CM 310: FINAL FINAL
Coding system example
(project number) (CSI work package) (element of cost)
Safety reporting
- GC weekly inspections - JHAs inspections - Joint inspections (AGC) - jobsite injury and illness log - accident and near miss investigation
Meeting minutes contain
- Heading: project name, date/time/location, ID of note taker - Attendance list and firm each attendee represents - Business note items are numbered w meeting number as prefix -- open/unresolved items: carried forward as old business -- Meeting number: indicates age of open issues - Decisions and action items - Dates actions are due and individuals responsible for each action - Handouts and logs should be referenced, attached (e.g. RFI/submittal/ASI/SKs/Change order proposal (COP) logs)
Commissioning team for large/complex projects include:
- MEP equipment representatives - MEP sub PMs/Sups - GC PM/MEP PE - ME engineers - Owner's maintenance/operation personnel (end-users) - owner's rep - 3rd party agent
Types of Construction Projcets
- Residential - Commercial/Governmental - Industrial - Infrastructure
subcontractor selection "best value" criteria
- experience - personnel (PMs and Sups) - financial strength - specialized equipment - safety record - past project performance (schedule + quality) Information gathered from: RFQs, in-house managers, personal interviews
consequences of poor safety performance
- fines from osha/state agencies - increased insurance rates - somber workforce - bad reputation
Work Breakdown Structure
- first step toward construction a schedule 1. write goal statement for project 2. subdivide overall goal into smaller and smaller portions 3. identify all basic construction objectives
Equipment control
- heavy civil owns equipment, GC rents from/requires subs to bring - owning equipment comes with risk - maintenance log - backup alarms - hiring operating engineers/riggers
Quality plans identify
- how variations from standards are measured - how to ensure quality control is in accordance with QA procedures - when actions should be taken to make corrections -- developed during pre-construction phase/start-up - not required under competitive bidding for public works, or when quality isn't a criterion for selection
Risk Management Process
- identification - assessment - control and mitigation - monitoring
subcontractor bonding
- if owner doesn't req bonds, gc doesn't have not bond subs - gc may require bonds exceeding a certain value, e.g. $200 000 - protect gc from default, bankruptcy, liens
traditional subcontracting
- lead design firm contracts out part of their scope to design sub-consultants - prime contractor contracts out portion of scope to sub - no mandated relationship bw design sub-consultants and subs - all communications need to go through the prime gc-owner-designer chain
Why is substantial completion a significant contractual milestone?
- liquidated damages end - warranty begins
Uses for meeting minutes
- list of meeting attendees - record discussions and decisions - record of pending items from previous meetings discussed - list of action items/due dates - transmission of any handouts distributed during meeting - announcement of next meeting
Other than cost, why might a GC require performance and payment bonds from one subcontractor but not another?
- may be more at risk for bankruptcy - less trustworthy
Schedule Control
- monitor activity progress - determine impact of delayed activities Tools: - overall project schedule - short-interval schedules (aka look-ahead schedule) - graphical location-based logs
Three Methods of home-office reporting
- monthly cost and fee forecasts - end-of-project estimates - as-builts schedules
accident/near-miss investigation
- near-miss report systems - 3rd party inspections conducted for major accident investigation General procedure: - secure scene, assess hazards, assure safety - collect facts from witness/project team: define what happened - ID "why" - evaluate/recommend procedures/policies to prevent future incidents
As-built drawings
- need to be collected from subcontractors, since actual dimensions and conditions of the installed work are noted on the contract drawings - foreman/ass sup best people to mark up as-builts-> usually delegated to PE
financial close-out activities
- negotiating final change orders w owner - negotiating final change orders w subs/suppliers - receipt of final pay requests from subs - issuing final pay request to owner
What differentiates a subcontractor from a supplier?
- on-site labor - no liability insurance/performance bonds from suppliers - purchase orders/sub agreements - no retention held from monthly invoice for suppliers
Quality assurance
- outline methodology to assure quality results - similar across similar projects - predict what can go wrong to outline QC processes - involves external audits
Scenarios when VE can happen
- owner + consultants before GC hired - contractors competing for award of contract -- value engineering incorporated into selection process -- if VE approved, increases chances of scoring contract --(not allowed in public sector, only lump sum) - GC during pre-con - GC during construction -- VE continues to promote internal efficiency/maximize profits
document control
- pe's role w RFI and Submittals - accurate subcontracts and POs - work packages - timing is imperative
Types of meetings
- pre-bid meetings, led by lead designer - pre-con meetings -- bw owner/designer/GC -- bw GC/AHJ -- bw GC/subs, chaired by PM - safety meetings, led by sup/safety inspector - foremen meetings, led by sup - sub coordination meetings, led by PM - OAC/OEC meetings, led by PM - weekly change order, RFI, Submittal coordination meetings
loss control
- prevention - reduction
What basis should you use to select a roofing subcontractor?
- price (competitive but not too low) - safety record - scope of work (do they include their own hoisting) - union? - exceptions in bid - warranty - does supplier provide warranty? - relationship? - have CFOs discuss financial status - can they meet your schedule - how many people do they plan on providing?
important info in superintendent's daily job diary
- project name + number - name of superintendent - date/week day - weather conditions, wind speed - manpower for all contractors, including direct crafts - active work areas + daily progress - hindrances/delays - deliveries, including equipment - visitors, including owner/architects/inspectors - accidents should be handwritten subs usually required to fill out similar diaries, provide copies w GC-- evidence of sub manpower, daily progress
Subcontractor specializations
- proves labor/equipment only and installs materials provided by another supplier/gc - provides labor, equipment, own materials, which may have been off the shelf purchases, bought from 3rd tier supplier, fabricated - provides labor, equipment and materials but also performs design related to their work and may/may not obtain their own permits (design-build)
What criteria should the superintendent consider when allocating a site area for vendors' materials?
- proximity - security of material - insurance requirements
What items are tracked in a close-out log?
