How to Read a General Arrangement (GA) Drawing – Part 2

How to Read a General Arrangement (GA) Drawing – Part 2

Step-by-Step Guide to Reading a GA Drawing

Author: Engrity Group Inc.

Welcome back to our GA Drawing Masterclass! In Part 1, we laid a solid foundation by exploring the fundamentals of General Assembly (GA) drawings — from reading the title block and identifying key piping systems to tracing routes using elevation markers and gridlines. If you haven’t read Part 1 yet, we highly recommend starting there.

In Part 2, we’re taking things a step further. This guide is tailored for QA and QC inspectors, field engineers, and anyone involved in piping inspections, construction quality, or mechanical verification. Let’s dive in.


Step 6: Recognize Supports, Hangers, and Structures

One of the most overlooked elements in GA drawings is the piping support system. These supports are crucial for maintaining mechanical integrity and operational safety.

🔍 What to look for:

  • S01 – Standard Support

  • SPR – Spring Support

  • HGR – Hangers

These notations often tie back to support detail sheets or structural drawings. Always verify if special supports like spring cans or guides are needed — especially under extreme service conditions (e.g., high temp, vibration).

📌 Pro Tip: Document missing or misaligned supports early — they can impact hydrotesting, stress analysis, and long-term performance.


Step 7: Pay Attention to Notes, Legends, and Special Instructions

The notes and legend section is your key to decoding the GA drawing. Don’t skip this — it’s often packed with abbreviations, symbols, and project-specific instructions.

Common notations include:

  • ABV – Above Ground

  • UG – Underground

  • Insul Required – Insulation is needed for that line

Reading this section carefully can prevent costly misinterpretations in the field.

📌 Pro Tip: If your legend is unclear or missing details, don’t guess. Reach out to your supervisor or engineering lead for clarification.


Step 8: Cross-Reference with Isometric Drawings

While GA drawings give you the overall layout, isometric drawings provide the detailed information you need for inspections.

Why it matters:

  • Identify weld joints, field welds, and dimensions

  • Verify the material specs

  • Confirm elevation differences that may not be obvious on the GA

Always keep the corresponding iso drawing handy when reviewing GA data — they complement each other.

📌 Pro Tip: Mark up your GA drawing with isometric reference numbers to speed up field inspections.


Step 9: Use the GA Drawing for Field Inspections

Once you’re on-site, the GA drawing becomes a critical tool for verification and compliance checks.

Use your GA drawing to:

✅ Verify piping routes
✅ Check elevation levels
✅ Confirm that supports match the design
✅ Ensure pipe clearance from structural elements

This step is essential before mechanical completion or hydrotesting, where accuracy matters most.

📌 Pro Tip: Highlight critical lines and known problem areas in your printout or tablet app before heading into the field.


Step 10: Pro Tips for QA and QC Inspectors

Here’s a collection of field-tested tips from seasoned inspectors:

🛠️ Always use the latest drawing revision – Outdated drawings lead to wrong installations.
🛠️ Highlight critical systems – Color-code or underline important lines before inspection.
🛠️ Never assume — ask – Unclear? Confirm with your supervisor or engineering team.
🛠️ Log changes – Any site modifications must be captured in As-Built markups and forwarded for formal updates.


Bonus: Are You Using AI Tools for QA/QC?

We’re seeing a rise in AI tools helping inspectors automate checks, digitize markups, and even flag potential discrepancies between GA and iso drawings. If you’ve tried any of these tools, share your experience in the comments. Your insights could help fellow professionals improve their workflow.


Final Thoughts

Understanding GA drawings is a skill — and like all skills, it improves with training and real-world practice. This series aims to bridge the gap between theory and fieldwork for QA and QC professionals.

📺 Want More?
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for in-depth video training on piping inspections, construction drawings, and QA/QC tips.

Follow us for more QA/QC training content, inspection tips, and technical walkthroughs.

Experience  the Difference

Contact

Phone

+1 (780) 800-6297

Email

info@engrity.com

Address:

201-9403 63 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 0G2

AI in Heavy Industry: What You Need to Know Now

AI in Heavy Industry: What You Need to Know Now

What Is AI Really Doing for Heavy Industry?

