Building code requirements for inspection of adhesive anchors in concrete

A proper installation of construction materials is crucial for its performance. Therefore, inspections in building construction have vital importance and are needed to verify that work considered critical to life, public safety, and property protection is being or has been performed according to the approved plans and specifications. Although inspections are required by the legally adopted building codes at certain stages, some building construction activities demand closer scrutiny. This additional level of surveillance is known as special inspection. Installation of adhesive anchors is one of the construction activities that require special inspection. This paper briefly explains the recent revisions to the inspection requirements of postinstalled adhesive anchors in accordance with the American Concrete Institute standard, which is referenced by the 2012 International Building Code, discusses the discrepancies occurring between the two documents, and recommends solutions to allow proper inspections to proceed.