COURSE OVERVIEW:
Welcome to the Quality Assurance & Control in Wall & Ceiling Lining Installations course. This training will equip you with the knowledge, tools, and processes to embed quality throughout all stages of the lining installation lifecycle.
Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) are not just technical processes—they are essential components of safe, compliant, and aesthetically sound construction work. Internal linings contribute directly to the visual and functional performance of built environments, and failures in quality can lead to costly rework, compromised fire and acoustic ratings, and client dissatisfaction.
This course begins by defining the key concepts of QA and QC and their relevance to the internal lining industry. Participants will understand the distinction between proactive quality assurance (planning and prevention) and reactive quality control (inspection and correction). The section also identifies the most common quality failures in wall and ceiling lining, such as poor joint finishing, misaligned fixings, bowing, and delamination.
A strong foundation in standards and compliance is essential. This section provides a detailed overview of AS/NZS 2589 for gypsum linings, relevant sections of the National Construction Code (NCC), and manufacturer specifications that define performance expectations for board types, adhesives, fasteners, and finishing compounds.
Reviewing project documentation ensures alignment with design intent. This section covers how to interpret architectural drawings, reflected ceiling plans, and services coordination documents. You’ll learn how to identify scope items, wall and ceiling systems, junction detailing, and areas requiring specialised installation planning.
Quality must be planned before tools hit the wall. This section introduces how to develop a QA plan specific to lining works, review Inspection and Test Plans (ITPs), identify hold points, and use pre-start checklists to confirm site readiness. Early planning is essential to avoid downstream defects and delays.
Substrate suitability has a direct impact on finish quality. This section explores how to verify framing accuracy, moisture levels, and surface levelness before installation. Participants will also learn how to document and report non-conforming substrates for corrective action before lining commences.
All materials must conform to specification. This section explains how to inspect plasterboard deliveries for damage, check board types and profiles, and confirm batch numbers and certifications. You will also learn how to verify adhesives, joint compounds, and fixings against technical data sheets and compliance requirements.
Correct setting out supports system integrity. This section outlines how to confirm panel layout, ceiling grid spacing, and control joint positions against plans. Participants will learn how to verify alignment, ensure symmetry with architectural features, and incorporate movement detailing where required.
Fixing methods must comply with spacing and embedment specifications. This section covers how to assess board alignment, flushness, and plumbness; verify deflection head track allowances; and confirm that boards are properly fastened to prevent cracking, popping, or sagging over time.
Joint treatment and finishing are key quality indicators. This section outlines the criteria for assessing tape embedment, compound build-up, feathering, sanding quality, and surface flatness. Ensuring the surface is ready for Level 4 or 5 finishes is a key competency addressed in this phase.
Specialised wall and ceiling systems require strict adherence to specifications. This section teaches how to verify fire-rated and acoustic assemblies, ensure correct sealant use, inspect insulation and service penetrations, and collect supporting documentation to confirm system compliance.
Ceiling installations present unique QA requirements. This section explains how to assess suspension systems, grid installation, bracing, and hanger spacing. Visual finish, load compliance, and deflection tolerance are all addressed as part of ceiling QA verification.
Architectural interfaces are often high-risk areas for defects. This section examines how to ensure precision at reveals, access panels, bulkheads, and window or door junctions. The goal is to deliver seamless transitions between lining types, avoiding inconsistencies and misalignments.
Quality must be verified progressively throughout the job. This section outlines how to conduct staged inspections, manage hold points, and document issues and corrective actions before progressing. Proper inspection sequencing ensures rework is minimised and standards are upheld.
Even the best crews encounter defects. This section covers how to identify non-conformances such as cracking, bowing, or poor joints, manage punch lists, allocate time for rework, and coordinate with other trades and site managers to resolve issues promptly and transparently.
Client and consultant expectations must be understood and met. This section provides guidance on how to present quality documentation, samples, and compliance records. Participants will also learn how to manage final inspections and respond to client feedback with professionalism and accountability.
Documentation is the backbone of QA/QC. This section explains how to maintain checklists, inspection records, photographs, and sign-off logs. Whether using paper-based forms or digital tools, clear record-keeping supports compliance, warranty protection, and certification requirements.
High-quality outcomes require a committed team. This section highlights the importance of training team members in quality expectations, mentoring new staff, and creating a culture where getting it right the first time is standard practice rather than the exception.
