What is an ITP in construction?

An Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) is a quality assurance document used in construction to define inspection activities, hold points, and witness points at key stages of work. It specifies what needs to be checked, by whom, and records the results for audit and compliance purposes.

How much does HoldPoint QA cost?

HoldPoint QA charges $45 AUD per active project per month for 1–5 projects, and $35 per project per month for 6 or more active projects. There are no per-seat fees or per-document charges. Projects start as draft (free) until the first document is added.

Can external clients sign ITPs without an account?

Yes. HoldPoint QA sends a secure sign-off link via email. External signatories — clients, principal's representatives, or engineers — can review the full ITP checklist and sign digitally without needing an account or app.

Does HoldPoint generate ITP PDFs automatically?

Yes. When an ITP is approved, HoldPoint automatically generates a branded PDF containing all checklist results, inspection notes, photos, and signatures. PDFs are regenerated if any information changes.

How often should compaction testing be done in earthworks?

Testing frequency depends on the project specification, but typical requirements are one density test per 250-500m² per compaction layer for structural fill, and one per 500-1000m² for general fill. The ITP should record the test method (nuclear gauge or sand replacement), the test result as a percentage of MDD, and the moisture content.

What is the required compaction standard for earthworks?

Standard requirements vary by application: structural fill under footings typically requires 98% Standard Maximum Dry Density (SMDD), general fill requires 95% SMDD, and road subgrade typically requires 95-100% SMDD depending on the pavement design. The project specification takes precedence over these general values.

Do earthworks ITPs need to cover erosion and sediment control?

Yes. Erosion and sediment control (ESC) should be a witness point or inspection item in the earthworks ITP. During bulk earthworks, ESC measures (silt fences, sediment basins, stabilised access) need to be maintained continuously. Local council and EPA requirements often mandate specific ESC controls that should be referenced in the ITP.

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Free Earthworks ITP Generator

Generate a complete Inspection & Test Plan for earthworks in seconds. Covers cut and fill operations, compaction testing, subgrade preparation, material classification, and geotechnical verification — with hold points for density testing and subgrade sign-off.

Earthworks-specific hold points and witness points
Aligned with relevant Australian Standards
PDF emailed to you instantly — no login required
Ready to use on-site or submit to your principal contractor

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Include trade, materials, key activities, and any relevant standards (e.g. AS 3600). More detail = better ITP.

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Background

What is a Earthworks ITP?

An earthworks ITP defines the inspection and testing requirements for site preparation, cut and fill operations, compaction, and subgrade formation. It ensures that every layer of fill is tested and verified before the next layer is placed, and that the finished subgrade meets the required bearing capacity and level tolerances.

Earthworks are the foundation of every construction project. Compaction failures at this stage cause settlement, cracking, and structural damage that may not become apparent for years. A complete ITP register with density test records at every specified layer is essential evidence during defect liability periods.

For large earthworks operations, the ITP typically specifies testing frequency (e.g. one density test per 500m² per layer) and the required compaction standard (e.g. 95% or 98% of Standard Maximum Dry Density). Hold points ensure that no layer is covered before testing confirms compliance.

Quality checkpoints

Earthworks ITP Hold Points & Witness Points

The AI generator automatically includes these checkpoints based on your scope description. Hold points require mandatory sign-off before work proceeds; witness points notify the relevant party but don't stop work.

Hold Points

Work stops until signed off

Subgrade inspection and level verification
Compaction test results at each specified layer
Material classification and suitability assessment
Final formation level and grade sign-off

Witness Points

Party notified, work can continue

Site clearing and topsoil stripping
Fill material placement and moisture conditioning
Cut face inspection for unsuitable material
Erosion and sediment control measures

Applicable Australian Standards

AS 1289 — Methods of Testing Soils for Engineering Purposes
AS 3798 — Guidelines on Earthworks for Commercial and Residential Developments

Common questions

Earthworks ITP — Frequently Asked Questions

How often should compaction testing be done in earthworks?: Testing frequency depends on the project specification, but typical requirements are one density test per 250-500m² per compaction layer for structural fill, and one per 500-1000m² for general fill. The ITP should record the test method (nuclear gauge or sand replacement), the test result as a percentage of MDD, and the moisture content.
What is the required compaction standard for earthworks?: Standard requirements vary by application: structural fill under footings typically requires 98% Standard Maximum Dry Density (SMDD), general fill requires 95% SMDD, and road subgrade typically requires 95-100% SMDD depending on the pavement design. The project specification takes precedence over these general values.
Do earthworks ITPs need to cover erosion and sediment control?: Yes. Erosion and sediment control (ESC) should be a witness point or inspection item in the earthworks ITP. During bulk earthworks, ESC measures (silt fences, sediment basins, stabilised access) need to be maintained continuously. Local council and EPA requirements often mandate specific ESC controls that should be referenced in the ITP.

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