In the final part of this series, uncover the essential subsections of Section 3.5 of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual. Our exploration reveals the significance of independence of judgment, the importance of transparency in conflict scenarios, and how demonstrated job performance can outweigh formal education in personnel qualifications. Discover the historical context and evolution of temperature guidelines and learn how labs can navigate unexpected challenges, like seasonal shutdowns while maintaining accreditation. The conversation also spotlights the need for clear definitions and the role of standards development organizations in addressing ambiguities. 

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Unlock the secrets of the AASHTO Accreditation Procedures Manual with us as we dissect Section 3.5. Navigate the critical responsibilities of accredited laboratories in reporting significant changes within 60 days, per section 3.5.1. We break down what constitutes a 'major change’ and highlight our role and the potential sanctions for non-compliance. Learn more as we go through the first half of Section 3.5, in part one of this two-part series. 

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

What if the dreaded corrective action process could be transformed into a beacon of opportunity? Join us as we introduce and explore the "Four I's of the Corrective Action Process" concept. This fresh approach transforms common sense ideas into a memorable strategy that enhances the understanding of the process while keeping continual improvement as its focus. 

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

This episode explores the development and significance of the new AASHTO R 119 standard, officially titled “Standard Practice for Grinding the Ends of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens.” 

Brian shares his firsthand experience in creating this standard, highlighting the collaborative efforts with various state DOTs and the importance of standardizing concrete practices. Listeners will learn why AASHTO R 119 is crucial for those working with ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and how it addresses the limitations of traditional capping methods.

The episode also looks at the broader implications of AASHTO R 119, including its potential integration into other key standards like AASHTO T 24, ASTM C31, and ASTM C39. We also discuss how AASHTO R 119 moved from a provisional to a full standard and the ongoing efforts to promote its adoption across the industry.

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

This burning question is at the heart of our latest episode, where we unravel the complexities of choosing the right organization for aggregate and rebar evaluations. We navigate the nuanced scopes of CCRL and AASHTO re:source, addressing why each offers these services and how customer demand has fostered an overlap.

Explore the essentials of proficiency sample programs and the critical distinctions in assessment services—CCRL’s focus on specific testing methods versus AASHTO’s broader coverage. Dive into strategic insights for laboratories, empowering you to make informed decisions in the assessment process.

Our conversation also uncovers the financial and logistical factors pivotal to selecting your assessment provider. We spotlight the hidden costs and timing implications that can affect your lab’s operations. Learn how to navigate the intricacies of obtaining estimates, and understand why timing is everything when it comes to maintaining AASHTO Accreditation without a hitch.

Related information:

• aashtoresource.org/aap
• ccrl.us

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Unlock the secrets of effective laboratory monitoring with insights from Greg Uherek, Manager of Business Development and Technical Services. Greg sheds light on the specifier feature of the AASHTO re:source website, a game-changer for agencies that require AASHTO Accreditation like DOTs and California's Division of the State Architect. Journey through the evolution of laboratory monitoring from outdated methods to the cutting-edge specifier tools that enhance transparency and accountability. Greg takes us through the transformation, revealing how features like mapping and real-time alerts have made lab monitoring more intuitive and effective. Learn how these specifiers streamline oversight, ensuring labs comply with stringent testing standards. Discover why this tool is indispensable for public and private entities aiming for efficiency and compliance.

Related information: 

• aashtoresource.org/specifiers
• aashtoresource.org/events
• YouTube video
• Companion article

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

What's the secret to engaging volunteers and fostering a supportive, inclusive committee environment? Find out as we welcome Matt Linneman, Chief Engineer for North Dakota DOT and Chair of the Committee on Materials and Pavements (COMP), along with AASHTO liaison Casey Soneira. We discuss effective volunteer engagement, from creating psychological safety to micro-engagements that encourage wider participation. They share thoughts on succession planning, the balance between industry and academic leadership roles, and future committee initiatives, including shifts in meeting formats to boost peer exchanges and best practice sharing.  This conversation underscores the importance of stakeholder involvement and the challenges of managing a 6,000-page annual publication filled with detailed materials standards. Whether you're a state volunteer, industry member, or academic, this episode offers a treasure trove of insights into the workings of COMP, now and for years to come.

Read this episode's companion article or watch the video on YouTube.

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Ever wondered how and why a new proficiency sample scheme was created? Special guests John Malusky and Ryan LaQuay join hosts Brian Johnson and Kim Swanson to reveal the meticulous planning process behind the Hamburg Wheel Tracking samples, a groundbreaking addition to AASHTO re:source's Proficiency Sample Program. Hear firsthand accounts of the logistical challenges faced during its development, the steps taken to prevent segregation, and the lessons learned from pilot studies with DOTs that highlight the critical importance of well-blended materials.

Read this episode's companion article or watch the video on YouTube.

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

Transform your organization's approach to quality with Benjamin's strategies for engaging and empowering the workforce. Empowering employees with responsibility and capability at the ground level can operationalize quality, ensuring that processes like equipment maintenance and accurate data reporting are meticulously followed. Benjamin shares how transparency and stakeholder involvement can shift the mindset from viewing new processes as burdensome to seeing them as opportunities for improvement.

Read this episode's companion article or watch the video on YouTube.

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.

This episode reveals laboratories' most common pitfalls with implementing AASHTO R 18, such as calibration record-keeping, training and competency evaluation, and internal audits. Learn how to sidestep these issues by implementing robust quality management practices. Listen in to transform your laboratory practices and get tips to move beyond standard compliance.

Read this episode's companion article or watch the video on YouTube.

Send us a text

Have questions, comments, or want to be a guest on an upcoming episode? Email [email protected].

Related information on this and other episodes can be found at aashtoresource.org.