Examining Risk-Based Construction Inspection Practices in Transportation Agencies

State departments of transportation (DOTs) are facing the challenge of high rates of attrition and the loss of knowledge as seasoned construction inspectors retire or the agency workforce is downsized. Many DOTs are increasingly using different risk-based inspection (RBI) approaches to offset the staff shortage. These approaches prioritize the inspection of material and workmanship based on criticality, which may vary considerably in DOT’s perception of risk and inspection methods. This variability leads to the problem of inconsistency in inspection practices among DOTs. The current study addresses this problem by comparing and analyzing RBI practices of DOTs. A content analysis of DOT documents, such as inspection guidebooks and construction manuals, was conducted to identify DOTs’ risk perception and compare their critical inspection methods. The result shows that 10 DOTs implement RBI in their construction projects. There is a variation in risk perception and assessment among these 10 DOTs. A high-risk activity in a DOT inspection may be a low risk in another DOT. There are two types of RBI, inspection of materials and inspection of construction activities. DOTs may implement RBI for material, construction activity, or both. Inspection and acceptance could be performed through material sampling testing, manufacturer’s certification, and visual inspection. This study helps DOTs develop RBI approaches and adopt risk-mitigating strategies that reduce the need for inspection staff and funding.