By qcrobert
Date 03-28-2012 18:54
Edited 03-29-2012 17:28
I agree with you and don't consider this a conflict of interest.
If I may, I would like to share my experiences with Caltrans bridge inspection. During 1992-2001 I performed bridge (seismic retrofit) inspection for Caltrans. Caltrans required that the Contractor hire an outside 3rd party Inspector to perform weld inspection of the Contractor's work. Therefore I was inspecting work performed by the person signing my paycheck.
Now that's is what I call a conflict of interest.
One such project, the Contractor refused to pay my last invoice and I had to take him to court.
QCRobert
Okay,
Let me go a little further.
I own a welding fabrication shop. Have been in this community as the owner for 16 years. Most of my inspecting at first was out of this area as a TPI. Thus no conflict of interest.
Lately, I have been working locally as a Special Inspector on many projects. As time has gone on, every time I turn around I am running into a problem. I get called to do an inspection on a project my shop has done at least the shop fab on if not the erection as well. Now, there are few CWI's in my area. In fact, I think I am the only one actually listed by the local building authorities who both lives and works here as a Special Inspector. So they have to hire someone to drive 2 hrs to get here to look at my shop's work and is listed with the local building authorities as a qualified inspector.
That can clearly become a conflict of interest issue: Owning and working the fabrication/erection company and doing the Special Inspection for the owner of the project. As the Fabricator, I get paid by the GC and as the Inspector I get paid by the owner or his authorized agent (usually the engineer).
Now, your hypothetical situation, being a plummer and doing the welding inspections. On one hand they are not related, on the other hand you are still working both sides. You would really have to be careful because there could be bribes involved (kickbacks, payoffs, etc) through that connection.
Yes, it is true, former welders and those with a construction background make some of the best inspectors. The Conflict of Interest becomes a problem when you try to do BOTH.
I am in the process of selling the welding shop and doing nothing but inspections. Meantime, I am busy enough with inspections I am forming a second company and totally removing myself from the welding business. And, I went to work with another Inspections Firm that does more work out of my home area. Keeps me out of trouble.
Have a Great Day, Brent