Cianbro’s Quality Control Certifications

“Certification brings a higher level of process control and oversight in following standards and specifications for critical activities.”

Hampden Bridge Bundle, Hampden, Maine

QUALITY ASSURANCE

n By Charles Hall

Cianbro construction activities include virtually all aspects of building - civil, mechanical, electrical and marine activities to list a few. Certain structures pose a greater risk to society once put into service, or they are more important to owners due to their inherently higher impact in cost or operational downtime if unexpected maintenance is required after construction. Industry requirements have become more formal and regimented. For those structures or activities, industry consensus groups, require construction companies to seek and obtain authorization prior to performing some activities. Owners specify stringent requirements for construction companies, including the need for industry certification in order to perform vital tasks. Some jurisdictions (state authorities) also require construction companies to hold industry certifications in order to perform select work activities. When jurisdictional authorities require certification, it is law.

Cianbro holds multiple industry certifications. Each certification requires a formal Quality Control (QC) Plan, trained personnel to carry out specified activities and inspections, and robust documentation of activities and direct oversight from assigned industry representatives (inspectors or auditors). To hold any industry certification, Cianbro commits to meeting all requirements and submitting to oversight and audits from the industry group on a regular basis.

Cianbro performs all construction activities in accordance with standards and specifications regardless of whether certification is required or not. Lack of specific certification requirements for some activities does not diminish the importance of performing them correctly. Certification brings a higher level of process control and oversight in following standards and specifications for critical activities. Cianbro holds the following certifications:

Cianbro Fabrication & Coating Corporation, Pittsfield, Maine

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME):

U: Authority to Design & Build Unfired Pressure Vessels S: Authority to Design & Build High Pressure Boilers (including Power Piping)

The National Board of Boiler Inspectors (NB):

R: Authority to Repair & Alter Boilers, Pressure Vessels & Power Piping NB: Authorization to Register Items with the National Board

American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC):

CSE-A: Certified Steel Erector (Advanced)

The Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC):

Most often, requirements to comply with any of these certifications appear in project specifications. Project teams should contact Cianbro’s Quality Assurance Department to plan for activities when specified or if there is any question regarding compliance with these programs. Implementation of industry specific guidelines includes many administrative and technical details, including assignment of personnel and responsibilities and in some cases, certification of activities upon completion of work.