How should the inspector handle a concrete delivery that arrives late or before the scheduled time?

• A. Ignore contract terms and accept any delivery.
• B. Check contract time allowances, inspect for changes in slump or temperature, and decide to accept or reject per contract terms.
• C. Always reject late deliveries.
• D. Delay placing until the next day.

Answer: (B)

When a concrete delivery arrives outside the scheduled time, follow the project contract. Start by verifying the contract’s time allowances for deliveries and any approved time adjustments for early or late arrivals. Then inspect the concrete’s current properties, specifically slump and temperature, since delays can change workability and early or late deliveries can push these properties outside specified limits. Based on what the contract allows and what the properties show, decide to accept or reject the delivery as permitted by the contract terms. If it’s outside the allowed time or the properties are out of tolerance, take the contractually prescribed action and document the decision. This approach keeps the work on schedule while protecting the concrete quality.