ITP (inspection and test plan)

An ITP sets out, before work starts, how a contractor will prove that an activity meets the specification. There is usually one ITP per work type, such as earthworks, formwork, reinforcement, concrete placement, structural steel, waterproofing or fire services.

The ITP is a plan. The completed record that shows each check was actually done is usually called an ITC, or inspection and test checklist, though some projects use the terms loosely. Together they form the quality evidence that the superintendent, certifier and client rely on when they accept the work.

For a deeper look, read ITP Construction - Guide for Inspection and Test Plans. Try the free ITP Builder.

Each line of an ITP covers one inspection or test. A typical line includes:

• Activity. The step being checked, for example reinforcement placement before a pour.

• Reference. The drawing, specification clause or Australian Standard that sets the requirement.

• Acceptance criteria. What passes, such as cover to reinforcement within the stated tolerance.

• Method and frequency. How it is checked and how often, for example one slump test per truck.

• Responsibility. Who inspects and who signs off.

• Inspection type. Whether it is a hold point, witness point or routine surveillance.

• Record. The evidence kept, such as a test certificate, survey or signed checklist.

On most commercial and government projects, the specification lists the ITPs the contractor must submit and the minimum hold and witness points. The ITP is usually submitted for review before that work starts.

A hold point is a stop. Work must not proceed past it until the nominated person, usually the superintendent, engineer or client representative, has inspected and released it in writing. Pre-pour inspection of reinforcement is the classic hold point, because once the concrete is placed nobody can check it.

A witness point is a notification. The contractor gives notice so the nominated person can attend, but if they do not turn up within the agreed notice period, work can continue. The contractor still does the inspection and keeps the record.

Getting the notice periods right matters. Most specifications set how much notice is needed for each hold or witness point, and a missed notice can mean uncovering work at the contractor's cost.

• Copying a generic ITP. A template that does not reflect the project specification will miss its specific hold points and tolerances.

• Filling in checklists after the fact. Ticking boxes at the end of the week defeats the purpose and will not stand up in a dispute.

• Not releasing hold points in writing. A verbal "go ahead" on site leaves no record. Get the release signed or logged.

• Forgetting subcontractors. Subcontractors should run ITPs for their own scope, and the head contractor still needs to review them.

• No link to NCRs. A failed inspection should generate a non-conformance report, not just a note on the checklist.