QC Notee
QC Notee
Answer:
As a Civil QC Inspector, I’m responsible for ensuring the quality of civil works through inspection and
testing. This includes preparing and reviewing ITPs, verifying material compliance, raising MIRs and RFIs,
issuing NCRs and CARs, conducting site inspections for rebar, formwork, and concrete, supervising lab
tests like compaction and concrete cubes, and coordinating with stakeholders to ensure adherence to
project specifications.
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Answer:
An ITP (Inspection and Test Plan) is a document outlining the inspection points and testing stages during
construction. I prepare and implement ITPs by identifying critical activities, defining hold and witness
points, and ensuring that all inspections and tests are conducted as per standards before progressing to
the next stage.
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Answer:
When a non-conformance is identified, I issue an NCR detailing the issue with evidence. I coordinate with
relevant teams to analyze the root cause and then raise a CAR (Corrective Action Report). I follow up until
corrective measures are implemented and the issue is resolved and closed.
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Answer:
MIR (Material Inspection Request) is submitted to verify and get approval for delivered materials before
installation.
RFI (Request for Inspection) is raised to request inspection of site work before, during, or after execution
as per ITP.
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Answer:
At the TBC Schools Project in Dammam, I conducted inspections for both structural elements (rebar,
formwork, concrete) and finishing works (plastering, tiling, painting). I ensured all stages followed the
approved ITP and project specifications, raising RFIs and MIRs at each stage.
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6. How do you verify material compliance?
Answer:
I review material submittals, datasheets, and supplier certificates to ensure they meet project specs. I
also perform on-site verification, check for proper storage, and match materials to approved samples or
standards.
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Answer:
I maintain ITPs, Method Statements, MIRs, RFIs, Daily Inspection Reports, NCRs, CARs, Test Reports
(concrete, soil), Calibration Logs, and QA/QC checklists. I also assist with As-Built documentation.
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Answer:
I’m proficient in MS Office, AutoCAD, SAP2000, ETABS, Primavera P6, Plan-Swift, and Power BI.
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Answer:
At Shura Island Project, I was involved in foundation work of villas—inspecting excavation, rebar
placement, formwork, concrete pouring, and ensuring compaction and testing were as per standard.
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Answer:
I follow the approved HSE guidelines, wear PPE, and ensure work areas are safe before inspections. I also
make sure that QA/QC documentation aligns with safety standards, especially during method statement
preparation.
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Answer:
I inspect formwork, rebar, embedment items, cleanliness, and shutter tightness. I ensure RFI is raised and
approved, temperature is suitable, slump test and cube samples are ready, and pour sequence is planned.
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I review and approve their QA/QC documentation, conduct joint inspections, verify work against shop
drawings, and raise RFIs or NCRs if quality is not met.
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Answer:
I participate in final walkthroughs, prepare punch lists, ensure NCRs are closed, verify documentation
(MIRs, RFIs, test results), and assist in compiling the As-Built files for client handover.
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Answer:
I plan daily inspections in line with the work schedule, focus on critical activities first, use checklists for
efficiency, delegate where possible, and communicate with site teams to avoid delays and rework.
Answer:
A Method Statement details how specific construction activities will be carried out safely and in
compliance with quality standards. It includes procedures, materials, tools, risk assessments, and QA/QC
requirements. I use it to align work with project specifications and safety protocols.
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Answer:
I cross-check site execution against approved shop drawings, technical specifications, and method
statements. Any deviations are reported through RFIs or NCRs. I also maintain continuous inspections
and documentation to ensure compliance.
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Answer:
NCRs are typically raised due to:
Use of unapproved materials
Poor workmanship
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Answer:
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Answer:
I maintain structured filing systems (both soft and hard copies) for ITPs, RFIs, MIRs, test reports, daily
reports, NCRs, and drawings. I ensure all documentation is updated, traceable, and ready for audit or
handover.
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Answer:
I include:
Activity inspected
Findings or issues
Photos
Raised MIRs/RFIs
Test conducted and results Then submit it to the QA/QC Engineer or Project Manager.
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Answer:
At Feedco Feed Mill Project, I inspected anchor bolts, base plates, steel column erection, bolt torque,
welding works, and surface preparation. I verified alignment and elevations as per shop drawings and
standards.
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Answer:
I coordinate daily QA meetings, provide them with ITPs and method statements, and conduct joint
inspections. I also hold them accountable through RFIs and NCRs if they deviate from the plan.
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Answer:
Calibration logs ensure that all instruments (e.g., cube molds, thermometers, compaction equipment) are
accurate and within certification limits. I maintain updated logs to ensure valid test results.
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Answer:
Quality Assurance (QA): Preventive, focuses on processes, documentation, training, and procedures.
Quality Control (QC): Reactive, focuses on inspecting finished work to identify defects or non-
conformance.
