NIH Building Vault Renovation/Steam Manholes Construction

Project Overview

SQ Consultants was retained by the design engineering firm to provide construction inspection, specialty testing, & construction monitoring services for the Vault Renovation Project. The work involved the construction of two chiller water tanks at a depth of approximately eight feet, a new utility tunnel, and multiple manholes.

Scope of Services

Structural Engineering

• Verified that construction activities for the vault, utility tunnel, and manholes conformed to structural requirements in the contract documents.
• Performed non‑destructive testing of reinforcing steel to confirm placement, size, and integrity.
• Provided structural QA/QC oversight throughout construction, ensuring compliance with applicable codes, standards, and project specifications.
• Assisted in the preparation of final as‑built drawings documenting structural elements/field conditions.

Mechanical Engineering

• Monitored construction activities related to the installation of chiller‑water tanks, ensuring adherence to design intent and mechanical system requirements.
• Verified that construction sequencing and installation practices supported proper integration of the chiller‑water system with the broader mechanical infrastructure.
• Documented field conditions and coordinated with the design engineering team when deviations or clarifications were required.

Geotechnical Engineering

• Conducted field testing of soils, including compaction and bearing capacity evaluations for the vault, utility tunnel, and manhole foundations.  Collected soil samples for laboratory analysis to verify compliance with geotechnical design parameters.
• Performed onsite concrete sampling for laboratory strength testing to confirm suitability of materials placed on geotechnically sensitive elements.  Maintained detailed records of all geotechnical testing and promptly notified the owner of any conditions that differed from expected subsurface or support characteristics.