responsible charge. It is good practice for the owner to pass or allow passage of
the deficiency reports to special inspectors so they are aware of the issue during their
inspections.
At the conclusion of the project, the structural observer must submit to the building official a
written statement that the site visits have been made and identify any deficiencies that, to the
best of the structural observer’s knowledge, have not been resolved.
STRUCTURAL OBSERVER DISCREPANCY NOTICE
City/County of: ________________________ Permit #: ________________ Date: _____________
Project Name/Address: ________________________________________________________________
Structural Observation Type/Coverage: ___________________________________________________
Notice delivered to: Contractor Engineer/Architect Building Department
Special Inspector Owner
Signature: _____________________________
Print Name: ____________________________ Company: ___________________________________
Figure 7.8: Notification of deficiency report
Chapter 8 – Alternative Products and
Methods of
Construction
When a product or method of construction is not covered in the IBC or a referenced standard
of the IBC or is new, provisions exist to allow use of the product or method. The IBC does not
disallow construction not included in its provisions. Rather, Sections 104.9 through 104.11
prescribe a means for building officials to allow alternative construction methods, whether a
material, component, equipment, design or process.
Alternative Materials and Methods of Construction
A building official, by approving the submitted construction documents, allows construction

to occur using the methods, design and equipment specified in the construction documents.
IBC Section 104.9 requires all materials, equipment and devices to be constructed and
installed following the approved submittal.
104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the
building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
When materials, design or methods of construction are alternatives and not referenced in the
IBC or its referenced standards, Section 104.11 specifically allows use of the materials and
methods provided they meet the intent of the code and are approved by the building official.
125
104.11 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment. The pro-
visions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit
any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that
any such alternative has been approved. An alternative material, design or method of construc-
tion shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed design is satisfactory
and complies with the intent of the provisions of this code, and that the material, method or
work offered is, for the purpose intended, at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this code
in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability and safety.
In order to demonstrate that an alternate material or method of construction is equivalent to

that prescribed by the IBC, research reports (typically done at universities) or evaluation
reports may be required to be submitted to the building official. Section 104.11.1 specifies the
required information to submit. This research is generally done on a novel material or
product that has not been used in construction before.
Figure 8.1: Alternate Material – Super Adobe

Photos Courtesy of Project Somos
If a product has been available for 5 years or more, the manufacturer will typically apply for an
evaluation report. The evaluation report has broader scope than a research report. The
evaluation report is a summary of approved uses of the product, its properties (strength,
stiffness, durability) and installation requirements. To receive an evaluation report, a
manufacturer submits to the evaluation agency research reports as part of the evidence that
the product meets the intent of the code.
Chapter 8 – Alternative Products and Methods of Construction 127
The evaluation report is used as evidence by the building official toward approval of the
product. While this process takes some time, the manufacturer no longer needs to test a
product for each construction project. The evaluation report may be used for any application
at any construction project if the application is described in the evaluation report. For more
information on evaluation reports, see the section on evaluation reports in this chapter and
Appendix D.
104.11.1 Research reports. Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the approval of mate-
rials or assemblies not specifically provided for in this code, shall consist of valid research
reports from approved sources.
University research reports also contain testing information. Section 104.11.2 authorizes a
building official to require testing as needed and defines standard test requirements. Testing
may be for a unique system designed for one project or for a system intended to be used in a
variety of situations. In either case, the use and construction of the product or system must
match the purpose and construction method of the product or system being tested.
104.11.2 Tests. Whenever there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of
this code, or evidence that a material or method does not conform to the requirements of this
code, or in order to substantiate claims for alternative materials or methods, the building offi-
cial shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance to be made at no expense
to the jurisdiction.
Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the
absence of recognized and accepted test methods, the building official shall approve the
testing procedures. Tests shall be performed by an approved agency. Reports of such tests shall
be kept by the building official for the period required for retention of public records.
Approvals
Approval of an alternate product or method of construction by a building official must be in

writing. Record of that approval is kept with the building department and is available to the
public for inspection. Sections 1703.2 and 1703.3 list the requirements for official approval.
Figure 8.2: Masonry Prism Testing
1703.2 Written approval. Any material, appliance, equipment, system or method of construc-
tion meeting the requirements of this code shall be approved in writing after satisfactory com-
pletion of the required tests and submission of required test reports.
1703.3 Approved record. For any material, appliance, equipment, system or method of con-
struction that has been approved, a record of such approval, including the conditions and limi-
tations of the approval, shall be kept on file in the building official's office and shall be open to
public inspection at appropriate times.
Approval of the product or method of construction is based on evidence supporting use of the
product or method in the manner described in construction documents. Performance of the
product for a different use is not acceptable for approval. Research reports or evaluation
reports describing the product or method tested in a situation similar to the intended use give
the building official evidence upon which to base an approval. Section 1703.4 and its
subsections define what information is needed for the building official to approve the use of a
product or method of construction. Costs of the testing are paid by the owner, although, in
some cases, manufacturers will pay for the expense of testing and certifying a product.
A research report supplies the test data on a component or assembly. There needs to be
sufficient information on the product in the configuration that will be used in the proposed
structure to allow the building official to identify whether the product has equivalent strength
and stiffness to replace the code-approved material or process in the proposed building.
Section 1703.4.2 lists requirements for research reports.
1703.4 Performance. Specific information consisting of test reports conducted by an approved

testing agency in accordance with the appropriate referenced standards, or other such infor-
mation as necessary, shall be provided for the building official to determine that the material
meets the applicable code requirements.
1703.4.1 Research and investigation. Sufficient technical data shall be submitted to the build-
ing official to substantiate the proposed use of any material or assembly. If it is determined that
the evidence submitted is satisfactory proof of performance for the use intended, the building
official shall approve the use of the material or assembly subject to the requirements of this
code. The costs, reports and investigations required under these provisions shall be paid by the
applicant.
1703.4.2 Research reports. Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the approval of mate-
rials or assemblies not specifically provided for in this code, shall consist of valid research
reports from approved sources.
Labeling
Labeling of a product allows quick verification that the product meets a referenced standard.
Approved agencies, third-party agencies specializing in the inspection of certain products, test
a representative sample of the product and certify that the product meets an industry
standard. The industry testing standard is referenced in the International Building Code or in
a material standard referenced within the IBC.
Sample size, test method, and test limits are all listed in the testing standard. The inspection
agency does ongoing periodic inspection of the product to maintain the label.
Label and Labeled are defined in the IBC as the following:
LABEL. An identification applied on a product by the manufacturer that contains the name of
the manufacturer, the function and performance characteristics of the product or material, and
the name and identification of an approved agency and that indicates that the representative
sample of the product or material has been tested and evaluated by an approved agency.
LABELED. Equipment, materials or products to which has been affixed a label, seal, symbol
or other identifying mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency or
other organization concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of
the production of the above-labeled items and whose labeling indicates either that the equip-
ment, material or product meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for
a specified purpose.
The permanent label contains the manufacturer’s identification number, the model number,
and serial number or other ID which allows reference to the product’s characteristics and the
approved agency’s ID. When the product has one or more evaluation reports, the report
number, the manufacturer and the inspection agency are on the stamp. Figure 8.1 shows an
example of a lumber stamp listing this information.
Evaluation Report Numbers
Special Inspection Agency
Figure 8.3: Lumber Stamp
Section 1703.5 and its subsections define the criteria for labeling, and the testing associated
with labeling.
1703.5 Labeling. Where materials or assemblies are required by this code to be labeled, such
materials and assemblies shall be labeled by an approved agency in accordance with Section
1703. Products and materials required to be labeled shall be labeled in accordance with the
procedures set forth in Sections 1703.5.1 through 1703.5.4.
1703.5.1 Testing. An approved agency shall test a representative sample of the product or
material being labeled to the relevant standard or standards. The approved agency shall main-
tain a record of the tests performed. The record shall provide sufficient detail to verify compli-
ance with the test standard.
1703.5.2 Inspection and identification. The approved agency shall periodically perform an
inspection, which shall be in-plant if necessary, of the product or material that is to be labeled.
The inspection shall verify that the labeled product or material is representative of the product
or material tested.
Labels must contain information important for identifying the product, its manufacturer and
the approving agency. Given this information, a special inspector, registered design
professional and contractor can quickly identify whether the product is the component
specified in the construction documents. The label must be permanently attached to the
product. It may be etched, inked or stamped.
1703.5.3 Label information. The label shall contain the manufacturer’s or distributor’s identi-
fication, model number, serial number or definitive information describing the product or
material’s performance characteristics and approved agency’s identification.
1703.5.4 Method of labeling. Information required to be permanently identified on the prod-
uct shall be acid etched, sand blasted, ceramic fired, laser etched, embossed or of a type that,
once applied, cannot be removed without being destroyed.
Prefabricated Assemblies
Prefabricated assemblies must have reports, either test reports or evaluation reports,
submitted to provide evidence of their compliance with the code. They require reports
because the assembly arrives at the construction site with some components concealed within
the assembly—for example the reinforcement in prefabricated concrete panels. Thus,
materials that make up the assembly cannot be inspected at the construction site without
destroying a portion of the components. Section 1703.6 and its subsections list the
requirements to approve such assemblies.
1703.6 Evaluation and follow-up inspection services.Where structural components or other

items regulated by this code are not visible for inspection after completion of a prefabricated
assembly, the applicant shall submit a report of each prefabricated assembly. The report shall
indicate the complete details of the assembly, including a description of the assembly and its
components, the basis upon which the assembly is being evaluated, test results and similar
information and other data as necessary for the building official to determine conformance to
this code. Such a report shall be approved by the building official.
1703.6.1 Follow-up inspection. The applicant shall provide for special inspections of fabri-
cated items in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.
1703.6.2 Test and inspection records. Copies of necessary test and inspection records shall be
filed with the building official.
Prefabricated assemblies are tested at the fabricator’s shop or plant. This testing is described in
the IBC in the section on fabricators, a term for the manufacturer of components that are
preassembled prior to arriving at the job site. Examples of prefabricated components are
rolled structural steel I-beams and hybrid plate girders used in pre-manufactured metal
buildings. Examples of prefabricated assemblies are steel beams with shop-welded plates
attached and structural insulated panels (SIPs). These assemblies may have a test report or an
evaluation report that is submitted with the construction documents.
Fabricators
When a product is new or a proprietary product, it isn’t specifically listed in the IBC. Rather,
the fabricator has an option of testing various uses of its product or getting approval from the
building official for use of its product for a specific application specified in plans. As it is
expensive to do testing for each use of a product, fabricators apply to building officials for
approval of their products. They must produce evidence of testing of the product for the type
of installation and use specified in the design of the structure. This evidence may be research
reports or an evaluation report. In both cases, independent verification is done during testing
to verify that the product has the capacity claimed by the manufacturer or required by a
specific design.
Section 1704.2.5 of the IBC discusses the inspection of fabricators and their products.
1704.2.5 Inspection of fabricators. Where fabrication of structural load-bearing members

and assemblies is being performed on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspection of
the fabricated items shall be required by this section and as required elsewhere in this code.
Section 1705.2.5.1 lists the special inspector’s tasks in verifying production compliance with
quality control documents and manufacturing procedures. This section also exempts a
fabricator from special inspection requirements if the fabricator has already been approved,
typically because the fabricator is registered and been approved previously by the building
official for the type of work required on the project. An example of a fabricator’s accreditation
certificate is given in Figure 8.4.
Figure 8.4: Fabricator’s Certificate
1704.2.5.1 Fabrication and implementation procedures. The special inspector shall verify
that the fabricator maintains detailed fabrication and quality control procedures that provide a
basis for inspection control of the workmanship and the fabricator’s ability to conform to
approved construction documents and referenced standards. The special inspector shall
review the procedures for completeness and adequacy relative to the code requirements for the
fabricator’s scope of work.
Exception: Special inspections as required by Section 1704.2.5 shall not be required where the
fabricator is approved in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.2.
The requirements to become an approved fabricator are listed in Section 1704.2.5.2. Appendix
E describes the functions of the third-party agencies that do the testing for fabricator approval.
The process for approval is very similar to special inspection in that it requires verification of
materials and procedures, observation of production and review of procedural documents and
the quality control manual similar to review of construction documents and specifications.
This process is done by a special inspection agency which specializes in third-party
inspections of manufacturers and fabricators.
where the work is done on the premises of a fabricator registered and approved to perform
such work without special inspection. Approval shall be based upon review of the fabricator’s
written procedural and quality control manuals and periodic auditing of fabrication practices
by an approved special inspection agency. At completion of fabrication, the approved fabrica-
tor shall submit a certificate of compliance to the building official stating that the work was
performed in accordance with the approved construction documents.
Figure 8.5: Reinforcing Steel Fabricator
Design Strength of Materials
A number of sections within Chapter 17 of the IBC cover provisions for determining the
design strength of a product. Sections 1706 through 1711 define tests and standards the
building official can use to verify whether a product will be sufficient for the design in the
construction documents. Special inspectors may observe these tests as part of their duties. The
special inspector must have experience with the standards used to do load tests and a sense of
expected loads and outcomes for the tests.
Section 1706 identifies how a building official determines whether an alternate product or
method of construction conforms to a specified standard. When a manufacturer applies for an
evaluation report, this process occurs within the evaluation services. The building official may
assume that a product with an evaluation report has been tested to appropriate standards and
found to meet or surpass the standards.
If there is no evaluation report, a building official can use the tests and standards referenced in
Sections 1706 thru 1711 to evaluate the compliance of an alternate product or construction
method. Some of these tests occur during construction to verify that assemblies are
performing as expected as dead load is added. This is in contrast to testing done for an
evaluation report. Other tests are done to verify materials and strength of the product prior to
construction, similar to the research reports that form the basis of an evaluation report.
1706.1 Conformance to standards. The design strengths and permissible stresses of any
structural material that are identified by a manufacturer’s designation as to manufacture and
grade by mill tests, or the strength and stress grade is otherwise confirmed to the satisfaction of
the building official, shall conform to the specifications and methods of design of accepted
engineering practice or the approved rules in the absence of applicable standards.
1706.2 New materials. For materials that are not specifically provided for in this code, the
design strengths and permissible stresses shall be established by tests as provided for in Section
1707.
Alternative Test Procedure
Section 1707 identifies how a building official may determine whether to approve a product or
method of construction lacking a standard to reference. In this case, approval is based on
testing or evaluation reports containing third-party confirmation that a product is appropriate
for the application described in the construction documents. Note that the cost of testing is
paid by the owner of the construction project.
1707.1 General. In the absence of approved rules or other approved standards, the building
official shall make, or cause to be made, the necessary tests and investigations; or the building
official shall accept duly authenticated reports from approved agencies in respect to the quality
and manner of use of new materials or assemblies as provided for in Section 104.11. The cost
of all tests and other investigations required under the provisions of this code shall be borne by
the applicant.
Test Safe Load
In cases where testing is required of a material or structural element and no standard exists,
testing is to be done following procedures approved by the building official and any pertinent
requirements of the code. Section 1708 describes the requirements.
1708.1 Where required. Where proposed construction is not capable of being designed by
approved engineering analysis, or where proposed construction design method does not com-
ply with the applicable material design standard, the system of construction or the structural
unit and the connections shall be subjected to the tests prescribed in Section 1710. The build-
ing official shall accept certified reports of such tests conducted by an approved testing agency,
provided that such tests meet the requirements of this code and approved procedures.
In some cases, this testing is done at universities on new and novel materials or products.
Special inspection is done by approved agencies to verify material properties.
Figure 8.6: Load Test
In-situ Load Tests
For buildings under construction, on occasion sagging components or cracking finishes cause
concern that the structure may be overloaded or located over an unstable subgrade. When this
occurs, an engineering assessment is required. This may be a structural analysis or an in-situ
load test (loads placed on the existing structure). If the structural analysis indicates that the
building is unstable or overloaded, a load test is done as well. When load testing shows that the
structure is unstable or overloaded, the portion of the structure affected is repaired or
removed. Section 1709.1 contains the provisions requiring structural assessment or load
testing.
1709.1 General. Whenever there is a reasonable doubt as to the stability or load-bearing

capacity of a completed building, structure or portion thereof for the expected loads, an engi-
neering assessment shall be required. The engineering assessment shall involve either a struc-
tural analysis or an in-situ load test, or both. The structural analysis shall be based on actual
material properties and other as-built conditions that affect stability or load-bearing capacity,
and shall be conducted in accordance with the applicable design standard. If the structural
assessment determines that the load-bearing capacity is less than that required by the code,
load tests shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1709.2. If the building, structure or
portion thereof is found to have inadequate stability or load-bearing capacity for the expected
loads, modifications to ensure structural adequacy or the removal of the inadequate construc-
tion shall be required.
Section 1709.2 requires load testing to follow the applicable standards referenced in the IBC
or, if none apply, the building official may approve a procedure to be used for testing. See
Section 1709.2 for the requirements of test standards.
1709.2 Test standards. Structural components and assemblies shall be tested in accordance
with the appropriate referenced standards. In the absence of a standard that contains an appli-
cable load test procedure, the test procedure shall be developed by a registered design profes-
sional and approved. The test procedure shall simulate loads and conditions of application that
the completed structure or portion thereof will be subjected to in normal use.
Section 1709.3 prescribes the requirements for in-situ load tests. The tests must follow an
appropriate referenced standard as mentioned above and be supervised by an engineer. The
test attempts to simulate finished conditions in the structure as closely as possible to test
stability and loading of the structure. See Sections 1709.3, 1709.3.1 and 1709.3.2 for more
information on testing procedures listed in a standard and testing procedures designed by an
engineer. When using a procedure designed by an engineer, all provisions in Section 1709.3.2
must be included.
1709.3 In-situ load tests. In-situ load tests shall be conducted in accordance with Section
1709.3.1 or 1709.3.2 and shall be supervised by a registered design professional. The test shall
simulate the applicable loading conditions specified in Chapter 16 as necessary to address the
concerns regarding structural stability of the building, structure or portion thereof.
1709.3.1 Load test procedure specified. Where a referenced standard contains an applicable
load test procedure and acceptance criteria, the test procedure and acceptance criteria in the
standard shall apply. In the absence of specific load factors or acceptance criteria, the load fac-
tors and acceptance criteria in Section 1709.3.2 shall apply.
1709.3.2 Load test procedure not specified. In the absence of applicable load test procedures
contained within a standard referenced by this code or acceptance criteria for a specific mate-
rial or method of construction, such existing structure shall be subjected to a test procedure
developed by a registered design professional that simulates applicable loading and deforma-
tion conditions.
For components that are not a part of the seismic-load resisting system, the test load shall be
equal to two times the unfactored design loads. The test load shall be left in place for a period
of 24 hours. The structure shall be considered to have successfully met the test requirements
where the following criteria are satisfied:
1. Under the design load, the deflection shall not exceed the limitations specified in Sec-
tion 1604.3.
2. Within 24 hours after removal of the test load, the structure shall have recovered not less
than 75 percent of the maximum deflection.
3. During and immediately after the test, the structure shall not show evidence of failure.
Preconstruction Load Tests
Section 1710, Preconstruction Load Tests, gives the criteria for determining whether an
element, system or method of construction has equivalent strength and stiffness to a code-
approved assembly before construction begins. The test procedures are used for new products
or products used outside their normal tested scope. When no referenced standard exists, an
engineer is required to create a testing procedure and the means to evaluate the capacity of the
component. Section 1710 gives the criteria for the testing procedures.
1710.1 General. In evaluating the physical properties of materials and methods of construc-
tion that are not capable of being designed by approved engineering analysis or do not comply
with the applicable referenced standards, the structural adequacy shall be predetermined
based on the load test criteria established in this section.
Similar to Section 1709, Sections 1710.2 and 1710.3 define what procedures should be
included when an applicable standard is available, and what to do when there are no
applicable standards. Section 1710.2 requires load testing to follow the applicable standards
referenced in the IBC or, if none apply, the building official may approve a procedure to be
used for testing using Section 1710.3. The tests attempt to simulate conditions in the structure
as closely as possible to test load capacity and stiffness of the structural members.
1710.2 Load test procedures specified. Where specific load test procedures, load factors and
acceptance criteria are included in the applicable referenced standards, such test procedures,
load factors and acceptance criteria shall apply. In the absence of specific test procedures, load
factors or acceptance criteria, the corresponding provisions in Section 1710.3 shall apply.
1710.3 Load test procedures not specified. Where load test procedures are not specified in
the applicable referenced standards, the load-bearing and deformation capacity of structural
components and assemblies shall be determined on the basis of a test procedure developed by
a registered design professional that simulates applicable loading and deformation conditions.
For components and assemblies that are not a part of the seismic-force-resisting system, the
test shall be as specified in Section 1710.3.1. Load tests shall simulate the applicable loading
conditions specified in Chapter 16.
When a referenced standard is not available, Section 1710.3.1 describes a specific test
procedure to follow and a method for determining the allowable design load for gravity loads.
The procedure applies to components and assemblies that are not part of a seismic-force-
resisting system. The registered design professional (RDP) determines appropriate load and
deflection conditions. The RDP is attempting to estimate the typical load that will be placed
on the member or assembly being tested and estimate the amount of deflection or bending
that will be measured under that load. This estimate is verified during the load test. Section
1710.3.2 requires that the deflection not exceed the limits specified in Section 1604.3. This
procedure does not apply to lateral loads, whether generated by seismic, wind or fluid forces.
1710.3.1 Test procedure. The test assembly shall be subjected to an increasing superimposed
load equal to not less than two times the superimposed design load. The test load shall be left
in place for a period of 24 hours. The tested assembly shall be considered to have successfully
met the test requirements if the assembly recovers not less than 75 percent of the maximum
deflection within 24 hours after the removal of the test load. The test assembly shall then be
reloaded and subjected to an increasing superimposed load until either structural failure
occurs or the superimposed load is equal to two and one-half times the load at which the
deflection limitations specified in Section 1710.3.2 were reached, or the load is equal to two
and one-half times the superimposed design load. In the case of structural components and
assemblies for which deflection limitations are not specified in Section 1710.3.2, the test speci-
men shall be subjected to an increasing superimposed load until structural failure occurs or
the load is equal to two and one-half times the desired superimposed design load. The allow-
able superimposed design load shall be taken as the lesser of:
1. The load at the deflection limitation given in Section 1710.3.2.
2. The failure load divided by 2.5.
3. The maximum load applied divided by 2.5.
1710.3.2 Deflection. The deflection of structural members under the design load shall not
exceed the limitations in Section 1604.3.
Sections 1710.4 and 1710.5 verify an assembly’s load and deflection capacity for lateral loads –
loads pressing against the surface of the wall, window or door. Section 1710.4 addresses test
loads on wall and partition assemblies. The section defines what components must be
included in the assembly for each test.
Section 1710.5 similarly addresses design pressures for exterior window and door assemblies.
The tests prescribed in Section 1710.5 consider wind pressures against a window or door
assembly.
1710.4 Wall and partition assemblies. Load-bearing wall and partition assemblies shall sus-
tain the test load both with and without window framing. The test load shall include all design
load components. Wall and partition assemblies shall be tested both with and without door
and window framing.
1710.5 Exterior window and door assemblies. The design pressure rating of exterior win-
dows and doors in buildings shall be determined in accordance with Section 1710.5.1 or
1710.5.2.
Exception: Structural wind load design pressures for window units smaller than the size tested
in accordance with Section 1710.5.1 or 1710.5.2 shall be permitted to be higher than the design
value of the tested unit provided such higher pressures are determined by accepted engineer-
ing analysis. All components of the small unit shall be the same as the tested unit. Where such
calculated design pressures are used, they shall be validated by an additional test of the window
unit having the highest allowable design pressure.
Section 1710.5.1 lists referenced standards that can be used to test and label exterior doors and
windows. When a door or window assembly does not meet the criteria of the referenced
standards, ASTM E 330 is used for the testing procedure in accordance with Section 1710.5.2.
ASTM E 330 is a standard describing an alternate procedure used to test exterior doors and
windows that do not meet the limitations of Section 1710.5.1. If a manufacturer’s door or
window does not conform to the criteria of a published standard referenced in the IBC, the
door or window may be approved using Section 104.11, Alternate Materials and Design.
The referenced standard for testing garage doors is also included in Section 1710.5.2.
1710.5.1 Exterior windows and doors. Exterior windows and sliding doors shall be tested and
labeled as conforming to AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440. The label shall state the name
of the manufacturer, the approved labeling agency and the product designation as specified in
AAMA/ WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440. Exterior side hinged doors shall be tested and labeled as
conforming to AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440 or comply with Section 1710.5.2. Prod-
ucts tested and labeled as conforming to AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S.2/A440 shall not be
subject to the requirements of Sections 2403.2 and 2403.3.
1710.5.2 Exterior windows and door assemblies not provided for in Section 1710.5.1. Exte-
rior window and door assemblies shall be tested in accordance with ASTM E 330. Structural
performance of garage doors and rolling doors shall be determined in accordance with either
ASTM E 330 or ANSI/DASMA 108, and shall meet the acceptance criteria of ANSI/DASMA
108. Exterior window and door assemblies containing glass shall comply with Section 2403.
The design pressure for testing shall be calculated in accordance with Chapter 16. Each assem-
bly shall be tested for 10 seconds at a load equal to 1.5 times the design pressure.
Figure 8.7: Preconstruction Load Test on a Door Hinge