- punchlist - O&Ms - warranties - lien release - as-built drawings - test reports - extra finish materials - signed-off permits
Role of PE in procurement
- quantity take-offs + pricing during bidding - contacting potential subcontractors, gathering info to shortlist - soliciting price proposals from subs + vendors - checking references for qualification-based selections
warranty servicses
- receiving warranty claims from owner - logging warranty claims - responding to claims with direct craft forces/subs - receiving owner documented approval that issue is resolved - walking the project w owner just before warranty period ends to verify no additional outstanding issues
as-built schedule
- record actual deliveries and durations - improves future schedules - may be backup for change orders or claims
Early Submittal examples
- reinforced steel (rebar) shop drawings - concrete design mixes - embedded steel (e.g. anchor bolts) - select backfill samples - structural steel shop drawings - elevator shop drawings - long-lead mech and elec equipment
Quality and Safety controls
- responsibility of superintendent - corporate QC + safety officers/Inspectors - check contract requirements - sometimes delegated to superintendent/foreman - pe helps w lots, reports, doc backup
Implementation of quality control plan
- review shop drawings/certificates of compliance w reference to standards - discuss gaps/discrepancies with meetings/RFIs
Role of PE in contracting
- review subcontracts prepared by PM for scope items - draft subcontracts (experienced PEs)
Risk control and mitigation
- risk avoidance - risk retention (active, passive) - loss control (prevention reduction) - risk transfer
Risk Identification
- risk checklists - risk identification sessions
Why would a GC (and/or client) choose to pay a vendor for off-site stored materials?
- safer - frees up lay-down space on site
What risks do general contractors incur by using subcontractors
- safety - quality - housekeeping - financial stability/capacity
Record Drawings
- set of drawings estimated and bid from - docs referenced in original contract - permit set of drawings, stamped by municipality-- required to be available for inspector review - approved submittal drawings - current set of contract drawings, as incorporated through change orders - as-build drawings
Submittal examples
- shop drawings - fabrication drawings - installation drawings - coordination drawings
types of submittals
- shop drawings/design submittals (most common) - mock-ups - product data sheets
Materials/systems that require submittals
- shoring systems - concrete reinforcement steel - structural steel - wood + steel trusses - fireproofing - curtain-wall and storefront systems - elevators - MEP, materials + equipment
Provide a 1-2 word example of what can be done at the pre-construction stage to implement sustainability
- specifying recycling procedures
Quality plan involves
- studying contract - reviewing/adapting QA processes - developing QC plan-- assigns roles/responsibilities - submitting QC plan for design/owner review+ approval - requiring subs to submit their own QC plans - reviewing design for gaps - inspecting materials before unloading -- compare to purchase orders and submittal documentation -- materials waiting on site must be inspected weekly - developing mock-ups - in-process pre-inspections - documenting non-conforming work - punchlists - post-project warranty management
Extra risk with subs
- sub agreement determine scope and terms of sub responsibilities. Everything not stated in agreement still up to gc - quality control - sub bankruptcy - scheduling - safety
suppliers v subs
- suppliers do not have any on-site labor: do not provide liability insurance, rarely provide performance and payment bonds - purchase orders instead of sub agreements - no retention held from monthly invoice
Reasons for close-out
- timely completion of contractual requirements - receipt of final payment - release of retention funds - officially end clock on potential liquidated damages - flush-out late change order proposals by subs and close door on future claims: *initiating close-out forces subs to submit claims* - begin clock on warranty: the sooner the project is closed out, the sooner warranty can begin and end - maintain good relationship with owner/designer/subs - minimize overhead costs - receive final progress payment (clients may hold onto retention funds as incentive for timely close-out) - close out subs and purchase orders asap--> make sure all parties receive retention - receive release of retention - minimize interference w owner move-in and start up
Types of subcontracting
- traditional subcontracting - design-assist - design-build - integrated - resource-based
Reasons a bid may be very low/high
- uncertain regarding scope - felt documents were unfavorable to their style of work - made an estimating mistake high bid: sub is not interested
How can a PE be involved in close-out
- update close-out log - secure warranties/O&Ms from subcontractors/manufacturers
Common Testing/Inspection areas
- utility backfill, soil compaction, shoring - reinforcing steel, post-tension cables - CIP + pre-cast concrete - structural steel fab + field welding - fireproofing, roofing, waterproofing - glazing, windows, curtain-walls - elevators - operational systems testing (MEP)
Pre-con design review
- value engineering 1. contractor/consultant proposals 2. design team collects corrections/revisions and prepares addenda DBB: limited to no contractor involvement CMR: GC engages early for a fee to assist w design quality Prog DB: owner leads, GC assists Bridge DB: owner leads, GC reviews proposals + negotiates contract Competitive DB: designer-builder reviews to RFP, leads pre-con after
Close-out activities:
- verifying construction completeness in accordance with contract requirements - developing the formal punch list and the resolution of outstanding items - obtaining certificates of substantial completion and occupancy - facilitating project move-in and occupancy - demobilizing resources
Other reports
- weekly labor report - monthly job cost history report - equipment log - accounts payable report
How many prime contracts will be on a IPD project?
1
Cost plus a fee
1) cost to perform the contract work: sum of direct costs + indirect costs relevant to contract 2) fee: profit for contractor-- can be % of cost, or incentive fee fee also covers home-office indirect costs Requires open-book accounting (contractor must show its cost)-- good choice w complex project/incomplete design because contractor can't hide contingencies
A construction insurance relies on a __ party relationship
2
What are the characteristics of a general partner?
2+ people share ownership of a business
80/20 rule
80% of cost and risk lie with 20% of activities - these activities deserve more cost control attention
What is the meaning of the 80-20 rule in the context of production control?
