concrete testing NORTHERN IRELAND AT THE FOREFRONT OF CONCRETE TESTING CERTIFICATION WITH THE INSTITUTE OF CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY

BY NEIL COOKE, MATTEST AND THE INSTITUTE OF CONCRETE TECHNOLOGY

There are dozens of good reasons why the accurate testing of concrete is important, not least the cost of rectifying construction work completed with non-compliant concrete. Yet site practice is often inadequate, carried out in ignorance or indolence – as a wealth of anecdotal evidence testifies (see Concrete, Nov 2022). The correct performance of the appropriate tests, carried out in accordance with the relevant standards, is probably best demonstrated by certified practitioners. It was with this belief that the Institute of Concrete Technology (ICT) set out to introduce a certification scheme that would examine technicians’ knowledge of the tests and certify demonstrated performance. Such a scheme existed, operated by the American Concrete Institute (ACI) for use in the parts of the world where ASTM standards prevail, but there was nothing to cover practice to European standards.

So, working in partnership with the ACI, the ICT developed an EN equivalent, preparing a new workbook and compiling a bank of questions relevant to European practice.

This was developed into the Concrete Field-Testing Technicians certification scheme (CFTT).

CONCRETE FIELD-TESTING TECHNICIANS CERTIFICATION SCHEME (CFTT)

Since the scheme launch in 2019, Northern Ireland has been an integral part of this process, driven along by Dr Bryan Magee of Ulster University and Neil Cooke, Area Manager of Materials Testing Limited.

David Garity, Senior Assessor of QSRMC (Quality Scheme for Ready Mixed Concrete) has also recently been appointed as an examiner of the CFTT. David commented, “As providers of certification for users

And Suppliers Of Construction Materials

QSRMC is delighted to support the CFTT scheme to ensure that the highest standards within the industry are met”.

The scheme has enjoyed widespread local industry support. Companies range from ready-mixed concrete suppliers, test houses, and precast concrete manufacturers, to civil engineering contractors. Indeed, some contractors have decided to certify their technicians in private in-house sessions and now insist that technicians in their employment are certified to CFTT.

To date, eight companies in Northern Ireland have put 38 candidates through, resulting in 32 certified staff (an 84% pass rate).

Feedback has been very positive with some attendees keen to express their thoughts.

“This qualification has improved my knowledge of concrete technology and ability to undertake the tests and record results in line with the standards. I highly recommend the scheme for all contracting companies.” (Site Engineer Farrans)

“Having this qualification allows me to oversee and supervise on-site testing operations more confidently. It was a challenging, but rewarding experience that I highly recommend to all construction professionals.” (Design Engineer, Arup)

The course is registered with the Construction Industry Training Board Northern Ireland (CITB NI) and sessions are carried out at their headquarters located (Nutts Corner Training Centre, 17 Dundrod Road, Crumlin, County Antrim, BT29 4SR). The CITB offers sizable grant assistance to registered, in-scope employers who meet their current terms and conditions.

Rachel McKeeman, Director of Industry Training & Support at CITB NI commented “CITB NI is delighted to be able to support the ICT in this scheme. We believe this will benefit many companies throughout the NI construction industry by promoting good concrete practice.”

Cftt Scheme Details

This scheme certifies individuals who demonstrate knowledge of, and ability to perform, seven essential field tests on freshly mixed concrete. Aimed at test technicians and construction professionals alike, certification ensures the presence of formally qualified people on site when