Author: Engrity Group Inc.

Hello industrial clients,

Let’s take a moment to talk about something that’s already changing the way we work — Artificial Intelligence.

You’ve probably heard the term before, but what is AI really doing for heavy industry?
Why are companies across oil and gas, mining, utilities, and manufacturing turning to AI right now?

Let’s explore how AI is already changing the game.

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future concept—it’s transforming the heavy industrial sector right now. From manufacturing and mining to oil and gas and utilities, AI is redefining how operations achieve efficiency, safety, and competitiveness.

But what does that really mean in practice?

Here’s a quick breakdown of how AI is reshaping industrial operations:


Predictive Maintenance

AI monitors equipment in real time and forecasts failures before they happen—reducing downtime and avoiding costly breakdowns.

Process Optimization

AI analyzes complex data streams to identify inefficiencies, streamline workflows, and boost productivity.

Safety and Risk Management

AI-powered systems detect risks in real time, enabling proactive responses to improve workplace safety and compliance.

Data-Driven Decision-Making

AI turns raw operational data into actionable insights—leading to faster, smarter decisions that drive continuous improvement.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

AI optimizes energy usage across operations, helping reduce waste, lower costs, and support sustainability goals.


Why does it matter?

Because in today’s industrial landscape, staying competitive requires more than hard work—it requires smart work powered by intelligent systems. AI offers a strategic edge by unlocking visibility, predictability, and agility at every level.

Whether you’re exploring AI for the first time or scaling existing initiatives, it’s critical to approach AI adoption with a clear roadmap, trusted expertise, and measurable goals.

Ready to see what AI can do for your industry?
Don’t miss our next client post to discover how AI can transform your business.

Experience  the Difference

Contact

Phone

+1 (780) 800-6297

Email

info@engrity.com

Address:

201-9403 63 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 0G2

How to Read a General Arrangement (GA) Drawing – Part 1

How to Read a General Arrangement (GA) Drawing – Part 1

Step-by-Step Guide to Reading a GA Drawing

Author: Engrity Group Inc.

Introduction

In the world of QA/QC inspection, construction, and engineering, understanding drawings is a core skill — and one of the most critical is the General Arrangement drawing, often referred to as a GA drawing or General Assembly drawing.

In this two-part series, we’re going to walk you through exactly how to read and interpret a GA drawing, with a strong focus on piping systems in Canada’s heavy industrial sector — including oil and gas facilities, modular fabrication yards, chemical plants, and power stations.

If you’re a new inspector, junior engineer, or just want to refresh your skills, this guide is for you.


What is a General Arrangement Drawing?

A General Arrangement (GA) drawing is a top-level layout drawing that shows how different components — such as equipment, piping, steel structures, and access platforms — are arranged in relation to one another within a plant or module.

Unlike isometric or detail drawings, GA drawings are not meant for fabrication. Instead, they offer a bird’s-eye view of the project scope and spatial relationships. Think of it as a map of your unit — one that brings clarity to complexity.

Note: The term General Assembly is also used in some industries and regions, but in piping-focused construction in Canada, “General Arrangement” is the more common reference.


Why GA Drawings Matter

For QA/QC inspectors and field professionals, GA drawings serve multiple purposes:

  • Orienting yourself on a project site

  • Planning inspections and walk-downs

  • Verifying routing, elevations, and tie-ins

  • Cross-referencing isometric drawings and P&IDs

  • Communicating with other trades and disciplines


Step-by-Step Guide to Reading a GA Drawing

Let’s walk through the essential steps every QA/QC professional should follow when interpreting a GA drawing.


Step 1: Start with the Title Block

Located in the bottom right corner, the title block provides crucial information:

  • Drawing number and revision

  • Drawing title and description

  • Project and client information

  • Drawing scale (e.g., 1:100)

  • Issue purpose (IFC – Issued for Construction, IFR – Issued for Review, etc.)

Key Tip: Always verify you’re working with the latest revision. Even minor updates in elevation or routing can lead to major errors during inspection or installation.


Step 2: Understand the Orientation and Gridlines

Every GA drawing includes a north arrow and a grid system:

  • The north arrow helps you align the drawing with the actual site.