80% of the cost and the risk lie with 20% of the activities
forecasted cost
= cost to date + cost to go compare to current estimate
A heavy-civil contractor is asked to bid on a project and enter into a lump-sum contract. The level of design detail for the earthwork is incomplete, so the contractor is forced to roughly estimate the excavation volumes. The contract will not allow additional recovery for extra quantities. What type of risk control method should the GC use?
???
What are two other terms used for grouping of construction operations into work packages?
???
Who issues certificate of occupancy?
AHJ that initially issued building permit
Before a project has been bid, designers issue addenda changing the design. What do they issue post-bid?
ASIs, approve/decline submittals and RFIs
How are active and passive retention different from each other?
Active-- chooses to accept risk; Passive-- risk unnoticed
Identify the person with more responsibilities for developing drawings and specifications for a project
Architect
Which BE team member 'sites' the building on the site to be sustainable?
Architect w input from civil engineers
After a project has been bid, what do designers issue to change the design?
Architect's Supplemental Instructions (ASI)
AEC
Architecture-Engineering-Construction
AHJ
Authority having Jurisdiction e.g. inspectors, enforcers of code
Surety
Bonding Company issues bond to obligee on principle's behalf
Quality Control and Reporting
CDs identify owner's quality expectations - non-conforming materials/installations must be replaced on contractor's cost (time + money)
An owner hires a firm to design the facility then hires another firm to provide construction expertise during the design process. Once 60% of design has been completed, the second firm signs a guaranteed maximum price contract and takes on most of the construction risks.
CMR
What are the two certificates of completion necessary and who issues each?
Certificate of substantial completion, issued by designer Certificate of occupancy, issued by AHJ
categorizing hazards
Class A: most serious. could cause severe injuries/fatalities + prop damage Class B: serious, recordable consequences. Not as extensive C: minor -- guides inspectors
What are project labor curves used for?
Compare estimated worker productivity with actual output
What is OSHA's role in construction safety management?
Compiles statistics, oversees safety standards
WA state regulatory agencies
DOSH: Division of Occupational Safety and Health L&I: Labor and Industries
What are SDSs? Why are they on construction sites?
Safety Data Sheets-- run through chemicals on site-- proper use and storage procedures, associated hazards and first aid procedures. To be accessed by all craftsmen on site for their use.
Of the four control pillars, which will most likely be "controlled" or managed after construction begins by the project manager, project engineer, or superintendent?
Safety, quality
Of the four control pillars, which was most likely "originated" before the project started by the project manager, project engineer, or superintendent?
Schedule
Heavy-Civil Contractor
Self-performs most tasks
Why do commercial general contractors use subcontractors rather than self-performing all the work on a project?
Shift labor risk, access to specialized work force, access to specialized equipment
Why would it be important for a drawing log to be up to date?
So everyone who references the drawing log is getting the most up to date information
T/F: All RFIs should be routed through the prime contract (CM or GC).
True
T/F: Subcontractors should be allowed to build over work that was improperly done by a previous subcontractor.
True
How are as-built drawings created?
Updated with most recent ASIs, hyperlinked RFI notes included
Provide a 1-2 word example of what can be done at the operations stage to implement sustainability
Upgrading and upholding energy usage limitation goals
Build to Use
Use and Retain - builds and owns facility e.g. Custom House
Are verbal RFI responses sometimes acceptable? If so, how should they be ultimately documented?
Verbal RFIs are not acceptable. Verbal responses should be written down, date and time of comments documented, send to designers.
work breakdown structure
WBS - developed by gc estimator - identifies the items that are intended to be self-performed by gc and those to be contracted
List at least five important types of information that are recorded on a daily job diary.
Weather conditions materials/equipment delivered that day Manpower on site The day's progress Any accidents on site
When is the submittal log reviewed?
Weekly OAC meetings
When is the RFI log reviewed?
Weekly meetings w owner and designers.
When should the formal punch list be developed?
When the project is reaching completion, after a walkthrough inspection
Success in field/worker sphere
Worker performance: - safety - quality - productivity (cost/time)
Is safety control and reporting a subset of risk management?
Yes
Temporary certificate of occupancy
allows conditional use of the building for a stated period of time (e.g. 6 months) while non-critical work is being completed such as landscaping/interior finishes
Construction Sureties
analyze, decide if risk low enough to issue bond
Insurance Companies
analyze, establish premium price to assume designer/general contractor liability
Why is subcontractor bid shopping considered unethical behavior?
anti-competitive behavior - demonstrates favoritism in the bidding procedures - drives down prices
base premium
applied to separate work classification based on frequency and severity of accidents
What NAICS industries are component of the AEC industry?
architectural, engineering and related services construction
Contractual relationship with contractor
arm's length
In-house close-out
as-built schedule + estimate
bid bond
assurance that contractor is submitting price proposal in good faith - if contractor refuses to sign contractor after it's selected, surety will compensate the owner the difference bw chosen and second bidder - limited to 5% of bond price
payment bond
assures owner that contractor will pay subcontractors, direct labor, material suppliers - keeps third parties from filing lien on project property
Payment bond
assures owner that general contractor will pay subcontractor, direct labor, material supplies
Bid Bond
assures the owner that contractor is submitting price proposal that is accurate
risk avoidance
avoid risk by changing construction plan - employed of high chance of risk happening
Sustainable project
balance--> social, economic, environmental
Unit prices
ballpark contract price by summing estimated prices for each scope item Multiplying quantities by unit prices quantities- provided by owner unit prices- provided by contractor common in public, heavy-civil owner bears the risk of miscalculating quantities
An owner designs the facility with in-house personnel then selects the company that provides the lowest price for the construction based on the provided design package.
dbb
An owner enters into a contract with a joint venture that includes three companies (A, B & C) and provides them with a program for a roadway that includes schematic design and incomplete specifications. Under the joint-venture agreement: Company A will be responsible to design; Company B will self-perform most construction activities and oversee subcontracts; Company C will maintain the roadway for 15 years after completion.
