Page 35 - Forensic Structural Engineering Handbook

1.16 DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES

• Many states require that welding procedures and tests be performed not only in the shop
but also in the field and checked in accordance with Structural Welding Code, AWS
4
D1.1. The following is a recommended guide for inspection of welds:
1. Welds should be prequalified in accordance with AWS. Weld preparation joints that
are not previously qualified require a test procedure as stated in AWS.
2. Welders should be certified and prequalified per AWS for the work they are per-
forming. Certification should have been established within the past 6 months of the
actual work performed.
3. Major through-thickness welds of 1.5 in or greater require a welding procedure for
the weld process which is generally submitted to the SER for review and approval.
Prior to welding steel plates of 1.5 in or greater thickness should be ultrasonically
checks for imperfections and delaminations.
4. Material for complete joint penetration (CJP) welds with thickness greater than 1.5 in
should be checked ultrasonically for delaminations or inclusions in the base material.
This is particularly important for welds that are subjected to tension forces.
5. All complete joint penetration welds should be 100 percent tested by either ultrasonic
or radiographic methods. Experience has indicated that ultrasonic inspection can be
interpreted more consistently than radiography films.
6. Fillet welds are usually checked by either magnetic particle or dye-penetrate test
procedures. Unless otherwise stated in the contract documents, 10 to 15 percent of
the lineal feet of weld should be checked.

Timber
• Size, location, and species of the members should be checked.
• Special wood composite members such as glued laminated members and wood-and-steel
composites should be checked by reviewing the manufacturer’s shop and mill certificates.
• Generally, special connections, bolting, and nail patterns require inspection

PROJECT DELIVERY METHODS

In order to put into effect a proposed project, it is essential to first establish the method by
which the design team - architect, engineer, contractor, and subcontractors will design and
deliver the proposed project plan for use.
Therefore, when one is participating in the selection of the project delivery method, it
is important to know, among other things, the following:
• Established regulations for procurement when dealing with a public agency
• Who the owner is and his or her capability and experience to respond to the needs of a
proposed project delivery method (personnel and budget constraints, construction man-
agement understanding)
• Owner’s financial strengths and cash-flow concerns
• Timely availability of all contract documents
• When use of the premises is required
• Environmental and community concerns
• Special site conditions such as underpinning of adjacent structures and shoring and and
protection of utility lines