Diagram Courtesy of Steel Door Institute and Builders Hardware Manufacturers Association
Skylights and sloped glazing also require preconstruction testing. Section 1710.6 references
Section 2405 for testing requirements for unit skylights and tubular daylight devices. Other
sloped glazing must follow the requirements of Chapter 24 of the IBC. Section 2405.5 requires
unit skylights to be tested and labeled in accordance with AAMA/WDMA/CSA 101/I.S./A440.
The performance grade rating is determined according to the standard.
1710.6 Skylights and sloped glazing. Unit skylights and tubular daylighting devices (TDDs)
shall comply with the requirements of Section 2405. All other skylights and sloped glazing
shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 24.
Test specimens must be representative of the elements that will be used in construction of the
structure. Test procedures and tested assemblies must take finished construction use and
alignment into account when testing. Testing is only valid when loading is similar to loads that
will occur in the building. Loading procedures are valid only if they approximate loads
expected in the structure. The test specimens used to determine the properties of the materials
in the test assemblies must be taken from the assemblies or material used to make the
assemblies. There needs to be a direct relationship between the materials tested and the
materials used in the construction of the structure. The testing will be done or witnessed by a
third-party agency. Section 1710.7 lists these requirements.
1710.7 Test specimens. Test specimens and construction shall be representative of the materi-
als, workmanship and details normally used in practice. The properties of the materials used to
construct the test assembly shall be determined on the basis of tests on samples taken from the
load assembly or on representative samples of the materials used to construct the load test
assembly. Required tests shall be conducted or witnessed by an approved agency.
Figure 8.8: Test Specimen
Material and Test Standards
Section 1711 lists requirements for the testing of joist hangers in light-frame wood
construction—for example the hangers used in a floor system to connect wood i-joists. The
procedures test vertical load-bearing capacity, torsional moment capacity and deflection of
the hangers using the referenced standard ASTM D 1761.
Joist Hangers
1711.1 Joist hangers. Testing of joist hangers shall be in accordance with Sections 1711.1.1
through 1711.1.3, as applicable.
1711.1.1 General. The vertical load-bearing capacity, torsional moment capacity and deflec-
tion characteristics of joist hangers shall be determined in accordance with ASTM D 1761
using lumber having a specific gravity of 0.49 or greater, but not greater than 0.55, as deter-
mined in accordance with AF&PA NDS for the joist and headers.
Exception: The joist length shall not be required to exceed 24 inches (610 mm).
Section 1711.1.2 defines how to determine the vertical load-

bearing capacity of the hangers by defining how the
allowable load is determined. The design load is the lowest
of five calculated loads. Each calculated capacity is based on
multiple tests using the same hanger assembly. The intent is
to determine a reasonable average capacity for a given type
of hanger attached with a specific fastener to a specific size
and species of lumber.
Figure 8.9: Joist Hangers
1711.1.2 Vertical load capacity for joist hangers. The vertical load-bearing capacity for the
joist hanger shall be determined by testing a minimum of three joist hanger assemblies as spec-
ified in ASTM D 1761. If the ultimate vertical load for any one of the tests varies more than 20
percent from the average ultimate vertical load, at least three additional tests shall be con-
ducted. The allowable vertical load-bearing of the joist hanger shall be the lowest value deter-
mined from the following:
1. The lowest ultimate vertical load for a single hanger from any test divided by three
(where three tests are conducted and each ultimate vertical load does not vary more
than 20 percent from the average ultimate vertical load).
2. The average ultimate vertical load for a single hanger from all tests divided by three
(where six or more tests are conducted).
3. The average from all tests of the vertical loads that produce a vertical movement of the
joist with respect to the header of 1/8 inch (3.2 mm).
4. The sum of the allowable design loads for nails or other fasteners utilized to secure the
joist hanger to the wood members and allowable bearing loads that contribute to the
capacity of the hanger.
5. The allowable design load for the wood members forming the connection.
Section 1711.1.2.1 allows additional modifications to the design load for load duration when
the allowable load is determined by the capacity of the fasteners or the capacity of the wood
members forming the connection.
1711.1.2.1 Design value modifications for joist hangers. Allowable design values for joist
hangers that are determined by Item 4 or 5 in Section 1711.1.2 shall be permitted to be modi-
fied by the appropriate load duration factors as specified in AF&PA NDS but shall not exceed
the direct loads as determined by Item 1, 2 or 3 in Section 1711.1.2. Allowable design values
determined by Item 1, 2 or 3 in Section 1711.1.2 shall not be modified by load duration factors.
Similar to tests for the vertical capacity of joist hangers are the requirements for determining
the torsional moment capacity of the hangers contained in Section 1711.1.3. This test does not
measure load capacity of the joist, rather it measures how much twisting is occurring in the
joist when the top or bottom of the joist moves 1/8 inch. Testing is done using ASTM D 1761.
Again, multiple identical assemblies are tested to get an average torsional moment.
1711.1.3 Torsional moment capacity for joist hangers. The torsional moment capacity for
the joist hanger shall be determined by testing at least three joist hanger assemblies as specified
in ASTM D 1761. The allowable torsional moment of the joist hanger shall be the average tor-
sional moment at which the lateral movement of the top or bottom of the joist with respect to
the original position of the joist is 1/8 inch (3.2 mm).
Rigid and Nonrigid Heavy Roof Tiles
Section 1711.2 contains the referenced standards for testing concrete and clay roof tiles for
overturning and testing within a wind tunnel. These tests look at a concrete or clay roof tile’s
ability to resist being pulled off a roof during high winds. Referenced are SSTD 11 for testing
and the roof provisions of Chapter 15 of the IBC. When the roof tiles do not meet IBC
requirements for rigid tiles, the tiles can be tested using a wind tunnel test to determine the
characteristics of the tile’s failure in high winds. The wind tunnel testing follows requirements
in SSTD 11 and Chapter 15.
1711.2 Concrete and clay roof tiles. Testing of concrete and clay roof tiles shall be in accor-
dance with Sections 1711.2.1 and 1711.2.2, as applicable.
1711.2.1 Overturning resistance. Concrete and clay roof tiles shall be tested to determine
their resistance to overturning due to wind in accordance with SBCCI SSTD 11 and Chapter
15.
1711.2.2 Wind tunnel testing. Where concrete and clay roof tiles do not satisfy the limitations
in Chapter 16 for rigid tile, a wind tunnel test shall be used to determine the wind characteris-
tics of the concrete or clay tile roof covering in accordance with SBCCI SSTD 11 and Chapter
15.
Figure 8.10: Wind Tunnel Research Facility

Photo Courtesy of the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety
Evaluation Reports
An evaluation report presents the findings of a technical evaluation of a building product,

component, method or material, certifying the product’s compliance with code requirements.
It is based on testing and review of the manufacturer’s procedures. Although the building
official does not see the actual test reports, the evaluation report provides summary evidence
that a product has been reviewed and approved for the uses stated in the evaluation report.
The intent of evaluation reports is to make it easier for building officials, plan reviewers, and
inspectors in the field to determine whether a product complies with the applicable code.
During plan review, care should be taken to verify that the proposed use is covered in the
evaluation report. If a new use is desired, new testing should occur. Evaluation reports are also
used by architects, engineers, designers and contractors to verify a product or system meets
building-code requirements.
Where the code or a recognized standard does not have specific criteria, evaluation reports
assess a product based on acceptance criteria developed to verify that the product is an
equivalent alternative to materials or methods specified in the code. When no appropriate
acceptance criteria exist, new criteria are developed based on applicable referenced standards.
Acceptance criteria may also be developed for specific issues related to a product. Appendix D
expands discussion of the use and provisions of acceptance criteria. An evaluation report
using ICC’s Evaluation Services program is included as an example.
New Products
When no evaluation report exists for a new product, the special inspector and building
department will need to deal directly with the manufacturer to obtain information necessary
for approval. The special inspector will need to verify that testing of the new product is
focused on the type of use to which the product will be put in the structure and that a
procedure, whether from a referenced standard or a testing procedure approved by the
building official, is followed during testing. During fabrication, the special inspector will
review the quality control documentation and alert the manufacturer to any discrepancies. If
discrepancies are not resolved, the special inspector will notify the building official and
registered design professional in responsible charge. The special inspector is typically from an
agency that specializes in third-party inspection of manufacturers and fabricators.
Chapter 9 – Approved Agencies
Approved agencies are established, recognized agencies regularly engaged in testing and
inspection that have been approved by the building official. Such agencies have received
approval from a building official to do specific types of special inspection within the jurisdic-
tion. When an owner or owner’s agent hires the agency, approval of the special inspection
agency generally happens rapidly, as the building official is already aware of the capabilities of
the company. The approval process is a check on an agency’s competency in inspecting one or
more types of special inspection.
Terminology
Quality control, quality assurance and special inspection—what do these terms mean and how
are they related?
Quality control. Quality control refers to procedures completed during manufacture of a

product to ensure a specified level of quality and measures taken by a supplier to control the
quality of the product. Each manufacturer maintains quality control procedures that allow
them to verify that the product they are producing meets a standard they follow, typically an
industry standard unless the product is new and unique.
Quality assurance. Quality assurance refers to verification by a third party of a product’s com-
pliance with the manufacturer’s procedures and the requirements of all applicable codes and
industry standards. Manufacturers may hire third-party inspectors, generally special inspec-
tion agencies, to certify that their product continues to meet the standard the industry has set.
Special Inspection. Special inspection and quality assurance are related in that special inspec-
tion is intended to achieve quality assurance during the construction process. Special inspec-
tion of manufacturers and fabrication shops may be done by special inspection agencies that
specialize in inspection of plants and their procedures. Special inspection at the construction
145
site includes inspection of materials, components, their installation, connections and, in some
cases, collection of samples for testing in a lab.
Approval. The term “approval” means approved by the building official or other authority
having jurisdiction. Approval is done by a building department when it approves a special
inspection agency to do inspections at the construction site, fabricator’s plant and/or testing
laboratory. The building official also approves materials, products and methods of construc-
tion that are not covered by or referenced in the code by reviewing an evaluation report,
research report or test results. The evaluation report or test report have had third-party inspec-
tion occur as part of the testing process. The building official has the authority to accept the
report as sufficient evidence that the product or method is equivalent to a code-referenced
material or method.
Approved Agency Characteristics
Section 1703.1 of the IBC defines the procedure for approving a special inspection agency and
lists attributes the agency must have. The section requires a special inspection agency to pro-
vide information necessary for a building official to make the decision to approve an agency.
In approving a special inspection agency, a building official looks for:

1. Independence of the agency from the contractor.
2. Sufficient equipment and knowledgeable staff to accurately perform required inspections
and testing. IBC Sections 1703.1.1 thru 1703.1.3 define these requirements.
1703.1.1 Independence. An approved agency shall be objective, competent and independent

from the contractor responsible for the work being inspected. The agency shall also disclose
possible conflicts of interest so that objectivity can be confirmed.
1703.1.2 Equipment. An approved agency shall have adequate equipment to perform required
tests. The equipment shall be periodically calibrated.
1703.1.3 Personnel. An approved agency shall employ experienced personnel educated in
conducting, supervising and evaluating tests and/or inspections.
Two standards assist in the process of determining whether an agency has the required compe-
tence and independence: ISO standard ISO 17020, Requirements for the operation of various
types of bodies performing inspection; and ASTM standard ASTM E 329, Standard Specification
for Agencies Engaged in Construction Inspection, Testing, or Special Inspection.
Chapter 9 – Approved Agencies 147
ISO 17020 covers the activities of inspection agencies whose work includes the examination of
materials, products, installations, plants, processes, work procedures or services. The agencies
determine conformity with codes and standards and report results to owners and building
officials. Inspection parameters include matters of quantity, quality, safety, fitness for purpose,
and continued safety compliance of installations or systems in operation. The general require-
ments with which these bodies are required to comply are detailed in this International Stan-
dard.
ASTM E 329 defines the minimum requirements for inspection agency and testing agency lab-
oratory personnel. The minimum technical requirements for equipment and procedures uti-
lized in testing and inspection are also specified. Criteria are provided for evaluating the
capability of the agency to properly perform designated tests on construction materials. Essen-
tial characteristics of an agency pertaining to organization, personnel, facilities and quality sys-
tems are also defined.
Use of ASTM E 329 is required in some jurisdictions. The standard gives minimum require-
ments against which special inspection agencies may compare themselves to determine
whether an agency will be approved for a given type of special inspection based on factors such
as experience, lab materials and equipment, and written quality control systems.
Chapter 10 of this manual describes in detail the process a building department goes through
while setting up a program used to approve special inspection agencies and special inspectors.
International Accreditation Services (IAS) accreditation is described as an example of how

agencies are determined to be competent to perform specific special inspections. See Appen-
dix E for more information on the accreditation process.
Chapter 10 – Building Departments
This chapter contains guidelines to help building departments develop, administer and
enforce special inspection programs in accordance with the IBC. The guidelines streamline
development of a special inspection program and suggest time-saving practices for jurisdic-
tions with a program in place. The terms “building department” and “building official” are
used synonymously throughout this chapter.
The building official establishes special inspection procedures, guidelines and forms. Special
inspection then is done by a third party reporting their findings to the contractor, the owner
or owner’s representative, and the building official. The building official’s role is to oversee the
special inspection process.
Duties of the Building Department
The building official has oversight of the special inspection program. This means having a
plan on the shelf ready to implement when a building permit application is made for a build-
ing requiring special inspection. At that point, a brief review of the original program plan and
its requirements should occur to verify that staffing responsibilities are assigned and clear.
Then the program is implemented. In larger jurisdictions, a statement of special inspections
may be included with most commercial construction plans. The program is part of the daily
routine.
While the typical duties of the building official are familiar, there are a few expanded duties
when supervising special inspection policies. The building official is authorized to render
interpretations of the code and adopt policies and procedures to comply with the require-
ments of the International Building Code. The special inspection program is one of those poli-
cies.
A building official must verify that all required inspections, including special inspection, are
completed. Similar to general inspection, reports updating the building official on the prog-
ress of special inspections are written and stored.
149
The following sections describe:

• Responsibilities within a building department that need to be assigned
• Establishing a special inspection program
Responsibilities of the Building Department
Establishing and maintaining a successful special inspection program requires due diligence
from everyone involved. This includes not only the building department, but also the special
inspection, structural engineering and construction communities.
Many large jurisdictions have rules and guidelines beyond the IBC provisions. These require-
ments supplement minimum requirements of the building code. Generally, smaller jurisdic-
tions may not have such detailed requirements, but provide the minimum level of special
inspection oversight required by the IBC.
A number of tasks pertaining to special inspection need to be addressed by the building

department during the life cycle of a construction project. These tasks require active coopera-
tion from everyone involved in order to be completed efficiently. Before creating a special
inspection program, there are several areas of responsibility that must be reviewed and criteria
set for a proper level of performance.
While the building department plays a
These areas include: very important role in administering a
special inspection program, the
• Staffing. building department does not perform
special inspections.
• Qualifications.
• Responsibility of major players.
• Ensuring competence.
• Setting approval criteria for agencies and inspectors.
Special Inspection Program Staffing
For a program to be effective, both office and field personnel are needed. Working as a team
helps make the process run smoothly and efficiently. In order to decide on correct staffing
needs, a broad range of prosedural and staffing questions must be answered, including:
1. Which building department staff will be required?
There will initially be a
 Plan review personnel—issuance of special inspec- number of forms,
tion agreements. applications, guidelines and
procedures that must be
 Plan check engineers (where available)—review
created or identified when
approval requests from special inspection agencies forming a special inspection
and their inspectors, review statement of special program. This is all done by
inspections. the special inspection
program development team.
Chapter 10 – Building Departments 151
Building department inspectors—monitor the agencies and review inspection and

final reports, check whether special inspection has been completed when doing juris-
dictional inspections.
2. How frequently are staff likely to be needed?
3. Where will they come from?
4. What physical resources are required?
5. How will the group be organized?
6. What qualifications will be set for staff?
7. How will work flow through the group?
8. How much of each individual’s time will be needed for the program?
Qualifications
Special inspections must be performed by specialists who are qualified and have a detailed
understanding of the construction sequence and code compliance issues involved with specific
materials and types of inspections. It is in the building department’s best interest to approve
the most qualified inspection agencies and special inspectors.
Responsibilities Outside the Building Department
There are a number of duties that are completed by individuals outside the building depart-
ment. The following list identifies the person charged with carrying out the duties and their
responsibilities.
Owner:
• Hires a special inspection agency or individual special inspector.
Registered Design Professional in Responsible Charge:

• Prepares the statement of special inspections.
• Chairs the preconstruction meeting.
• Coordinates the special inspections as the project progresses.
• Does structural observations or works with another RDP who completes the observa-
tions.
Contractor:
• Convenes a preconstruction meeting where tasks and responsibilities are clarified for
special inspections.
• Notifies the special inspection agency at appropriate stages in the construction cycle to
perform special inspections.
• Calls to request jurisdictional inspections.
Special Inspector/Special Inspection Agency:

• Ensures that all inspections are conducted as shown in the statement of special inspec-
tions.
Before a project begins, it is good practice to have the entire group meet in a preconstruction
meeting to ensure that everyone is clear on their respective roles in the special inspection and
construction process. The purpose for the special inspection is to verify that the more critical
aspects of construction are completed safely and correctly. As a construction project increases
in complexity, checking to make sure everyone understands the critical aspects of the building
is necessary. Additional discussion of preconstruction meetings is in Chapter 3.
Ensuring Competence
While creating a special inspection program, the building department’s formation team devel-
ops criteria and procedures that must be met by agencies and inspectors seeking eligibility to
work in that jurisdiction in the indicated capacity. The building department may require spe-
cial inspectors to obtain and maintain national certification. In addition, a level of demon-
strated experience may be required to obtain approval. Agencies and the inspectors must be
audited by the building department inspections group on a regular basis to ensure that they are
maintaining and following prescribed requirements. This may be yearly random audits or
more frequent audits if problems arise.
The building department may also conduct oral and written exams based on supplemental
regulations enacted by the jurisdiction.
Approval Criteria
The criteria for approval of special inspectors are set by the building official. These criteria can
be based on existing approval criteria such as:
• ASTM E 329 - Standard Specification for Agencies Engaged in Construction Inspection,
Testing, or Special Inspection.
• ASTM E 699 - Standard Practice for Evaluation of Agencies Involved in Testing, Quality
Assurance, and Evaluating of Building Components.
Or the department may write its own criteria based on referenced standards and local condi-
tions. The following minimum requirements shall be defined and included, regardless of how
the approval criteria are developed:
• Minimum experience.
• Minimum education.
• Minimum certification requirements.
This manual includes sample minimum qualifications created by certification committees.

They may be helpful in defining basic approval criteria requirements. The sample minimum
qualifications are located in Appendix C.
Special inspection agencies and inspectors submit an approval request with the appropriate
supporting documentation (resumes, certification, diplomas, etc.). These qualifying docu-
ments are compared to the department’s approval criteria. In some cases, a building depart-
ment representative may also interview prospective special inspectors.
Existing Special Inspection Programs Diligence must be

maintained in approving
special inspectors so
It may be helpful to set up contacts with building departments that quality is provided.
have established special inspection programs to turn to with ques-
tions. Many building departments, such as the City of Los Angeles,
California and Clark County, Nevada have developed detailed special inspection programs to
deal with typical and unique projects requiring special inspection. Many examples in this book
are based on documents from these two departments. Their websites contain information for
special inspectors and special inspection agencies. Such information includes lists of approved
fabricators, inspection agencies and inspectors. The City of Los Angeles department of building
and safety website is www.ladbs.org. The Clark County building department website is
www.clarkcountynv.gov/building. The information on their websites may be helpful when
designing a special inspection program.
Establishing a Special Inspection Program
A special inspection program requires procedures, guidelines and tem- Template forms are
plates to make the entire process as effective and efficient as possible. available in a pdf format
at www.iccsafe.org/
Templates for approval, records, agreement and audits have been siforms
included in Appendix B of this manual for use in developing the neces-
sary forms needed in a jurisdiction’s program. Although the forms may
be used as provided, they may not be a perfect fit for every department and may need to be tai-
lored to apply to local conditions. The forms are also available for download at www.iccsafe.org/
siforms.
Ideally, each building department develops customized forms and procedures to meet its spe-
cific needs and the needs of its community. There are seven basic steps to follow when develop-
ing a special inspection oversight program. Each building department will experience each step,
though the degree of work and amount of time required will vary depending on the size of the
department and the amount of support from the community and governing bodies.
The seven basic steps to develop a special inspection program are:

1. Establish qualifications and develop the quality assurance manual requirements for special
inspection agencies.
2. Evaluate and approve inspection agencies.
3. Verify individual special inspectors’ work history, education and certification.
4. Prescribe on-site and final report requirements and give the requirements to agencies.
5. Set up the procedure for issuing special inspection agreements to inspection agencies.
6. Develop a report review procedure.
7. Implement the program.
8. Re-evaluate steps 1-7 on an annual or biannual basis.
The building department needs special inspection agencies to deliver consistent quality over
time in the work they do. The department needs knowledge of the agencies’ past history and
written procedures to verify current work. The criteria to establish this level of quality assur-
ance are determined by each jurisdiction and should reflect the needs of each building depart-
ment.
Step 1: Establish Qualifications and Quality Assurance Requirements
The first step is to establish the required qualifications and develop the quality assurance
requirements for special inspection agencies. This section contains suggestions on what to
include in the documentation that establishes a special inspection agency’s qualifications and
quality control manual requirements. It is up to each individual building department to deter-
mine the criteria that best suits its needs.
Quality Control Manual
A quality control manual guideline indicating requirements for special inspectors and testing
technicians shall be made available to all agencies and inspectors seeking approval (see the
example in Appendix B, Section B.2). The guideline and its accompanying forms will include
requirements for creation of a quality control manual by the special inspection agency.
The quality control manual describes the special inspection agency’s responsibilities and lists
the criteria under which the agency is evaluated for building department approval. Each
agency seeking approval shall submit a quality control manual to the building department for
review and acceptance.
The manual will include inspection procedures, testing procedures, and record-keeping proce-
dures. The following information shall be provided in the quality control manual:
• 1.0 Agency purpose.
• 2.0 Agency organization.
• 3.0 Agency history.
• 4.0 Charts of the functions within the agency.
• 5.0 Competence of personnel.
• 6.0 Responsibilities and consequences.
• 7.0 Technical services.
• 8.0 Material resources of the agency.
• 9.0 Quality control procedures.
• 10.0 Special Inspection procedures.
• 11.0 Testing Procedures, when applicable.
• 12.0 Restrictions.
1.0 Agency Purpose
This section describes the types of special inspections performed by the agency. Only
special inspection tasks for which the agency has qualified personnel and proper equip-
ment should be listed here.
2.0 Agency Organization

The organization of the agency shall be included in the manual. This section will include:
• Description of the agency, including the complete legal name and address.
• Names and positions of the principal owners, officers and directors.
• Agency’s managerial structure and principal personnel.
• All major divisions or departments, including locations and primary functions.
• All branch offices of the agency, and the principal officers and directors of those
offices.
• External organizations, components and functions, utilized for significant supporting
technical services.
3.0 Agency History
A brief history of the agency and a general description of the types of special inspection it
has completed shall be included. If some work is from other states or countries, include
information on work completed and certification or approval achieved in those states or
countries.
4.0 Organizational Charts and Functions
A functional description of the agency’s organizational structure, operational depart-
ments, support departments and services must be included. This may be demonstrated in
the form of charts that depict all divisions, departments, sections, units and their opera-
tional activities.
5.0 Competence
The manual shall include information that demonstrates current and continued compe-
tence in performing the duties and services that an agency desires to perform. Some of
the items that shall be included in the agency’s quality control manual are:
• Written resumes, including certification achieved, for all management and supervi-
sory personnel.
• Organizational charts defining which responsibilities are technical, managerial or
both. Lines of responsibility, authority and supervisory accountability. Summary of
work experience records for each professional, scientific, supervisory and technical
position category, including the necessary education, training, certification and expe-
rience required for each position.
• A description of the agency’s means of maintaining personnel records to document
employee qualifications, work experience and training history.
• A description of the agency’s method of ensuring the continued competence of its
personnel, including the maintenance of records to document such programs.
6.0 Responsibilities and Consequences
The expected responsibilities of an approved agency and its inspectors shall be listed,
including responsibilities for each type of special inspection and those common to all
inspection tasks. Responsibilities for each test for which the agency seeks approval shall
be listed as well as common responsibilities for testing. Corrective action for incorrect
inspection or testing procedures shall be included, along with the consequences for not
fulfilling all responsibilities.
If the building official determines that an approved special inspector is negligent

in the performance of his or her assigned duties through a failure to be present to
perform necessary inspections or to provide acceptable daily reports, is engaged
in a conflict of interest or fails to conform to the requirements of the technical
guidelines, then that inspector shall be subject to removal from the approved list
for the particular inspection item involved in the negligent act.
Figure 10.1: Sample Responsibilities and Consequences Statement – Special Inspector
If the building official determines that an approved special inspection agency is

negligent in the performance its duties through a failure to assign inspectors to do
necessary inspections, provide acceptable reports, or conform to the requirements
of the technical guidelines, or is engaged in a conflict of interest, then that agency
shall be subject to removal from the approved list for the particular inspection
involved in the negligent act. Continued negligence will cause the agency to be
removed entirely from the approved list.
Figure 10.2: Sample Responsibilities and Consequences Statement – Special Inspection Agency
7.0 Technical Services

A list of all proposed special inspection and testing services (along with procedures and
criteria that are specifically listed) shall be included in the quality assurance manual that
an agency submits to the building department for initial evaluation and approval. Each
inspection or testing service must have staff certified to do the specific inspection, testing
or sampling procedures.
8.0 Material Resources of the Agency
An inventory of the agency’s relevant material resources shall be made available, includ-
ing:
• Laboratories; major test and inspection equipment and facilities; calibration stan-
dards and equipment.
• Procedures and facilities for the storage and conditioning of specimens and samples.
• Library listing of standards; listing of logistical services and data processing equip-
ment for technical operations.
9.0 Quality Control Procedures
The methods and procedures a special inspection agency uses to maintain quality shall be
submitted to the building department. This makes it possible to determine whether an
agency is maintaining consistent quality in its work. Procedures shall include anything
that the building department deems necessary to establish an adequate level of quality
control.
A special inspection agency’s quality control procedures shall include the following ele-
ments:
• The details of how inspection and testing activities will be performed so that code
requirements of the project can be met.
• A feedback process detailing how internal audits are used to improve project work
conformance compliance.
• A method for corrective action, including nonconformance and conformance report-
ing, to cause nonconforming work or materials to be brought to a point of acceptabil-
ity.
Quality control procedures shall be ongoing in the sense that improvements can be made
to the plan as the work proceeds or changes in scope.
10.0 Procedure
The procedural section of the manual shall include the procedures each inspector or
technician will following in doing a specific inspection or test. The standard used during
the inspection or test shall be listed here. This section shall also list the minimum experi-
ence needed for personnel assigned to do each type of inspection or test.
Special inspections involving materials and products not referenced in the IBC shall also
have detailed procedures included in this section. For example, post-installed anchors
require special inspection in their evaluation reports. The evaluation report lists the stan-
dard to follow when doing the inspection, or details the inspection itself. When describ-
ing the procedure for special inspection, reference the applicable standards or, when
appropriate, the applicable evaluation report.
11.0 Restrictions
Any restrictions placed on agency or inspectors shall be noted. These restrictions shall
include any area in which special stipulations are placed on the agency or inspectors.
A sample of a Quality Control Manual Guideline is available in Appendix B, Section B.1.
Step 2: Special Inspection Agency Application and Evaluation
In order for a special inspection agency to be approved, the agency must be qualified to do the
work for which it is seeking for approval. It is important that all potential special inspection
agencies provide the required forms to the building department.
Agency Approval Guidelines
Guidelines indicating requirements for special inspectors and testing technicians should be
made available to all agencies and inspectors seeking approval. Guidelines and their accompa-
nying forms will include information about the following required items:
• Scope – What does the approval cover?
• Definitions – Any industry-specific terminology.
• Abbreviations and acronyms – Any industry-specific terms.
• Purpose – Purpose of the approval listing form.
• Responsibilities – Responsibilities of the special inspection agency.
• Procedures – Process for receiving approval as a special inspection agency for a specific
material or process.
• Records – List of records to be submitted.
• References – Any referenced standards or codes to be followed for approval.
The guideline template in this manual, Approval Requirements Check Sheet, lists all of the
requirements applicants must meet in order to be approved. The form details specifics to
include in the agency’s quality control manual and other requirements the agency must dem-
onstrate. If all requirements are met, the agency can be approved. The Approval Requirements
Check Sheet is available in Appendix B, Section B.2.1.
Special Inspection Agency/Testing Agency Initial or Renewal Listing Form
This form is the formal application for special inspection agencies to become approved. The
form should provide for inclusion of the following information:
• Agency name, contact name and title, address, telephone, fax and business type.
• Applicable fees including initial listing or reinstatement, annual renewal and special
inspectors (if applicable).
• Payment types that are accepted.
• Statement requiring a copy of the quality assurance manual.
• Applicant’s name and signature.
• Building Department return address.
An example of a special inspection agency/testing agency initial or renewal listing form is

available in Appendix B, Section B.2.2.
Fabricators/Manufacturers Initial or Renewal Listing Form
Approved fabricators are an extension of the special inspection process, which requires guide-
line development, listings and compliance audits for manufacturers.
This form is the formal application for fabricators and manufacturers to become approved.
The form should include the following:
• Fabricator or manufacturer’s name, contact name and title, address, telephone, fax and
business type.
• Applicable fees including initial listing or reinstatement, annual renewal.
• Accepted payment types.
• Statement requiring a copy of the quality assurance manual.
• Applicant’s name and signature.
• Building Department return address.
An example of the fabricators/manufacturers initial or renewal listing form is available in

Appendix B, Section B.2.3.
Step 3: Special Inspector Application and Evaluation
In order for a special inspection agency to be approved, its inspectors must be qualified to do
the work for which the special inspection agency is seeking approval. This step calls for the
evaluation and subsequent approval or rejection of staff for predetermined responsibilities.
In order to work as a special inspector, an individual may be required to possess certification

and must have the appropriate experience. It is important that the building department has a
policy position on whether certification is required for each type of special inspection and
which certification is acceptable. For more information on certification and groups offering
certification, see Appendix C.
An individual must also possess the appropriate work experience. In this step, job tasks to be
performed by a special inspector are listed. The job tasks are classified by the type of work
being done, such as:
• Concrete.
• Masonry.
• Steel and welding.
VII. Masonry Grouting and Capping

1. Grout spaces: Verify that spaces are correctly sized and clean; cleanouts are
closed after inspection; and grout barriers are in place before grouting.
2. Dry packing: Verify proper application of dry packing.
3. Grouting: Verify proper grouting technique, including consolidation to
approved height of grout space, reconsolidation and vibration.
4. Capping: Verify construction of wall cap for weather tightness.
Figure 10.3: Sample Text from Special Inspection Work Verification Criteria for Masonry
In some jurisdictions, building department regulations stipulate that a special inspector must
work in an inspection agency or inspection testing agency that is under the responsible charge
of a registered engineer (civil). However, many jurisdictions allow an individual to work solo
as an independent inspector.
In other words, in some regions inspectors are qualified under an agency and are not permit-
ted to work on their own unless they are qualified as an agency. In other regions, the agency
and special inspectors are separately qualified, which allows a special inspector to work inde-
pendent of an agency for inspections.
Step 4: Prescribe On-site and Final Report Requirements
In order to monitor special inspections and to ensure that they are being done properly and in
accordance with design documents, frequent reports are required. Report forms can be created
by the building department to help streamline the reporting process. This entails describing
the reports to be submitted and the criteria that determine if a report is acceptable and prop-
erly formatted.
All report forms designed by the special inspection agency that are planned for use in per-
forming special inspection, engineering and/or testing must be submitted with the agency’s
quality assurance manual for review and approval by the building department.
Reports
All information concerning the report format and what is considered acceptable shall be
described in a “Reports” section of the Approval Requirements. An example of this section is
in Appendix B, Section B.3. Some of the recommended criteria are listed below:
• Allow as much lined space on the form as possible.
• Preprinted titles shall be kept to a minimum (e.g., project name, project address, job
number, date, report number and inspector’s name).
• Do not use preprinted headline material that presumes that the items listed below it are
going to be in compliance with the approved plans.
• Use the same Daily Report form format throughout each project. Do not use different
Daily Report forms for different inspection functions.
• All spin-off documentation, such as nonconforming item reports, resolution of noncon-
forming item reports, testing and/or inspection results, etc., shall be referenced in the
Daily Report with sufficient information to ensure traceability back to the Daily Reports.
• Reports shall contain a responsibility statement stating that the signed party agrees that
the work inspected was in accordance with the building department’s approved construc-
tion documents to the best of his or her knowledge.
To the best of my knowledge, work inspected was in accordance with the building
department approved design drawing, specifications and applicable workmanship
provisions of the IBC except as noted above.
Figure 10.4: Sample Text of Responsibility Statement
Daily Report Form
The daily report form should contain lined space for the following items:
• City or County.
• Permit number.
• Date.
• Inspection time; beginning and ending.
• Project name/address.
• Inspection type(s), coverage (continuous or periodic).
• Applicable plan details.
• Description of inspections made, including location.
• List of tests performed.
• List of items requiring correction, correction of previous listed items and previously listed
corrected items.
• Authorized changes to approved plans by RDP.
• Comments.
• Signature.
• Inspection agency.
• Printed name and ID number.
• Cc: Project owner.
An example of the daily report form is available in Appendix B, Section B.3.1.

