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The DSA-approved project inspector must be present at the construction site to maintain a personal knowledge of the ongoing work and to verify that construction conforms to approved documents. The project inspector also must inspect all work before it is covered or closed in by other construction work.
- Coordinate Field Reviews
- Coordinate Specialized Lab Tests and Inspections
- Respond if Special Circumstances Arise
The DSA will assign a field engineer to visit the construction site several times so as to maintain an understanding of the project's progress. The field engineer first visits the site at the beginning of construction, and then every three to four weeks during construction. The field engineer also visits the construction site when problems occur, and upon completion of the project.
Under new legislation, the DSA has the authority to issue stop work orders if the field engineer finds that the construction is not in accord with the approved plans or for other serious problems with the construction itself.
During construction, a variety of specialized laboratory tests may be required. These include tests of structural materials incorporated into the project, such as for concrete foundations, steel beams and columns, and masonry walls. Specialized inspections of structural materials, such as the welding of structural steel members or the compaction of fill soils supporting building foundations, may also need to be performed.
Laboratories performing these tests must be approved by the DSA through the laboratory evaluation and acceptance (LEA) program. The laboratory must send any resulting test reports to the project inspector, your school district's architect/engineer, and the DSA.
Caltrans Inspections
The local Division of Transportation Planning (DOTP) office also may inspect and approve work during the construction and completion phases.
State Fire Inspections
The State Fire Marshal enforces fire safety regulations in areas outside incorporated cities and in districts providing their own fire protection services. A school district or the DSA can request the State Fire Marshal to conduct a joint final construction inspection.
You are required to respond if certain special circumstances arise during construction. In addition to the two agencies discussed below, it may be necessary for other State entities (such as those mentioned in the Site Approval process) to become involved as developments occur in the actual construction process.
Toxic Substances
If previously unidentified contamination is discovered during construction, your school district is required to promptly notify the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) and stop construction until the DTSC determines it is safe to proceed. Your district may not occupy a school building following construction until the DTSC has certified completion of all response actions, except for operation and maintenance activities.
Uncovering Native American Remains and Objects
If, during construction, Native American human remains and grave goods are encountered, or any other Native American cultural resources are unearthed, your school district should contact the Native American Heritage Commission regarding development of mitigation measures. If any human remains are discovered, you should also contact your county coroner. To date, no Native American human remains have been found during school construction projects.
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