What is Project Quality Plan (PQP)?

A Project Quality Plan (PQP) in construction is a comprehensive document that outlines the
procedures, processes, and guidelines for ensuring and managing the quality of work on a
construction project. The primary objective of a PQP is to establish the framework for achieving and
maintaining the desired level of quality throughout the project's lifecycle. Here are key elements
typically included in a Project Quality Plan:
1. Quality Objectives: The PQP should define the specific quality objectives and goals for the
project. These objectives should be aligned with the project's requirements and expectations.
2. Quality Standards: The plan should specify the relevant quality standards, codes, regulations, and
industry best practices that the project must adhere to. This includes any specific standards related
to materials, construction methods, and safety.
3. Roles and Responsibilities: The PQP outlines the roles and responsibilities of individuals and
teams involved in quality management. This includes the project manager, quality manager,
contractors, subcontractors, and other stakeholders.
4. Quality Control Procedures: It details the procedures and methods for quality control throughout
the construction process. This may involve inspections, testing, and verification activities to ensure
that work meets the specified quality standards.
5. Document Control: The plan should establish a system for controlling and managing project
documents, including drawings, specifications, and quality records. This ensures that the correct
versions of documents are used and that changes are properly documented.
6. Quality Assurance: The PQP may include measures and processes for quality assurance, which go
beyond simple inspections. Quality assurance focuses on the prevention of defects and the
continuous improvement of processes.
7. Non-Conformance Management: The plan should outline procedures for identifying,
documenting, and addressing non-conformances or deviations from the quality standards. It should
also specify corrective and preventive actions.
8. Training and Competency: It may include provisions for training and ensuring the competency of
personnel involved in the project to perform their tasks effectively and in compliance with quality
standards.
9. Quality Audits: The PQP may describe how quality audits will be conducted at various stages of
the project to evaluate compliance with the plan and standards.
10. Documentation and Reporting: The plan should specify how quality-related information will be
documented, reported, and communicated to relevant stakeholders.
11. Change Management: If changes to the project scope, design, or other aspects can impact
quality, the PQP should address how these changes will be managed while maintaining or improving
quality.
12. Records Management: The plan should outline how quality records will be maintained, archived,
and made available for review or audits.