Weekly Report Form
The weekly report form should contain lined space for the following items:
• City or County.
• Permit number.
• Date.
• Project name/address.
• Inspection type(s), coverage (continuous or periodic).
• Chart listing inspection dates, time (beginning and end), inspector (if more than one).
• Description of inspections made, including location.
• List of tests performed.
• List of items requiring correction, corrections of previous listed items and previously
listed uncorrected items.
• List of changes to approved plans authorized by RDP.
• Comments.
• Signature.
A statement indicating that the report is to remain at the job site with the contractor for review
by the building department inspector upon request shall be included. An example of the
weekly report form is available in Appendix B, Section B.3.2.
Discrepancy Notice
The discrepancy notice is intended to serve as formal notification to the contractor of a dis-
crepancy between design documents and actual construction. This form should include space
to fill in the information for the following:
• City or County.
• Permit number.
• Date.
• Project name and address.

• Inspection type, coverage (continuous or periodic).
• Where the notice shall be delivered to: contractor, engineer/architect, building depart-
ment.
• Area inspected.
• List of discrepancies to be corrected prior to proceeding with this phase of the work,
along with a reminder to secure inspection approval.
• Applicable details.
• Signature.
There shall be a statement indicating that this notice shall not be removed and shall be posted
adjacent to the building permit inspection record card. An example of the discrepancy notice
form is available in Appendix B, Section B.3.3.
By leaving space on the form for a delivery notice to the building department or RDP, the same
form may also be used if the discrepancy is not remediated by the contractor.
Final Reports
The special inspection final report serves as the announcement that required inspections have
been performed and the work is in compliance.
The quality assurance agency shall submit a final signed report stating whether all
work requiring special inspection was inspected, reported and found to be in sub-
stantial compliance with the approved plans, specifications and the [JURISDIC-
TION’S CODE]. Final reports shall not be submitted to [JURISDICTION] until all
noncompliances have been cleared or have been identified in the final report as
being unresolved and accepted by the building official.
Figure 10.5: Sample Text from a Final Special Inspection Report Guideline
Requirements for the special inspection final report shall be listed in the “Final Reports” sec-
tion of the quality assurance manual. The information shall specify:
• City or County.
• Permit number.
• Date.
• Address.
• Project name.
• Project address.
• When final reports are to be completed and submitted.
• To whom it shall be addressed.
• What must be included in the report.
• Who signs the report.

• Other reports included with the final report.
• What a signature indicates.
• Special inspector’s name.
• Special inspector’s ID number.
There shall be a statement to certify that the special inspector has performed special inspec-
tions that he or she was employed to inspect. An example of the final report form is available in
I certify that I performed special inspection on the following portions of

the work at the above address that required continuous inspections, and for
which I was employed.
Figure 10.6: Sample Text of Special Inspector Statement
Step 5: Issuing Special Inspection Agency Agreements
The next step of the special inspection program development process is to set up the procedure
for issuing special inspection agreements to inspection agencies. This step takes place once
inspectors and agencies have been approved by the building department.
Special Inspection Agreement
The special inspection agency agreement serves as the formal document stating that the owner
or registered design professional has hired an approved agency to perform the stated special
inspections. This document shall include the terms of the agreement and clarify what the spe-
cial inspection agency is expected to do.
The special inspection agency agreement shall be signed by all participating parties, including
the plans examiner. The special inspection agency name shall be printed on the agreement.
On this [DATE] the [JURISDICTION] Building Department acting through the

[NAME] as the owner or owner’s agent for the construction and/or alteration of a
structure/building known as [NAME/ ADDRESS OF BUILDING] for work
described as [TYPE OF BUILDING] with inspection or testing services being per-
formed by [AGENCY] an approved quality assurance/testing agency in the
County of [COUNTY NAME] in the State of [STATE NAME], agree to the follow-
ing:
That all work within the categories identified on the attached addendum shall be
inspected or tested in accordance with the provisions of section [#] of the building
code of [JURISDICTION] and that written results of those inspections or tests
shall be provided to the building official with copies available to the permit holder
upon the permittee’s request.
Figure 10.7: Sample Text from Special Inspection Agreement
The special inspection agreement states that:

• The building elements needing special inspection have been identified.
• The owner or owner’s agent is responsible for hiring the special inspector and funding all
testing.
• The building official shall determine when special inspection or testing services are to
commence and terminate based on the scope and progress of work.
• No testing services will be performed by the building official or building department.
An example of a Special Inspection Agreement Form is in Appendix B, Section B.4.1.

Addendum to the Special Inspection Agreement
The addendum to the special inspection agreement outlines all of the special inspections that
are to be performed. In addition, the addendum specifies when and where special inspections
and testing are required. It also lists any pertinent description of the required inspections.
On this [DATE] the [JURISDICTION] Building Department acting through the

[NAME] as the owner or owner’s agent for the construction and/or alteration of a
structure/building known as [NAME/ ADDRESS OF BUILDING] for work
described as [TYPE OF BUILDING] with inspection or testing services being per-
formed by [AGENCY] an approved quality assurance/testing agency in the
County of [COUNTY NAME] in the State of [STATE NAME], agree to the follow-
ing:
inspected or tested in accordance with the provisions of section [#] of the building
code of [JURISDICTION] and that written results of those inspections or tests
shall be provided to the building official with copies available to the permit holder
upon the permittee’s request.
Figure 10.8: Sample Text from the Statement of Special Inspection Agreement
An example of an addendum to the special inspection agreement is available in Appendix B,

Section B.4.2.
Step 6: Developing a Report Review Procedure
In order to ensure that special inspections are being performed as required and in a satisfac-
tory manner, it is necessary for the building department to perform audits and to review the
reports that are submitted. When developing a report review procedure, there are several
forms that shall be generated and made available. These reports will guide the building depart-
ment’s report review process.
• Statement of audits.
• Technical guidelines for quality assurance inspection/testing agency project audits.
• Field operations audits.
• Field testing audits.
Statement of Audits
Letting all parties know from the onset that audits will take place helps to show that the audit-
ing process is a quality control measure and not a sign of lack of trust. All parties involved in
the special inspection process shall be made aware that audits will occur during construction.
Notifying everyone involved provides several benefits:

• Involved parties will be more likely to maintain a high level of quality.
• Parties to be audited will be much more compliant since the audit will not be a total sur-
prise.
• There will be easier access to materials to be audited since the audit will not be totally
unexpected.
Special inspection and/or testing agencies are subject to performance evaluation of

services provided at or away from a project site. Evaluation of approved and listed
agencies and personnel will be performed at random, both in the field and office,
by [JURISDICTION] staff on a routine or periodic basis or as required by specific
operations.
Figure 10.9: Sample Text for Statement of Audit
Technical Guidelines for Special Inspection/Testing Agency Project Audits
The technical guidelines for special inspection/testing agency project audits serve as docu-
mentation of the audit and review process. The guidelines specify how audits will be per-
formed, evaluation criteria and what is to happen if the party being audited is found to be
performing in an unsatisfactory manner. Some important aspects of the review and audit pro-
cess are listed below and must be included in the paperwork.
• Special inspection verification: The building department shall verify special inspection
activity on projects where special inspection and/or testing agency special inspectors are
assigned to provide the required special inspection.
• Verification objectives: Statement of why audits and reviews take place and justification
of their use to the involved parties.
• Special inspection standards (Consists of three parts):
1. Summary of expectations of the special inspector.
2. Statement indicating that work must stop unless the special inspector is present dur-
ing construction of those elements requiring special inspection as detailed on the spe-
cial inspection agreement.
3. Statement indicating the building official can require more special inspectors to be
placed on a job if he or she feels it is necessary due to the complexity or magnitude of
the job.
All reports must document that information which is used to make the evaluation
is in such form that others who may have reason to read these reports in conjunc-
tion with the plans and specifications, either during construction or long after
construction, will be able to evaluate the project’s conformity to the plans and
specifications and perceive how well the inspector performed his/her duties.
There is no other practical way to evaluate the performance of a special inspector,

who is usually performing independently, other than to treat his/her reports as the
product by which this judgment is made.
The statement “as per approved plans and specifications” will not be used as a
catch-all phrase. Reports must be constructed in an explicit manner with sufficient
information to describe what was physically inspected or took place.
Inspector responsibilities: Details the responsibilities of the inspector, including

the need for accuracy, statement of personal responsibility for inspections, verifi-
cation responsibilities, reports and any other items the jurisdiction deems impor-
tant.
Verification procedure: Outline of the steps for conducting verification (audits).

This shall include establishing a verification schedule, who will perform the verifi-
cation, how verification personnel shall be selected, how verifications will be con-
ducted and reporting verification findings.
Report of verification findings: Each element of the special inspection identified

on the special inspection agreement and addendum will be verified. The verifica-
tion auditor shall review the completed construction and the inspections per-
formed on that work and its relationship to current construction and inspection;
and what influence past and current construction and inspection may have on
future construction activity. Critical attention will be paid to connections of all
types and the details related to those connections.
Verification checklist: The verification checklist is actually a part of the technical

guidelines special inspection/testing agency project audits paperwork, but its
details are important enough to discuss. This checklist contains a series of yes/no
questions that reflect all of the criteria that the jurisdiction deems important in
order to determine that the highest level of quality is maintained. These questions
reflect the expectations of the special inspector and/or agency.
Figure 10.10: Sample Text from Inspection/Testing Agency Project Audit
An example of a technical guideline for special inspection agency project audits is available in
Field Operations Audits
Audits of field operations are designed to verify that inspectors are following guidelines that
have been stipulated by the jurisdiction. These audits shall include reports as well as anything
else that might demonstrate compliance or noncompliance by inspectors.
An example of a field operations audit is available in Appendix B, Section B.5.2.
Do all daily reports use a proper method of identifying the locations of the build-
ing elements inspected, i.e., grid line numbers, letters, written description?
Do the reports also reference the section and details that graphically show the
items being inspected?
Figure 10.11: Sample Text from Field Operation Audit Report
Field Testing Audits
Field testing audit forms are used to evaluate the testing technician’s performance in the field.
The form contains a series of questions for each test that is being audited that can be used to
verify the quality of work being performed by the testing technician.
An example of a field testing audit is available in Appendix B, Section B.5.3.
Sampling Fresh Concrete

1.Has the time between first and final portions of sample been 15 minutes or less?
2.Have the portion samples been remixed with a shovel to uniform consistency?
3.Did the slump and air tests begin within 5 minutes after sampling?
4.Was the strength test started within 15 minutes after mixing composite sample?
5.Was the sample protected from sun and wind to prevent evaporation and contam-
ination?
Figure 10.12: Sample Text from Field Testing Audit Report
Step 7: Implement the Program
Upon writing the special inspection oversight program in accordance with the previous six
steps, it is time to implement the program. At this point, time should be taken to ensure that
steps are carefully followed and that there are no loose ends. The department is ready to accept
applications for approval.
By the time Step 7 is reached, the special inspection pro-

gram development team has: REMEMBER:
The main purpose of a special
inspection program is to ensure safety
1. Established the qualifications and quality assurance for those who will occupy a building. A
manual requirements for special inspection agen- lack of quality can lead to the
cies. construction of buildings that do not
provide an adequate level of safety.
2. Evaluated and approved special inspection agencies.
3. Evaluated and approved special inspectors.
4. Prescribed on-site and final report requirements.
5. Set up the procedure for issuing special inspection
agreements to special inspection agencies.
6. Developed a report review procedure.
Step 8: Revaluating the Program Periodically
As mentioned previously, to keep the special inspection oversight program focused on local
needs and conditions, the program should be reviewed periodically. Annual or biannual
review allows an opportunity to update the program with changes that streamline the process
and help provide information for special inspectors, contractors, RDPs, and the building
department.
Changes may also be made during use of the program with review of the change during the
periodic evaluation to verify that changes have been successful.
Appendix A – Definitions
The definitions in this appendix come from the IBC or are generally accepted definitions.
Where the IBC defines a term, the definition is followed by [IBC] to indicate the definition
may be found in Chapter 2 of the IBC.
ACCREDITATION BODY. An approved, third-party organization that is independent of

the grading and inspection agencies, and the lumber mills, and that initially accredits and sub-
sequently monitors, on a continuing basis, the competency and performance of a grading or
inspection agency related to carrying out specific tasks. [IBC]
ALTERNATIVE MATERIALS. Material not prescribed by the IBC. (Not defined in the IBC)
ALTERNATIVE TEST PROCEDURE. Test standard not prescribed nor referenced in the
IBC. (Not defined in the IBC)
APPROVED. Acceptable to the building official or authority having jurisdiction. [IBC]
APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized agency regularly engaged in conduct-

ing tests or furnishing inspection services, when such agency has been approved. [IBC]
APPROVED FABRICATOR. An established and qualified person, firm or corporation

approved by the building official pursuant to Chapter 17 of this code. [IBC]
BUILDING OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the adminis-
tration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative. [IBC]
Note: in this manual, the terms “building official” and “building department” are used inter-
changeably. Both terms refer to the jurisdictional duties and actions that occur during a con-
struction project.
CONTRACTOR. Section 1704.4 outlines the responsibilities of the contractor in the special
inspection aspects of the project. The contractor is required to submit a written statement to
the building official acknowledging awareness of the testing and inspection requirements, that
169
quality control procedures are in place for the project, and that there will be a responsible party
within the contractor's company who will be in charge of executing quality control procedures.
(Not defined in the IBC)
CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY. Written statement acknowledging awareness of require-

ments in the statement of special inspections. (Not defined in the IBC)
CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS. Written, graphic and pictorial documents prepared or

assembled for describing the design, location and physical characteristics of the elements of a
project necessary for obtaining a building permit. [IBC]
DEEP FOUNDATION. A deep foundation is a foundation element that does not satisfy the
definition of a shallow foundation. [IBC]
CAST-IN-PLACE. A concrete or grout pile that is drilled with the concrete or grout
added as drilling progresses or once drilling is complete. The pile may have an exterior
casing or reinforcement. (Not defined in the IBC)
DRIVEN. Prefabricated piles, typically steel elements, driven into ground by pile driver.
HELICAL PILE. Manufactured steel deep-foundation element consisting of a central

shaft and one or more helical bearing plates. A helical pile is installed by rotating it into
the ground. Each helical bearing plate is formed into a screw thread with a uniform
defined pitch. [IBC]
MICROPILE. A micropile is a bored, grouted-in-place deep-foundation element that

develops its load-carrying capacity by means of a bond zone in soil, bedrock or a combi-
nation of soil and bedrock. [IBC]
DESIGNATED SEISMIC SYSTEM. Those nonstructural components that require design in

accordance with Chapter 13 of ASCE 7 and for which the component importance factor, Ip, is
greater than 1 in accordance with Section 13.1.3 of ASCE 7. [IBC]
Common usage of this term includes structural systems that have been marked as seismic sys-
tems on the construction documents.
DRILLED SHAFT. A drilled shaft is a cast-in-place deep-foundation element constructed by

drilling a hole (with or without permanent casing) into soil or rock and filling it with fluid con-
crete. [IBC]
EXTERIOR INSULATION AND FINISH SYSTEMS (EIFS). EIFS are nonstructural, non-
load-bearing, exterior wall cladding systems that consist of an insulation board attached either
adhesively or mechanically, or both, to the substrate; an integrally reinforced base coat and a
textured protective finish coat. [IBC]
Appendix A – Definitions 171
EXTERIOR INSULATION AND FINISH SYSTEMS (EIFS) WITH DRAINAGE. An EIFS

that incorporates a means of drainage applied over a water-resistive barrier. [IBC]
FABRICATED ITEM. Structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting assemblies consisting

of materials assembled prior to installation in a building or structure, or subjected to opera-
tions such as heat treatment, thermal cutting, cold working or reforming after manufacture
and prior to installation in a building or structure. Materials produced in accordance with
standard specifications referenced by this code, such as rolled structural steel shapes, steel
reinforcing bars, masonry units and wood structural panels, or in accordance with a refer-
enced standard which provides requirements for quality control done under the supervisions
of a third-party quality control agency, shall not be considered "fabricated items." [IBC]
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. A building with an occupied floor located more than 75 feet above
the lowest level of fire department vehicle access. [IBC]
INSPECTION. The observation of construction for general conformance with the approved
design drawings and specifications. It shall not be relied upon by others as acceptance or guar-
antee of work, nor shall it in any manner relieve any contractor, or any other party, from their
obligations and responsibilities under the construction contract, or generally accepted indus-
try custom. (Not defined in the IBC)
INSPECTION CERTIFICATE. An identification applied on a product by an approved agency

containing the name of the manufacturer, the function and performance characteristics, and
the name and identification of an approved agency that indicates that the product or material
has been inspected and evaluated by an approved agency (see Section 1703.5 and "Label,"
"Manufacturer's designation" and "Mark"). [IBC]
INTUMESCENT FIRE-RESISTANT COATINGS. Thin film liquid mixture applied to sub-

strates by brush, roller, spray or trowel which expands into a protective foamed layer to provide
fire-resistant protection of the substrates when exposed to flame or intense heat. [IBC]
JURISDICTION: The governmental unit that has adopted this code under due legislative
authority. [IBC]
Each building jurisdiction has requirements for the certification of special inspectors and test-
ing agencies, and these requirements vary significantly. In addition, these regulations are sub-
ject to revision by each building jurisdiction at a much greater frequency than the typical code
cycle.
LABEL. An identification applied on a product by the manufacturer that contains the name of
the manufacturer, the function and performance characteristics of the product or material, and
the name and identification of an approved agency and that indicates that the representative
sample of the product or material has been tested and evaluated by an approved agency (see
Section 1703.5 and "Inspection certificate," "Manufacturer's designation" and "Mark"). [IBC]
LABELED. Equipment, materials or products to which has been affixed a label, seal, symbol or
other identifying mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency or
other organization concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of
the production of the above-labeled items and whose labeling indicates either that the equip-
ment, material or product meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for
a specified purpose. [IBC]
LIGHT-FRAME CONSTRUCTION. A type of construction whose vertical and horizontal

structural elements are primarily formed by a system of repetitive wood or cold-formed steel
framing members. [IBC]
LISTED. Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organi-

zation acceptable to the building official and concerned with evaluation of products or services
that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic
evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or
service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified pur-
pose. [IBC]
MAIN WINDFORCE-RESISTING SYSTEM. An assemblage of structural elements assigned

to provide support and stability for the overall structure. The system generally receives wind
loading from more than one surface. [IBC]
MASTIC FIRE-RESISTANT COATINGS. Liquid mixture applied to a substrate by brush,

roller, spray or trowel that provides fire-resistant protection of a substrate when exposed to
flame or intense heat. [IBC]
MEMBRANE-PENETRATION FIRESTOP SYSTEM. An assemblage consisting of a fire-

resistance-rated floor-ceiling, roof-ceiling or wall assembly, one or more penetrating items
installed into or passing through the breach in one side of the assembly and the materials or
devices, or both, installed to resist the spread of fire into the assembly for a prescribed period
of time. [IBC]
NONDESTRUCTIVE TESTING (NDT). Testing techniques that do not destroy the assembly
or component tested. NDT may use ultrasound or X-ray, dyes or mechanical means to reduce
the number of destructive tests required over a wide area of the structure. (Not defined in the
IBC)
OWNER. Any person, agent, firm or corporation having a legal or equitable interest in the
property. [IBC]
Building owners play a significant role in the construction administration and quality assur-
ance practiced for the project. The owner hires the design professionals, construction contrac-
tors, and special inspection and testing agencies.
PENETRATION FIRESTOP. A through-penetration firestop or a membrane-penetration

firestop. [IBC] See definitions for through-penetration firestop system and membrane-pene-
tration firestop system.
PERMIT. An official document or certificate issued by the authority having jurisdiction which
authorizes performance of a specified activity. [IBC]
PRECONSTRUCTION MEETING: A preconstruction meeting is an excellent way of estab-

lishing the lines of communication among the design team, the contractor, and the special
inspector. This meeting can also be used to clarify any special inspection requirements that
may be unclear or are of particular importance. Topics that can be covered in a preconstruc-
tion meeting include:
• Special inspection requirements.
• Submittal procedures.
• Scheduling.
• Routing procedures.
• Communication protocol.
• Contact personnel.
• Construction document revisions.
• Inspection reports.
The primary benefit of a preconstruction meeting is that it establishes early in the project how
construction issues and problems will be handled before such issues develop. (Not defined in
the IBC)
PRESCRIBE. To specify or define the minimum requirements of a material or the steps of a

method of construction in a code or standard. (Not defined in the IBC)
PRESCRIPTIVE. A group or set of rules to follow for a method of construction. (Not defined
in the IBC)
PRISM. An assemblage of masonry units and mortar with or without grout used as a test spec-
imen for determining properties of the masonry. [IBC]
REGISTERED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL. An individual who is registered or licensed to

practice their respective design profession as defined by the statutory requirements of the pro-
fessional registration laws of the state or jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed.
[IBC]
REGISTERED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL IN RESPONSIBLE CHARGE. A registered

design professional engaged by the owner to review and coordinate certain aspects of the proj-
ect, as determined by the building official, for compatibility with the design of the building or
structure, including submittal documents prepared by others, deferred submittal documents
and phased submittal documents. [IBC]
The design professional in responsible charge is responsible for submitting the statement of
special inspections and for general overview of the construction administration program. This
responsibility includes reviewing and processing all submittals, reviewing special reports, and
serving as the primary conduit of communication between the contractor, the owner, and the
design team. There are also a number of special inspections of architectural elements, includ-
ing fireproofing, exterior veneer and heavy partitions, which the design professional will need
to monitor. Often the design professional in responsible charge is an architect.
SEISMIC FORCE-RESISTING SYSTEM. That part of the structural system that has been
considered in the design to provide the required resistance to the prescribed seismic forces.
[IBC]
SHALLOW FOUNDATION. A shallow foundation is an individual or strip footing, a mat

foundation, a slab-on-grade foundation or a similar foundation element. [IBC]
SPECIAL INSPECTION. Inspection of construction requiring the expertise of an approved

special inspector in order to ensure compliance with this code and the approved construction
documents. [IBC]
Continuous special inspection. Special inspection by the special inspector who is

present when and where the work to be inspected is being performed. [IBC]
Periodic special inspection. Special inspection by the special inspector who is inter-
mittently present where the work to be inspected has been or is being performed.
[IBC]
SPECIAL INSPECTION FINAL REPORT. The final report documents completed special
inspections, any discrepancies and their corrections, and special inspections that were not
completed. (IBC, Section 1704.2.4)
SPECIAL INSPECTOR. A qualified person employed or retained by an approved agency and

approved by the building official as having the competence necessary to inspect a particular
type of construction requiring special inspection. [IBC]
Some building officials allow a structural engineer to perform certain special inspections on
projects that the engineer has designed and sealed. This practice, like inspector certification,
varies greatly by jurisdiction and thus is not discussed in detail within this document. Should a
qualified structural engineer wish to perform special inspection on projects that he or she
designed, the engineer is encouraged to contact the appropriate building official to confirm
approval.
SPECIFY. To require a material or method of construction in the construction documents.

