Inspection Procedures and Testing
What this domain tests
What you sample, when you sample it, and how you record it - from unit delivery through grouting to final anchorage checks.
Sampling and test methods
- Units: verify ASTM C90 marking and certificates; strength by ASTM C140.
- Field mortar: ASTM C780, not cube tests of a laboratory mix.
- Field grout: ASTM C1019 molded prisms; slump by ASTM C143 (8–11 in. at placement); mortar flow by ASTM C1437.
- Assembled masonry strength: ASTM C1314 prisms, sampled and cured as the standard requires. TMS 602 ties test frequency to wall area - confirm the edition your exam cites.
- Reinforcement and connectors: verify size, position, lap, cover and grade before any grout is placed.
Sequence of inspection
Pre-construction meeting and material verification; footing and dowel placement; first-course layout; reinforcement and anchor bolt setting; flashing, weeps and cavity details; cleanouts and each grout lift; consolidation; anchorage and connection checks; final observation before concealment. Grouting is the least recoverable operation, so it demands continuous observation rather than end-point checking.
Worked example
A prism set breaks at 1,650 psi against f'm = 1,800 psi. The inspector first confirms sampling, molding and curing conformed to ASTM C1314, then reports the result in writing to the engineer of record and the AHJ. The inspector does not retest until the number passes and does not accept the wall on personal judgment; the engineer of record determines whether the unit strength method or an analysis supports acceptance, and that determination is documented.
Traps
Substituting concrete cylinders for grout prisms; accepting a laboratory mortar mix test when the question is field mortar; sampling grout after water has been added; judging reinforcement cover from the top of the wall only; forgetting that work to be concealed must be inspected first.