The control plan under DS1140

A control plan names each control point in the structure - the specific places where something actually needs checking, such as foundations, joints, reinforcement or load-bearing walls. For each point, the plan sets out the control type (how it's checked), the control level (how thoroughly, based on the structural class) and the control scope (how much, and how often).

The plan also assigns responsibility for each check clearly. Miss that assignment, or describe a control point too loosely for anyone to actually carry it out, and the plan is typically sent back by the structural engineer.

The formal name for the control plan document under the quality assurance executive order is B2. Once B2 is approved, the contractor carries out self-inspection against the plan's control points, and the results are documented on an ongoing basis in the B3 control report. Where the building's structural class requires it, an independent inspector then verifies that the self-inspection holds up. Finally, the A5 as-built documentation pulls everything together, including any deviations from the plan.

In other words, the control plan isn't a one-off document - it's the reference every other DS1140 document is measured against for the whole build.

The control plan is typically prepared early in the project, based on the project material and the building's structural class, and must be approved by the certified structural engineer before control work begins.

It's not unusual for the plan to be adjusted during construction - for example, if a control point turns out to be described incorrectly, or the project itself changes. Any adjustment needs to be documented and approved the same way as the original plan.

We prepare control plans based on your project material and structural class, or correct a plan that's already been sent back. If you need help with one of the downstream documents - B2, B3 or A5 - we carry the work through so the whole chain holds together.