SPRAYED FIRE-RESISTANT MATERIALS. Cementitious or fibrous materials that are

sprayed to provide fire-resistant protection of the substrates. [IBC]
STATEMENT OF SPECIAL INSPECTIONS. The statement of special inspections (Section

1704) identifies the materials, systems, components and work required to have testing and spe-
cial inspections for a given project. The statement is written by the design professional in
responsible charge as a condition for issuing the building permit. The statement must be a
detailed list of testing and inspection requirements. (IBC, Section 1704.3)
STEEL CONSTRUCTION, COLD-FORMED. That type of construction made up entirely or

in part of steel structural members cold formed to shape from sheet or strip steel such as roof
deck, floor and wall panels, studs, floor joists, roof joists and other structural elements. [IBC]
STEEL MEMBER, STRUCTURAL. Any steel structural member of a building or structure

consisting of a rolled steel structural shape other than cold-formed steel, or steel joist mem-
bers. [IBC]
STRUCTURAL OBSERVATION. The visual observation of the structural system by a regis-

tered design professional for general conformance to the approved construction documents.
Structural observation does not include or waive the responsibility for the inspection required
by Sections 110, 1705 or other sections of this code. [IBC]
The owner is free to employ a registered design professional of his or her own choosing for
structural observations. However, since the architect or engineer responsible for the design is
more knowledgeable of the building system than an outside observer and has a vested interest
in successful completion of construction, it is strongly recommended that structural observa-
tion be conducted by the responsible design professionals.
SUBMITTAL DOCUMENTS = CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS. Written, graphic and

pictorial documents prepared or assembled for describing the design, location and physical
characteristics of the elements of a project necessary for obtaining a building permit. [IBC]
TESTING. Tests done on representative assemblies built to match use of the fabricated mate-
rial or assembly in the submittal documents. Testing is done when using a material, method or
assembly that is not prescribed in the code. (Not defined in the IBC)
THROUGH PENETRATION. A breach in both sides of a floor, floor-ceiling or wall assembly

to accommodate an item passing through the breaches. [IBC]
THROUGH-PENETRATION FIRESTOP SYSTEM. An assemblage consisting of a fire-resis-

tance-rated floor, floor-ceiling, or wall assembly, one or more penetrating items passing
through the breaches in both sides of the assembly and the materials or devices, or both,
installed to resist the spread of fire through the assembly for a prescribed period of time. [IBC]
WATER-RESISTIVE BARRIER. A material behind an exterior wall covering that is intended

to resist liquid water that has penetrated behind the exterior covering from further intruding
into the exterior wall assembly. [IBC]
WELDMENT. Assemblies or components which have been welded together. (Not defined in
the IBC)
Appendix B – Forms
177
B.1 Technical Guidelines

B.1.1 Quality Control Manual Guideline
Quality Control Manual Guidelines
This guideline provides information for receiving an approved listing and the preparation of a
quality control manual. It also describes agency responsibilities and elements that will be
reviewed in the evaluation and approval process for special inspection and/or testing agencies.
All special inspection and/or testing agencies that wish to become approved by
[DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING] shall apply for approval using forms available for that
purpose. Forms are available from [BUILDING DEPARTMENT/ADDRESS].
Each agency seeking approval status must submit a Quality Control Manual to
[JURISDICTION] for review and acceptance. An approved agency may be a verification
agency for fabricator audits or a third-party inspection/testing agency employed by the owner
to fulfill the role of special inspection/testing of [CODE USED/INSPECTION] [NUMBER
OF] items.
Organization of the Agency: The following information shall be included in the quality
control manual:
• Description of the organization, including complete legal name and address.
• Names and positions of the principal owners, officers and directors.
• Agency’s managerial structure and principal personnel.
• All major divisions or departments, including their locations and primary function shall
be shown and described.
• All branch offices of the agency, and the principal officers and directors of those offices,
when approval is sought for those offices.
• External organizations, organizational components and their functions that are utilized
for significant supporting technical services.
Organization History: A brief history of the agency and a general description of the types of
users of the organization’s services shall be provided.
Organization Charts and Functions: A functional description of the agency’s

organizational structure, operational departments, support departments and services shall be
included. This may be demonstrated in the form of charts that depict all divisions,
departments, sections, units and their operational activities.
Technical Services: A list of all proposed special inspection, engineering and testing services
that the agency may wish to provide shall be included in the manual. Each inspection and/or
testing service must be related to specific testing and sampling procedures and/or inspection
criteria. Procedures and criteria shall be specifically listed in the quality control manual plans
submitted for initial review and approval.
1 of 10
Appendix B – Forms 179
[JURISDICTION] has determined that inspection and testing of piling, drilled piers and
caissons, special grading, excavation and filling shall ONLY be inspected by a [NAME OF
STATE] registered professional engineer. Other special cases may also be determined by the
building official to require the expertise of a [NAME OF STATE] registered professional
engineer. When required, these special case services will be specifically indicated on project
Special Inspection Agreements or addenda to these agreements.
Agencies that plan to provide engineering services for inspection of piling, drilled piers and
caissons, grading, excavation and filling along with any special case determined by the
building official as requiring special inspection and/or testing by a [NAME OF STATE]
registered professional engineer shall indicate, by name and job title, the persons who will
provide the service. Reports that will be signed by an engineer shall be specifically identified in
the submitted manual.
Human Resources of the Agency: Lists of inspection services shall also show the names of
those inspectors that the organization plans to use in providing those services. Each new or
amended list of services, testing technicians, inspectors and engineers shall require a new
[NAME OF JURISDICTION] approval. All lists shall be accompanied by resumes showing
dates of inspector experience and testing technician qualifications, accreditations,
registrations, etc.
In addition to inspector, testing technicians and engineer information previously described,

the following information shall be included in the agency quality control manual and quality
assurance plan:
• Written resumes and/or charts for all management and supervisory personnel. Resumes
shall detail qualifications and work experience history pertinent to the services proposed
to be provided by the special inspection and/or testing agency. Organizational charts shall
define which responsibilities are technical, management or both. Lines of responsibility,
authority and supervisory accountability must be clearly detailed.
Summary work experience records for each professional, scientific, supervisory and technical
position category, including the necessary education, training or experience required for each
position shall be maintained in the special inspection and/or testing agency office files. Work
experience records will be reviewed by [NAME OF JURISDICTION] each quarter after
approval and listing.
• A description of the organization’s means of maintaining personnel records to document
employee qualifications, work experience and training history.
• A description of the agency’s method for ensuring the continued competence of its per-
sonnel, including the maintenance of records to document such programs.
2 of 10
Approved agencies shall be responsible to supervise all special inspectors and testing
technicians. Approved agencies shall assign only trained, experienced [NAME OF
JURISDICTION] approved special inspectors and testing technicians to projects
requiring special inspection and/or testing. Approved agencies are responsible for all
actions of their approved special inspectors and testing technicians.
If the building official determines that an approved special inspector is negligent in the
performance of his or her assigned duties through a failure to be present to perform
necessary inspections, or failure to provide acceptable daily reports, or is engaged in a
conflict of interest, or fails to conform to the requirements of the technical guidelines, then
that inspector shall be subject to removal from the approved list for the particular
inspection item involved in the negligent act. The Special Inspection Agency shall receive
an SIA correction notice for the first negligent act of a particular inspector. This SIA
correction notice must be cleared or resolved within three working days. A second
negligent act would require the inspector’s supervisor or quality control manager to
present a training plan to cover the areas of deficiency. A third SIA correction notice
within a quarter will result in the removal or suspension of the special inspector from the
approved list for the item or items involved. Failure of the SIA to correct the deficiency
causing the removal of the special inspector will result in disciplinary action and/or
suspension from the [JURISDICTION’S] approved list.
Agency special inspectors may not be in the employ of the contractor, subcontractor or
material supplier. In the case of an owner/contractor, the special inspector/agency shall be
employed as specified by the building official.
Material Resources of the Agency: An inventory of its relevant material resources shall
be made available by the agency, including:
• Laboratories, major test and inspection equipment and facilities, calibration standards
and equipment.
• Library listing of standards, procedures and facilities for the storage and conditioning
of specimens and samples.
• Logistical services and data processing equipment for technical operations.
3 of 10
Quality Systems of the Agency: The following information concerning procedural methods
that directly affect the quality of proposed services shall be made available to the building
official:
• Written quality assurance plans, calibration programs, standardization of test methods
measurement and determination, traceability or credibility, or both (as applicable), of
standards used, data recording, processing and reporting must be contained within each
quality control manual submitted for approval. Quality assurance plans must show exact
lines of authority for managerial and technical accountability.
• Each agency must perform in-house office and on-site internal audits. Records of these
audits must be available for review by the building official. Example audit forms must be
submitted with each quality control manual.
Quality Assurance Plans: All agencies seeking approval must provide within their quality
control manuals an acceptable generic quality assurance plan. In addition to the generic
quality assurance plan, some projects may require that a job-specific quality assurance plan be
submitted for review and acceptance by the building official. All plans shall contain, as a
minimum, the following information:
Each record or plan must identify project name, location, owner and contractor.
[JURISDICTION] Qualify Assurance form QA- [NUMBER] must be referenced and an
example of a completed form included in the plan. Quality assurance plans shall outline the
inspection, testing and engineering tasks to be performed by the agency. Inspection and
engineering tasks must be made to ensure that the constructed work conforms to [NAME OF
JURISDICTION] Code, approved plans, documents and specifications. Plans shall detail
engineering, inspection and testing procedures, including forms to be used, and acceptance/
rejection criteria.
In addition to the above, all quality control plans must include the four basic elements below:
• The plan must show how inspection, engineering and testing activities will be performed
so that code requirements of the project can be met.
• There must be a system of feedback information that will, as a minimum, detail how
internal audits will be used for the assessment of project work conformance compliance.
• A method for corrective action, including nonconformance and conformance reporting,
must be implemented to cause nonconforming work or materials to be brought to a point
of acceptability.
• Plans shall be ongoing in the sense that improvements to the plan or changes to the scope
of work can be made as the work proceeds.
The quality control plan shall also identify the agency’s personnel, by job title, who will be
responsible for on-site supervision and performance of all inspections, engineering and
testing. When required by the building official, job-specific quality assurance plans must be
submitted to and approved by [NAME OF JURISDICTION].
4 of 10
SAMPLE
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING
Samuel Justice, Director
INSPECTION DIVISION
Angela Hobbins, Assistant Director
4387 S. Anyway Road
Any Town, USA 12345
(307) 440-7220
Fax: (307) 440-7464
SUBJECT: [FORM #1] (if applicable) REVISION #1]: Minimum Qualifications for Special
Inspectors and Testing Technicians
1.0 Purpose: This guideline sets forth minimum qualification and experience requirements
for special inspectors and testing technicians. Also included in this technical
guideline are procedures for obtaining [NAME OF JURISDICTION]
building department approval for special inspectors and testing technicians.
2.0 Scope: The approval process and minimum requirements are for both graduate
engineers and technical personnel. The engineers shall be evaluated separately,
depending upon their professional status.
3.0 Abbreviations and Acronyms:

AABC: Associated Air Balance Council
ACI: American Concrete Institute
CWI: Certified Welding Inspector
ICC: International Code Council
ISA: Instrument Society of America
NAARSO:National Association of Amusement Ride Safety Officials
NDT: Nondestructive Testing
NICET:National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies
NEBB: National Environmental Balancing Bureau
PCI: Prestressed Concrete Institute
QC: Quality Control
SI: Special Inspection Agency
TG: Technical Guidelines
TMS: The Masonry Society
5 of 10
Date: [MONTH, DAY, YEAR]

Department: Building
Division/Group: Inspection/Engineering
[FORM #]: [REVISION #] (continued)
4.0 Definitions:
Quality Control: A managerial process that consists of the following steps to: (1)
evaluate actual quality performance; (2) compare actual performance to
quality goals; and (3) take action on the difference.
Quality Assurance: An independent evaluation of quality-related performance,
conducted primarily for the information of those not directly involved in
conduct of operations but who have a need to know.
5.0 References:
Building Code of [JURISDICTION][CODEYEAR] [CODE GROUP]
6.0 Responsibilities:
6.1 The [JURISDICTION] will review requests made by agencies in accordance
with this document. An individual special inspector and testing technician
with certification and experience as outlined in section [CODE SECTION]
may be approved unless sufficient justification exists not to approve the
special inspector and/or the testing technician in the areas requested.
6.2 The [JURISDICTION] will maintain copies of certifications and work

histories, as long as the special inspector is employed by an agency approved
by the [JURISDICTION].
6.3 The [JURISDICTION] will maintain a listing for each agency containing
the following information:
6.3.1 The name of the agency.

6.3.2 The name of each inspector/technician approved.
6.3.3 The special inspection/testing items that each inspector/technician is
approved for.
6.3.4 Verified [CODE GROUP] certifications noted.
6.3.5 Revision date.
6.4 [JURISDICTION] will respond to written requests by providing written

response to the agency with an updated list of approved special inspectors and
testing technicians, as appropriate. Copies of the revised special inspectors
and testing technicians will be provided to all [JURISDICTION] teams who
have a need to know.
6 of 10

7.0 Procedure:
Persons requesting approval as special inspectors and/or testing technicians shall
make the request in writing. The request shall be submitted on their behalf by
the special inspection agency. The request shall be made on the letterhead of
the special inspection agency and be accompanied by documented experience
and copies of current relevant certification. The following minimum criteria
will be used to evaluate special inspection/testing technician requests.
7.1 Reinforced concrete: [JURISDICTION] Administrative Code [CODE
SECTIONS]. Special Inspection item [#]. Current [CERTIFICATIONS,
CREDENTIALS] and ACI Grade I or ACI Grade II. In addition, documented
experience according to one of the following:
a. Inspector: Two years experience
b. Graduate engineer: One year experience
c. *Professional engineer: One year experience
7.2 Special moment-resisting concrete frame: [JURISDICTION]
Administrative code [CODE SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#].
Current [CERTIFICATIONS, CREDENTIALS] and ACI Grade I or ACI
Grade
II. In addition, documented experience according to one of the following:
7.3 Prestressed concrete: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code [CODE
SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Current [CERTIFICATIONS,
CREDENTIALS] and ACI Grade I, or certified as an ACI Grade II, or a PCI
Level II. In addition, documented experience according to one of the
following:
7.4 Post tension slab on grade: Special inspection item [#]. Current
[CERTIFICATIONS, CREDENTIALS] or ACI Grade I. In addition,
documented experience according to one of the following:
7.5 Structural welding: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code [CODE
SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. This item requires certification:
a. [TYPE/CODE GROUP], according to [TYPE/CODE GROUP] guidelines
b. [TYPE/CODE GROUP] Structural steel and welding certificate
c. [TYPE/CODE GROUP] Level II or III
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7.6 High strength bolting: [JURISDICTION] Administrative Code [CODE

SECTIONS]. Special Inspection item [#]. Current [TYPE/CODE GROUP]
structural steel and welding certificate (S). In addition, documented experience
according to one of the following:
7.7 Structural masonry: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code [CODE

SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Current [TYPE/CODE GROUP].
Structural masonry certificate [#]. In addition, documented experience
according to one of the following:
7.8 Reinforced gypsum concrete: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code

[CODE SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Current [TYPE/CODE
GROUP]. Reinforced concrete certificate [#] and ACI Grade I or ACI Grade
II. In addition, documented experience according to one of the following:
7.9 Insulated concrete fill: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code [CODE

SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Current [TYPE/CODE GROUP].
Reinforced concrete certificate [#] and ACI Grade I or ACI Grade II. In
addition, documented experience according to one of the following:
7.10 Spray-applied fireproofing: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code

[CODE SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Current [TYPE/CODE
GROUP]. Spray-applied fireproofing certificate [#]. In addition, documented
experience according to one of the following:
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7.11 Piling, drilled piers, caissons: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code

[CODE SECTIONS]. Special Inspection item [#]. NICET Level III
certification in geotechnical/construction or construction material in testing/
soil:
a. Inspector: NICET Level Ill
b. **Graduate geologist: Two years experience
c. **Graduate engineer: Two years experience
d. *Professional engineer: One year experience
7.12 Shotcrete: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code [CODE SECTIONS].
Special inspection item [#]. Current [TYPE/CODE GROUP]. Reinforced
concrete certificate [#] and ACI Grade I or ACI Grade II. In addition,
documented experience according to one of the following:
7.13 Special grading, excavation and filling: [JURISDICTION] Administrative
code [CODE SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. NICET level II
certification in geotechnical/construction or construction material testing/soil:
a. Inspector: NICET Level III
b. **Graduate geologist: Two years experience
c. **Graduate engineer: Two years experience
d. *Professional engineer: One year experience
7.14 Smoke control systems: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code [CODE
SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Approvals are granted if the ability to
perform inspections and testing is demonstrated by the agency(s). For further
information on inspector qualifications refer to [FORM #].
a. Inspector: NICET, l9A, AABC, NEBB
b. **Graduate engineer: Two years experience
Electrical
Fire Protection
Mechanical
7.15 Special Cases: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code [CODE
SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Approvals are granted on a case-by-
case basis with the minimum experience for a given application as shown:
a. Inspector: Four years experience
b. Graduate engineer: Two years experience
c. Professional engineer: Two years experience
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7.16 Structural steel: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code [CODE

SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Approval in structural welding and
high-strength bolting.
7.17 Amusement ride special cases: [JURISDICTION] Administrative code

[CODE SECTIONS]. Special inspection item [#]. Approvals are granted based
on experience, certification and/or education. NAARSO Level I Certificate
required.
7.18 Nondestructive testing: Personnel shall be qualified in accordance with

American Society of Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) document NT-TC-1A.
Level II certification as determined by a Level III examiner is required for each
element.
7.19 Material testing: NICET Level I or Level II certification with a minimum of one
year experience.
a. Construction materials testing/concrete or ACI Level I
b. Construction materials testing/concrete
c. Construction materials testing/soil
8.0 Records: Certification records and work history of special inspection and testing
technician personnel are maintained by both the [JURISDICTION] and the
agency that employs the special inspector.
9.0 Attachments:
EFFECTIVE DATE: [DATE, YEAR]

Revised by: Concurred by: Approved by:
[SIGNATURE/DATE] [SIGNATURE/DATE] [SIGNATURE/DATE]
[TYPED NAME]
[TYPED NAME] [TYPED NAME]
[TITLE] [TITLE] [TITLE]
* Certification optional. The professional engineer shall hold a license in civil,

structural, mechanical, fire protection or electrical engineering appropriated
to the service provided.
** Certification optional.
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B.2 Approval Listing Forms

B.2.1 Approval Requirements Check Sheet
Approval Requirements Check Sheet
An acceptance review of those agencies requesting listing as special inspection and/or testing
agencies will include the following list of tasks. Use this check sheet to verify inclusion of
material substantiating skills and/or experience in the following categories:
❑ All elements of inspection and/or testing listed in the manual that the agency has the
interest and ability to perform, designated individually.
❑ Agency capable of certifying to the building official that components of off-site or
on-site constructed and/or fabricated/manufactured products meet
[JURISDICTION] code, approved plans and project documents. Each special
inspector identified as a member of the agency staff shall have proven experience in
the inspection of items listed in Section [CODE SECTIONS] of the [NAME OF
CODE USED]. [JURISDICTION] will evaluate each individual inspector’s
qualifications and return a list of approved inspectors at the time of agency approval.
All inspection personnel must be listed and approved by the [JURISDICTION].
Inspection personnel that are new to an agency must be evaluated, approved and listed
by [JURISDICTION] before being assigned to a project. This requirement applies to
those inspectors who perform inspection services at the job site or for the purpose of
evaluating fabricated/manufactured products away from the project.
❑ All structural steel and welding inspectors qualified by [CODE GROUP], AWS or, as
appropriate, to the level required by the service performed. All AWS certified
associates must work under the direction of a certified AWS inspector. Welder
certification and qualification testing must be performed by an AWS certified welding
inspector.
❑ Personnel performing nondestructive examination (NDE) qualified for the NDE
methods they will utilize in accordance with the agency’s approved quality control
manual.
❑ Testing technicians shall be certified to NICET or other special categories required by
the approved plans.
❑ Engineers shall be licensed by the state of [NAME OF STATE] in the area of expertise
for which they will be providing skills, judgment and reports.
❑ Approved agency manuals must reflect the requirements contained within AUNT
recommended practices for nondestructive personnel qualification and certification,
NT-TC-1A, supplements A through D on radiographic, magnetic particle, ultrasonic
and liquid penetrant test methods, respectively. Only personnel qualified for NDT
Level II may perform nondestructive inspections on welds or base material. Personnel
presently qualified for NDT Level III may perform nondestructive tests, provided that
they have previously been certified for NDT Level II. [JURISDICTION] may require
NDE personnel to be qualified by performance tests.
❑ Equipment used by inspection and/or testing personnel must be approved by
[JURISDICTION].
B.2.2 Special Inspection and Testing Agency Approval Listing Form
Sample
Special Inspection and/or Testing Agency
Initial or Renewal of [JURISDICTION] Approval Listing
Agency Name: ______________________________________________________________
Contact Name/Title: __________________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Telephone: ______________________________________ Fax: _______________________
Business Type: ______________________________________________________________
Fees:
❑ Initial Listing or Reinstatement [AMOUNT] $ _______________
❑ Annual Renewal [AMOUNT] $ _______________
❑ Approved Inspectors [AMOUNT] each $ _______________
Total Amount submitted $ _______________
Address this application to:
[NAME OF JURISDICTION]
[ADDRESS OF JURISDICTION]
A check or money order shall be submitted with each application. Check should be made
payable to [NAME OF JURISDICTION].
One copy of detailed data (to include a quality control manual for initial listing) shall also
be submitted with this application.
Applicant signature: _________________________________ Date: ___________________
B.2.3 Fabrication/Manufacturer Approval Listing Form
Sample
Fabricator/Manufacturer
Initial or Renewal of [JURISDICTION] Approval Listing
Agency Name: ______________________________________________________________
Contact Name/Title: __________________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Telephone: ______________________________________ Fax: _______________________
Business Type: ______________________________________________________________
Fees:
❑ Initial Listing or Reinstatement [AMOUNT] $ ________
❑ Annual Renewal [AMOUNT] $ ________
Total Amount Submitted $ ________
Address this application to:
[NAME OF JURISDICTION]
[ADDRESS OF JURISDICTION]
A check or money order shall be submitted with each application. Check should be made
payable to [NAME OF JURISDICTION].
One copy of detailed data (to include a quality control manual for initial listing) shall also be
submitted with this application.
Applicant signature: ______________________________ Date: ____________________
B.3 Inspection Records – Report Requirements
Report Requirements
Reports: All report forms that are planned for use in performing special inspection or testing
shall be submitted with the quality control manual for review and approval. Daily report
forms should be preprinted by the agency in a format that is acceptable to [JURISDICTION].
Minimum guidelines for format shall be as follows:
• Allow as much lined space on the form as possible.
• Preprinted titles should be kept to a minimum, e.g., project name, project address, job
number, date, report number and inspector’s name.
• Do not use preprinted headline material that presumes that the items listed below are
going to be in compliance with the approved plans.
• Use the same Daily Report form format throughout each project. Do not use different
Daily Report forms for different inspection functions.
• All spin-off documentation, such as nonconforming item reports, resolution of noncon-
forming item reports, testing and/or inspection results, etc., shall be referenced in the
daily report with sufficient information to ensure traceability back to the Daily Report.
Final Report: The special inspection agency shall submit a final signed report stating whether
all work requiring special inspection was inspected, reported and found to be in substantial
compliance with the approved plans, specifications and the [JURISDICTION’S CODE].
Final reports shall not be submitted to [JURISDICTION] until all noncompliances have been
cleared or have been identified in the final report as being unresolved and accepted by the
building official.
Final reports must be signed by the agency owner, executive manager, executive branch
manager or project engineer. Final report and report packages shall include all inspection,
testing and engineer-signed reports. Engineer-signed reports that are incorporated into final
report packages and signed by a nonengineer manager remain the sole responsibility of the
registered professional engineer whose signature and stamp appear on the incorporated
report. Other engineers or nonengineers that sign final report packages are not certifying the
accuracy of any engineering report(s) contained within the final report package other than
those bearing their signature. The final report certifies that all inspections, engineering and
testing required by the project were completed as required or exceptions taken and
documented as being acceptable to the [JURISDICTION].
B.3.1 Daily Report Form
Sample
SPECIAL INSPECTION DAILY REPORT
City/County of________________________Permit No.:________Date :_____________
Project Name/Address: ________________________________________

________________________________________
Inspection type(s) coverage: ________________________________________________
[ ]Continuous [ ]Periodic
Inspection time: Beginning: ______________________ Ending: ________________
Describe inspections made, including locations: ____________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
Tests performed: ____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
New Items needing correction: _________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Corrected items from previous reports:___________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Item corrections remaining incomplete:___________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
Changes to approved plans authorized by registered design professional in responsible charge:

___________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
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Comments:________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
To the best of my knowledge, work inspected was in accordance with the building department
approved plans, specifications and applicable workmanship provisions of the IBC except as
noted above.
Signed: __________________ Inspection Agency*: _______________________________
ID / Certificate
Print full name:___________________________ Number: ________________
Cc: Project Owner
* Building official may require the signature / stamp of agency engineer responsible for special
inspection.
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B.3.2 Weekly Report Form
Sample
SPECIAL INSPECTION WEEKLY REPORT
City/County of __________________Permit No.: ______________Date :______________
Project Name/Address:_______________________________________________________
Total inspection time each day:

Date
Hours
Inspection Type
Frequency
(P or C)
Location
P – Periodic inspection
C – Continuous inspection
Describe inspections made, including locations:____________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Tests performed:____________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
New Items needing correction: _________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Corrected items from previous reports:___________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Item corrections remaining incomplete:__________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Changes to approved plans authorized by registered design professional in responsible

charge:____________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
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Comments: ________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
To the best of my knowledge, work inspected was in accordance with the building department
approved plans, specifications and applicable workmanship provisions of the IBC except as
noted above.
Signed:____________________________________Inspection Agency*: ________________
ID / Certificate
Print full name:___________________________ Number: __________________
Cc: Project Owner
* Building official may require the signature/stamp of agency engineer responsible for special
inspection.
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B.3.3 Discrepancy Notice Form
Sample
DISCREPANCY NOTICE
City/County of _____________________ Building Department
Job Address_________________________________________________________________
Job Description______________________________________________________________
Permit Number______________________________________________________________
Area Inspected______________________________________________________________
Type of Inspection___________________________________________________________
Special Inspector_____________________________________________________________
Lab_______________________________________________________________________
Notice delivery to: Date Time
 Engineer/Architect
 Contractor
 Building Department
Make the following corrections and source inspection approval prior to proceeding with this
phase of work: ______________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
DO NOT REMOVE THIS NOTICE
Post adjacent to building permit inspection record card
B.3.4 Final Report Form
Sample
SPECIAL INSPECTION FINAL REPORT
City/County of________________________Permit No.:________________Date:_________
Attention: __________________________________________________________________
Project Name/Address:________________________________________________________
In accordance with Chapter 17 of the International Building Code, special inspection has been
provided for the following items: ____________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________
I certify that I performed special inspection on the following portions of the work at the above
address that required continuous inspections, and for which I was employed.
Based upon inspections performed and my substantiating reports, it is my professional

judgment that, to the best of my knowledge, the inspected work was performed in accordance
with the approved plans, specifications and applicable workmanship provisions of the
International Building Code.
Signed:_________________________________Inspection Agency*:___________________
Print full name:__________________________ ID / Certificate Number: _______________
* Building official may require the signature / stamp of agency engineer responsible for
special inspection.
Cc: Project Owner
B.4 Inspection Agreement Forms