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Answer:
Yes. At the Shura Island Project, deadlines were tight. I managed multiple inspections daily, coordinated
closely with the execution team, and ensured quality didn’t suffer under pressure.
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Answer:
I cross-check site work with the latest IFC (Issued for Construction) drawings. I ensure dimensions, levels,
material specs, and reinforcement details are correctly implemented before raising RFIs or proceeding
with work.
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Answer:
At TBC Schools Project, I inspected plaster, tile, paint, blockwork, and ceiling. I used QA/QC checklists,
approved samples, and mock-ups to ensure compliance with standards and aesthetics.
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Answer:
I collect red-marked drawings from site, update them in AutoCAD, and coordinate with site engineers to
verify actual executed dimensions and changes. I compile these along with QA documents for final
handover.
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I verify:
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Witness Point: Inspector may witness but work can proceed if not present
Both are defined in the ITP and managed accordingly.
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Prepare QA folders
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Answer:
I keep documents categorized (MIRs, RFIs, ITPs, Test Reports, NCRs, CARs), soft and hard copies
synchronized, traceable by serial number/date/project part, and easily retrievable during audits.
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Answer:
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Answer:
Inadequate compaction
Improper curing
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40. What are your actions after failed test results (e.g., low concrete cube strength)?
Answer:
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Moisture content
Layer thickness
Number of passes
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42. What is a CAR (Corrective Action Report) and how is it different from NCR?
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Joint thickness
Wall reinforcement
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I help compile:
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Answer:
I hold daily coordination meetings, follow up on RFI and inspection schedules, share QA/QC observations,
and maintain clear communication for quality compliance.
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49. What challenges do you face as a QC Inspector and how do you handle them?
Answer:
Challenges include:
Material discrepancies
I handle these by staying firm on standards, communicating with the QA/QC manager, and providing
technical justification.
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Answer:
I bring over 5 years of hands-on QC inspection experience across structural and finishing works. I'm
proactive in documentation, skilled in software and standards, fluent in English and Arabic, and ready for
immediate joining with a transferable Iqama.
Answer:
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I maintain a calibration logbook, verify valid calibration certificates, and reject any test results obtained
from expired or uncalibrated equipment.
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Answer:
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Answer:
If cube strength is below target:
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Answer:
WIR is used to request an inspection for a completed segment of work to get formal approval before
continuing with the next activity.
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Answer:
Typically, 7 days for normal concrete and 14 days for high-strength concrete, but site-specific standards
like ASTM C31 or ACI 308 may apply.
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Answer:
Segregation is the separation of aggregates from cement paste. It’s prevented by:
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Honeycombing refers to voids in hardened concrete due to poor compaction. If observed, I report it
immediately, raise an NCR, and recommend surface repair or core test based on severity.
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59. What actions do you take after identifying a safety violation during inspection?
Answer:
I stop work if it’s unsafe, notify the safety officer, document it, and report to QA/QC and HSE teams for
action and rectification.
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Answer:
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I regularly check drawing logs, verify revision numbers, coordinate with document controllers, and ensure
latest drawings are on-site and marked “Issued for Construction (IFC).”
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Plastic shrinkage
Improper mix
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Answer:
Though primarily a quality role, I ensure method statements include HSE measures, verify safe practices
during inspection, and coordinate with HSE officers for compliance.
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I check:
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Answer:
Plan-Swift is used for digital quantity takeoff and estimation. In QA/QC, it helps in verifying quantities,
checking BOQ vs. actual work, and supporting NCRs for over/under execution.
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66. What is the minimum concrete cover for beams and columns?
Answer:
As per standard codes:
Columns: 40 mm
Beams: 25 mm
These may vary by specification and exposure conditions.
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Answer:
Project specifications are the technical guidelines that define the quality, materials, methods, and
performance criteria. I refer to them regularly during inspection, material approval, and testing.
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Answer:
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69. What is the slump test and what are its limits?
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It measures concrete’s workability.
I ensure slump is per mix design and project specs before allowing pouring.
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70. How do you ensure timely QA/QC inspections without delay to progress?
Answer:
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Rework is redoing defective or non-conforming work, often due to lack of supervision or improper
execution. It can be minimized by:
Timely inspections
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Answer:
A mock-up is a sample section built for client/consultant approval. It serves as a quality benchmark for
actual work. I ensure all finishes follow the approved mock-up.
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Answer:
I have led small QA/QC teams by assigning inspection duties, reviewing reports, training junior inspectors,
and coordinating with construction managers to meet QA targets.
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Answer:
I raise RFIs in advance, ensure the work is ready, maintain daily coordination through email and WhatsApp
groups, and accompany the consultant for physical inspection and sign-off.
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Answer:
I assign serial numbers to MIRs/RFIs/NCRs, label sample/test reports accordingly, and organize
documentation by work area and date to ensure traceability.
