QA/QC Civil Engineer – Interview Revision Notes (Saudi Arabia)

Top 10 QA/QC Civil Engineer – Interview Revision Notes (Saudi Arabia)

1. Difference Between QA & QC

Quality Assurance (QA)

• Process-focused: ensures the system prevents defects.

• Activities: Preparing ITPs, procedures, checklists, method statements, audit planning.

• Goal: Do the work correctly the first time.

Quality Control (QC)

• Product-focused: checks the actual work and identifies defects.

• Activities: Inspecting rebar, formwork, concrete, blockwork, compaction, asphalt.

• Goal: Verify the work meets specs & standards.

2. What is an ITP? Why is it important?

ITP (Inspection & Test Plan):

A document listing stages where inspection, testing, or approval is required.

Importance:

• Ensures every activity follows SBC specifications, project specs, and international codes.

• Defines Hold / Witness / Surveillance points.

• Helps consultants verify works systematically.

• Mandatory for Aramco, NEOM, RC, SEC projects.

3. How do you handle an NCR? (Non-Conformance Report)

1. Identify the cause (root-cause analysis).

2. Prepare corrective & preventive actions.

3. Rectify / Rework defective area according to approved method.

4. Submit evidence (photos, test reports, inspection records).

5. Obtain consultant/client closure before continuing work.

4. What documents do you check before concrete pouring?

1. Approved shop drawings & BBS

2. Approved mix design

3. Latest slump, temperature & trial mix results

4. Calibration certificates of batching plant, weigh batchers, water meters

5. Approved WIR (Work Inspection Request)

6. Rebar & formwork inspections completed

7. Availability of approved manpower/equipment on site

5. How do you conduct a material inspection?

1. Check delivery vs approved material submittal.

2. Verify Mill Test Certificates / supplier compliance certificates.

3. Conduct visual inspection (damage, markings, dimensions).

4. Send samples for third-party testing (as required).

5. Raise MIR (Material Inspection Request) for consultant approval.

6. What is MIR, WIR, and RFI?

• MIR: Material Inspection Request

  • Used for checking & approving materials delivered to site.

• WIR: Work Inspection Request

  • Used to inspect completed activities (rebar, formwork, concrete, blockwork).

• RFI: Request for Information

  • Used for technical clarification when drawings/specs are unclear.

7. Important SBC Clauses for QA/QC in KSA

For structural and on-site QC work:

• SBC 201 – Concrete Structures

• SBC 203 – Reinforced Concrete Details

• SBC 301 – Soils and Foundations

• SBC 304 – Structural Evaluation & Testing

Always refer to project specs—Aramco, NEOM, RC, SEC override general SBC requirements.

8. How do you verify rebar compliance?

1. Check diameter, spacing, length against approved drawings & BBS.

2. Confirm cover using tape/cover meter.

3. Inspect laps, hooks, spacing, ties, stirrup direction.

4. Ensure clean, rust-free rebar (no oil, loose rust).

5. Check for correct grade (e.g., ASTM A615 / SASO approved).

9. Why is Third-Party Lab Testing Important in Saudi Arabia?

• Ensures transparent & unbiased test results.

• Mandatory in Aramco, NEOM, RC, SEC projects.

• Reduces disputes between contractor & consultant.

• Required for WIR approvals for concrete, soil, asphalt, steel, aggregates.

10. How to Maintain a QA/QC Log as per ISO 9001?

Maintain updated registers/logs for:

1. MIR/WIR status log

2. NCR & CAR log (Corrective Action Reports)

3. Daily inspection reports

4. Material testing log (concrete, soil, asphalt, steel)

5. Calibration certificates log

6. Method statements & ITP tracking

7. Audit findings & follow-up actions