B.4.1 Special Inspection Agreement
Sample
STATEMENT OF SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AGREEMENT
On this [DATE] the [JURISDICTION] Building Department acting through the [NAME] as
the owner or owner’s agent for the construction and/or alteration of a structure/building
known as [NAME/ ADDRESS OF BUILDING] for work described as [TYPE OF
BUILDING] with inspection or testing services being performed by [AGENCY] an approved
quality assurance/testing agency in the County of [COUNTY NAME] in the State of [STATE
NAME], agree to the following:
inspected or tested in accordance with the provisions of section [#] of the building code
of [JURISDICTION] and that written results of those inspections or tests shall be pro-
vided to the building official with copies available to the permit holder upon the permit-
tee’s request.
To permit applicants of projects requiring special inspection and/or testing per Section 1704
of the International Building Code (IBC):
Project Address: ______________________________ Permit No.: ___________________
BEFORE A PERMIT CAN BE ISSUED, two (2) copies of this agreement, including the
Statement of Special Inspections and the Statement of Special Inspections Schedule with the
required acknowledgments shall be completed by the owner, or registered design professional
in responsible charge acting as the owner's agent. A preconstruction conference with the
parties involved may be required to review the special inspection requirements and
procedures.
APPROVAL OF SPECIAL INSPECTORS: Special inspectors may have no financial interest

in projects for which they provide special inspection. Special inspectors shall be approved by
the building department prior to performing any duties. Special inspectors shall submit their
qualifications and are subject to personal interviews for prequalification. Special inspectors
shall display approved identification, as stipulated by the building official, when performing
the function of special inspector.
Special inspection and testing shall meet the minimum requirements of Sections 1704 and
1705 of the International Building Code. The following conditions are also applicable:
A. Duties and Responsibilities of the Special Inspector

1. General requirements. Special inspectors shall review approved plans and specifica-
tions for special inspection requirements. Special inspectors will comply with the spe-
cial inspection requirements of the enforcing jurisdiction found in the Statement of
Special Inspections including work and materials.
2. Signify presence at job site. Special inspectors shall notify contractor personnel of
their presence and responsibilities at the job site. If required by the building official,
they shall sign in on the appropriate form posted with the building permit.
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3. Observe assigned work. Special inspectors shall inspect all work according to the
Statement of Special Inspections for which they are responsible for conformance with
the building department approved (stamped) plans and specifications and applicable
provisions of IBC Section 1704.
4. Report nonconforming items (discrepancies). Special inspectors shall bring all non-
conforming items to the immediate attention of the contractor. If any such item is not
resolved in a timely manner or is about to be incorporated into the work, the design
professional in responsible charge and the building official should be notified immedi-
ately and the item noted in the special inspector's written report (Section 1704.2.4).
The building official may require this report to be posted in a conspicuous place on
the job site. The special inspector should include in the report, as a minimum, the fol-
lowing information about each nonconforming item:
• Description and exact location.
• Reference to applicable detail of approved plans/specifications.
• Name and title of each individual notified and method of notification.
• Resolution or corrective action taken.
5. Provide timely progress reports. The special inspector shall complete written inspec-
tion reports for each inspection visit and provide the reports on a timely basis as deter-
mined by the building official. The special inspector or inspection agency shall furnish
these reports directly to the building official and to the design professional in respon-
sible charge (Section 1704.2.4). These reports should be organized on a daily format
and may be submitted weekly at the option of the building official. In these reports,
special inspectors should:
• Describe inspections and tests made with applicable locations.
• Indicate nonconforming items (discrepancies) and how they were resolved.
• List unresolved items, parties notified, and time and method of notification.
• Itemize changes authorized by design professional in responsible charge if not
included in nonconforming items.
6. Submit final report. Special inspectors or inspection agencies shall submit a final
signed report to the building department stating that all items requiring special
inspection and testing by the Statement of Special Inspections were fulfilled and
reported and, to the best of their knowledge, conform to the approved plans and spec-
ifications (Section 1704.2.4). Some jurisdictions also require the design professional in
responsible charge to sign the report before it is submitted to the building official.
Items not in conformance, unresolved items or any discrepancies in inspection cover-
age (i.e., missed inspections, periodic inspection when continuous was required, etc.)
should be specifically itemized in this report.
B. Owner Responsibilities.
The project owner, the design professional in responsible charge, or an agent of the owner
is responsible for funding special inspection services. Measures should be taken to ensure
that the scope of work and duties of the special inspector as outlined in the Statement of
Special Inspections are not compromised.
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C. Registered Design Professional in Responsible Charge
The design professional in responsible charge should be a consenting party by written

acknowledgment of special inspection and testing agreements. The design professional in
responsible charge has many duties and responsibilities related to special inspection, including
the following:
The Statement of Special Inspections must be been submitted with the permit application. The
content of the statement contains the following information.
1. Materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspection. Duties
of the building official and the registered design professional responsible for each part
of the work.
2. Type and extent of each special inspection and the name of individuals or firms per-
forming the inspections.
3. Type and extent of each test.
4. Special inspection of required seismic-resistant systems and components.
5. Special inspection of required wind-resistant systems and components.
6. Name and contact information of special inspector or special inspection agency. Sub-
ject to the approval of the building official, special inspectors holding current certifica-
tion by ICC in the discipline in which they will be inspecting can be considered
qualified. IAS-accredited special inspection agencies providing inspections within the
scope of accreditation for the disciplines to be inspected can be considered qualified.
The choice of special inspectors or special inspection agencies should include the fol-
lowing considerations:
• Project size and complexity — experience with similar projects.
• Inspection staffing — sufficient qualified inspectors.
• Site location — proximity of inspection and testing facilities.
• Off-site inspection — capabilities for inspection at remote locations.
7. Completion of a statement of special inspections agreement and schedule as shown in
the Appendix A, Section 1 examples is a simple method of fulfilling the requirement
for preparation of a special inspection program that can be easily reviewed by the
building official.
8. Respond to field discrepancies. The design professional in responsible charge shall
respond to special inspector reports of uncorrected noncomplying (discrepancies)
items and shall approve remedial measures.
9. Review shop drawings and submit revisions to approved plans. The design profes-
sional in responsible charge shall acknowledge and approve shop drawings that may
detail structural information. The design professional shall submit to the building offi-
cial and the special inspector/inspection agency written approval of any verbally
approved deviations from the approved plans and shall submit revised plans for build-
ing official approval (Sections 107.3.4 and 107.4).
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D. Contractor Responsibilities
Submit a written statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner prior to
commencement of the work on the system or component. The contractor's statement of
responsibility is to contain the following:
1. Acknowledgement of awareness of the special requirements contained in the State-
ment of Special Inspections;
2. Acknowledgement that control will be exercised to obtain conformance with the con-
struction documents approved by the building official;
3. Procedures for exercising control within the contractor's organization, the method and
frequency of reporting and the distribution of the reports; and
4. Identification and qualifications of the person(s) exercising such control and their
position(s) in the organization.
Suggested job-site protocol for special inspection:

1. Notify the special inspector. Adequate notice shall be provided so that the special
inspector has time to become familiar with the project.
2. Provide access to approved plans. The contractor is responsible for providing the spe-
cial inspector with access to approved plans.
3. Retain special inspection records. When required by the building official, the contrac-
tor is responsible for retaining at the job site all special inspection records submitted
by the inspector and providing these records for review by the building department's
inspector upon request.
E. Building Department Responsibilities

1. Review submittal documents for compliance with special inspection requirements as
outlined in the Statement of Special Inspections. The building official is charged with
the legal authority to review the plans, specifications, special inspection program and
other submittal documents for compliance with code requirements.
2. Approve fabricator(s) used for building components installed on site.
3. Approve special inspection programs. The building official is responsible for approv-
ing the special inspection program submitted by the design professional in responsible
charge (Section 107.1) and may require a preconstruction conference to review the
program with all applicable members of the construction team.
4. Monitor special inspection activities. The building official should monitor the special
inspection activities at the job site to ensure that qualified special inspectors are per-
forming their duties when work requiring special inspection is in progress.
5. Issuance of stop work orders. The building official is recognized as having the author-
ity to stop work at the job site.
6. Approval to proceed. There are certain points of completion where work shall not pro-
ceed until approval by the building official has been given.
7. Review inspection reports. The building official receives and reviews special inspec-
tion progress reports and final reports for conformance with the approved plans, spec-
ifications and workmanship provisions of the code.
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8. Perform final inspection. The building official should not perform the final inspection
and approval for a project until the final special inspection report has been reviewed and
approved.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
I have read and agree to comply with the terms and conditions of this agreement.
Owner:
_______________________________By:__________________Date:______________
Registered Design Professional in Responsible Charge:

_______________________________By:__________________Date:______________
Contractor:
_______________________________By:__________________Date:______________
Special Inspector / Special Inspection Agency*:
_______________________________By:__________________Date:______________
Others as required by Building Official:
_______________________________By:__________________Date:______________
ACCEPTED FOR THE BUILDING DEPARTMENT
By: _______________________________________________________Date:______________
* This signature may be that of the Registered Design Professional within the special inspection
agency.
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B.4.2 Addendum to the Special Inspection Agreement
Sample
Department of Building
County of [COUNTY NAME], State of [STATE NAME]
Addendum to the Special Inspection Agreement
In addition to the inspections required by Section [#] of the Building Administrative Code of
[JURISDICTION] a special inspector must be present during construction and the following
types of work and must verify approved size, location and connections of all structural
members fabricated on or off site included in this work. Some inspections may be made on a
periodic basis to satisfy the requirements of the continuous inspection at [JURISDICTION]
discretion. Agency inspections or testing may only be conducted by a firm approved by
[JURISDICTION].
1. CONCRETE: During the taking of test specimens and placing of all reinforced concrete
and pneumatically placed concrete. Inspection of the foundation prior to concrete place-
ment for proper size and compliance with the approved geotechnical report.
Location:_______________________________________________________________
2. BOLTS INSTALLED IN CONCRETE: During installation of bolts and placing of con-

crete around such bolts when stress increases permitted by Note [#] of Table [#] are uti-
lized.
Location:______________________________________________________________
3. DUCTILE MOMENT-RESISTANT CONCRETE FRAME: As required by Section [#]

of the [code].
Location:______________________________________________________________
4. REINFORCING, PRESTRESSING AND POST-TENSIONING STEEL:

a. During placement of reinforcing steel, prestressing, pre- or post-tensioning tendons
for all concrete noted in Item 1.
Location:__________________________________________________________
b. During stressing and grouting of pre- and post-tensioned concrete.
Location:__________________________________________________________
5. WELDING: All structural welding, including welding of reinforcing steel, steel mem-
bers and assemblies.
Location:______________________________________________________________
6. HIGH-STRENGTH BOLTING: During all bolt installations and tightening operations.

Location: ____________________________________________________________
7. STRUCTURAL MASONRY: During preparation of masonry wall prisms, sampling and

placing of all masonry units, placement of reinforcement, inspection of grout space
immediately prior to closing of cleanouts and during all grouting operation.
Location: ____________________________________________________________
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8. REINFORCED GYPSUM CONCRETE: When cast-in-place Class B gypsum concrete

is being mixed and placed.
Location: ______________________________________________________________
9. INSULATING CONCRETE FILL: During the application of insulating concrete fill

when used as part of a structural system.
Location:______________________________________________________________
10. SPRAY-APPLIED FIREPROOFING: As required by [CODE SECTION].

Location: ______________________________________________________________
11. PILING, DRILLED PIERS AND CAISSONS: During driving and testing of piles and
construction of cast-in-place drilled piles or caissons.
Location:______________________________________________________________
12. SHOTCRETE: During the taking of test specimens and placing of all shotcrete (gunite)
and as required by [SECTION] of the [CODE].
Location:______________________________________________________________
13. SPECIAL GRADING, EXCAVATION AND FILLING: During earthwork excavations,

grading and filling operations inspections to satisfy requirements of [CODE SEC-
TION].
Location:______________________________________________________________
14. SPECIAL CASES: Work, which in the opinion of the building official, involves unusual
hazards.
Description:____________________________________________________________
15. AMUSEMENT CODE SPECIAL CASES: Testing or verification as required by manu-

facturer or building official during initial installation.
Description: ___________________________________________________________
16. STRUCTURAL STEEL: Fabrication and erection of structural steel members and
assemblies.
Location:______________________________________________________________
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B.4.3 Statement of Special Inspections Schedule

Sample
STATEMENT OF SPECIAL INSPECTIONS SCHEDULE
(This schedule should match the Statement of Special Inspections)

Where an option between continuous and periodic inspection is possible, identify the option
required.
Steel Construction — Verification / Inspection

Continuous Periodic
See Table 1705.2.2 — Required Verification and Inspection of Steel
1. Material verification of cold-formed steel deck:

a. For structural steel, identification markings to conform to AISC --- X
b. For other steel, identification markings to conform to ASTM

--- X
standards specified in the approved construction documents.
c. Manufacturer's certified test reports. --- X
2. Inspection of welding:
a. Cold-formed steel deck:
1) Floor and roof deck welds. --- X
b. Reinforcing steel:
1) Verification of weldability of reinforcing steel other than --- X

ASTM A 706.
2) Reinforcing steel resisting flexural and axial forces in intermedi-

ate and special moment frames, and boundary elements of spe- X ---
cial structural walls of concrete and shear reinforcement.
3) Shear reinforcement. X ---
4) Other reinforcing steel. --- X
Concrete Construction — Verification / Inspection
See Table 1705.3 – Required Verification and Inspection of Concrete Continuous Periodic
Construction
1. Inspection of reinforcing steel welding in accordance with Table

1705.2.2, Item 2b.
2. Inspection of anchors cast-in concrete where allowable loads have

--- X
been increased or where strength design is used.
3. Inspection of anchors post-installed in hardened concrete mem-

X
bers.
4. Verifying use of required design mix. --- X
5. At the time fresh concrete is sampled to fabricate specimens for

strength tests, perform slump and air content tests, and determine X ---
the temperature of the concrete.
6. Inspection of concrete and shotcrete placement for proper applica-

X ---
tion techniques.
1 of 3
7. Inspection for maintenance of specified curing temperature and

--- X
techniques
8. Inspection of prestressed concrete.

a. Application of prestressing forces. X ---
b. Grouting of bonded prestressing tendons in the seismic-force- ---

X
resisting system.
9. Erection of precast concrete members.
10. Verification of in-situ concrete strength, prior to stressing of tendons

in posttensioned concrete and prior to removal of shores and forms --- X
from beams and structural slabs.
11. Inspect formwork for shape, location and dimensions of the con-
--- X
crete member being formed.
Soils — Verification / Inspection

Continuous Periodic
See Table 1705.6
1. Verify materials below shallow foundations are adequate to achieve

the design bearing capacity. --- X
2. Verify excavations are extended to proper depth and have reached

--- X
proper material.
3. Perform classification and testing of compacted fill materials. --- X
4. Verify use of proper materials, densities and lift thicknesses during
X ---
placement and compaction of compacted fill.
5. Prior to placement of compacted fill, observe subgrade and verify

--- X
that site has been prepared properly.
Deep Driven Foundation Elements — Verification / Inspection

Continuous Periodic
See Table 1705.7
1. Verify element materials, sizes and lengths comply with the require- X ---
ments.
2. Determine capacities of test elements and conduct additional load

X ---
tests, as required.
3. Observe driving operations and maintain complete and accurate

X ---
records for each element.
4. Verify placement locations and plumbness, confirm type and size of
hammer, record number of blows per foot of penetration, determine
X ---
required penetrations to achieve design capacity, record tip and butt
elevations and document any damage to foundation element.
5. For steel elements, perform additional inspections in accordance
with Section 1705.2
6. For concrete elements and concrete-filled elements, perform addi-

tional inspections in accordance with Section 1705.3.
7. For specialty elements, perform additional inspections as deter-

mined by the registered design professional in responsible charge.
2 of 3
Cast-In-Place Deep Foundation Elements — Verification / Inspection

Continuous Periodic
See Table 1705.8
1. Observe drilling operations and maintain complete and accurate records X ---
for each element.
2. Verify placement locations and plumbness, confirm element diameters, bell

diameters (if applicable), lengths, embedment into bedrock (if applicable)
X ---
and adequate end-bearing strata capacity. Record concrete or grout
volumes.
3. For concrete elements, perform additional inspections in accordance with

Section 1705.3.
Other Work – Verification/Inspection
Other Work – Verification/Inspection
Note — As schedules are developed, space for notes from the special inspector, date of inspection, and notes from the RDP
should be provided.
3 of 3
B.4.4 Special Inspection Record
Sample
SPECIAL INSPECTION RECORD
City/County of _____________________________Project Address: ___________________
Inspection Agent ____________________________Building Permit No.: ___________________
NOTE: Each special inspector is to record their presence on the job site for each day's inspection. Post
this card adjacent to building permit inspection report card. Weekly reports are to be submitted by each
special inspector/inspection agency to the building department.
When attached to the job inspection record card, this card becomes a part of the inspection
record.
INSPECTION SPECIAL TIME
ID NO. DATE NOTES
TYPE INSPECTOR ARR LEFT
B.5 Audits
B.5.1 Technical Guidelines for Special Inspection/
Testing Agency Project Audits
Sample
AUDITS
Special inspection and/or testing agencies are subject to performance evaluation of services
provided at or away from a project site. Evaluation of approved and listed agencies and
personnel will be performed at random, both in the field and office, by [JURISDICTION]
staff on a routine or periodic basis or as required by specific operations. All evaluations will be
discussed with the special inspection and/or testing agency quality assurance manager or
agency designated employee. Performance evaluations are required as a condition for
approval and listing as well as to maintain listing status.
1 of 9
Technical Guidelines Special Inspection/

Testing Agency Project Audits
Special Inspection Verification: [JURISDICTION] shall verify special inspection activity

on projects where special inspectors are assigned to provide the required special inspection.
Special inspection verification of these projects shall be provided by the building department.
Verification Objectives: Inspection verifications will be performed to provide information

on the integrity of the inspection process and procedures at a point in time. This information
shall be used by the special inspection agency and the building department for management
control of the special inspection program. Verification is also performed to measure inspector
job performance.
Verification serves to evaluate the level of inspection accuracy attained by the approved
special inspector at the time the verification was performed. Verification also provides a
method for evaluation and correction of procedures through training and/or closer
supervision. Verification results may be used as a measure of the approved agency’s ability to
manage its quality control program.
Special Inspection Standards: Special inspection standards shall be the same as those
established for [JURISDICTION] special inspectors and are contained within
[JURISDICTION] technical guidelines and as follows:
• The special inspector shall report to the job sufficiently in advance of construction to
become familiar with the plans and specifications, and inspect all materials to be used or
concealed within such work. The special inspector shall use the most recent building
department approved plans, plan changes and specifications. The special inspector will
observe whether there is compliance with the [JURISDICTION] code, approved plans
and specifications. The special inspector is required to furnish timely, written notification
for all noncompliant items encountered. The special inspector shall also provide written
reports for violations of the [JURISDICTION AND CODE], approved plans and sup-
porting documents.
• Work requiring special inspection must be stopped unless the special inspector is present
during construction of those inspection elements requiring special inspection as detailed
on the Special Inspection Agreement.
• In the opinion of the building official, if the magnitude or complexity of a job warrants,
additional special inspectors may be placed on a project.
Inspector/Inspection Responsibilities: Special inspectors are, by definition, specialist

inspectors and therefore cannot expect to be considered as performing a lower level function
where other senior personnel can be held responsible for their actions. A special inspector in
any category is expected to know more about that category than others involved in the
construction of a project. The inspector is also one of the last people to have a chance to have
errors and/or omissions rectified prior to construction. A negligent act in special inspection
could very easily have disastrous results and this degree of responsibility must not be taken
lightly. Special inspectors must be personally responsible for inspections of a high standard by
virtue of their in-depth knowledge of the subject. 2 of 9
A special inspector is responsible for verification that those items detailed in the plans and
specifications are what is built into the project. All reports, therefore, must document in
sufficient, literate detail the information that is used to make this evaluation in such form that
others who may have reason to read these reports in conjunction with the plans and
specifications either during construction or long after construction will be able not only to
evaluate the project’s conformity to the plans and specifications but also to perceive how well
the inspector performed his or her duties.
There is no other practical way to evaluate the performance of a special inspector, who is
usually performing independently, other than to treat his or her reports as the product by
which this judgment is made.
The term “as per approved plans and specifications” will not be used as a catch-all phrase.
Reports must be constructed in an explicit manner with sufficient information to describe
what was physically inspected or taking place. The terminology “as per approved plans”
should only be used when an assemblage of individuals’ previously reported referenced
inspections culminates in a specific definable building department component, and then only
to indicate that such portion of the work has been completed.
In order to define what is realistically expected from a special inspector and what would be
considered a negligent act, it is necessary to thoroughly understand what information the
special inspector must be furnished with in order to make the required inspections of those
components with which he or she is entrusted. The inspector is expected to understand the
information that has been provided and evaluate whether that information is sufficient to
successfully perform the inspection.
If some of the required information is not available, the inspector must obtain the necessary
information in approved form, through the appropriate channels. There is no such thing in
special inspections as acceptance based on “close enough” decisions.
It is, therefore, the special inspector’s responsibility to review the plans thoroughly and
sufficiently ahead of construction to establish if he or she can inspect those items with which
he or she is entrusted. All errors and/or omissions in the approved plans that create any form
of uncertainty or ambiguity for the special inspector shall be resolved through the proper
channels. All items that are observed by, and all inspections made by the special inspector
shall indicate that sufficiently clear information was furnished.
There is absolutely no excuse for not having information, not being able to find information
or having ambiguous information. Required information must be diligently pursued. The
special inspector is entitled to correct information and must make those who are responsible
for furnishing this information fulfill their obligation by providing him or her with what is
needed.
The special inspector shall maintain copies of all inspections and laboratory reports at the job
site until all special inspection and/or testing is completed.
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Verification Procedure: Steps for conduct of a project verification shall be as follows:

1. The building department shall establish a verification schedule. Unless otherwise pro-
vided, one verification per project should occur prior to the final inspection.
2. Verification will be conducted by an assigned building department inspector.
3. Verifications will be unannounced; however, they will fall within an established sched-
ule.
4. Verifications will include [JURISDICTION] inspection reports for the project being
verified.
5. Wherever possible, verification personnel will be rotated.
6. The special inspector’s supervisor may accompany the verification conductor. In the
event the supervisor is unable to be present during the project verification, an exit cri-
tique will be held with the agency’s quality control manager. The purpose of the critique
is to resolve minor procedural inspection-related discrepancies on the spot. All inspec-
tion, monitoring and construction discrepancies noted during the verification will be
included in the verification findings.
7. Verifications shall be performed to established standards. Verifications will be made to
these standards and referenced to the inspector’s work product and the observable con-
struction activity on the project at the time of the verification.
8. All verification results shall be in writing on forms provided for that purpose.
9. The approved special inspection agency responsible for inspecting the work is also
responsible for causing any discrepancies noted in the verification findings to be cor-
rected. Quality control managers are responsible for reviewing the findings, and then
deciding the degree of corrective action necessary. All discrepancies noted in the report
shall be corrected. Minor deficiencies shall be corrected immediately. Severe discrepan-
cies or violation of the special inspection agency’s quality control program and/or man-
ual must be corrected.
10. Verification findings shall be acknowledged by the approved agency and a written cor-
rective action statement furnished to the special inspection agency.
11. Items subject to verification may include, but are not necessarily be limited to, the fol-
lowing:
a. Special inspector document control procedures.
b. All types of assigned field inspections.
c. Control of test specimen sampling, fabrication, handling, storage and packaging prep-
aration for shipping and handling.
d. Testing in the field.
e. Project inspection records.
f. Reports of welder qualification/certification records.
g. Welding procedure qualification records.
h. Certifications for off-site fabricated product approvals and inspection records.
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Verification findings shall be reported as follows:
Report of Verification Findings: The purpose of this finding is to verify that required
special inspections for this project have been performed and reported to satisfy the
requirements of the [JURISDICTION/CODE] approved plans and documents. Any item
that is reviewed and found to be deficient will be explained in detail beginning on the last
sheet of this finding under the item reference number.
Each element of special inspection identified on the Special Inspection Agreement and
addendum will be verified. The verification conductor shall review completed construction,
the inspections performed on that work, its relationship to current construction and
inspection and the influence that past and current construction and inspection may have on
future construction activity. Critical attention will be paid to connections of all types and the
details related to those connections.
Verification Follow-up: The special inspection agency and the building department
personnel will review and compare the special inspection agency report of action to the
verification report with particular attention being paid to the following:
Item
No. Item Reviewed Yes No
1. Were deficiencies noted in the verification
report addressed? ________ _______
2. Were noted discrepancies reviewed by the
accountable supervisor? ________ _______
3. Were corrective measures taken? ________ _______
4. Were corrective measures taken in line with
the discrepancies noted? ________ _______
5. Were corrective actions implemented? ________ _______
6. Was a follow-up made by the special inspection
supervisor to evaluate corrective measures? ________ _______
7. Was additional training recommended? ________ _______
8. Was additional or closer supervision recommended? ________ _______
5 of 9
Project name: ____________________________________________________________
Address: ________________________________________________________________
Permit No.(s): ___________________________________________________________
Date: ___________________________________________________________________
Verification conducted by: __________________________________________________
Special Inspector’s Name: __________________________________________________
Date of Last Verification: ___________________________________________________
VERIFICATION CHECK LIST

Item
1. Are the following fundamental requirements in
compliance with [JURISDICTION] procedures:
a. Has a building permit been issued and correctly
identified for the construction being inspected as
shown in the report? ______ _______
b. Have [JURISDICTION] approved drawings been
issued and identified by date for the construction
being inspected as shown in the report? ______ _______
c. Are all reports in numerical sequence? ______ _______
d. Are all reports signed? ______ _______
e. Are all reports correctly completed? ______ _______
f. Is a Special Inspections Agreement
available at the job site? ______ _______
g. Has a special inspection job file been
established? ______ _______
h. Are building pad certifications available
in the project file? ______ _______
2. Is the area or location of the inspection identified? ______ _______
3. Are reports legible? ______ _______
4. Do reports make sense? ______ _______
5. Do reports encompass all portions of the work? ______ _______
6. Are correct drawing numbers and detail
references used for each inspection? ______ _______
6 of 9
VERIFICATION CHECK LIST (continued)

Item
7. Is the source of all information used to determine

acceptance of the inspection clearly referenced? ______ _____
8. Is all information contained in drawings correct and
free of ambiguity or personal interpretation? ______ _____
9. Is sufficient information, detail, etc.,
available to make the inspection? ______ _____
10. Have noncompliances been written,
numbered and distributed? ______ _____
11. Have all inspections been made and all
noncompliances resolved prior to work
being covered up? ______ _____
12. Have all drawings, sketches and letters with
engineering changes pertaining to special
inspections been stamped and signed by
the engineer of record? ______ _____
13. Have revised drawings, sketches, etc., which
have been used to make inspections, been
correctly identified by date on stamp of
[JURISDICTION] approval when report was written? ______ _____
14. Where required, has testing of structural components
been performed and accepted by the special inspector? ______ _____
15. When unsatisfactory test results are obtained
for materials that have been utilized in construction
has the engineer of record and the special inspector
approved such action? ______ _____
16. Has the inspector referenced in his or her report the
results of any specific construction procedures or
techniques that were necessary to ensure an acceptable
inspection? ______ _____
17. Has the inspector verified the grades of all building
components used in special inspection items? ______ _____
18. Have all structural steel components been furnished
by a [JURISDICTION] listed fabricator and
accompanied with a certificate of compliance? ______ _____
7 of 9