  • Gridlines (usually alphanumeric, like A1, B2, C3) divide the drawing into reference zones.

This grid system allows you to quickly locate pumps, tanks, pipe supports, and other components across a large layout.


Step 3: Identify Equipment and Piping Systems

Next, zoom into the core of the drawing: the layout of equipment and piping.

Look for:

  • Equipment labels (e.g., P-101, T-202, E-303)

  • Pipe routing lines with line numbers

  • Nozzles, valves, and connections to other systems

Each pipe line is labeled with a unique line number, which typically follows this format:

8”-P-1001-A1-150-CS

This might indicate:

  • Pipe size (8″)

  • Service (P for process fluid)

  • Line number (1001)

  • Unit or area code (A1)

  • Pressure rating (150#)

  • Material code (Carbon Steel)

These line numbers are your link to piping isometrics, line lists, and specification sheets.


Step 4: Trace the Piping Route

Once you identify a pipe, follow its route across the drawing:

  • Start at the equipment nozzle or starting point

  • Trace the line as it moves horizontally or vertically

  • Watch for branch lines, tie-ins, and direction changes

Pay close attention to elevation indicators like:

  • CL 10500 mm (Centerline at 10,500 mm)

  • BOP 3200 mm (Bottom of pipe at 3,200 mm)

These are especially important during field inspections to confirm spacing, clearance, and support elevations.


Bonus: What’s NOT in a GA Drawing?

While GA drawings are powerful tools, they do not show:

  • Weld details or WPS requirements

  • Pipe wall thickness or insulation specs

  • Detailed support fabrication

  • Bolt or gasket specifications

For that level of detail, always refer to:

  • Isometric drawings

  • P&IDs (Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams)

  • Structural drawings

  • Line Class sheets


Conclusion

Part 1 of this guide sets the foundation for anyone working with or inspecting piping systems in the heavy industrial space. Understanding the layout, equipment arrangement, and piping routes is crucial before moving into more complex inspection activities.

In Part 2, we’ll cover:

  • Pipe supports and hangers

  • Drawing symbols and callouts

  • Notes and legends

  • Using GA drawings for field inspections and QA/QC checks

Stay tuned for the next article. And if you’re looking for one-on-one coaching or group training for your QA/QC team, reach out to Engrity Group Inc. — we’re here to support your development with hands-on, industry-based instruction.

Follow us for more QA/QC training content, inspection tips, and technical walkthroughs.

Experience  the Difference

Contact

Phone

+1 (780) 800-6297

Email

info@engrity.com

Address:

201-9403 63 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 0G2

Project Closure – The Final Step That Defines Success

Project Closure – The Final Step That Defines Success

Project Closure in the Canadian Heavy Industrial Sector

Why It Matters and How Engrity Delivers Peace of Mind

Hello Industrial Clients,

In the Canadian heavy industrial sector—where safety, quality, and timelines are non-negotiable—project closure isn’t just an administrative formality. It’s the final handoff that defines project success, client satisfaction, and future partnerships.

At Engrity, we understand that proper closeout isn’t about checking boxes—it’s about delivering a seamless, compliant, and efficient wrap-up that reflects the quality of your entire operation. Our specialized QA/QC project closure services are designed for the unique demands of energy, petrochemical, construction, fabrication, and infrastructure sectors across Canada.


Why Project Closure is Critical

When the last weld is done, the last inspection complete, and the crew is demobilizing—what’s left is the documentation. And in today’s regulatory and client-driven environment, turnover packages, ABSA forms, and inspection records are just as important as the construction itself.

Without complete and accurate closure, your project risks:

  • Regulatory delays

  • Client dissatisfaction

  • Missed milestones

  • Reputational damage

Engrity ensures your project closure is comprehensive, on time, and audit-ready—so you can move forward with confidence.


Engrity’s Full-Scope Project Closure Services

We offer end-to-end support for all QA/QC-related final deliverables, including:

  • Visual Inspection, NDT & Full Traceability Reports

  • Pre- and Post-Hydro Walkdowns

  • Hydrotest Witnessing and Documentation

  • Regulatory Compliance Forms (AB-83, AB-81)

  • Mechanical Completion Sign-Offs

  • Turnover Package Compilation (Piping, Welding, E&I, etc.)

