1998. Quality management systems for post-tensioned concrete structures according to ISO 9001.

A Working Group was established back in 1992 at the Commission meeting in Budapest in order to review the FIP Guide to Good Practice on Quality Assurance and Quality Control for Post-Tensioned Concrete Structures, published in 1986. It was felt that developments within the construction industry since 1986 should be considered, in particular with respect to the more comprehensive use of quality assurance procedures initiated by the ISO 9000 series, now more commonly specified in contracts within the industry. Considerable experience has since been gained in the use of ISO standards on construction sites, and this should be reflected in a follow-up to the 1986 Guide to Good Practice.

In fact, only on a very limited number of occasions have problems concerning durability been encountered in relation to post-tensioned concrete structures, and in particular the grouting operation. This issue was addressed in FIP Notes 1993/4. It was concluded that sufficient information is available to produce durable concrete structures, but that there is probably a management problem in communicating this information to all parties involved in a proper and systematic way.

Such means can undoubtedly be provided by the proper use of the ISO 9000 series at all stages of a construction project.

November 1997

Dr K. R. Henriksen
Chairman
FIP Commission on Practical Construction