626.1 Reference datums

Reconfirm grid/benchmarks (612). Datums anchor HVM bollard inspection.

Start by re-establishing the control network from the primary survey benchmarks (612). Transfer your datum to a protected “datum stick” at each array and label with date, instrument, and operator. This anchors all checks that follow and prevents gap drift as works progress.

Confirm gridlines and offsets to the array centreline using a total station and a second independent tape check. Where feasible, paint a discreet rotation mark on each socket edge to tie rotation readings to the control network.

If the project has UAE approvals exposure, note any authority-specific tolerances in the permits and capture them in the inspection test plan (see SIRA Bollards (UAE)).

626.2 Height/level tolerances

Measure to head height targets (312). Levels protect crash rated bollard performance.

Use a calibrated digital level to confirm top-of-sleeve and finished head elevations relative to the design height setting (312). Record both absolute levels and deviation from the acceptance band. Where paving is unfinished, project the final surface using certified benchmarks and note the acceptance band (dimensions).

Height consistency maintains capture geometry and reduces the risk of snag points. If an array includes mixed models, confirm each family’s design height and state any rating-critical dependencies (421) affected by level (e.g., sleeve reveal, keepered cover seating).

626.3 Plumb & rotation

Check with digital levels; log degrees. Plumbness keeps HVM bollard line true.

Measure plumb with a digital inclinometer placed on the bollard face along two orthogonal axes; log tilt in degrees and direction. Also check base rotation at the socket flange with a fine scale or total-station angle. Rotation affects clear-gap calculations (322) and can push edges outside the rotation limit (clear-gap).

For automatic arrays, verify the visible sleeve axis aligns with the drive axis to avoid side-loading and premature seal wear (see 625 Grout Beds & Levelling on shim removal and final tightening).

626.4 Clear-gap verification

Use calibrated gauges to confirm gaps (232, 322). Verification proves crash rated bollard acceptance.

Apply a certified Go/No-Go gauge (or gap gauge) at three heights: pavement level, mid-height, and capture height. Record the smallest pass margin and the position along the array. Where geometry is irregular (e.g., near corners), supplement with total-station distances to the array centreline.

Cross-check results against spacing rules (232) and clear-gap calculations (322). If the array includes a keepered opening, document both stewarded and closed states.

626.5 Template/jig usage

Apply jigs for repeatable checks. Jigs reduce HVM bollard measurement errors.

Use a leveled cross-bar jig with fixed offsets for quick repetition across long runs. Calibrate the jig daily against the control network and log the calibration photo with a wide→detail photo set. For auto arrays, add a rotation index plate to the jig so rotation and gap can be captured in one placement.

Where site constraints prevent jig use, adopt a “pair-check” method: instrument operator + recorder; swap roles every 20 units to reduce fatigue bias. Reference 624 Pouring & Vibration for socket alignment aids embedded during pours.

626.6 Survey rechecks

Independent survey spot-checks mid-run. Rechecks prevent crash rated bollard drift.

Schedule independent rechecks at 25%, 50%, and 90% completion using a different instrument (or team) to detect drift. Compare against initial set-out from 612 Setting-Out & Benchmarks and investigate any trend that suggests tolerance stack-up.

On constrained frontages, run a projected gap check before 629 Surface Reinstatement to avoid creating hard-to-fix errors under finished paving.

626.7 Recording results

Store tables, photos, and station IDs (716). Records support HVM bollard SAT (638).

Log each reading in a structured sheet: station ID, instrument, reading, deviation, pass/fail, operator, timestamp. Attach geo-tagged photos and markups to the Photo/Redline Logbook (937). Follow the evidence format in Evidence Capture Standards (716) so the same pack supports SAT / Witness Procedure (638).

Where arrays span phases, keep a persistent array verification cycle so the next crew resumes without ambiguity.

626.8 Remedial actions

Define shim/pack, adjust, or replace. Remedies preserve crash rated bollard tolerances.

For minor deviations: adjust anchor preload or re-shim under base plates (see 625 Grout Beds & Levelling) and re-survey. For rotation errors, loosen, re-index to the rotation mark, and re-torque. For out-of-band level differences across an automatic lane set, consider controlled re-grout with vent paths and a timed pot-life plan.

Where deviations challenge rating-critical dependencies (421) or safety devices & measures, escalate via Variations & Change Log (718) and issue an NCR (719) with a documented correction path.

626.9 Sign-off process

Engineer and client sign ITP lines (714). Sign-off unlocks HVM bollard next steps.

Close each check item in the Inspection & Test Plan (ITP) with traceable references: drawing numbers, station IDs, photo IDs, and survey files. Obtain countersignatures from the contractor’s responsible engineer and the client representative. This sign-off enables downstream activities like pre-commission checks (631) and SAT witness (638) without rework.

626 Datum & Alignment Checks — FAQ