Quality Assurance (Unit 31|32)

An APC Candidates Guide.

Unit 32 – Q.A. outlines the specialist competencies for Quality Assurance in the field of quantity surveying.

This unit is divided into two main parts: QUALITY ASSURANCE for services provided and PROJECT ASSURANCE to ensure compliance with specific requirements, particularly those set by regulators.

QUALITY ASSURANCE FOR SERVICES PROVIDED:

This aspect involves a systematic approach by quantity surveying professionals to ensure their services meet client expectations. It includes the establishment of clear procedures, work instructions, and quality records that demonstrate compliance with the client’s requirements and the quantity surveyor's service objectives.

Key indicators emphasize the need for:

• The establishment of a corporate quality policy that complies with Australian or International Standards.

• Development of procedures that clearly outline required processes, expected outcomes, and verification requirements.

• Conducting internal audits to assess the application of these procedures.

• Continuously identifying improvements to procedures, outcomes, and verification techniques.

• Providing verification evidence to clients to demonstrate service quality assurance.

Practitioners are expected to have a thorough understanding of relevant standards, including ISO 9000 and the AS 9000 series, as well as knowledge of quantity surveying practices and auditing techniques.

Performance criteria include:

• Developing a corporate quality policy.

• Creating procedures that include verification criteria and standard forms.

• Conducting internal audits and ensuring the correction of non-conformances.

• Continuously improving procedures to adapt to changing requirements and enhance efficiency.

• Applying quality assurance techniques to provide tangible evidence of compliance, with a focus on high-impact service areas.

PROJECT ASSURANCE TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE:

This section focuses on ensuring that the project meets specific requirements, particularly those established by regulators. For example, it references the Office of the National Rail Safety Regulator (ONRSR) as a regulatory body in the rail safety domain.

Performance criteria include obtaining a comprehensive understanding of:

• The project assurance requirements.

• The principles and processes of assurance, ensuring agreement between parties involved.

• Inclusion of project assurance requirements in contract packages.

• The interfaces between contract packages and any third parties.

• The operational and maintenance requirements.

• Project-level safety requirements.

• Lessons learned from prior projects and relevant benchmarks.

• Ensuring client cost and project estimates are adequate to cover project assurance requirements.

• Calculating and including an appropriate contingency.

In summary, Unit 32 details the competencies for quality assurance at two levels: ensuring the quality of services provided by quantity surveying professionals and ensuring that overall project objectives meet necessary requirements, especially those mandated by regulations.

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Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified legal professional for any legal matters or concerns.