Item
19. Have qualifications of personnel performing
structural field welding been verified and accepted
prior to commencement of work? __________ __________
20. Have forms for special inspection items, such as
post-tensioned slabs, fireproofing, etc., or the
tabulation of results that are specifically
designed for that purpose been used? Is the
design fully functional? __________ __________
21. Have all items requiring inspection on
the special inspections contract either: __________ __________
a. Been inspected, or
b. Reported as not requiring inspection with
supporting explanation? __________ __________
22. Does the job file contain a summary report for each
completed assigned inspection element stating that
the work was to the best of the special inspector’s
knowledge and performed in conformance with the
approved plans and specifications, etc.? __________ _________
23. Did the contractor fulfill his or her obligation to
the special inspections by notifying the testing
inspection agency in a timely manner when its
services were required? __________ _________
24. Did [JURISDICTION] monitoring personnel
note and discuss observed discrepancies in
inspection and/or construction during their
visit(s) to the job site? __________ _________
25. Were all testing/inspection agency personnel
performing special inspections on this project
preapproved for each specific inspectable item
by the [JURISDICTION]? __________ _________
26. Are inspection reports current with the work in
progress? __________ _________
27. Do monitoring reports adequately describe project
construction and special inspection for the project? __________ _________
28. Are other special inspection elements described by
their own characteristics, i.e., height, width, depth,
lift, placement, location, etc.? __________ _________
8 of 9

Item
29. Is all spin-off documentation, such as nonconforming
item reports, resolution of nonconforming item
reports, testing and/or inspection results, changes to
plans and specifications, etc., referenced in the daily
report with sufficient information to ensure traceability? _________ _________
30. Do all special inspectors follow an established form
of report sequence numbering for all daily reports? _________ _________
31. Is all information contained in the reports correct
and free of ambiguity? _________ _________
9 of 9
B.5.2 Field Operations Audit
Sample
Field Operations Audits
The following section contains audit questions useful in evaluating field performance.
Reports:
Item
1. Are in-progress files available for review? _______ _______
2. Are references used for inspections accurately
located and identified for inspection items? _______ _______
3. Are sources of information utilized during the
inspection process, i.e., drawings, details, tables,
schedules, standards, specifications codes, etc.,
identified in the reports? _______ _______
4. Do all Daily Reports use a proper method of
identifying the locations of the areas inspected,
i.e., grid line numbers, letters, and written description? _______ _______
5. Do the reports also reference the section and details
that graphically show the items being inspected? _______ _______
6. Do reinforcing steel and/or structural steel inspections
identify the bar sizes and grades and/or member sizes
as shown in tables, schedules and general plan notes? _______ _______
7. Are lap splices for reinforcing referenced to the source
of information, i.e., plans, codes, tables, schedules and/or
plan notes, as applicable? _______ _______
8. Are other special inspection elements described by
their own characteristics, i.e., height, width, depth,
lift, placement location, etc.? _______ _______
9. Do projects with more than one building/permit
number show the permit/building numbers that apply
to the area being inspected? Are the building address
and permit numbers recorded on the daily report? _______ _______
10. Are all inspections referenced to an approved
plan sheet? _______ _______
11. Is all spin-off documentation such as nonconforming
item reports, resolution of nonconforming item reports,
testing and/or inspection results, changes to plans and
specifications, etc., referenced in the daily report with
sufficient information to ensure traceability? _______ _______
1 of 2
Field Operations Audits (continued)

Item
12. Do all special inspectors follow the company-

established form of report sequence numbering
for all daily reports? _______ _______
13. Do in-progress files appear to be current? _______ _______
14. Are copies of final reports being retained? _______ _______
2 of 2
B.5.3 Field Testing Audit
FIELD TESTING AUDITS
The following section contains audit questions useful in evaluating testing technician
performance in the field.
Item No. Item Reviewed Yes No
Slump of Portland Cement Concrete

1. Was sample of concrete obtained in accordance
with [STANDARD]? _______ _______
2. Sample placed on a flat, rigid nonabsorbent surface? _______ _______
3. Mold smooth and free from projections and dents? _______ _______
4. Tamping rod 5/8-inch diameter? _______ _______
5. Hemispherical tip 5/8-inch radius? _______ _______
6. Mold dampened before test? _______ _______
7. Mold filled in three equal volume lifts? _______ _______
8. Concrete heaped above mold for final layer
before rodding? _______ _______
9. Each layer rodded 25 times? _______ _______
10. Strokes spiraled from outside toward center? _______ _______
11. Strokes just penetrating layer below? _______ _______
12. Struck off by screeding and rolling? _______ _______
13. Mold raised immediately in 5 ± 2 seconds? _______ _______
14. Slump measured and recorded to nearest ¼-inch? _______ _______
Sampling Fresh Concrete

1. Has the time between first and final portions of
sample been 15 minutes or less? _______ _______
2. Portion samples remixed with a shovel to
uniform consistency? _______ _______
3. Slump and air tests begun within 5 minutes
after sampling? _______ _______
4. Strength test started within 15 minutes after
mixing composite sample? _______ _______
5. Sample protected from sun and wind to prevent
evaporation and contamination? _______ _______
6. Strength sample 1 cubic foot minimum? _______ _______
7. Truck ticket checked for correct mix?
8. Sample taken from two or more regularly spaced intervals
during discharge of middle portion of the batch? _______ _______
9. Was water added to the mix after samples were obtained? _______ _______
1 of 2
FIELD TESTING AUDITS (continued)

Item
Making and Curing Concrete Test Specimens in the Field

1. Strength samples molded on a level, rigid,
horizontal surface? _______ _______
2. Samples moved to the place of storage immediately
after being struck off? _______ _______
3. Samples protected from jarring, striking, tilting
or scarring during movement to storage? _______ _______
4. Sample placed in the mold such that a symmetrical
distribution of the concrete is obtained in the mold? _______ _______
5. Concrete placed into the molds in equal volume layers? _______ _______
6. Each layer rodded 25 times using a spiral outside-to-
inside pattern penetrating the layer below: 4-inch lift,
½-inch; more than 4-inches, 1-inch? _______ _______
7. Rodding voids closed by lightly tamping the mold
sides with the tamping rod? _______ _______
8. Sample struck off and initially cured at a temperature
of 60 to 80°F during the first 24 hours after molding? _______ _______
2 of 2
B.6 Structural Observer

B.6.1 Structural Observer Discrepancy Notice
Sample
STRUCTURAL OBSERVER DISCREPANCY NOTICE

City/County of: _______________________Permit #: ________________Date: ____________
Project Name/Address:__________________________________________________________
Structural Observation Type/Coverage:_____________________________________________
Notice delivered to:  Contractor  Engineer/Architect  Building Department
 Special Inspector  Owner
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________
Signature: _____________________________
Print Name: _______________________Company: _________________________________
B.7 Preconstruction Meetings

B.7.1 Preconstruction Meeting Form – Samples
PRECONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE AGENDA STRUCTURAL
Pursuant to Technical Guideline TG-21, a preconstruction conference may be required prior to the start of
any major project. This conference may be initiated by the permit holder, owner, or Clark County
Department of Development Services-Building Division (CCDDS-BD). Certain individuals/Firms are
required to attend this conference as specified below.
1. Purpose of conference
a. Outline responsibilities.
b. Identify and clarify the special inspection requirements for the project.
c. Identify and clarify CCDDS-BD requirements.
2. Introduction of attendees
a. Principal Registered Design Professional, Registered Design Professional (when
required).
b. Project superintendent (REQUIRED).
c. CCDDS-BD structural section (REQUIRED).
d. Quality Assurance Agencies (QAA). The designated Quality Manager or Engineering
Manager must be present (REQUIRED).
e. Owner’s representative (when required).
f. Representatives from all structural subcontractors and structural material suppliers (when
required).
3. Contractor’s Presentation
a. Scope of work and timelines.
b. Permit status and Special inspection requirements.
c. Phased Construction.
d. Safeguards during construction.
e. Deferred submittals
Stairs
Joists
Fireproofing
Skylights
EIFS
Other
f. Initial curing facilities.
g. On-site and off-site fabrication:
Approved fabricators
Structural elements
EIFS
Others
h. Contacts for all subcontractors, RDPs, QAAs, etc.

i. Location/maintenance of QAA and CCDDS-BD on-site work stations.
4. Quality Assurance Agency Presentation:
a. Approval/Ability to perform required special inspection and testing activities.
b. Proposed project staffing.
c. Subcontracted inspections and testing services
d. Multiple QAAs.
5. CCDDS Building Division Presentation.
a. Responsibilities (TG-21):
Owner
CCDDS Building Division
Permit Holder
Quality Assurance Agency & Subcontracted Quality Assurance Agency
Special Inspector
b. Monitoring of Special Inspectors:
Monitoring Procedures
After-hours monitoring
c. Enforcement Process-Clark County.
d. Enforcement Process QAA, NCRs, and resolutions.
e. Required Permits:
Fence
Pedestrian protection
Other temporary structures
f. Required Approvals:
Concrete mix design
Grout
Field changes & revisions
Deferred submittals
Fabricators
g. Required Reports:
Pad certification (prior to foundation inspection)
Area acceptance (prior to framing inspection)
Final (prior to TCO/final inspection)
h. Interaction between Building Inspectors, Structural Monitors, and Special Inspectors:
When a special inspection or testing is required by a Quality Assurance Agency,
an area acceptance report shall be provided and accepted prior to loading/
concealing.
Temporary Certification of Occupancy: parking garage, other structures i.
Modification of QAA-SIA (add/delete special inspection items)
i. Overtime for after-hours monitoring by CCDDS-BD.
j. Construction Issues:
Steel Construction
Concrete Construction
Masonry Construction
Soils
Piles/Drilled Shafts
Other construction types
Storm water Best Management Practices inspection and enforcement.
PRECONSTRUCTION CONFERENCE AGENDA GEOTECHNICAL
Pursuant to Technical Guideline TG-21, a preconstruction conference may be required prior to

the start of any major project. This conference may be initiated by the permit holder, owner,
or Clark County Department of Development Services-Building Division (CCDDS-BD).
Certain individuals/Firms are required to attend this conference as specified below.
1. Purpose of conference:
a. Outline responsibilities.
b. Identify and clarify the special inspection requirements for the project.
c. Identify and clarify CCDDS-BD requirements.
2. Introduction of attendees:
a. Principal Registered Design Professional, Registered Design Professional (when
required).
b. Project superintendent (REQUIRED).
c. CCDDS-BD structural section (REQUIRED).
d. Quality Assurance Agencies (QAA). The designated Quality Manager or Engineering
Manager must be present (REQUIRED).
e. Owner’s representative (when required).
f. Representatives from the earthwork contractor and other contractors performing
related work: Foundation installation, on-site improvements, etc.
3. Contractor’s Presentation:
a. Scope of work and timelines.
b. Overview of earthwork operations and other activities within the scope of the permit,
including timelines, sequence, etc.
c. Permit status and Special inspection requirements.
d. Safeguards during construction.
e. Contacts for all subcontractors, RDPs, QAAs, etc.
a. Location/maintenance of QAA and CCDDS-BD on-site work stations.
4. Quality Assurance Agency Presentation:
a. Approval/Ability to perform required special inspection and testing activities.
b. Proposed project staffing.
c. Subcontracted inspections and testing services.
d. Multiple QAAs.
5. CCDDS Building Division Presentation.

a. Responsibilities (TG-21):
Owner
CCDDS Building Division
Permit Holder
Quality Assurance Agency & Subcontracted Quality Assurance Agency
Special Inspector
b. Monitoring of Special Inspectors:
Monitoring Procedures
c. Enforcement Process-Clark County.
d. Enforcement Process QAA, NCRs, and resolutions.
e. Required Permits, where applicable:
Temporary structures
f. Required Approvals, where applicable:
Concrete mix design
Field changes & revisions
Deferred submittals
g. Required Reports:
Pad certification (prior to foundation inspection)
Area acceptance (prior to framing inspection)
Final (prior to TCO/final inspection)
h. Interaction between Building Inspectors, Structural Monitors, and Special Inspectors:
When a special inspection or testing is required by a Quality Assurance Agency,
an area acceptance report shall be provided and accepted prior to loading/
concealing.
Temporary Certification of Occupancy: parking garage, other structures
i. Modification of QAA-SIA (add/delete special inspection items).
j. Overtime for after-hours monitoring by CCDDS-BD.
k. Construction Issues:
Earthwork
Hillside construction
Mechanical stabilization
Drilled Shaft/driven piles
Temporary construction
Stormwater Best Management Practices inspection and enforcement
B.8 Contractor Statement of Responsibility

B.8.1 Contractor Statement of Responsibility
Sample
CONTRACTOR STATEMENT OF RESPONSIBILITY

Project: ____________________________Permit #: _________________________________
Project Address: ________________________Contractor: ______________________________
________________________
Description of system or component included in Statement of Special Inspections:
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Procedure for exercising control:

_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Supervisor of quality control:

Name____________________________ Job Title ____________________________________
Qualifications _________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________
Reporting Method: __________________ Frequency of reporting: ____________________
Report Distribution List:

_____________________________ ___________________________________________
_____________________________ ___________________________________________
_____________________________ ___________________________________________
I hereby acknowledge that I have received and read Statement of Special Inspection, and under-
stand my responsibilities in maintaining control of construction of those systems and elements
listed in the statement. I acknowledge that control will be exercised to obtain conformance with
the approved construction documents.
Signature _______________________________________ Date ________________________

Printed Name ___________________________________ Position ______________________
Appendix C – Inspector Certification
Special inspectors are expected to be experts in their given fields. As a result, inspectors with
different areas of expertise are needed to inspect different materials and methods of construc-
tion.
Recognizing the need to support its member building departments across the United States
and globally, the International Code Council (ICC) developed certification and accredita-
tion programs to identify competent individuals and organizations that perform special
inspection. ICC Certification and Testing programs require individuals seeking certification
as special inspectors to have demonstrated a level of competence in a manner that will protect
the safety and welfare of the public. Individuals may become certified through ICC by partic-
ipating in a number of seminars and training classes, and passing written examinations. Orga-
nizations that employ special inspectors and provide inspection services to the building
industry can gain accreditation through the International Accreditation ServiceTM (IASTM), a
subsidiary of ICC.
Along with certification and accreditation services, ICC published the Model Program for Spe-
cial Inspection through the beginning of the 2012 code cycle. The Special Inspection Manual
has replaced the Model Program while retaining its content.
Model Program for Special Inspection
Special inspection is the monitoring of materials, installation, fabrication, erection and place-
ment of components and connections that require special expertise and are critical to the
integrity of the building structure. Special inspection is required to ensure compliance with
approved construction documents (plans) and standards referenced in the applicable codes.
The Model Program for Special Inspection was first offered to building officials, jurisdictions,
and inspection and testing agencies in 1986. It focused on the field inspection aspects of spe-
cial inspection and has been used as a standard reference for the special inspector exams for
over a decade.
229
The original program was the culmination of the efforts of building officials, inspectors and
inspection/testing agencies associated with California Council of Testing and Inspection
Agencies (CCTIA). Since that time, many others have voluntarily given their time and talents
to keep this document current and pertinent to the special inspection profession. This docu-
ment has been reviewed over the years by special inspector exam committees before and after
the consolidation of the ICC. Participants on these committees include:
Name State Name State
Charles Ballou Minnesota Calvin McCall North Carolina
Stan Beeler Ohio R.D. Messer Louisiana
Jeffery Bowers Washington Jim Messersmith Virginia
James Byrnes Kansas Charles Mlodzik Washington
Clifford Craig California William Murchinson North Carolina
Michelle Craig California Robert Nagin Florida
Fred Deis Oregon Phillip Nishikawa California
David Drenth Minnesota Sam Palmer Nevada
Carl Eriksson Utah Gary Peterson Washington
Roger Evans Utah Anthony Re Oregon
Fayez Fanik New Jersey Don Riley Alabama
William Fitzjohn California Gerald Smith Alabama
Harry Gleich South Carolina Bill Stevens South Carolina
Charles Hemsley California Thomas Stevens California
Jeff Hilfiker Kansas Emile Troup Maine
Merlyn Isaak California Zan Turner California
David Janifer Virgina W.F. Urbick Washington
Don Johnson Florida George Voigt Pennsylvania
Joe Kane New York Michael Wheeler California
Roy Keck Georgia Kip Williamson California
Ron Lynn Nevada David Wismer Pennsylvania
Mehrdad Maher California Daniel Zechmeister Michigan
Areas of Certification
Special inspector certification is based on knowledge of specific materials and methods of

construction. The following certifications are offered by the Code Council:
• Reinforced Concrete Special Inspection.
• Prestressed Concrete Special Inspection.
• Structural Masonry Special Inspection.
• Structural Steel and Bolting Special Inspection.
• Structural Welding Special Inspection.
• Soils Special Inspection.
• Spray-applied Fireproofing Special Inspection.
Appendix C – Inspector Certification 231
There are a number of required special inspections that do not have specific certification
offered by the ICC. Some of these special inspections have certification through other associa-
tions (see Table C-1 for a summary of associations). The building official of the jurisdiction in
which the construction will occur determines whether an applicant is competent to inspect
based on experience and skills. The code official often uses certification to help determine
competence. Certification supplements experience and is a good indicator for the building
official that the special inspector has knowledge of code and standard requirements for the
materials and method of construction specified.
In addition to an applicant’s knowledge, skills and ability as demonstrated through experience

and certification, the building official will evaluate whether the planned construction is simi-
lar in complexity and material use to the applicant’s expertise. In some geographic areas, coop-
erative jurisdictional programs for the recognition of competent inspectors and agencies are
available to assist in determining expertise. These programs review special inspector and spe-
cial inspection agency applications and recognize the areas of special inspection in which the
applicant has demonstrated expertise and certification. The names of the inspectors and agen-
cies are then posted in a directory for local jurisdictions to use in quickly validating the com-
petence of a proposed special inspector or special inspection agency.
Recommended Special Inspector Qualifications
In order to determine an applicant’s knowledge, skills and experience, a building department

checks the following:
1. Code knowledge and plan-reading ability.
2. Experience.
3. Current and ongoing performance.
Code Knowledge and Plan-reading Competency Standards
Methods of evaluation of code knowledge and plan-reading skills include:

1. Individuals maintaining current certification as a special inspector in the discipline(s) for
which he or she is requesting approval.
2. Written or oral examination to verify the applicant’s knowledge of jurisdictional proce-
dures and code requirements. This may be an additional exam beyond a certification
exam.
The International Code Council (ICC) and associations such as the American Concrete Insti-
tute (ACI), American Welding Society (AWS), and Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) offer
certification exams to help determine code and standards knowledge. Table C-1, Special
Inspector Certification Exams, lists the special inspection categories and associations who
offer certification exams for each category.
The ICC offers certification in a number of categories of special inspection. Certification is

achieved through an examination based on knowledge of the model codes and referenced
standards. Note: registration for a certification exam does not include verification of experi-
ence. Potential special inspectors who receive certification will still be required to provide
proof of experience to a building official.
Certification is a method of demonstrating basic knowledge of applicable model code provi-

sions and referenced standards that serve as the basis for a particular examination listed in the
ICC candidate bulletin.
TABLE C-1: Special Inspector Certification Exams
Material Certification Association Offering Exam
Reinforced Concrete SI ICC
Concrete Prestressed Concrete SI ICC
Concrete Construction SI American Concrete Institute (ACI)
Structural Welding SI ICC
Steel Structural Steel and Bolting SI ICC
Certified Welding Inspector American Welding Society (AWS)
Masonry Structural Masonry SI ICC
Soils SI ICC
Soils NICET II (geotechnical or construction or National Institute for Certification of
construction material testing or soils) Engineering Technologists (NICET)
Association of the Wall and Ceiling
EIFS EIFS Inspector
Industry (AWCI)
Fireproofing Spray-applied Fireproofing SI ICC
Firestop Examination Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL)
Firestop
Firestop Examination FM Global (FM)
Storage Tank Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector American Petroleum Institute (API)
Nondestructive ASNT-CP-189 NDT American Society for Nondestructive
Testing (NDT) SNT-TC-1a NDT Testing (ASNT)
HVAC Testing Technician Certification Associated Air Balance Council (AABC)
American Society of Safety Engineers
Safety Site Safety Manager Certification
(ASSE)
Once a certification exam is successfully passed, a certificate is awarded as proof of achieve-

ment of a minimum code knowledge and plan reading standard.
Figure C-1: ICC Special Inspector Certificate
Experience Standards
The specialized knowledge and skills needed to perform special inspection should be obtained
by experience in some aspect of the discipline being inspected. Industry standards typically
require 1-5 year(s) of verifiable practical experience, depending upon the discipline and the
level of inspection, a portion of which may be satisfied by applicable technical education.
There are also provisions for trainees who may work under the direct supervision of qualified
special inspectors.
The building official may require that special inspector applicants provide evidence of experi-
ence through the following:
1. Written references verifying related work experience.
2. Personal interview to evaluate the applicant’s work experience and suitability to be a spe-
cial inspector.
3. Evidence of compliance with a recognized industry experience guideline.
Table C-2, Minimum Qualifications for Special Inspectors, contains a list of minimum recom-
mended experience and certification for special inspections required by the IBC. This table
was created by the special inspector exam committees during development of the Model Pro-
gram for Special Inspection through discussion of a minimum level of experience required in
each special inspection category. The document, titled “AC 291 – Accrediation Criteria for
Special Inspection Agencies,” undergoes periodic review. Download the criteria at www.iason-
line.org.
TABLE C-2 – Minimum Qualifications for Special Inspectors

Recommended
Special Inspection Category Recommended Certification(s)
Experience
Concrete Construction (Prestressed/Precast) Path 1 ICC Pre-stressed SI and ICC Reinforced Concrete SI
ICC Reinforced Concrete SI or ACI Concrete
Reinforced Concrete Path 1
Construction SI
120 hours for Level
Nondestructive Testing (NDT) ANSI/ASNT-CP-189 NDT or SNT-TC-1a NDT
II
Path 1, NICET II (geotechnical or construction or construction
Pier and Pile Foundations
Path 2 material testing or soils)
ICC Reinforced Concrete SI or ACI Concrete
Post-Installed Structural Anchors in Concrete Path 1
Construction SI
Path 1, ICC Soils SI (ICC-EC) or NICET II (geotechnical or
Soils
Path 2 construction or construction material testing or soils)
Spray-applied Fire-resistant Materials /
ICC Spray-Applied Fireproofing SI or ICC Fire
Intumescent Fire-resistant Coatings / Path 1
Inspector I
Mastic Fire-resistant Coatings
Steel (High-Strength Bolting) Path 1 ICC Structural Steel and Bolting SI
5 Years Minimum AWS Certified Welding Inspector or ICC Structural
Steel (Welding)
or per AWS Steel and Welding SI
Masonry Construction Path 1 ICC Structural Masonry SI
Path 1, ICC Commercial Building Inspector or ICC Residential
Wood Construction
Path 2 Building Inspector
Exterior Insulation and Finish Systems (EIFS) Path 1 AWCI EIFS Inspector
Firestop Systems Path 1 UL Firestop Examination or FM Firestop Examination
Path 1, ICC Commercial Building Inspector or ICC
Wall Panels, Curtain Walls, and Veneers
Path 2 Residential Building Inspector
Path 1,
Smoke Control Systems AABC Technician Certification
Path 2
ICC Commercial Mechanical Inspector or ICC
Mechanical Systems Path 1
Residential Mechanical Inspector
ICC Commercial Mechanical Inspector or ICC
Fuel-oil Storage and Piping Systems Path 1 Residential Mechanical Inspector or API Aboveground
Storage Tank Inspector
Structural Cold-formed Steel
Path 1, NICET II (geotechnical or construction or construction
Excavation – Sheeting, Shoring, and Bracing
Path 2 material testing or soils)
5 Years Minimum AWS Certified Welding Inspector or ICC Structural
High-Pressure Steam Piping (Welding)
or per AWS Steel and Welding SI
Structural Safety – Stability and Mechanical RDP, PE, BS Engineering/Architecture or Valid Site
Path 1
Demolition Safety Manager Certification
Path 1, ICC Soils SI or NICET II (geotechnical or construction
Site Storm Drainage Disposal and Detention
Path 2 or construction material testing or soils)
Sprinkler Systems
Standpipe Systems
Path 1, ICC Commercial Mechanical Inspector or ICC
Heating Systems
Path 2 Residential Mechanical Inspector
Path 1, ICC Commercial Mechanical Inspector or ICC
Chimneys
Path 2 Residential Mechanical Inspector
Path 1,
Seismic Isolation Systems RDP, PE, BS Engineering/Architecture
Path 2
Path 1, ICC Commercial Building Inspector or ICC Residential
Special Cases
Path 2 Building Inspector
Path 1: Applicants shall comply with one of the following education and experience require-
ments:
a. Professional Engineer (PE), licensed Architects, or Registered Design Professional
(RDP) and a minimum of 3 months of relevant work experience
b. Bachelor of Science Degree (BS) in Engineering, Architecture, or Physical Science and
a minimum of 6 months of relevant work experience
c. Two years of verified college or technical school (copy of diploma or transcript
required) and a minimum of 1 year of relevant work experience
d. High school or equivalent graduate (copy of diploma or certificate required) and a
minimum of 2 years of verified relevant work experience
e. A minimum of 3 years of verified relevant work experience
Path 2: RDPs, PEs, or licensed Architects are exempt from Recommended Certification(s)
listed in Table 1 above, but are subject to on-site assessment of competence by the Interna-
tional Accreditation Service (IAS).
Reference Abbreviations and Recognized Certifying or Accreditation Agencies

1. AA Associate of Arts
2. AABC Associated Air Balance Council
3. ACI American Concrete Institute
4. ACIA American Construction Inspectors Association
5. ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
6. ASNT American Society for Nondestructive Testing
7. AWCI Association of the Wall and Ceiling Industry
8. AWS/CAWI American Welding Society/Certified Associate Welding Inspector
9. AWS/CWI American Welding Society
10. BS Bachelor of Science
11. IBC International Building Code
12. ICC International Code Council
13. NICET National Institute for Certification of Engineering Technologists
14. NRCA National Roofing Contractors Association
15. IAS International Accreditation Service
16. SI Special Inspector
17. UL Underwriters Laboratories Inc.
Development of qualified inspectors requires those individuals to obtain experience perform-

ing inspections of actual work. To provide a method for individuals to obtain this experience,
they may perform inspections in accordance with written associate or apprentice programs
that are prepared by the special inspection agency (SIA), approved by the International
Accreditation Service (IAS) or other accreditation body, and meet the requirements of the
local governing authority.
This written program will also define the use of associate or apprentice inspectors and will
limit their use based upon the level of supervision and complexity of the inspection assign-
ment. The complexity of an assignment should be minimal and will often be task specific.
Supervision should be direct, with an approved inspector being present at the site with the
associate or apprentice. The associate or apprentice to certified inspector ratio on a project site
should not exceed 1:1. All documents related to work by an associate or apprentice inspector
must be co-signed by a certified inspector. The program must include a method to document
compliance with the program requirements. For more information on the education programs
that must be developed by a special inspection agency, see Chapter 10.
When qualifications for special inspectors are locally defined by statute, ordinance or rule and
meet or exceed the requirements outlined on page 234, the local requirements are followed.
Performance Standards
The building official may use performance standards for special inspector certification exams
as guidelines for evaluating the expertise of special inspectors in each of the applicable disci-
plines. The standards contain comprehensive tasks that may be performed by special inspec-
tors on large and complex projects. Actual tasks required on specific projects will typically be
only a portion of each total list.
Performance Standards: Job Task Lists for Special