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76. What are the important quality codes and standards you follow?
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I follow ASTM, ACI, BS, and Saudi Building Code (SBC) standards, along with client-specific guidelines like
ARAMCO, NEOM, or Royal Commission standards.
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Answer:
It is the process of identifying the fundamental reason behind a defect or failure to prevent recurrence,
usually used while closing NCRs or CARs.
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I ensure:
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Answer:
Adhesive thickness
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81. How do you prepare for a scheduled inspection with the client/consultant?
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I ensure the work is 100% complete, clean, and accessible. I cross-check against drawings and ITP,
prepare checklists, have test reports/MIRs ready, and inform the site team to be present during
inspection.
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I record the reason, inform my QA/QC Manager and construction team, correct the issue, and then raise a
re-inspection RFI. I document the rejection and corrective actions for records.
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83. What are your steps when a structural RFI is due for slab concreting?
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After inspection, I obtain sign-off on RFI from the consultant, then stamp the RFI with “Accepted” or
“Approved.” I record the RFI number on the drawing and update QA/QC logbooks.
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Answer:
I accompany the client, explain ongoing work, provide quality status, show inspection logs and RFI status,
and address any concerns professionally. I also note client remarks for follow-up.
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86. How do you deal with a delay in inspection approval from the consultant?
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I follow up through official emails, WhatsApp groups, or verbal reminders, notify the QA/QC Manager, and
adjust the site schedule to avoid rework or idling. I escalate only when needed.
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Answer:
QA/QC checklist
MIR/Test reports
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88. What do you check before conducting a client inspection for blockwork?
Answer:
Verticality of walls
Lintels/cut-outs/sleeves
Scaffolding safety
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89. How do you respond if the client finds a defect during inspection?
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I acknowledge it, don’t argue, take photos and notes, and report it in the site log. Then, I coordinate the
rectification and invite re-inspection after resolving the issue.
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Answer:
To confirm compliance of completed work with design/specs and obtain approval. It reduces
misunderstandings, improves quality, and builds trust between contractor and client.
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Answer:
Primer application
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Measuring tape
Rebar gauge
Inspection checklist
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Clean formwork
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95. What actions do you take during cube test failure at third-party lab?
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Document everything
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No segregation or bleeding
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Sealant application
Water test for leakage
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Answer:
🔹 Excavation – 10 Questions
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Check layout, approval of drawings, safety measures (shoring, barricades), and utility clearance.
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Slope or shoring as per soil condition
Edge protection/barriers
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Usually ±25 mm or as per project specifications.
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4. What tests are required after excavation but before foundation works?
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Clean excavation surface, no loose material, proper depth, formwork if required, and compaction test.
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Use total station or dumpy level to verify with grid points and datums.
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Excavating below the required depth; backfill with lean concrete or compacted material after consultant
approval.
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Correct size, depth, square corners, compaction, and clear from water or debris.
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Answer:
It reduces bearing capacity and compaction effectiveness — dewatering is required before further work.
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Daily progress reports with photos, inspection requests, and field sketches if needed.
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🔹 Backfilling – 10 Questions
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Approval of below-ground structures (e.g., waterproofing, MEP sleeves), FDT of subgrade, and consultant
clearance.
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Answer:
Selected excavated soil, imported sand, or engineered fill — free from debris, organic material, or large
rocks.
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Answer:
Field Density Test (Sand Cone Method or Nuclear Gauge) to confirm % MDD.
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Identify cause (moisture, layer thickness), scarify and re-compact, then retest.
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Poor compaction, wet soil, organic content, or over-thickness of layers.
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Ensure compaction in small lifts using rammers or jumping jacks with hand-in-hand testing.
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Usually 90–95% of MDD depending on area (landscape, road, or under slab).
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Use of protective boards or screed over membrane before backfilling, monitored during inspection.
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Use fine sand around pipes, compact manually, ensure no displacement or damage, then proceed with
general fill.
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🔹 Concreting – 10 Questions
Answer:
Approved RFI, rebar inspection, formwork stability, embedments, clean surface, slump test, and
temperature.
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Answer:
Typically 100–150 mm for pumped concrete.
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Monitor continuous placement, compaction, slump conformity, weather conditions, and record cube
samples.
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6 cubes per 100 m³ — 3 for 7 days, 3 for 28 days, unless otherwise specified.
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Cold joints occur when there's delay in successive pours. Avoid by planning pour sequence and continuity.
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7 days for normal concrete; 14 days for high-strength or as per project specs.
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To prevent moisture loss on exposed concrete where water curing is not feasible.
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Surface finish, curing initiation, cube storage, and any signs of honeycombing.
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Over-vibration, improper mix, dropping from height, or high water content.
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Raise NCR, conduct core/rebound test, assess structural impact, and propose remedial action after
approval.