dbb
What project delivery method is frequently called traditional?
dbb
what pdm is most commonly used to deliver heavy-civil public projects?
dbb
subcontract agreements
defines: - scope based on contract documents - price - schedule and/or delivery dates - cleanup and safety - daily diaries and three-week schedules - hoisting - insurance and bond requirements - payment request and change order procedures - inspection, warranty, and close-out expectations - process for claims, dispute resolution, and termination
Special conditions
describes operating procedures unique to the requirements for the project
General conditions
describes operating procedures used on all owner's projects of similar type
Early Submittals
design team may request early schedule to conduct in-house review - for materials needed on jobsite early + have long lead times
List PDMs that separate contracting of design and construction services
design-bid-build CMR
List PDMs that combine contracting of design and construction services
design-build integrated project delivery
design-build subcontracting
design-build subcontractor will design and build its scope within the boundaries provided by lead designer, while retaining an individual contractual relationship with the prime contractor
Project Delivery Methods beyond Design and Construction
design-build-maintain design-build-operate-transfer design-build-finance-operate
Submittals
designed by GC to reflect designer's intent, sent to designer for approval Specs will indicate what requires submittals
Who issues the certificate of substantial completion?
designer
Design-Bid-Build
designer awarded contract BEFORE design complete GC awarded contract AFTER design complete
Construction Manager at Risk
designer awarded contract BEFORE design complete GC awarded contract AFTER design is 60%-90% complete Similar to Agency CM, but legally like a contractor
As-built drawings
developed by marking up final locations of installed materials on construction drawings. Final set of record drawings. Valuable for maintenance/future revisions - superintendent maintains as-builts to ensure they reflect any changes made during construction
Why should the drawing log be kept up to date? Why not wait until the project is over and collect them all and call it a day?
different documents, drawings and specs, continued to be issued (new and revised) throughout the design and construction process. It is imperative that ALL team members working off the most current set of documents at all times
greatest project risk
direct labor EVM Analysis: man-hours and labor costs - man hours best, easier to count. Don't worry about rate variances
Greatest GC cost risk
direct labor, equipment rental, project admin (job overhead/general conditions)
cost monitoring strategy
direct-work project labor curve - if actual labor under curve: beating estimate or behind schedule - done in Unit Man-Hours (UMH)
cleaning policies
discussed in pre-con conference. Subs required to clean up after themselves when they have completed their portion of the work
Submittals
document/product generated by constructin team to verify that what they plan to purchase/fabricate/deliver/install is what the design team intended in drawings/specs one last check of validity reqs outlined in spects also an opportunity to flush out errors that subs/suppliers made in bids, esp w product substitutions
An alternative technical concept is usually submitted
during procurement while responding to a RFP (?)
Other contracts
e.g. joint venture bw subs
permits
each sub that was required to provide its own permit from AHJ needs to sign off w final approval from AHJ - electrical, elevator, fire protection
Cost Variance
earned value - actual cost If CV negative, cost is over estimate If CV positive, cost is under estimate How much cost over estimate? Compute vertical distance bw EV and estimated curves
advantages of 2d modeling
ease of revision, increased efficiency
Why pay for off-site stored materials?
easy to inspect materials, purchase at discount
Initial planning phase
elimination/substitution through careful selection of means and methods
Hierarchy of Hazard Controls
elimination: physically remove the hazard substitution: replace the hazard engineering controls: isolate people from hazard administrative controls: change the way people work PPE: protect the worker
construction phase
engineering controls
Production Control
established to monitor progress
insurance
establishes two-party relationship. Actuarial analysis evaluates the chances of risk occurring/financial impact
Contracting
establishing contract of services and materials
earned value
estimated value of the work completed to date combines forcasted efforts+actual effort+scheduled performance
quantitative analysis
evaluate historical data, apply probabilistic risk analysis
How are mock-ups used for project quality control?
evaluate materials and methods, establish standards for craftsmanship
qualitative risk analysis
evaluate: - chance of each risk occurring - impacts of occurrence
value engineering
evaluates design to obtain best value for construction cost effectiveness decreases as design advances
Project-Specific Safety Plan
examines potential hazard associated with activities - required for public work bids at pre-con conferences - identifies personnel, roles and responsibilities - chain of communication - training/orientation - IDs hazards + mitigation - emergency response plan - defines inspection/evaluation reqs
What is the built environment?
facilities and physical infrastructures that add or change functions to the underlying natural, economic, and social environments
fatal four
falls, struck by object, electrocutions, caught-in/between
indicators of safety shortfalls
fatalities, injuries, illnesses, near-miss events
Which of the controls originated by PE?
few originated by PE, more so by PM
VE in construction phase
formal value engineering proposals - detailed costs - markups - substantiation - pros and cons evaluated/explained
Journey-Level Craftsmen
fully qualified, experienced workers in their staff
bid shopping
gc shares prices from other proposals to lower bid prices of other subs
Which of the following activities does NOT take place during the construction phase of a project?
generation and analysis of design alternatives (?)
short-form PO examples
glue, small tools, gravel/dirt, small lumber orders, rebar tie-wire, hi-chairs
Construction drawings
graphical description of project, including geometrical information and materials
Work packages
group all items of work into one assembly- know assembly cost and where it fits in schedule better that activity cost codes are organized logically, not by CSI format-- more efficient allows for monitoring of both time and cost- immediate feedback
3rd party inspection agencies
hired by owner - often a permitting requirement by AHJ
horizontal projects
horizontal dimensions are predominant in the design and construction information-- infrastructures: roads, utilities
subcontracting plan
identifies which scopes include each subcontract, created after WBS - basis for PM and PEs to draft subcontract and purchase order States clearly: the exact scope of work performed, specific inclusions/exclusions, references to all contract drawings and specifications Subs: subcontract agreement Suppliers: purchase orders
uncovering projects
if work is done contrary to standards, work can be uncovered on contractor's expense: - if work is found non-conforming: contractor pays re-inspection/correction - if work is found acceptable, owner pays for inspection
risk assessment
impacts assessed along four pillars
What are as-built estimates used for?