Inspectors
The following job task lists, or performance standards, describe the minimum knowledge and
skills recommended for a special inspector in each of the areas for which the ICC gives certifi-
cation. The lists are the basis of the ICC certification exams. More information on the exams is
available at www/iccsafe.org/Certification/pages/ExamCandidates.aspx.
The job tasks lists were developed by committees specifically assigned to each exam. The tasks
describe work performed in the field by special inspectors and represent the minimum knowl-
edge and skills recommended to protect public health and safety. While other tasks related to
this work may be helpful or expand the professional ability of the inspector, these minimum
requirements for certification exams are mandated by the Equal Employment Opportunity
Commission (EEOC), and include accepted professional certification standards as developed
by the American Psychological Association (APA); the Council on Licensure, Enforcement
and Regulation (CLEAR); and the National Organization of Competency Assurance (NOCA).
Review of the job tasks when considering proposed special inspection activities for a particu-
lar project is helpful in evaluating the expertise of a special inspector. For a list of suggested
minimum qualifications for special inspection duties, review Table C-2, Minimum Qualifica-
tions for Special Inspectors.
Special Inspectors - General Duties
The general duties common across all special inspections are listed as follows. These are the
basic information-gathering and record-keeping tasks of the special inspector.
• Review approved plans and specifications for special inspection requirements.
• Comply with special inspection requirements of the enforcing jurisdiction.
• Submit progress reports to the RDP and building official, describing tests that were per-
formed and compliance of work.
• Notify the contractor of discrepancies from approved plans and specifications.
• If the discrepancies are uncorrected, notify the RDP in responsible charge and the build-
ing official.
• Submit final summary report stating whether work requiring special inspection and cor-
rection of any discrepancies was in conformance with the approved plans and applicable
provisions of the building code.
In the following sections, each special inspector certification is described in detail with a job
task list for the special inspection. In some cases, tasks are duplicated in other certifications,
for example, there are identical tasks in the reinforced concrete inspector and prestressed con-
crete inspector certifications.
Steel: Structural, Cold-formed and Reinforcing
For structural steel, certification for high-strength bolting should be obtained. Certification is
offered through the ICC. If welding certification is desired, certification by the ICC or Ameri-
can Welding Society (AWS) should be obtained as well.
The certification for structural cold-formed steel is an ICC Commercial or Residential Build-
ing Inspector Certification. There is no separate special inspection certification currently
available.
For reinforcing steel, special inspector certification for reinforced concrete is used. If welding
inspection is to be done, ICC or AWS welding inspector certification is required. The follow-
ing sections describe the job tasks for each type of steel or connection an inspector verifies
during a special inspection.
Structural Steel and Bolting
A structural steel and bolting special inspector inspects correct selection and application of
bolts for steel construction. The primary categories of inspection are material verification,
high-strength bolting requirement verification and framing verification. These categories are
further divided into tasks.
Material Sampling, Testing and Verification

• Verify that steel shapes and bolts are of the types, sizes, grades and conditions specified
on approved plans and specifications.
• Verify that required type, quantity, location and frequency of tests are performed, and
witness preparation of properly identified test samples on all materials.
• Provide or arrange for documentation and transportation of samples to testing labora-
tory.
• Verify that required testing is performed on materials as required by applicable standards
and specifications.
High-Strength Bolting
Identify and verify that the following are in compliance with applicable standards, approved
plans and specifications:
• Correct type, size and location of bolts and bolt holes, nuts and washers for type of con-
nection.
• Protected storage of bolts, nuts and washers.
• Faying surfaces at connections utilizing high-strength bolts.
• Observe or conduct bolt tension verification tests on required high-strength bolt assem-
blies.
• Joint type and installation of bolt assemblies.
• Use of the approved method and sequence of bolt tightening.
Steel Framing Observation
Verify that the following are in compliance with applicable standards, approved plans and
specifications:
• Base plates are securely seated and fastened.
• Structural steel frame orientation, details and frame member sizes.
• Column base plates are the designed configuration, have correct size holes and proper
clearance for grouting.
• Grout placement and sampling.
Figure C-2: Bolted Steel Members
Structural Welding
A structural welding special inspector inspects welds in steel construction. The primary cate-
gories of inspection are material and weld adequacy verification. These categories are further
divided into tasks.
Material Sampling, Testing and Verification

• Verify that the steel shapes, base metals, filler metals and gases are of the type, size, grade
and condition specified on approved plans, specifications and Welding Procedures Speci-
fications.
• Verify required type, quantity, location and frequency of tests to be performed, and wit-
ness preparation of properly identified test samples on all materials.
• Provide or arrange for documentation and transportation of samples to the laboratory.
• Verify that destructive testing is performed on materials as required by applicable stan-
dards and specifications.
• Verify that nondestructive examinations are performed as required by applicable stan-
dards and specifications.
• Provide or arrange for communication of field-testing results to the RDP in responsible
charge and building official.
Structural, Reinforcing and Sheet Steel Welding
Verify that the following are in compliance with applicable standards, approved plans, specifi-
cations and procedures:
• Welding equipment and process has the capability to
produce the specified welds.
• Welding equipment is calibrated and appropriate for
use with the welding process.
• Witness qualification of welders, welding operators
and tackers, to perform specified work.
• Proposed welding procedure for structural steel,
reinforcing steel and sheet metal is a standard
prequalified procedure, or has been properly quali-
fied and approved.
• Welding processes, sequences and procedures are fol-
lowed in accordance with approved Welding Proce-
dures Specifications.
• Use of approved plans and specifications for weld Figure C-3: Welding of Structural Steel
types and locations. Members
• Filler materials are stored and handled in accordance
with manufacturer and project specifications.
• Base metal to be welded is properly prepared and oriented.
• Weldments have proper joint geometry and have backing and start/runoff tabs where
required.
• Weld and structural steel repairs completed.

• Fabricated elements are within permissible tolerances.
• Welds have the specified length and effective throat.
• Weld profile meets applicable shape, size and quality requirements.
Cold-Formed Steel Deck
A special inspector certified in structural welding should inspect welding of cold-formed steel
decking. The primary categories of inspection for cold-formed steel deck are similar to those
for structural steel. Material and weld adequacy verification are required. These categories are
further divided into tasks below.
Material
• Identification markings conform to ASTM standards specified in the approved construc-
tion documents.
• Manufacturer’s certified test reports are available and match the material on site.
Welding
Floor and roof deck welds

• Use AWS D1.3 to determine welding inspection requirements.
• Use AWS D1.3 to determine welding inspector qualification require-
ments.
Figure C-4: Cold-formed Steel Decking
Welding of Reinforcing Steel
The primary concern with reinforcing steel is to inspect all welds. Reinforcing steel special
inspection may be done by a structural welding certified special inspector. See the AWS D1.4
and ACI 318 standards for further competency requirements. The tasks to verify weld ade-
quacy are listed as follows.
Welds
Verify the following are in compliance with applicable standards, approved plans, specifica-
tions and procedures:
• Weldability of reinforcing steel other than ASTM A 706.
• Welds on reinforcing steel resisting flexural and axial forces in intermediate and special
moment frames.
• Welds on reinforcing steel in boundary elements of special structural walls of concrete.
• Welds of shear reinforcement.
• Welds of other reinforcing steel.
• Use AWS D1.4 and ACI 318 to determine welding inspection and welding inspector qual-
ification requirements.
Figure C-5: Welded Reinforcement

Photo Courtesy of WSDOT
AISC 360 Chapter N Quality Assurance
For structural steel welding, the IBC references AISC 360 Chapter N, Quality Control and
Quality Assurance. Chapter N includes requirements for certification of a special inspector or
“quality assurance inspector,” as AISC labels the job.
Chapter N covers both quality control by the contractor and quality assurance by a special
inspection. This appendix focuses on the quality assurance aspects of Chapter N.
Chapter N outlines the minimum requirements for quality assurance deemed by AISC to be
effective to provide satisfactory results in steel building construction. There may be cases
where supplemental inspections are needed. In Section N4, Inspection and Nondestructive
Testing Personnel, AISC 360 lists the qualifications of a Quality Assurance Inspector. Section
N4.2 states:
Quality assurance (QA) welding inspectors shall be qualified to the satisfaction of the QA
agency’s written practice, and in accordance with either of the following:
a. Welding inspectors (WIs) or senior welding inspectors (SWIs), as defined in AWS B5.1, Stan-
dard for the Qualification of Welding Inspectors, except associate welding inspectors (AWIs)
are permitted to be used under the direct supervision of WIs, who are on the premises and
available when weld inspection is being conducted, or
b. Qualified under the provisions of AWS D1.1/D1.1M, subclause 6.1.4.
QA bolting inspection personnel shall be qualified on the basis of documented training and
experience in structural bolting inspection.
Section N4 also gives minimum qualification requirements for testing personnel who do non-
destructive testing (NDT) on welds. At a minimum, testing lab employees must meet the cer-
tification requirements of AWS D1.1, Structural Welding Code—Steel, subclause 6.14.6 by the
American Welding Society, and ASNT-TC-1A or ASNT CP-189 requirements from the Amer-
ican Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT).
AISC 341Chapter J Quality Assurance
In high seismic regions, AISC 341 is referenced by the IBC as well as AISC 360. Chapter J
includes additional requirements for certification of a special inspector or “quality assurance
inspector.”
Section J4, Inspection and Nondestructive Testing Personnel, adds additional qualification
requirements for inspectors doing visual inspection and NDT by referencing AWS D1.8 clause
7.2. Additionally, for NDT testing, ultrasonic testing technicians must be qualified in compli-
ance with AWS D1.8 clause 7.2.4.
Concrete: Reinforced and Prestressed
Certification for reinforced and prestressed concrete inspection is similar. The following sec-
tions describe methods of inspection for concrete reinforcing and the tasks an inspector
should do during a special inspection.
Reinforced Concrete Special Inspection Duties
A reinforced concrete special inspector inspects many activities of concrete construction. The
primary categories of inspection are concrete quality, reinforcement, formwork, joints and
embed placement, concrete placement, and protection during curing. These categories are
further divided into tasks. Certification may be through the ICC or the American Concrete
Institute (ACI) – see Table C-1.
Concrete Quality
• Verify that individual batch tickets indicate delivery of the approved mix as specified.
• Verify time limits of mixing, total water added, and proper consistency and workability
for placement.
• Determine required type, quantity and frequency of tests to be performed on fresh and
hardened concrete.
• Observe sampling and field testing of fresh concrete, making of test specimens.
• Provide or arrange for proper specimen identification, site storage and protection, and
transportation to the testing laboratory.
• Provide or arrange for communication of field-testing results to the RDP in responsible
charge and building official.
Reinforcement
• Reinforcing steels are of specified type, grade and size. Reinforcing steel is free of oil, dirt
and rust and that steel is properly coated and/or sheathed.
• Reinforcing steels are located within acceptable tolerances and are adequately supported
and secured to prevent displacement during concrete placement.
• Minimum concrete cover is provided.
• Placement of reinforcing steel (or ducts) complies with required spacing, profile and
quantity requirements. Hooks, bends, ties, stirrups and supplemental reinforcement are
fabricated and placed as specified.
• Required lap lengths, stagger and offsets are provided.
• Proper installation of approved mechanical connections per manufacturer's instructions
and/or evaluation reports.
• Welds of reinforcing steel and other weldments are as specified and have been inspected
and approved by an approved welding inspector.
Figure C-6: Reinforcement cages

Photos Courtesy of Peter Kulczyk
Formwork.
• Formwork will provide concrete elements of
the specified size and shape.
Location and preparation of construction joints.
Type, quantity, size, spacing and location of

embedded items.
• Debris and loose soils have been removed
from the place of deposit before the concrete
is placed. Any cuts or fills meet requirements
specified in the construction documents.
• Methods of conveying and depositing con-
crete avoid contamination and segregation of
the mix.
• Concrete is being properly consolidated dur-
ing placement
Figure C-7: Concrete Placement
Protection and Curing
Verify that concrete is protected from temperature extremes, and determine that proper cur-
ing is initiated.
Prestressed Concrete Special Inspection Duties
Certification as a reinforced concrete special inspector is required before certification as a pre-

stressed concrete special inspector. All tasks listed under reinforced concrete special inspec-
tion will be completed in the special inspection of prestressed concrete.
Reinforcement
• Tendon type, grade and size. Tendon systems are fabricated in conformance with accept-
able quality standards.
• Tendons are free of oil, dirt and rust, and steel is properly coated and/or sheathed.
• Tendons are located within acceptable tolerances and are adequately supported and
secured to prevent displacement during concrete placement.
• Placement of tendons (or ducts) comply with required spacing, profile and quantity
requirements.
• Prestressed rock and soil anchors are fabricated and installed.
Prestressing and Grouting
Verify that the following are in compli-

ance with applicable standards,
approved plans, specifications and pro-
cedures:
• Required concrete strength has
been attained prior to transferring
prestressing forces.
• Proper equipment calibration.
• Proper stressing (or tensioning)
sequences are used, proper jack-
ing forces are applied, and accept-
able elongation is attained and
recorded.
• Tendons and anchorages are prop-
Figure C-8: Post-tensioned tendons in concrete slab
erly sealed or otherwise protected. Photo Courtesy of Peter Kulczyk
• Ducts including inlets and outlets
are of the required size, are mor-
tar-tight and are located correctly.
• Proper grout materials, strength and grouting pressures are used.
Structural Masonry
Masonry special inspection requirements are referenced in the IBC. See the MSJC (TMS 602/
ACI 530.1/ASCE 6) quality assurance program requirements for all inspection and verifica-
tion requirements.
Materials
• Determine the required material strength and type, and frequency of tests to be per-
formed.
• Observe sampling, field testing and fabrication of test specimens.
Verify that the following are in compliance

with applicable standards, approved plans,
specifications and procedures:
• Brick, block, cement, lime, aggregates,
reinforcement, connectors, water,
admixtures and other materials.
• Materials are properly stored.
• Mix proportions, material handling and
mixing.
• Grout is batched in accordance with
approved mix.
• Masonry strength.
Figure C-9: Concrete Masonry Unit Storage
• Proper sample identification, site stor-
age, protection and transportation to the
testing laboratory.
Masonry Placement:

specifications and proceduresCondition of
substrate is acceptable for placement.
• Mortar and masonry units are prop-
erly placed.
• Type, quantity, size, spacing and loca-
tion of embedded items.
• Location and preparation of move-
ment joints. Figure C-10: Equipment for Proper Placement and
Clean Materials
• Masonry is protected from tempera-
ture extremes and adverse weather conditions.
Reinforcement and Connector Placement

specifications and procedures:Reinforcing
steel and connectors comply with required
size, spacing, profile, condition and quan-
tity requirements.
• Reinforcing steel and connectors are
placed in the proper location within
acceptable tolerances.
Figure C-11: Prefabricated Beam and Reinforcement
• Minimum coverage and clearance to masonry surfaces.

• Hooks, bends, ties, stirrups and supplemental reinforcement fabrication and placement.
• Required lap lengths, stagger and offsets.
• Installation of approved mechanical connections per manufacturer’s instructions and/or
evaluation reports.
Grout Placement
• Grout spaces are free of obstructions and cleanouts are provided.
• Methods of conveying and placing grout avoid contamination and segregation, and com-
ply with time limits and grout lift requirements.
• Grout is being properly consolidated and reconsolidated during placement.
Spray-applied, Mastic and Intumescent Fireproofing
Inspection of fireproofing is detailed in the IBC. The tasks that the inspector will need to ver-
ify include use of correct materials, preparation of the members, application of the fireproof-
ing and testing of the application.
Materials
• Materials are properly stored and have been approved by the RDP in responsible charge
and the building official.
Preparation
• Substrate has been properly prepared and is free of oil, dirt, scale, loose paint or primer
and other materials that may prevent adequate adhesion.
• Identify members to be fireproofed and minimum required coverage and thickness.
Application
• Condition of the finished application-
Testing
• Determine the required type and fre-
quency of tests to be performed.
• Observe the sampling, field testing and
fabrication of test specimens.
Soils
A soils special inspector inspects excavations Figure C-12: Spray-applied Fireproofing

and placement of soils. Fill and in-situ mate-
rial type is also verified.
Materials
• Verify materials below shallow foundations are adequate to achieve the design bearing
capacity.
• Perform classification and testing of compacted fill materials.
Excavation
• Verify excavations are extended to proper
depth and have reached proper material.
• Prior to placement of compacted fill, observe
subgrade.
• Verify proper site preparation.
Placement
• Verify use of proper materials, densities and lift
thicknesses during placement and compaction
of compacted fill. Figure C-13: Earthworks Excavation
• Verify that in-place dry density of compacted
fill is not less than 90 percent of the maximum
dry density at optimum moisture content determined in accordance with ASTM D 1557
where Section 1803 does not require reporting of material and procedures for fill place-
ment.
Deep Foundations
A special inspector may be required to inspect cast-in-place,

driven or drilled piers. While requirements are similar, there is
some variation in the tasks for each type of inspection.
Cast-in-Place Deep Foundation Elements
Cast-in-place piers require both inspection of the concrete and

inspection of the pier construction. The special inspector must
be familiar with the methods of construction of both the piers
and concrete testing. Certification as an ICC Reinforced Con-
crete Special Inspector or ACI Concrete Construction Special
Inspector is encouraged along with NICET-II certification, see
Tables C-1 and C-2. Figure C-14: Cast-in-place piles
Concrete Inspection
• For concrete elements, perform reinforced concrete special inspection duties.
During Placement
• Observe drilling operations and maintain complete and accurate records for each ele-
ment.
• Verify placement locations and plumbness, confirm element diameters, bell diameters (if
applicable), lengths, embedment into bedrock (if applicable) and adequate end-bearing
strata capacity.
• Record concrete or grout volumes.
Driven Deep Foundation Elements
Driven piles require inspection of the steel, concrete (if used) and the pier construction. The
special inspector must be familiar with the methods of construction of the piers, steel and
concrete testing. Certification as an ICC Structural Steel and Bolting Special Inspector is rec-
ommended along with NICET-II certification; see Tables C-1 and C-2. For concrete and grout
special inspection, ICC Reinforced Concrete Special Inspector or ACI Concrete Construction
Special Inspector certification is needed.
Concrete Inspection
• For concrete elements, perform reinforced concrete special inspection duties.
Steel Inspection
• For structural steel elements, perform all steel and welding duties as applicable.
Materials and Testing

• Verify element materials, sizes and lengths comply with requirements.
• Determine capacities of test elements and conduct additional load tests, as required.
During Placement
• Observe driving operations and maintain complete
and accurate records for each element.
• Verify placement locations and plumbness.
• Confirm type and size of hammer, record number of
blows per foot of penetration.
• Determine required penetrations to achieve design
capacity.
• Record tip and butt elevations.
• Document any damage to foundation element. Figure C-15: Driven Piles
Specialty Elements
• Perform additional inspections as determined by the
registered design professional in responsible charge.
Helical Pile
Helical piles require continuous inspection during installation. The special inspector must be
familiar with the placement and load testing of helical piles. As helical piles are all proprietary
products, see the manufacturer’s evaluation report or installation directions for additional
inspection duties.
Steel Inspection
• Perform all steel and welding inspection duties as applicable.
Materials and Testing

• Verify element materials, sizes and lengths comply with requirements.
• Continuously measure torque and check against maximum allowed torque.
During Placement
• Observe driving operations and maintain complete and accurate records for each ele-
ment.
• Verify placement locations and plumbness.
• Confirm installation equipment used.
• Determine required penetration to achieve design capacity.
• Record tip and butt elevations, pile dimension.
• Final installation torque.
• Document any damage to foundation element.
Figure C-16: Helical piles
Becoming a Special Inspector— Paths to Certification
In order to work as a special inspector, an individual must possess the proper work experience
and knowledge. It is important that the building department have a stated policy position
describing minimum certification and experience requirements. To provide an example of the
certification process, the following section covers the steps to be taken by those seeking ICC
certification as a reinforced concrete special inspector.
Reinforced Concrete ICC Certification
Receiving ICC certification for reinforced concrete is a four-step process:

1. Obtain the Certificate of Completion by passing the ICC Reinforced Concrete Special
Inspector certification exam (information at www.iccsafe.org/inspector). You must
become certified within 6 years from the first time you have taken the exam, or you may
be required to take a new examination.
2. Obtain certification from the American Concrete Institute (ACI) as an ACI Concrete
Field Testing Technician - Grade I; and achieve the Associate Reinforced Concrete Spe-
cial Inspector Certification.
3. Meet one of the following three education/work experience requirements:
• Two years of verified college or technical school (copy of diploma or transcript
required) and 2 years of verified work experience in reinforced concrete construction
inspection.
• High school or equivalent graduate (copy of diploma or certificate required) and 3
years of verified work experience in reinforced concrete construction inspection.
• Five years of verified work experience in reinforced concrete construction inspection.
4. Provide verification of the work experience:

• Complete Sections A and B of the Education/Work Experience Form from the ICC.
• Note: Work experience during this time period must include decision-making
responsibility and authority; verification of compliance with plans, specifications, and
codes; evaluation of reinforced concrete construction in the field; and documentation
and reporting of inspection results. Inspection experience must include the following:
formwork installation; reinforcements; embedments; sampling and testing of freshly
mixed concrete; conveying, placing, consolidating, finishing and jointing; curing pro-
tection; and formwork removal.
• Submit copies of the Educational Work Experience form along with the Information
for Respondent sheet to your present and/or former employers, who are called
Respondents. Send this form to as many respondents as needed to prove the amount
of work experience that applies to your particular situation as described above.
Other Certifications
Individuals seeking certification for spray-applied fireproofing, structural masonry or struc-

tural steel and welding have an ICC exam available to demonstrate their knowledge of the
codes and standards related to the material and method of construction. For other categories
of special inspection certification, there are organizations that offer certification exams not
offered by the International Code Council. For instance, the National Institute for Certifica-
tion Engineering Technologies (NICET) offers certification exams for soils.
In the area of welding inspection, the American Welding Society (AWS) has a widely recog-
nized certification referred to as the AWS CWI (American Welding Society Certified Welding
Inspector). Though this is a highly regarded qualification, it does have its limitations. For
instance:
1. The AWS exam has no plan reading, while the ICC exam for structural steel welding
does. The ability to comprehend structural plans is an important skill necessary to per-
form special inspection. AWS does offer an endorsement certification for plan reading.
2. The AWS exam has an open book code portion, where a candidate has choices and he or
she may opt not to use the AWS D1.1. On the other hand, the open portion of the ICC
exam for structural steel welding does include AWS D1.1. Furthermore, the ICC exam
covers AWS D1.3, AWS D1.4, and the AISC Manual for Steel Construction. The AWS
exam does not include questions on any of these references which cover cold-formed
steel welding and welding of reinforcement.
For this reason, some jurisdictions require that the structural steel welding special inspectors
have both AWS and ICC certifications.
Appendix D – Manufacturer
Certification and
Evaluation Reports
There are cases where design specifications and building codes do not provide design criteria
to determine the strength and performance of a structural component or a system, or accept-
ability of a construction method. These components and systems typically come in the form
of proprietary or recently developed systems, connectors, and complex assemblies for which it
is not possible to develop criteria in the form of a design equation or a prescriptive require-
ment. Consequently, testing is used to establish the strength and performance of such mate-
rials, or their equivalence to another component or assembly prescribed by the code.
The building official has an obligation, as instructed by the code, to approve alternatives
where the proposed material or construction method meets the intent of the code and is
equivalent to the code provisions. The building official must determine if the alternate is at
least the equivalent to the code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability,
and safety. This is accomplished by reviewing testing information and research reports pro-
vided by the manufacturer of the product or review of an evaluation report.
Code Provisions
A building official may approve any product, material or equipment based on information
that an alternate method or material is appropriate for the intended use and of sufficient
capacity.
104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the
building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
253
In order to show equivalent capacity of an alternate material, design or method, testing may
occur. A convenient way to pass information on about that testing, because manufacturers of
proprietary products may not allow all interested parties to view testing and production of a
product, is an evaluation report.
The ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES), a subsidiary of the International Code Council (ICC),
has produced evaluation reports for over 80 years within the legacy code organizations. ICC-
ES was created as a technical evaluator of code compliance for alternate materials to provide
clear evidence that products meet code and standard requirements.
ICC-ES is accredited by ANSI as a product certification entity under ISO Guide 65, and cre-
ates evaluation reports and listings that demonstrate compliance with applicable codes and
standards. Evaluation reports can be accessed at www.icc-es.org.
ICC-ES produces evaluation reports for manufacturers based on the product’s meeting or
exceeding acceptance criteria and code requirements.
Acceptance Criteria
ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria (AC) serve as a policy for ICC-ES staff to use in the review of
products for code compliance. ACs can be developed for new innovative products and for
products covered by the code, where the code is unclear regarding requirements and limita-
tions. The criteria are living documents that can be revised when deemed necessary by the
ICC-ES staff, the Evaluation Committee or interested parties, such as report holders and test-
ing agencies.
ICC-ES staff work with a report applicant to draft appropriate acceptance criteria. Proposed
AC are posted on the ICC-ES website for 30 days prior to the Evaluation Committee hearing
to allow comments from interested parties. The ICC-ES Evaluation Committee, composed of
code officials, has a process that includes holding public hearings, reviewing comments, and
voting on proposed acceptance criteria.
Approved criteria are available for use by all parties interested in achieving an ICC-ES Evalua-
tion Report. Products that have been successfully evaluated against acceptance criteria receive
an ICC-ES Evaluation Report. The criteria are available through the ICC store at www.icc-
safe.org/store.
Appendix D – Manufacturer Certification and Evaluation Reports 255
Figure D.1 contains an example of acceptance criteria. The individual sections of the AC and
their significance are described in the figure.
Each circle Identi

Identi-
fies an aspect of
the AC explained
below.
----------------------------------------------------- 1
------------------------------------------ 2
----------------------------------------------- 3
Figure D.1: Example Acceptance Criteria
Figure D.1 cont.: Example Acceptance Criteria
1 AC Number - ICC-ES Acceptance Criteria are organized according to the number

assigned. Numbers are assigned numerically as acceptance criteria are developed.
2 Approval Date – Each time acceptance criteria are updated and approved by the evalua-
tion committee, the approval date is updated.
3 Preface – Describes the purpose of acceptance criteria.
4 Scope – Explains when the AC is applicable.
5 Definitions – Definition of terms in the AC.
6 General Requirements – This section begins the list of requirements a product will
meet within its evaluation report.
Figure D.1 cont.: Example Acceptance Criteria
Evaluation Service Reports
The evaluation report or ES report recognizes a specific building product’s ability to meet the
performance and prescriptive provisions in the code. It is an independent finding of the prod-
uct’s capability. The report provides code officials and registered design professionals the
assurance of consistency, technical accuracy and fairness in determining a product’s correct
application. The evaluation process is a way for industries to develop solutions and create a
level playing field between manufacturers.
The creation of an evaluation report includes:
A. Basis for evaluation:

1. Code or standard provisions, where applicable.
2. Acceptance criteria when no code provisions apply.
B. Technical review examining:

1. Product test reports.
2. Evidence of verification by an accredited testing agency (third-party).
3. Use of available code requirements and acceptance criteria.
In a cyclic process, questions about test reports, capacity, application and installation of the
product are resolved with the applicant.
C. Creation of the report.
D. Appropriate ongoing inspection and review of quality control procedures.
Inspection agencies must be accredited to ISO/IEC Standard 17020 General Criteria for the
Operation of Various Types of Bodies Performing Inspection. Testing labs must be accredited
to ISO/IEC Standard17025, General Requirements for the Competence of Testing and Cali-
bration Laboratories. Accreditation is done by International Accreditation Service (IAS) or an
accreditation body that is a partner in a Mutual Recognition Arrangement (MRA). More
information on these agencies is available in Appendix E.
Reports are valid for a specific period of time. New reports are renewed 1 year after issuance.
After the first year, the option is for a 1- or 2-year renewal. A report can undergo revisions at
any time. If a report has been revised, this will be indicated at the bottom of the first page of
the report.
Figure D.2 contains a sample evaluation report (ESR). The individual sections of the ESR and
their significance are described in the figure.
ICC-ES Evaluation Report ESR-4802

