Which action is most appropriate when a load arrives with potential segregation signs during discharge?

• A. Ignore minor signs and finish the pour.
• B. Continue pouring and observe density variations.
• C. Stop discharge and assess with supervisor, re-consolidate if possible, or reject if needed.
• D. Divide into two pours without assessment.

Answer: (C)

When concrete shows signs of segregation during discharge, the priority is to prevent placing segregated material, which can create weak spots, voids, and poor bonding in the finished slab. Stopping discharge gives you a chance to address the issue before it becomes part of the structure.

Stopping discharge and bringing the situation to the supervisor, then re‑consolidating if possible or rejecting the load if needed, is the best course. This approach safeguards quality by allowing a proper assessment of the segregation, deciding whether the mix can be salvaged (through re‑mixing or re‑consolidation) or must be rejected to avoid poor performance in the finished concrete.

Ignoring signs, continuing to pour while just watching the density, or dividing the load into two pours without assessment all miss the root problem. They can propagate nonuniformity and lead to ongoing weakness or failure in the final pour.

In practice, observe the signs, pause, communicate with supervision, and pursue the appropriate corrective action to maintain integrity and durability of the concrete.