QA/QC Issues

The project specifications should state the quality control and assurance measures required to ensure that the project is executed according to the contract specifications. In addition to the quality control and quality assurance measures usually specified for a traditional open cut projects, there are a few measures that are specific to the pipe bursting operations. The project specifications should state the quality control and assurance measures required to ensure that the project is executed according to the contract specifications. These measures can take the form of tests, certifications, inspection procedures, etc.

Extensive listing of the relevant required submittals, careful preparation of the submittals, and alert review and approval of the submittal are significant steps in the QC/QA program. The QC/QA program states the performance criteria for the product line and the acceptable tolerance from these criteria. For example, the invert of the new pipe should not deviate from the invert of the old pipe by more than a certain number of inches, the depth of sags in the line should not exceed one inch, and the difference in the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the new pipe diameter should not exceed 2%. The QC program should state how these performance criteria will be measured, tested, and checked. Some of these performance criteria that can be specified are post bursting CCTV inspection, pressure tests, and mandrel test. The surface and subsurface displacement-monitoring program should be outlined in the specifications along with the acceptable amount of ground movements.

Certifications from the manufacturers of the bursting system, replacement pipe, and other material that these products meet the contract specifications based on tests conducted by the manufacturer or a third party may be required. For challenging projects, the presence of bursting system manufacturer representative at the jobsite may be required. The quality assurance program should ensure that the field and management team of the contractor have the knowledge and the experience needed to complete the project successfully and able to respond appropriately to unforeseen problems.