Issued March 1, 2011
This report is subject to re-examination in one year.
www.icc-es.org | (800) 423-6587 | (562) 699-0543 A Subsidiary of the International Code Council ®
DIVISION: 07-THERMAL AND MOISTURE PROTECTION sheathing, complying with IBC Section 2304.7.2 or IRC
1 Section: 07410-Metal Roof and Wall Panels Section R803, as applicable.
4.0 INSTALLATION
8
REPORT HOLDER:
4.1 General:
2 ACME CUSTOM·BILT PANELS Installation of the Custom-Blit Standing Seam Roof Panels
52380 FLOWER STREET must be In accordance with this report, Section 1507.4 of
CHICO, MONTANA 43820 the IBC or Section R905.10 of the IRC, and the
(808) 664·1512 manufacturer's published Installation Instructions. The
www.customblltpanels.com manufacturer's installation Instructions must be available at
the Job site at all times during Installation.
3 EVALUATION SUBJECT: The roof panels must be installed on solid or closely
fitted decking, as specified In Section 3.2. Accessories
CUSTOM·BILT STANDING SEAM METAL ROOF such as gutters, drip angles, fascias, ridge caps, window or
PANELS: CB·150 gable trim, valley and hip flashings, etc., are fabricated to
suit each job condition. Details must be submitted to the
4 1.0 EVALUATION SCOPE code official for each Installation.
Compliance with the following codes: 4.2 Roof Panel Installation:
®
2006 International Building Code (IBC) CB-150: The CB-150 roof panels are installed on roofs

®
2006 International Residential Code (IRC) having a minimum slope of 2:12 (17 percent). The roof
panels are installed over the optional underlayment and
Properties evaluated:
5 secured to the sheathing with the panel clip. The clips are
Weather resistance located at each panel rib side lap spaced 6 inches (152
Fire classification mm) from all ends and at a maximum of 4 feet (1.22 mm)
on center along the length of the rib, and fastened with a
Wind uplift resistance
minimum of two No. 10 by 1-inch pan head corrosion-
6 2.0 USES resistant screws. The panel ribs are mechanically seamed
twice, each pass at 90 degrees, resulting in a double
Custom-Bllt Standing Seam Metal Roof Panels are steel
panels complying with IBC Section 1507.4 and IRC locking fold.
Section R905.10. The panels are recognized for use as 4.3 Fire Classification:
Class A roof coverings when Installed In accordance with The steel panels are considered Class A roof coverings In
this report.
accordance with the exception to IBC Section 1505.2 and
7 3.0 DESCRIPTION IRC Section R902.1.
3.1 Roofing Panels: 4.4 Wind Uplift Resistance:
Custom-Bllt standing seam roof panels are fabricated in The systems described In Section 3.0 and Installed in
steel and are available In the CB-150 and SL·1750 accordance with Sections 4.1 and 4.2 have an allowable
profiles. The panels are roll-formed at the jobsite to provide wind uplift resistance of 45 pounds per square foot (2.15
the standing seams between panels. See Figures 1 and 3 kPa).
for panel profiles.
The standing seam roof panels are roll-formed from
5.0 CONDITIONS OF USE 9
minimum No. 24 gage [0.024 Inch thick (0.61 mm») cold- The standing seam metal roof panels described In this
formed sheet steel. The steel conforms to ASTM A 792, report comply with, or are suitable alternatives to what Is
with an aluminum-zinc alloy coating designation of AZ50. specified in, those codes listed In Section 1.0 of this report,
subject to the following conditions:
3.2 Decking:
15 5.1 Installation must comply with this report, the
Solid or closely fitted decking must be minimum /32-lnch- applicable code, and the manufacturer's published
thlck (11 .9 mm) wood structural panel or lumber Installation instructions. If there is a conflict between
ICC-ES Evaluation Reports are not to be construed as representing aesthetics or any other attributes not specifically addressed, nor are they to be construed
as an endorsement of the subject of the report or a recommendation for its use. There is no warranty by ICC Evaluation Service, LLC, express or implied, as
to any finding or other matter in this report, or as to any product covered by the report.
Copyright © 2010 Page 1 of 2
Figure D.2: Evaluation Report
ESR-4802 | Most Widely Accepted and Trusted Page 2 of 2
this report and the manufacturer's published 6.0 EVIDENCE SUBMITTED: 10

Installation Instructions, this report governs. Data in accordance with the ICC·ES Acceptance Criteria
5.2 The required design wind loads must be determined for Metal Roof Coverings (AC166), dated October 2007.
for each project. Wind uplift pressure on any roof area
must not exceed 45 pounds per square foot (2.15
7.0 IDENTIFICATION 11
kPa). Each standing seam metal roof panel Is Identified with a
label with a label bearing the product name, the material
type and gage, the Acme Custom-Bllt Panels name and
address, and the evaluation report number (ESR-4802).
1 SI Division Number - ICC-ES Evaluation Reports, and the building products represented in
them, are organized according to the Construction Specifications Institute’s (CSI) Master format
system.
2 Report Holder - The name and address of the company or organization that has applied for the
Evaluation Report.
3 Evaluation Subject - The specific product(s) covered by the report.
4 Evaluation Scope - The code(s) that were used evaluate the product.
5 Properties Evaluated - A brief description of the properties the product was evaluated against
such as fire resistance and wind resistance. This section also shows if the product can be used for
structural purposes.
6 Uses - Identifies the product’s uses and the applicable code provisions.
7 Description - Provides a general description of the product and its features, such as length, thick-
ness, etc. In some reports, this section contains design information as well.
8 Installation - Identifies requirements to help the inspector ensure the product is installed prop-
erly according to the code requirements or acceptance criteria.
9 Conditions of Use - Statement that the product, as described in the Evaluation Report, omplies
with, or is a suitable alternative to, the requirements of the applicable code; lists limitations of use
for the product.
10 Evidence Submitted - Acceptance criteria and when applicable, the specific data (standards, test
reports, installation instructions, quality documentation) used in evaluating the product.
11 Identification - Information that can be used to identify the product, including the manufac-
turer’s name, product name, Evaluation Report number, etc.
Figure D.2 cont.: Evaluation Report
Once a product is issued a report or listing, it will be allowed

to use the applicable mark of conformity. The mark(s) may be
included on the product or packaging. Products must refer-
ence the evaluation report or listing number on the product or
packaging to verify code compliance and applicability. Figures
D.3 and D.4 show examples of ICC-ES marks. Figure D.3
shows the mark for structural and nonstructural products with
an ICC-ES evaluation report.
Figure D.3: ICC-ES Mark for

Products
ICC-ES PMG reports are created through a similar process. The ICC-ES PMG Listing Pro-
gram is an evaluation service that assists code officials and industry professionals in determin-
ing whether plumbing, mechanical and fuel gas products comply with applicable standards
and codes. Figure D.4 is an example of a mark for plumbing, mechanical and fuel gas products
that are listed. The letter “c” in the bottom left corner identifies the product as having an eval-
uation report accepted in the United States and Canada.
Figure D.4: ICC-ES Logo for Listed Products
Appendix E – Third-Party Agencies
Special Inspection Agencies, Fabricator
Inspection Agencies and Testing Laboratories
Third-party agencies may be testing laboratories, fabrication inspection agencies and/or spe-
cial inspection agencies. These agencies are hired by the owner or the owner’s agent. They are
not hired by the builder/contractor. Their charge is to verify that fabrication, installation or
construction is proceeding according to the code, design specifications and any required man-
ufacturer’s installation specifications.
Section 1703.1 of the IBC determines minimum requirements for approval of an agency;
whether test lab, special inspection agency or fabrication inspection agency. These require-
ments are broad in scope. Individual jurisdictions define details for qualifying for approval.
See Chapter 10 for more information on the requirements to receive jurisdictional approval.
1703.1.1 Independence. An approved agency shall be objective, competent and independent
from the contractor responsible for the work being inspected. The agency shall also disclose
possible conflicts of interest so that objectivity can be confirmed.
1703.1.2 Equipment. An approved agency shall have adequate equipment to perform required
tests. The equipment shall be periodically calibrated.
1703.1.3 Personnel. An approved agency shall employ experienced personnel educated in
conducting, supervising and evaluating tests and/or inspections.
Third-party agencies may do one or more of the following activities:

1. Have a testing laboratory which does tests on one or more of the following materials:
concrete, soil, masonry, steel, welds, wood or plastic products. These tests may be
destructive and/or nondestructive (NDT) tests.
2. On-site testing (field tests) at the construction site on one or more materials. These tests
may be destructive and/or nondestructive (NDT) tests.
3. Provide special inspection services for the owner or owner’s representative for one or
more materials. This may be observation of construction work or observation and field
testing.
263
4. Provide fabricator inspection services for the owner or owner’s representative for one or
more materials. This is generally both observation of production and testing of fabricated
products. Review of the fabricator’s implementation of quality control procedures is also
done as part of third-party inspection.
Note: Often steel special inspection at a manufacturer’s plant is listed as a fabrication
inspection while special inspection of wood, concrete and masonry is described as third-
party inspection when occurring in the plant. Accredited third-party inspection agencies
are listed under the general inspection category on the International Accreditation Ser-
vice’s (IAS) website, www.iasonline.org. The inspection agencies in the general inspection
category will specialize by material type. Their accreditation will state that they are
accredited to do inspections during fabrication.
Examples of third-party agencies include:

• PFS Corporation (third party, general inspection, and testing laboratory): does building
material certification for engineered wood manufacturers. PFS evaluates and certifies
products and assemblies. PFS is often the third-party-testing agency for engineered wood
products seeking an ICC-ES report. PFS maintains a test lab for testing wood products,
wood-plastic composites, adhesives and fasteners.
• TR Arnold & Associates (third party, general inspection): offers in-plant and in-situ
inspection services for structural, HVAC, fire safety, accessibility and energy require-
ments for manufactured housing and panelized construction. The company also does
third-party testing for products seeking an ES report.
• Progressive Engineering, Inc (testing laboratory, general inspection): runs a laboratory
that conducts testing of gypsum board, mechanical fasteners, wood products and wood
product assemblies. PEI also offers inspection services for adhesives, wall sheathing,
manufactured housing and panelized systems.
• Cesare, Inc. (special inspection): is accredited to do special inspection of reinforced con-
crete, masonry construction, soils, structural steel welding and high strength bolting.
Note that each of these four companies specializes in a limited scope of materials and one or
two types of inspection or testing. No company inspects all materials or does all third-party
functions.
Entities Which Accredit Third-party Agencies
Third-party agencies, much like special inspectors, must obtain accreditation. Accreditation
verifies that agencies operate at a high level of ethical, legal and technical standards. There are
few organizations nationally and internationally that offer this accreditation. In the United
States, the International Accreditation Agency (IAS) is one organization awarding this kind of
certificate.
Accreditation is done by the rules of ISO/IEC Standard 17011, General Requirements for
Accreditation Bodies Accrediting Conformity Assessment Bodies. For inspection agencies ISO/
Appendix E – Third-Party Agencies 265
IEC Standard 17020, Requirements for the Operation of Various Types of Bodies Performing
Inspection, is followed. And for laboratories, ISO/IEC Standard 17025, General Requirements
for the Competence of Testing and Calibration Laboratories, is followed.
For example, the IAS accreditation program requires special inspection organizations to oper-
ate under a documented quality management system, to use certified inspectors and to meet
comprehensive accreditation requirements, including on-site assessment by subject-matter
experts who are either currently practicing or supervising special inspectors or who are build-
ing officials. Successful on-site assessment leads to accreditation for a specific scope of special
inspection. More information on this system of accreditation and the standards applied is
available at www.iasonline.org.
For a special inspection agency (SIA) to be accredited, at a minimum the agency must show:
certificates of completion for certification exams by special inspectors; in-house SIA and third-
party training; and ongoing observation of inspections performed by certified inspectors to
verify inspection quality.
IAS accredits organizations in the following areas:

• Testing laboratories.
• Calibration laboratories.
• Inspection agencies.
• Special inspection agencies.
• Fabricator inspection programs.
• Fire prevention and life safety programs.
Accreditation programs require accredited agencies to maintain documents and systems that
allow verification of work quality. For example, the IAS accreditation program requires special
inspection organizations to operate under a documented quality management system, to use
certified inspectors and to have on-site assessment by practicing or supervising special inspec-
tors or building officials. Successful on-site assessment leads to accreditation for a specific
scope of special inspection where the organization has been found competent.
The steps recommended to implement a program requiring accreditation for special inspec-
tion agencies are:
1. Drafting a jurisdictional ordinance requiring special inspection agencies to become
accredited to work in the jurisdiction.
2. Establishing a timeline for the agencies to complete the accreditation process.
3. Educating special inspection agencies on the program and the accreditation process.
4. Educating design professionals and contractors on the effective date of compliance
Accreditation Criteria
An accreditation program must have a set of requirements that all organizations wishing to be
accredited must meet. This creates an objective measure or bar that agencies meet to be
accredited. Similar to ICC-ES’s acceptance criteria for products, accreditation criteria that list
the requirements to be accredited for inspection or running a laboratory. The following sec-
tions will describe accreditation criteria for testing laboratories, special inspection agencies,
fabricators and third-party inspection agencies (who conduct special inspection at the site of
fabrication and are called “inspection agencies” by IAS).
Testing Laboratories
Industry depends on reliable assessment in testing and calibration laboratories. Accurate test,
calibration and inspection results are vital for the protection of public health and safety.
Almost any evaluation of a product, material or piece of equipment is based on reports from
accredited testing laboratories that are, in turn, supported by accredited calibration laborato-
ries.
For example, IAS accredits laboratories in accordance with its Accreditation Criteria for Testing
Laboratories (AC 89). Local building departments then have a list of accredited labs and the
types of tests for which the labs are approved. Accreditation offers a quick method for deter-
mining whether a testing laboratory has sufficient experience in the testing required for a proj-
ect. A list of approved labs can be found at www.iasonline.org.
Testing laboratory certificates are labeled TL-### and show the certificate and fields of testing
with accredited test methods. The accredited test methods should be compared to the list of
ASTM tests required by the project.
Proficiency Testing and Inter-laboratory Comparisons
Proficiency testing and inter-laboratory comparisons (PT/ILC) are two closely related meth-
ods that a laboratory may use to demonstrate technical competence. PT/ILC provides inde-
pendent feedback concerning a laboratory’s actual performance, and can be used as a tool to
monitor improvement efforts.
PT/ILC may be required for laboratory accreditation. Accreditation programs work with
national and international partners to ensure that necessary and appropriate PT/ILC are avail-
able for laboratories in all fields.
An example of accredition criteria for testing labs is available at www.iasonline.org.
Special Inspection Agencies
Accreditation is based on the assessment of a special inspection agency’s inspection proce-

dures, the competence of its inspection staff, and its reporting procedures. The accreditation
program provides building departments with a comprehensive program for evaluating and
approving the technical competence of special inspection agencies. Under this program, an
accreditation body assesses and monitors the special inspection agency to ensure it meets the
requirements in Chapter 17 of the IBC. Once an agency has proven it meets the criteria, it is
issued a certificate of accreditation and added to a list of accredited agencies.
An accreditation program for agencies providing special inspections required for components
and assemblies in construction projects under Chapter 17 of the International Building Code
(IBC) is useful for building departments. A program requires special inspection agencies to
operate under a quality control system that is documented in a manual, and also requires the
agency to be assessed at job sites to determine if the agency is qualified to perform various spe-
cific inspections.
For example, the IAS program uses Accreditation Criteria for Special Inspection Agencies, AC
291, to evaluate the special inspection agency. IAS lists the types of special inspection an
agency has the experience to complete under the scope of accreditation. Special inspection cer-
tificates are labeled SIA-### and show the certificate and a scope of inspection for which the
agency is approved. The significant sections of the accreditation criteria are organized similar
to AC 98 in Figure E.1 at the end of this appendix.
An example of IAS accreditation for special inspection is SIA-105 for Geotek, Inc. Geotek is
accredited for special inspection in concrete, masonry, soils, structural steel, and spray-applied
fireproofing. Certifications of accreditation are available for review at www.iasonline.org.
A special inspection agency (SIA) program can be tailored to meet the needs of a single build-
ing department, chapter, or even an entire region or state. Cities may revise an existing ordi-
nance or draft a new ordinance requiring accreditation of special inspection agencies.
The program provides thorough and ongoing assessments of the special inspection agency’s
inspection procedures, the competence of its inspection staff, and its reporting procedures.
The assessment process contains five steps:
1. Review of the SIA’s quality management system
2. On-site assessment at the agency’s office
3. Field assessments at construction sites to evaluate technical competence of the agency’s
inspection staff. For example, ICC Special Inspector Certification of employees is one of
the requirements for becoming accredited by IAS.
4. Once an inspection agency has satisfied the accreditation requirements, an accreditation
certificate is issued
5. Continual evaluation of the agency’s quality system is done through periodic on-site sur-
veillance assessments
An example of accredition criteria for special inspection agencies is available at www.iason-

line.org.
Fabricator Inspection Agencies
During the course of construction, some materials, installation practices, fabrication, erection
or placement of components, assemblies and connections require special knowledge and
expertise to ensure compliance with the approved construction documents and applicable ref-
erenced standards. Structural welding, reinforced concrete and high-strength bolting are
examples of the types of work that are subject to special inspections by inspectors who have
been approved.
When this work is to be performed at a fabrication facility that is not on the construction site,
accreditation of the fabricator's internal quality control system and inspection practices may be
done. Accreditation provides assurance to the building official that the fabrication facility has
been evaluated in accordance with Section 1704.2.5 of the IBC for fabricator approval with
respect to the following key elements of quality assurance:
Documentation
The fabricator must develop and submit a detailed fabrication procedural manual that refer-
ences key quality control procedures as outlined in the applicable accreditation criteria. This
manual provides a basis for internal quality control and inspection of workmanship at the fab-
rication facility.
Verification
The fabricator must successfully undergo an initial on-site inspection conducted by the
accreditation body. This assessment verifies that the fabricator is competent to do the work. It
also verifies that the fabricator’s quality control system is fully implemented.
Confirmation
The fabricator must undergo biannual, unannounced inspections by an accredited inspection

agency (third-party inspection). These inspections provide ongoing monitoring to confirm
that the fabricator continues to operate in accordance with its procedural manual.
Notification
The fabricator must notify the accreditation body and the third-party inspection agency when-
ever there is a change to the documented quality system or a change in key personnel or equip-
ment at the fabrication facility.
Fabricators are evaluated based on Accreditation Criteria applicable to the material fabricated.
For example, IAS currently has five criteria available:
 AC172 – Structural steel.
 AC157 – Reinforced, precast and prestressed concrete.
 AC196 – Wood wall panels.
 AC472 – Metal building systems.
 AC473 – Cold-formed steel structural and nonstructural components not requiring
welding.
Inspection Agencies (Third Party)
Accreditation programs for inspection agencies providing third-party inspection are also
available. Third-party agencies inspect fabrication of products under Chapter 17 of the IBC.
These agencies also inspect fabrication and quality control procedures for a proprietary prod-
uct when a manufacturer applies for an evaluation report. Programs require inspection agen-
cies to operate under a quality control system that is documented in a manual, and to be
assessed in the field to determine if the agency is competent to perform third-party inspec-
tions.
Accreditation provides assurance to the building official that the third-party inspection agency
has been evaluated with respect to the following key elements of quality assurance:
Independence, impartiality and confidentiality
The inspection agency is independent from any undue pressures which might affect the
agency’s judgment.
Quality
The inspection agency operates under a quality control system that is fully documented, effec-
tively implemented and regularly monitored to ensure its continuing suitability and effective-
ness.
Trained personnel
The inspection agency employs qualified, experienced personnel with thorough knowledge of
Proper facilities and equipment
Agencies have proper facilities and equipment so that inspection services can be carried out
efficiently. Accreditation also ensures that inspection equipment is properly calibrated and reg-
ularly maintained.
Proper inspection methods
The inspection agency uses approved, documented procedures for its inspections, and has a
system for maintaining inspection records.
Compliance with international standards
Accreditation provides proof of compliance with ISO/IEC 17020, the internationally-recog-

nized standard for inspection agencies.
Due diligence
In the event of legal action, accreditation provides proof that due diligence was used in select-
ing an accredited agency to carry out independent inspections.
As an example, IAS uses Accreditation Criteria for Inspection Agencies (AC 98) to evaluate the
inspection agency. IAS lists the types of inspection an agency has the experience to complete
under its scope of accreditation. Third-party inspection certificates are labeled AA-### and
show the certificate and a scope of inspection for which the agency is approved. The latest ver-
sion of the acceptance criteria is also available at www.iasonline.org.
Figure E.1: AC 291 - Accreditation Criteria for Special Inspection Agencies
Figure E.1 cont.: AC 291 - Accreditation Criteria for Special Inspection Agencies
Index
A M
Accreditation 229, 258, 264 Magnetic Particle Testing (MT) 62, 71
Accreditation body 169, 235, 258 Mechanical components 50, 95, 98, 100
Accreditation criteria 265 Methods of construction 2, 15, 127, 136
Accreditation program 229, 265
N
Alternate product 127
Nondestructive testing 59, 62, 68, 70, 172, 232
Alternative materials 26, 125, 169
Approval 11, 19, 20, 25, 146 P
Approved agency 146, 169, 263 Penetrant testing (PT) 62
Approved fabricator 169 Periodic special inspection 13, 56, 105, 174
Architectural components 50, 95, 98, 100 Preconstruction meeting 24, 28, 151, 173, 223
B Prescriptive 117, 173
Building department 2 Q
Building official 2, 25, 169 Quality assurance 56, 58, 82, 145, 241
C Quality control 42, 58, 131, 145, 178
Certificate of compliance 100 R
Certification Radiographic testing (RT) 62
Fabricator’s accreditation 131 Registered design professional 3, 5, 10, 22, 173
Inspector Certificate 233
Reports, special inspection 160
Continuous special inspection 13, 56, 105, 174 Daily report 160
Contractor 5, 16, 23, 28, 123, 169, 201, 227 Discrepancy notice 161
Final report 162, 174
D
Weekly report 161
Deep foundations 48, 170
Roof cladding 49, 93, 94
Deferred submittal 9, 223
Designated seismic systems 50, 95, 97, 100, 170 S
Seismic force resisting systems 23, 49, 51, 70, 72, 95,
E 100, 174
Electrical components 50, 95, 98, 100 Seismic isolation components 50
Evaluation reports 55, 101, 105, 126, 128, 130, 143, 257 Seismic isolation systems 95, 98, 100
Evaluation services 143 Special inspection
Cast-in-place foundation elements 170, 249
F
Cold-formed steel 74, 175, 237, 240
Fabricated item 20, 59, 171
Concrete construction 76, 242
Fabricator/Manufacturer 20, 59, 66, 100, 131, 158 Deep foundation construction 90
I Driven foundation elements 170, 249
Exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) 110
Inspection certificate 171
Fire-resistant penetrations and joints 113
International Accreditation Service (IAS) 147, 229,
Firestop 113, 172, 175
235, 258
Helical piles 170, 250
ISO standard 146, 264
Intumescent fire resistant materials 109, 171, 247
J Masonry construction 81, 245
Jurisdiction 171 Mastic fire resistant materials 109, 172, 247
Reinforcing steel 76, 237
Jurisdictional inspection 4, 25, 29, 119
Seismic resistance 95, 100
281
Smoke control systems 116 U
Soils 88, 248 Ultrasonic testing (UT) 62, 71
Special cases 101
Sprayed fire resistant materials 106, 174, 247 W
Structural steel 175, 237 Wall cladding 49, 93
Wind resistance 93 Wind resistance 49
Wood construction 86 Windforce resisting systems 23, 172
Special inspection agency 10, 132, 159, 163, 231
Special inspection task (steel) - Observe 14, 59, 64,
68, 72
Special inspection task (steel) - Perform 14, 59, 64,
68, 72
Special inspector 5, 174
Statement of special inspections 5, 12, 15, 22, 174
Steel construction 56
Storage racks 50, 95, 98
Structural observation 4, 23, 175, 222
282
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Sandra Hyde, P.E.

Cover Art Design: Duane Acoba

Errata on various ICC publications is available at www.iccsafe.org/errata.

First Printing:February 2014

Chapter 4 – Jurisdictional Inspection vs. Special Inspection. . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Special Inspections for Seismic Resistance (Section 1705.11) . . . . . . . . . . .95

Chapter 9 – Approved Agencies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

B.4 Inspection Agreement Forms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .198

Appendix D – Manufacturer Certification and Evaluation Reports . . . . . . 253

From a Special Inspector’s Perspective –

About the Author

About the International Code Council

The International Code Council is a member-focused association. It is dedicated to

Headquarters: 500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor,

District Offices: Birmingham, AL; Chicago, IL; Los Angeles, CA

But what about the precise details of critical structural elements?

Special inspection is required of materials, installation, fabrication, erection or placement of

Special inspections can also be described as:

Key Aspects of Special Inspections

Special inspections are in addition to the work performed by

A building department does not hire special inspectors. The

The Major Players of Special Inspection

Organization of the Special Inspection Manual

Chapter 7 describes the requirements of structural observation in contrast to special inspec-

Appendix D details the manufacturer certification of products through evaluation reports

Who Becomes a Special Inspector?

Special inspectors become approved in a jurisdiction by submitting to the building department

Duties and Responsibilities of the Special Inspector

Prior to visiting the job site:

At the job site:

At the end of the project:

Prior to the Job Site

Continuous special inspection. Special inspection by the special inspector who is

Periodic special inspection. Special inspection by the special inspector who is

Welding shear reinforcement continuous special inspection—an inspector is observing the

Concrete placement continuous special inspection—during concrete placement the special

Compacted fill continuous special inspection—verification of placement and compaction of

Periodic Special Inspection

Inspection of bolting structural steel members—documentation of acceptance or rejection

Inspection of welding technique during welding passes—observation of the welding of

Placement of reinforcement periodic special inspection: Level B Quality Assurance—for

Placement of reinforcement continuous special inspection: Level C Quality Assurance—

Discuss Frequency of Progress Reports With Building Official

At the Job Site

Example: At Grade Beam located from A to B on Line

Special inspectors shall bring all nonconforming items

More discussion of discrepancy reports is in Chapter 10. An example of a discrepancy report is

At the End of the Project

Working with the Building Department

Who Hires the Special Inspector?

The inspection of fabrication facilities (manufacturers) requires a different knowledge base

1704.2.5 Inspection of fabricators. Where fabrication of structural load-bearing members and

Duties and Responsibilities of the Project Owner

Duties and Responsibilities of the Registered Design

1704.3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspection or testing is required by

107.1 General. Submittal documents consisting of construction documents, statement of spe-

Duties and Responsibilities of the Contractor

Each contractor responsible for construction of the wind- or seismic-force-resisting systems

Lastly, the contractor coordinates the on-site special inspection activities.

Figure 3.1: Contrator Statement of Responsibility Form

The contractor's Statement of Responsibility contains the following:

In addition to the responsibilities mentioned by code, the contractor should:

Duties and Responsibilities of the Building Official