Continuous improvement is the hallmark of a mature QA/QC system. This final section teaches how to analyse recurring issues, refine QA plans, adjust training delivery, and apply lessons learned across future projects. Quality is not static—it is a standard that must evolve with each new challenge.
By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge, inspection processes, and leadership mindset needed to uphold quality assurance and control across all aspects of wall and ceiling lining installations—delivering compliant, durable, and visually high-standard finishes that meet industry expectations.
Each section is complemented with examples to illustrate the concepts and techniques discussed.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:
1. Introduction to Quality Assurance and Control
- Distinguishing between quality assurance and quality control
- Importance of QA/QC in internal linings for safety and aesthetics
- Common quality issues in wall and ceiling lining installations
2. Understanding Industry Standards and Compliance
- Overview of AS/NZS 2589: Gypsum linings – Application and finishing
- Compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC)
- Manufacturer specifications and technical data sheets
3. Reviewing Drawings, Specifications, and Scope
- Interpreting architectural and services drawings
- Identifying wall types, ceiling systems, and finish requirements
- Clarifying build-ups, recesses, penetrations, and junctions
4. Planning for Quality Before Installation
- Creating a project-specific QA plan for linings
- Reviewing ITPs (Inspection and Test Plans) and hold points
- Pre-start checklists and site readiness verification
5. Substrate Inspection and Acceptance Criteria
- Ensuring framing, masonry, or concrete substrates meet tolerances
- Verifying moisture levels, levelness, and fastener positioning
- Recording and reporting unacceptable substrate conditions
6. Material Selection and Conformance Checks
- Checking deliveries for damage, batch numbers, and compliance
- Confirming board type, thickness, edge profile, and certifications
- Ensuring adhesives, screws, and compounds meet spec
7. Setting Out and Layout Verification
- Verifying ceiling grid, wall panel, and control joint layout
- Ensuring alignment with framing and openings
- Planning for expansion joints and architectural features
8. Fixing and Fastening Methods
- Complying with standard fixing spacing and screw embedment depths
- Ensuring boards are plumb, level, and flush
- Verifying deflection head track allowances and movement detailing
9. Joint Treatment and Finishing Quality
- Inspecting tape embedment, first and second coat application
- Ensuring consistent feathering and surface profile
- Checking sanding quality and surface readiness for painting
10. Acoustic, Fire-Rated, and Moisture-Resistant Systems
- Verifying correct linings and sealant applications in rated systems
- Checking compliance of insulation and service penetrations
- Recording certifications for fire/acoustic wall and ceiling systems
11. Ceiling Installation and Suspension System QA
- Inspecting layout, fixing, and bracing of grid or furring channels
- Ensuring secure hangers, deflection allowance, and load compliance
- Monitoring alignment, levelness, and visual finish
12. Managing Interfaces and Architectural Details
- Inspecting reveals, recessed lighting, access panels, and bulkheads
- Ensuring smooth transitions between different lining types
- Checking alignment at junctions with windows, doors, and corners
13. On-Site Quality Inspections and Sign-Offs
- Conducting progressive inspections at critical stages
- Documenting issues and corrective actions
- Managing hold points and sign-offs before proceeding
14. Non-Conformance Identification and Rectification
- Detecting surface defects: cracking, delamination, popping, bowing
- Managing punch lists and rework timelines
- Communicating with trades and project managers for resolution
15. Client and Consultant Quality Expectations
- Understanding client quality benchmarks and tolerances
- Presenting QA documentation and samples
- Managing client inspections and responding to feedback
16. Record-Keeping and QA Documentation
- Maintaining QA checklists, photos, and inspection reports
- Using apps or site software for real-time QA tracking
- Archiving records for compliance, warranty, and certification
17. Training and Team Accountability for Quality
- Inducting workers in QA expectations and best practices
- Mentoring new installers in finish quality and detailing
- Creating a team culture focused on getting it right the first time
18. Continuous Improvement in Lining QA/QC
- Analysing recurring defects and systemic quality issues
- Refining QA procedures and training based on site feedback
- Applying lessons learned across future projects
COURSE DURATION:
The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.
COURSE DELIVERY:
Purchase and download course content.
ASSESSMENT:
A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.
CERTIFICATION:
Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.