important historical reporting tool
Why is warranty response an important aspect of customer service?
improve relations with client, fulfill contractual obligations in an efficient and timely way
Owner's Representative
in-house representation/decision-making owner's behalf
Product Data Sheets
including SDSs, color chart for finished materials, physical samples of materials
Allowances
inclusion of an owner supplied cost for undefined items
Incorporation of reference
incorporates other contractual documents to contractual agreement
An owner enters into a contract with a firm that will completely design, coordinate and manage the construction process for the facility
integrated project delivery
Certificate of occupancy
issed by AHJ. Same agency that issued original building permit. - all code-related issues resolved, facility approved + safe to use - most critical step: inspection/approval from fire marshal for life-safety issues
certificate of substantial completion
issued by architect/civil engineer. Project is sufficiently completed so it could be used for intended purpose. Formal punchlist should be attached to certificate. - ends GC liability for liquidated damages - starts clock on warranty period - contractual completion date = substantial completion
Approved VE proposals during pre-con
issued in addenda
Approved VE proposals during con
issued in change orders or value engineering change proposals
What is a reason for the design team to not indicate the exact location of each item in the project?
it is impossible to locate exactly many smaller items such as conduit, plumbing, wood stud and joist framing. Guessing their location wold provide contractors opportunities for change orders.
Classification of risk
known and unknown
Risk transfer
labor risk: gc can transfer risk of accurately forecasting direct cost of labor to sub
engineers
lead horizontal projects - can act as a consultant on building projects
architects
lead vertical projects can act as a consultant on other projects
Drawing log
list of each drawing, revision number, issue date - maintained by designer/construction/both
punch list
list of issues that need to be addressed to guarantee completeness in accordance w contract reqs. Signed off by each sub and GC
Provide a 1-2 word example of what can be done at the design phase to implement sustainability
locally-sourced materials
Where
location of project
purchase order
long form PO: authored by PM, for materials with larger values, with longer lead times, those that require off-site fabrication and submittal approval e.g. concrete, steel, wood framing, windows, doors, specialties short form PO: authored by Sup. off the shelf, ready for pickup. e.g. caulking, glue, small tools, hi-chairs, etc.
PPE are an example of
loss reduction
Contractual agreement
main document
superintendent/field engineer
management of direct craft labor/equipment rental cost
Monthly cost and fee forecasts
may be sent to owner if cost plus contract relies on open-book accounting Includes: - line items for all areas of estimate - cost to date - estimated cost to complete Major estimates: - direct labor - direct material - subcontractors and major material suppliers - jobsite admin/gen conditions - % markups (fee, excise tax, contingency, insurance)
Provide a 1-2 word example of what can be done at the construction stage to implement sustainability
minimizingn noise, light, air pollution
Schedule control
monitoring progress of each activity, determining impact of delays on completion -- if not completed on time, liquidated damages ruin profits - detailed schedule, by system or assembly - three week schedules
How frequently should a project manager develop a cost and fee forecast?
monthly
contracting and subcontracting
most common risk management approach - contract used as risk shifting tool
An owner fully designs an office building with inhouse personnel, then selects: a builder who will perform earth and structural work; three specialty contractors who will design and build mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems; and another builder who will coordinate finishes through a series of subcontracts.
multi-prime contracting
What is the liability exposure of a properietor?
no limited liability-- personal accounts at risk if failure occurs
Workers' compensation insurance programs
no-fault insurance program GC can't be sued, workers get covered regardless of negligence covers: - medical expenses - lost wages - rehabilitation - pensions for long-term disabilities
bid peddling
occurs when a subcontractor approaches a gc with intent to voluntarily lowering the original price below the price level established on bid day-- implies that sub's initial price was padded/incorrect
How many prime contracts will be on a IPD project?
one multi-party contract
Integrated Project Delivery
one, multi-player contractual agreement
Lump sum
or stipulated sum, fixed sum. Prices the contract upfront. Good for projects with established designs and estimates.
joint occupancy
owner accepts/occupies portion of facility/takes over control, while GC still working in another portion. Should be avoided when possible.
Where does the project engineer obtain the information for the requirements of the O&M manuals?
owner contract specifications???
Where would you determine which components require warranties that are longer than one year?
owner contract specifications???
Force Account
owner self-performs a scope
Which member of the BE team chooses the right site to be sustainable?
owner, w input from consultants
How to get paid
payment method, processes to obtain progress/final payments
Why are subs so important?
perform 80-90% of the workk
Pre-Punch
performed by GC - ID issues - Communicate to subs so they can solve within specified time - make sure this is done with consideration to sequencing of remedial activities
Submittal process
picked by GM to promote consistency - established before subs awarded, so process can be outlined to them - submittal schedule approved by owner to ensure all items are accounted for - schedule verified by sup to ensure timing works out 1. GC reviews specs for requirement (5 days) 2. GC develops submittal schedule (5 days) 2. GC awards subs & purchase orders (10 days) 3. Sub prepares submittal (5 days) 4. GC reviews sub submittal (1 day) 5. Designer approves sub (10 days) 6. GC processes/returns to sub (1 day) 7. Fabricate and deliver materials (20 days) 8. Install
earned value curve
plots quantity of work performed against estimated hours
as-built estimate
prepared near completion of project, not after close-out - tracks actual costs to improve estimating accuracy
How much
pricing method, including contact price (if known) process to evaluate reimbursement cost fees to be awarded
Three types of contracts
prime contracts, subcontracts, other contracts
lien release
prior to gc's pm/pe processing the final payment request, the subcontractor should also submit a final lien release
drug and alcohol abuse monitoring
prohibition policy established. requires periodic drug/alcohol testing
Project participants
project owners/end users, design firm, construction firm
performance bond
protects owner from economic losses if contractor unable/unwilling to fulfill contractual expectations
Performance bond
protects owner if general contractor is unable to fulfill contractual obligations a promise to fulfill contractual obligations
Pay-when-paid clause
provision that the subcontractor will be paid for their work once the project owner pays the general contractor for the same portion of work. - places financial burdens on subcontractors if owners fail to make timely progress payments to gc
Which procurement method should be used to place the least emphasis on price?
qualification-based selection sole-source selection
Proactive Approach to project-specific quality control planning
quality materials, craftsmen, product - up to contract requirements - total quality management - lean construction QA+QC
Short interval schedules
quick feedback, highlight issues, make corrective actions - may substantially impact master schedule
Planning Phase
realize a need, perform analysis
long-form PO examples
rebar, redi-mix, pre-case, structural steel, fab lumber, windows, doors, etc.
