What differentiates between 'Periodic' and 'Continuous' special inspections?

The distinction between 'Periodic' and 'Continuous' special inspections primarily revolves around the timing and nature of the inspections. Continuous inspections are conducted throughout the entire work process, ensuring that all aspects of construction are monitored in real-time. This approach allows inspectors to identify and address potential issues as they arise, leading to more immediate corrections and enhancements in quality and safety.

In contrast, periodic inspections are not constant but occur at set intervals throughout the project timeline. This can be on an established schedule or triggered by specific milestones, but they do not provide the same level of oversight as continuous inspections. As such, while periodic inspections can catch problems, they may miss issues that develop in between inspections, making them less comprehensive.

Understanding this key difference is essential to ensure that special inspections meet the necessary standards for quality control and construction safety. Continuous inspections provide a higher level of monitoring, which can be crucial in complex or high-stakes construction environments.