Whose responsibility is it to sample and test materials for source approval and acceptance?

The responsibility for sampling and testing materials for source approval and acceptance falls to the department. This is essential because the department establishes the specifications and criteria that must be met for materials used in construction projects. By conducting these tests, the department ensures that the materials comply with the required quality and performance standards, thereby safeguarding the integrity and durability of the infrastructure being built.

This approach allows for an unbiased evaluation and helps maintain consistency across projects. The involvement of the department in testing and approving materials is crucial in upholding public safety and adhering to regulatory policies. This system also helps to manage risks associated with material failures or discrepancies that might arise if solely left to the contractor or other entities who may have conflicting interests in the outcome.