We align with your team from the start and provide real-time updates, streamlined tracking, and proactive issue resolution. Every document, signature, and inspection is done with precision.


Case Study: Expansion Project in Western Canada

Let’s take a look at one of our recent case studies.

During a large-scale expansion project, our client faced a critical timeline and required comprehensive QA/QC support across multiple scopes. Engrity was brought in to provide a multi-discipline team capable of stepping in immediately—aligned with site procedures and ready to deliver from day one.

Our scope included:

  • Certified Electrical & Instrumentation (E&I) Inspectors

  • Experienced Piping Inspectors (ASME B31.1 / B31.3)

  • CWB-Certified Welding Inspectors

  • Full support for test package walkdowns, hydro test witnessing, and final documentation turnover

The outcome?
✔️ No rework
✔️ Full regulatory compliance
✔️ A smooth turnover
✔️ A satisfied client with total peace of mind


Why Partner with Engrity?

We aren’t just a staffing agency—we’re your project partner. Our team of certified professionals brings years of field experience, code knowledge, and a strong understanding of Canadian regulations and industry standards.

With Engrity, you get:

  • Rapid mobilization of experienced personnel

  • Consistent quality across all disciplines

  • Competitive pricing without compromise

  • Proactive support from planning to sign-off

Whether it’s a shutdown, expansion, pipeline, or fabrication job, we ensure you close strong—with zero gaps and maximum confidence.


Ready to Close Your Next Project with Confidence?

Don’t let the final stretch of your project be the most stressful. Partner with Engrity and let our team of QA/QC professionals take care of the closeout—so you can focus on what’s next.

Contact us today to discuss your upcoming project.

Experience  the Difference

Contact

Phone

+1 (780) 800-6297

Email

info@engrity.com

Address:

201-9403 63 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 0G2

How to Read P&ID Drawings: A Beginner’s Guide

How to Read P&ID Drawings: A Beginner’s Guide

Mastering Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)

A Complete Guide for QA/QC Professionals

Guide on how to read a P&ID diagram – Video Tutorial

Hello QA and QC Professionals,

Have you ever looked at a P&ID drawing and felt overwhelmed by the maze of lines, symbols, and labels?

You’re not alone.

Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) are powerful tools that visually represent how process systems operate, but they can seem complex at first glance. In this guide, we break down P&IDs into clear, structured steps to help you interpret them with confidence.


What Is a P&ID?

A P&ID, or Piping and Instrumentation Diagram, is a detailed schematic representation of a process system. It illustrates the piping, equipment, instrumentation, and control systems used in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, power generation, water treatment, and more.

P&IDs serve as a critical reference for engineers, inspectors, technicians, and plant operators during system design, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

A typical P&ID includes:

  • Pipes and flow directions

  • Mechanical equipment such as tanks, pumps, and heat exchangers

  • Valves for control and safety

  • Instrumentation for monitoring pressure, temperature, and flow

  • Control loops and safety systems


Part 1: Understanding the Basics of P&IDs

1. Key Elements in a P&ID

To interpret a P&ID effectively, start by familiarizing yourself with its core components:

  • Pipes – Represented by different line styles (solid, dashed, dotted) to show the type of connection.

  • Equipment – Includes symbols for pumps, tanks, compressors, heat exchangers, and other key mechanical devices.

  • Valves – Various types of valves (gate, globe, ball, check) are represented by unique symbols.

  • Instruments – Devices like sensors, transmitters, and controllers are displayed using standardized symbols and tags.

  • Flow Direction – Arrows indicate the direction in which the process fluid or gas flows.

  • Tags and Labels – Each component has a unique identifier (e.g., P-101 for a pump or V-102 for a valve).


2. Common P&ID Symbols

P&ID symbols follow standards from ISA (International Society of Automation) or ISO (International Organization for Standardization). Learning these symbols is essential for proper interpretation.

