What actions should be taken if a concrete pour must be halted due to equipment issues?

• A. Ignore the issue and resume as planned.
• B. Switch to a different batch without inspecting equipment.
• C. Document issue and resume after inspection; verify slump and yield, and record corrective actions.
• D. Stop the pour, inspect equipment, verify slump and yield, record corrective actions, and resume only after resolution.

Answer: (D)

When equipment issues arise during a concrete pour, the priority is to safeguard the quality of the pour by stopping and verifying the system before continuing. Halting the pour prevents producing concrete that may be out of spec, which can lead to weak joints, segregation, or placement defects.

Next, inspect the equipment to identify and address the root cause. This includes checking the mixer, water and admixture systems, pumps or conveyors, scales, and any connections or controls. Look for blockages, leaks, calibration problems, or mechanical faults that could affect how the concrete is produced and delivered.

Then verify the concrete properties by testing workability and batch integrity. A slump test confirms that the concrete remains within the specified workability, and a yield check ensures the batch volume matches what was intended. If either test shows a deviation, the batch or process must be corrected according to the project procedures—dry or add water only as permitted by the mix design and contract, and document any adjustments.

Document the issue and every corrective action taken, including what was found, what was done to fix it, the test results after the fix, and any communications with the crew. This record keeps the work traceable and helps ensure compliance with the FDOT specification and QC plan.

Proceed to resume the pour only after the equipment is functioning properly, and the concrete meets all required properties as verified by tests and inspections.