Schedule Q: The Quality Rulebook of a Project!!In EPC, oil & gas, fabrication, and construction projects, Schedule Q is a contractual document that defines how quality will be planned, controlled, inspected, and accepted throughout the project lifecycle.
It aligns the contract, technical specifications, and execution on site or in the workshop.
What Is Schedule Q?
Schedule Q specifies:
🔹What quality standards must be followed
🔹Which inspections and tests are required
🔹When client involvement is mandatory
🔹What records must be generated and submitted
Key Sections Typically Covered in Schedule Q
1. Quality Management System
🔹Implementation of ISO 9001 or equivalent QMS
🔹Approved Quality Manual and procedures
🔹Quality policy, objectives, and responsibilities
🔹Organization chart showing QA/QC authority
2. Codes, Standards & Specifications
🔹Applicable international codes (ASME, API, AWS, ISO, ASTM, NACE)
🔹Project specifications and client standards
🔹Order of precedence in case of document conflict
3. Inspection & Test Plans (ITPs)
🔹Mandatory ITPs for all activities
🔹Identification of Hold (H), Witness (W), and Review (R) points
🔹Client and third-party inspection requirements
🔹Approval of ITPs before work commencement
4. Welding & Special Processes
🔹Approval and control of WPS, PQR, and welder qualifications
🔹Welding consumable control and storage
🔹Preheat, interpass temperature, and PWHT requirements
🔹NDT methods, extent, and acceptance criteria
🔹Qualification of special processes (coating, heat treatment, NDT)
5. Material Control & Traceability
🔹Review of Material Test Certificates (MTCs)
🔹Heat number traceability throughout fabrication
🔹Material identification, marking, and preservation
🔹Storage and handling requirements
6. Inspection, Testing & Calibration
🔹In-process and final inspection requirements
🔹Mechanical and functional testing
🔹Calibration of inspection and measuring equipment
🔹Control of inspection status (Accepted / Rejected / Hold)
7. Nonconformance & Corrective Action
🔹NCR reporting and classification
🔹Root Cause Analysis (RCA)
🔹Corrective and preventive actions
🔹Client approval for repair or concession
8. Documentation & Final Handover
🔹Inspection and test reports
🔹Welding and NDT records
🔹PWHT charts and calibration certificates
🔹Manufacturing Data Record (MDR) / databooks
🔹Record retention requirements
Why Schedule Q Is Critical
🔹Defines quality expectations clearly
🔹Establishes inspection authority and control
🔹Prevents disputes and scope gaps
🔹Ensures regulatory and contractual compliance
🔹Provides full traceability and audit readiness