Under a quality assurance specification, who is responsible for Quality Control (QC)?

In the context of quality assurance specifications in Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) projects, Quality Control (QC) is a shared responsibility among multiple parties involved in the construction process. Each group plays a specific and crucial role in ensuring that the standards set for the project are met.

The contractor is primarily responsible for conducting their own QC tests and processes to ensure that the materials they are using and the methods they are applying conform to the specified requirements. This includes monitoring the quality of asphalt mix, conducting necessary testing, and making adjustments as needed throughout the project.

The agency also has an important role, as it is responsible for overseeing the project and ensuring that the contractor adheres to the specifications and quality standards established for the project. The agency's involvement often includes performing independent testing, inspections, and audits of the contractor's QC procedures.

Moreover, qualified individuals, such as certified inspectors and technicians, bring their expertise into the QC process. They may work for either the contractor or the overseeing agency and are tasked with performing specialized tests and ensuring that all activities meet the established quality criteria.

Therefore, since all three entities—contractors, agencies, and qualified individuals—contribute to the overall QC framework, the response that encompasses this collective responsibility accurately reflects the practice of