GC Goal
reduce volume of claims - get injured craftsmen back on site ASAP, w altered work - devise return-to-work strategy
loss prevention
reducing chance of risk occurring
loss reduction
reducing severity of risk occurrence
design-assist
relationship bw subs + sub-consultants - requires the subcontractor to assist the sub-consultants during the design process - sub-consultant retains design liability, and seeks assistance during design from sub
civil project submittals
reqs outlined by gov
Job hazard analysis
required from subs - describes process - lists hazards - IDs mitigation strategies
safety reporting
required to maintain a log of all jobsite injuries/illnesses
Why should PM and Superintendent take charge of close-out?
responsibility-- ensure timely and cost efficient completion of project they are the ones that have the authority and respect of all the team members, especially the subcontractors. It is important to leave a satisfied project owner and designer.
The level of design detail for the earthwork is incomplete, so you are forced to roughly estimate the excavation volumes while knowing you will not be paid for extra quantities. What type of risk control method should you use?
risk retention
A contractor is worried about potential productivity loss from weather conditions on a project in Alaska. To mitigate this risk, the superintendent decides to oversize the direct workforce by 10%. What type of risk control method is the superintendent using?
risk retention (?)
major aspects of safety
safety of: - those working on site - those visiting - general public
just-in-time delivery
scheduled material deliveries only when they are needed to avoid damage/taking up laydown space. Lean construction techniques
Design
schematic design --> drawings, estimate Subsection: design development
Goal of VE
seek cost-efficient methods of performing same function as original design, but: - lower life-cycle cost, w/o sacrificing reliability, performance, maintainability - select highest value materials and systems
Pre-Construction Activities
selecting subs, estimates, review of construction documents
Multi-Prime Contracting
self-performs GC coordination role
Construction phase design review
shop drawings, RFIs
Verbal responses to RFIs
should not be accepted - if no written answer, PE should write verbal directions in answer section, document date + time, route RFI back to designer for approval
Who
signatory contractual parties, any relationships to other parties
Quality control
site specific, developed/implemented by jobsite team
Submittal timing
some submittals that do not need review/approval submitted 7 days prior to work for inspections other submittals need to be submitted early
mock-ups
sometimes required for exterior and interior finishes. Allows sup and designer to evaluate work and establish a standard of workmanship
RFI
specific type of written communication that can be used to document questions and record responses for discrepancies that need clarification open items reviewed in meetings w owner + designer RFI log attached to meeting notes All answered RFIs should be reviewed for impacts on scope/schedule The more complete/coordinated the design, the fewer RFIs IPD/DB/CMR/Cost+ < DBB/Lump Sum/Unit Price
Extra materials
specs may require that gc supply extra materials for future repairs/remodels
mockups
standalone samples of completed work - subs can be asked to prepare mockups to inspect workmanship standard
risk monitoring
standard project control/monitoring practices
close-out planning
start early. - PM/PE searches specs for close-out requirements for themselves and subs. - close-out log created to track items - submitted to owner for approval, using same process as other submittals - remind subs of close-out deadlines
two types of workers comp
state funds, private insurance companies
integrated subcontracting
sub enters two separate subcontract relationships- w designer and contractor - achieves similar results to design-build, but w more direct communication w lead designer
bid peddling
sub underbids
resource-based subcontracting
subcontractor can sub out some of its scope to another project subcontractor - create efficiency in resource use
From whom should the GC obtain written warranties?
subcontractors/suppliers
Designer of Record
submits building permit request
Requests for Payment
submitted by subs monthly to support the GC's pay request process with the client
Why not self-perform all work?
subs are specialists, lower $, better QC
reverse auction bidding
successive bids are posted online to see how low they can go
pre-construction meetings
sup conducts w subs before work starts to lay out quality expectations before mobilization. Quality, clean-up, safety responsibilities. Subs cannot build over improperly installed work.
subcontractor's daily report
sup should require this of each sub. Provides a daily record of each sub's progress and any obstacles encountered in performing the work. Reqs dictated in sub agreement.
Among a GC's employees, who is mainly responsible for setting up the jobsite, including utilities and trailers?
superintendent
Who should originate a diary, and why?
superintendent
punchlist inspection
superintendent, owner's rep, design rep deficiencies recorded on official punchlist: list of remaining items that need to be completed/corrected When punchlist items corrected, GC schedules final inspections
Active quality management
taking measures to prevent mistakes and assure that teh project goes well the first time around, rather than repairing non-conforming work later
What are two characteristics that define a project?
temporary, unique
commissioning
testing systems/components to ensure project meets owner reqs. - Goal: minimize surprises when owner assumes control/operations start - commissioning plan developed in design phase - activities: testing of equipment/systems, training owner personnel, IDing defects/warranty issues - done IN ADDITION to regular MEP testing - Testing can be done by subs, 3rd party, self-performed by gc
Construction specification
textual description of project, includes: - additional material info - quality acceptance processes - other performance expectations Organized by CSI MasterFormat
close-out
the process of completing all of the construction tasks and assembling all documentation required to close out the contract. Overseen primarily by superintendent. Goal: 1 month to complete all punch list work
Advantages of AIA or ConsensusDocs copyrighted contracts
they are established to be legally upheld in court If writing your own, have a lawyer look over it
Other than the examples listed earlier, what are three assemblies or systems that might warrant the development of a foreman's work package on a typical project?
