Worked Example Review for LICQual Level 6 QC/QA Students

Purpose of Task

This task provides learners with a model answer for review, annotated by an assessor, highlighting key elements, structure, and content required to achieve Level 6 standards in QC/QA. Learners will critically review this model to understand how theory translates
into practical civil engineering QA/QC documentation

Scenario

You are the QA/QC Officer for a mixed-use commercial building construction project in London. Your task is to prepare a submission demonstrating knowledge of QC/QA principles, historical context, stakeholder roles, and regulatory compliance. This submission will be reviewed as part of the LICQual Level 6 assessment.

ModelAnswer

1. Introduction

This report provides an in-depth review of Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA) practices applied to the ABC Commercial Building Project, located in London, UK. The report outlines key principles, objectives, and roles of stakeholders in maintaining quality standards, and demonstrates compliance with UK legislation, including BS EN ISO 9001:2015, CDM 2015, and Building Regulations 2010 (as amended).”

AssessorNotes:

• Concise, clearly states purpose and context.
• References UK-specific legislation.
• Aligns with LO1, LO2, and LO4.

2. Definition of Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA)

Quality Control (QC):

• Reactive process inspecting and testing outputs to ensure compliance.
• Examples: concrete cube testing, steel reinforcement inspection, and material
  certification verification.

Quality Assurance (QA):

• Proactive process ensuring processes consistently produce quality outputs.
• Examples: ISO 9001-based QA system implementation, process audits, staff
  training, supplier evaluation.

Assessor Notes:

• Correctly differentiates QC and QA.
• Uses practical project-based examples.
• Aligns with LO1 and LO2.

3. Differences Between QC and QA

Aspect	Quality Control (QC)	Quality Assurance (QA)
Nature	Reactive – identifies defects	Proactive – prevents defects
Focus	Product/output	Processes/methods
Objective	Detect deviations from specification	Ensure processes deliver consistent quality
Techniques	Inspections, material testing, site sampling	Process audits, procedure standardization, ISO 9001 compliance
Responsibility	Site engineers, QC inspectors	Project managers, QA officers
Example	Concrete cube compressive strength tests	Developing and auditing QA procedures

Assessor Notes:

• Table format clarifies differences.
• Demonstrates theory applied in practical scenarios.
• Addresses LO2.

4. Historical Evolution and Significance of Quality Management

• Early 20th Century: Focus on craftsmanship and manual inspections.
• Post-WWII: Statistical Quality Control (SQC) and standardization.
• 1980s: Total Quality Management (TQM) – continuous improvement and process-based management.
• Modern Civil Engineering: Integration of ISO 9001 standards, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and digital inspection tools.

Significance:

• Reduces errors and rework, improving efficiency.
• Enhances client satisfaction through consistent quality.
• Ensures compliance with UK regulations (Building Regulations and CDM 2015).
• Supports continuous improvement and risk mitigation.

Assessor Notes:

• Historical context links theory to practice.
• Demonstrates awareness of modern QA tools like BIM.
• Aligns with LO3.

5. Principles and Objectives of QC/QA in Civil Engineering

Principles:

1. Customer Focus – meet or exceed client expectations.
2. Leadership Commitment – embed quality in project planning.
3. Process Approach – monitor and improve construction processes.
4. Evidence-Based Decision Making – base decisions on inspections, testing, and
   data.
5. Continuous Improvement – implement lessons learned.

Objectives:

• Ensure structural safety, durability, and functionality.
• Minimize rework, delays, and cost overruns.
• Comply with UK statutory requirements (CDM 2015, Building Regulations 2010).
• Promote sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Assessor Notes:

• Clear link between principles and objectives.
• Covers practical and regulatory aspects.
• Addresses LO1

6. Roles and Responsibilities of Stakeholders

Stakeholder	Responsibilities in QA/QC
Client / Owner	Define quality requirements, approve QA/QC plans, monitor compliance
Project Manager / Engineer	Implement QA systems, oversee QC inspections, report deviations
Site Supervisor / Foreman	Conduct daily inspections, verify materials and workmanship
Contractors / Subcontractors	Follow QA procedures, conduct inspections and testing, report non-conformities
QA/QC Officer	Audit processes, maintain records, recommend corrective actions
Regulatory Authorities	Ensure compliance with Building Regulations 2010, CDM 2015

Assessor Notes:

• Comprehensive stakeholder mapping demonstrates accountability.
• Addresses LO4

Regulatory Compliance – UK Context

1. Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015): Planning, risk assessment, quality, and safety management.
2. Building Regulations 2010 (as amended): Minimum legal requirements for design, materials, and workmanship.
3. BS EN ISO 9001:2015: Framework for QA systems and continual improvement.
4. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 (HSWA): Integrates safety with quality processes on construction sites.

Assessor Notes:

• Correct referencing of UK laws and standards.
• Shows regulatory awareness (LO1, LO2, LO4).

Learner Task

Objective:

To consolidate understanding of QC and QA principles, historical evolution, and stakeholder responsibilities in UK civil engineering projects.

Task Instructions:

1. Review the Model Submission:

• o Identify how each learning outcome (LO1–LO4) has been addressed.
• o Highlight the use of UK legislation (CDM 2015, Building Regulations, ISO9001) and examples applied in practice.

2. Create Your Own Model Answer:

• Using a hypothetical project scenario (e.g., construction of a residential building in Manchester), prepare a QA/QC submission covering:
  • Definitions and differences of QC and QA
  • Historical evolution of quality management
  • Principles and objectives of QC/QA
  • Roles and responsibilities of stakeholders
  • Regulatory compliance with UK laws and standards
• Include at least one table for comparison or stakeholder mapping

3. Annotate Your Submission:

• Add assessor-style notes to explain how each section addresses the learning outcomes.
• Highlight examples where theory is applied to practical project scenarios.

4. Submission Format:

• Length: 3–4 pages
• Include clear headings, tables, and bullet points where appropriate
• Cite relevant UK standards and legislation

Expected Outcome

By completing this task, learners wil:

• Demonstrate understanding of QA and QC principles in civil engineering.
• Apply theoretical knowledge to practical project scenarios.
• Understand the roles of stakeholders and regulatory requirements in the UK.
• Develop skills to produce professional, assessor-ready submissions