Examples of common symbols:

  • Solid Lines – Represent process piping

  • Dashed Lines – Indicate instrumentation or control signal lines

  • Dotted Lines – Often used for electrical or safety system connections

  • Pumps – Typically shown with a symbol labeled “P”

  • Valves – Shape varies based on type (manual, control, safety)

  • Instruments – Circles with letters such as “T” (temperature), “P” (pressure), or “F” (flow)

Always refer to the legend provided in each P&ID for clarification.


3. The Legend or Symbol Key

Each P&ID comes with a legend that explains the symbols, abbreviations, and line types used in that drawing. This legend is a vital reference, especially when working across different systems or facilities.


4. Focusing on Equipment and Connections

Start by locating the major equipment:

  • Pumps (P-101, P-102) – Often represented by a circle or specific shape with a “P” label

  • Tanks/Vessels (T-101, T-102) – Shown as vertical or horizontal cylinders or rectangles

  • Heat Exchangers – Typically depicted with parallel lines and connecting pipes

  • Valves – Positioned along the piping; symbols vary depending on type

Trace the piping connections from one piece of equipment to another to get a sense of how the system operates.


Part 2: Interpreting Flow, Control Loops, and Safety Systems

Now that you’re familiar with the basic elements of a P&ID, let’s explore how to interpret system dynamics and control logic.


5. Following the Flow Path

  • Flow Arrows – Show the direction of the process fluid or gas

  • Component Tags – Help track equipment and instrumentation throughout the system

  • Line Styles – Clarify connection type:

    • Solid = Process piping

    • Dashed = Instrument/control wiring

    • Dotted = Electrical or emergency systems

Following these elements step-by-step helps you understand how materials move and where key control points exist.


6. Identifying Control and Safety Systems

P&IDs are essential for understanding both operational controls and safety interlocks.

Control Loops
Control loops consist of sensors, controllers, and actuators working together to regulate process variables.

For example:
A flow transmitter (FT-101) sends data to a flow controller (FC-101), which adjusts a control valve (CV-101) to maintain the setpoint.

Safety Systems
Safety-related devices include:

  • Emergency Shutdown Valves (ESD)

  • Pressure Relief Valves (PRV)

  • Alarms and Interlocks

These components are critical in plant safety and are usually marked clearly on the diagram.


7. Relationship to Other Engineering Drawings

P&IDs are just one part of a broader documentation package. They often work in tandem with:

  • Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs): Provide a high-level overview of the process

  • Electrical Diagrams: Show wiring and power sources

  • Isometric Drawings: Offer 3D visualization of the piping layout

Understanding how these documents relate ensures complete clarity during installation, inspection, or troubleshooting.


8. Reviewing a P&ID Step by Step

To analyze a P&ID effectively, follow these steps:

  1. Identify all equipment – Pumps, tanks, vessels, exchangers

  2. Trace the flow direction – Follow arrows to map out the system

  3. Locate and classify valves – Understand their type and function

  4. Review instrumentation – Identify transmitters, sensors, and controllers

  5. Cross-check with the legend – Clarify any unfamiliar symbols or abbreviations


Practical Walkthrough Example

Consider a simplified P&ID for a chemical transfer process:

  • Pumps P-101 and P-102 transfer liquid from Tank T-101 to Tank T-102

  • T-101 has a level sensor L-101 for monitoring contents

  • A control valve CV-101 regulates flow between the tanks

  • A temperature transmitter T-101 monitors fluid temperature in T-102

By reviewing symbols, flow paths, and instrumentation, you can understand system functionality and pinpoint control logic or safety mechanisms.


Why P&ID Mastery Matters

P&IDs are essential for anyone working in QA/QC, mechanical integrity, process safety, commissioning, or operations. They help you:

  • Understand how systems are built and operated

  • Identify inspection points and critical controls

  • Improve troubleshooting and maintenance accuracy

  • Enhance communication across engineering teams


Ready to Take Your Knowledge Further?

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your skills, our exclusive one-on-one coaching sessions offer hands-on guidance using real-world examples and live mentorship.


Have Questions or Need Support?

We’re here to help. Contact us anytime to discuss P&IDs, ask technical questions, or schedule a personalized training session.

Experience  the Difference

Contact

Phone

+1 (780) 800-6297

Email

info@engrity.com

Address:

201-9403 63 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB T6E 0G2