What should the inspector do if a conflict arises between specified standards and installed refractory quality?

In situations where there is a conflict between specified standards and the quality of installed refractory materials, the most appropriate action for the inspector is to report the issue to the owner for resolution. This approach ensures that the responsible parties are informed and can take necessary steps to address the discrepancy. The owner typically has the authority to make decisions or adjustments regarding the project, ensuring compliance with safety and performance standards.

By reporting to the owner, the inspector facilitates accountability and transparency, which is critical in maintaining safety and integrity in construction and refractory installations. It allows for a collaborative resolution process, where the owner can work with the contractor or project team to rectify the situation, whether through remediation of the existing installations or adjustments in accordance with the specified standards. This course of action aligns with best practices in quality control and risk management, ensuring that any potential issues are addressed proactively rather than neglected or handled inappropriately.