Demolition, landscaping, installation of MEP rough-ins
Who (which firm) is responsible for approving submittals?
Design team/owners/AHJs/Municipality
Competitive Design-Build
Designer and GC contracted together after design is 10%-30% complete Early designs are bid out to be completed by other design constultants
Progressive Design-Build
Designer and GC contracted together after design is 60%-90% Two-step contracting process
Bridging Design-Build
Designer and GC contracted together after design is 80%-100% complete Designs constitute basis of contract
What three types of project costs present the greatest risk to the jobsite team?
Direct labor, equipment rental, project admin
premium modifier
EMR. based on volume of claims made by employees. Good safety records <1.0 Labor costs increase with poor EMR
Schedule Variance (MH)
Earned Value (MH) - Estimated/Scheduled (MH) If SV negative, behind schedule If SV positive, ahead of schedule How many days behind schedule? Compute horizontal distance bw EV and estimated curves
What are three ways to reduce the risk created by a hazard on a construction site?
Eliminate it, isolate people from it, change the way people work to reduce the hazard
What are the three objectives of a construction accident investigation?
Ensure the area is free of additional immediate hazards, define what happened and why, update procedures/policies to prevent future similar accidents
contract surety bonds
Establish three-party relationship. Surety accepts risk from principal (contractor) to compensate the obligee (owner) in exchange for a fee Surety evaluates risks-- will issue bond if risk events are low enough
What are the two main components of risk assessment?
Evaluates: Chance of risk occurring Impacts of occurrence
T/F: All value engineering proposals reduce costs
False (?)
Incorporation of Design Changes
Formal ways of incorporating design changes: - addenda - RFIs - sketches (SKs) - ASIs - Field orders/field work orders - construction change directives/authorizations - work change proposal requests - meeting notes - new/revised drawings/complete spec sections
Why would a submittal be considered part of the quality control process?
GC ensures that the type/quality of material/products up to owner/designer standards
Why would a project owner request a payment bond from the GC?
GC promises to pay subs, suppliers, etc., so owner won't have to deal with them
Walkthrough inspection
GC requests this with owner and consultants. List of deficiencies identified during this inspection is the formal punch list. Consultants/agency cm/ architect usually formulate. Engineers may also develop their own for a specific scope. Should occur early enough for the GC to have enough time to correct deficiencies. Too early/too late: may run the risk of trade damage happening after walk, or owner damaging and pointing fingers
Sole-Source Selection
GC selected because only they are capable. Non-Competitive.
Who (which firm) is responsible for preparing submittals?
GC-- from subs/supps
Who should prepare an RFI?
GC-- usually PE responsibility
Under a cost plus a fee with GMP contract, who is initially responsible for price escalation beyond the GMP? Who retains savings under the GMP?
GC; Owner
Under a lump-sum contract, who is initially responsible for price escalation beyond the lump sum? Who retains savings under the lump sum?
GC; Owner
What is an earned value analysis used for?
Gauge how closely progress is going along with estimated costs/schedule compare estimated and planned schedule to actual work installed and costs expended
Principle
General Contractor requests that surety issue bond to obligee on their beaf
What are four types of PPE that are required on most construction projects?
Hard hat, hi-vis vest, work boots, ANSI approved goggles
Why do some designers welcome RFIs?
Helps resolve conflict, improve accuracy of drawings/specs, saves time and heartache down the road.
Why is jobsite safety a significant construction management issue?
Moral, legal and contractual obligation of GC.
Why should subcontractors not be allowed to build over work that was improperly done by a previous subcontractor?
More expensive/time-consuming/ineffective to have to tear up previous work if found inadequate
What is a foreman's work package used for? What are the advantages of planning the construction operations with work packages, rather than a pure CSI approach?
More logical and effective-- provide immediate feedback, can be communicated to workforce better
Procurement documents for this bid place the burden of discovering hazardous materials to be disposed on the contractor. You decide to skip this investigation. What of the following Risk Control and Mitigation methods have you selected?
Passive retention
Who on the GC's team is responsible for physical close-out and who is responsible for financial close-out?
Physical: superintendent Financial: project manager
Construction
Planning + Start-Up, Execution, Control/Admin, Close-out
Project Phases
Planning, Design, Construction, Operations
General Contractor
Planning, coordination. Generalist. Self-performs some work, subs out the rest
What is the difference between pre-construction planning and jobsite construction work planning?
Pre-con: substitution/elimination controls implemented, estimates made based on historical data and values, build master schedule Con: look-ahead schedules--> planning 2-3 weeks in advance, respond to risks that were not apparent previously, engineering/administrative controls implemented
List the construction sub-phases of a project
Pre-construction - planning and starting up Construction - Execution: perform field activities - control and administration - close-out
Why do heavy-civil contractors perform more direct work than typical commercial contractors?
Prefer to own the specialty equipment themselves than to rent it-- more cost effective
What is the primary objective of an active quality control program?
Proactively identifying and preventing non-conforming products instead of redoing them later
Obligee
Project Owner asks that principle submit bond
Success in the Project Sphere
Project performance: - safety - quality - cost - time
What are four uses of actual project cost data?
Provide owner with cost report, evaluate effectiveness, track historical data for future estimates, ID problem areas that require additional attention/mitigation measures
Why are project-specific quality control plans needed?
Quality requirements specific to particular project-- need to be evaluated
Sell to Lease
RARE - transfer ownership, personally lease out If owner needs to cash out on equity, then rent facility
Why do some designers resist RFIs?
RFIs have been sent unnecessarily in the past as an attempt to boost change orders. Costs time and money to respond.
Selection for negotiated projects
RFP: Request for Proposal
What is the difference between a request for quotation and request for proposal?
RFP: selection for negotiated projects RFQ: selection for lump sum bid/heavy-civil unit price scopes
Your company is reviewing plans and specifications while preparing a lump sum bid for a project. In terms of risk management, what would you do first?
Risk Identification
List five items that should require preparation of a submittal on a wooden-frame multi-family construction project, beyond those discussed in this chapter.
Roofing Waterproofing Toilet fixtures Kitchen cabinets Carpet/Tiling/Interior flooring finishes
Best value subcontractors
those who deliver optimized service in cost/time/safety/quality
What
work to be performed
Meeting minutes
written agenda for meetings provides formal historical record, relied upon heavily during disputes
Can a schedule of values be used under a cost plus a fee contract?
yes any selection method
Quality Control reports
- deficiency list - non-conformance-report (NCR) - QC log Progress discussed during weekly owner meetings Prepared daily to document activities + deficiencies 3rd party inspection reports completed daily, sometimes AHJ is sent reports
Cost control
- detailed estimates - cost codes
Important aspect of managing project risk
- ability to forecast risks - develop mitigation strategies
End-of-project estimates/As-built schedules
- accurate as-builts: important historical reporting tool - important to revise estimates with actual data - up to date schedules: greatest risk in scheduling is direct craft workforce productivity
risk retention
- active - passive
Addenda
- add scope - correct design error - incomplete bid package - incorporating meeting notes - city permit comments/revisions dick move: issuing addenda during final week of bid prep GC's required to note on bid form all addenda received/incorporated. Omission of addenda sufficient reason to reject bid.
Periodic drug testing
- applies to all individuals on site employed by GC or Sub - if they refuse, remove from site - also required: when: hiring process after accident suspicious behavior 3rd party testing companies used to be fair/legally compliant
Submittal responses
- approved - approved as noted - revise and resubmit - rejected If approved, materials released for order
Cost Control Process
- assign cost codes - after proposal accepted, cost estimate corrected based on buyout values - costs are tracked - construction process adjusted to reduce cost overruns + change orders/back charges - actual quantities, costs, productivity rates recorded--> as-built estimate prepared
Test report
- balancing reports for mech systems, e.g.
Two components of workers compensation
- base premium - premium modifier
types of contract surety bonds
- bid - performance - payment
PE Applications to procurement
- bid solicitation - subcontract and PO agreements - expedite deliveries - pay requests - punch lists - rfis and submittals - close-out - change order pricing
VE Activities
- brainstorm list of alternative materials/components that might be used - determine which alternatives meet functional requirements, provide more value
certificates of completion
- certificate of substantial completion - certificate of occupancy Both must be obtained for project is complete
What are other unmeasurable factors that act as the foundation to project success?
- communication - organization - document control
Procurement selection method
- compatibility with project delivery method - decision criteria - selection process
Procurement Selection Methods
- competitive bidding selection - best value selection - qualification-based selection - sole-source selection
Pre-con activities
- constructability review - budgeting - scheduling - IDing/ordering of long-lead materials/equipment - value engineering Some public agencies: hire independent pre-con service team instead of GC
Uses for superintendent's daily job diary
- contemporaneous documentation of a day's events - record of daily job activities - change order backup - back charge + claim defense/prep - schedule progress
ongoing project-specific safety activities
- continuous supervision (PPE, housekeeping, emergency training) - pre-task safety checklist exercise - training/mandatory orientations - weekly meetings - equipment control
Submittal Process
1. supplier/sub employs design engineer who prepares drawings 2. GC reviews submittals to verify they meet intent of specs + dimensions are accurate Subs send submittals to GC as pseud-RFIs--> if deemed legitimate, GC translates into formal RFI to designer
RFI Rules
1. be in writing 2. subs/supps must route RFIs through GC 3. RFIs should be submitted according to spec requirements 4. should be focused 5. clearly written 6. lead to a buildable response
Project control cycle
1. develop baseline plan 2. monitor and report 3. analyze and control 4. change plan?- develop new plan
Schedule Control Procedure
1. look at project details 2. superintendents develop short-interval/look-ahead schedules - detail workflow - monitor progress - communicate with direct labor + subcontractors - vary 2-4 wks long
Reasons to hire subcontractors
1. reduce exposure to some risks 2. have access to specialized skilled craftsmen/equipment
What are the three steps necessary to successfully control and monitor field production?
Continual observation and measurements, documenting/archiving info, analyzing info for comparison with estimates/schedules
What is the difference between a contract drawing and a shop drawing?
Contract drawing-- detail the specifications intended by architect/owner Shop drawing-- details as understood by supplier/subcontractor
Value Engineering Change Proposals
Contractor to Owner
When does it make sense to use each contract type?
Cost plus: early design phase Cost plus GMP: mid-late design phase Unit price: late design phase Lump Sum: starting construction
Pillars of Success + Foundations
Cost, Safety, Quality, Time - Document Control, Communication, Organization, Coordination
Why are materials that are stored on site periodically inspected?
Could be damaged while on site
What are the four prime causes of injuries in construction?
Falls, Struck by, Electrocution, Caught-In/Between
Selection for lump sum bid/heavy-civil unit price scopes
ITB: Invitations to bid RFQ: Request for Quotations
What is a project-specific accident prevention program?
Identifies roles/responsibilities of onsite personnel, emergency response plans, training procedures, investigation requirements, JHAs, MSDS-- all site specific
What is the purpose of a job hazard analysis?
Identifies upcoming site/task specific hazards, requires implementation of mitigation procedures.
Are all value engineering proposals cost reductions? Why might a project owner consider a change that increases the price?
If life-cycle of materials improves, may increase price short-term but save money long-term.
Why is a subcontractor's ability to finance their cash flow requirements on a project of concern to the GC?
If they are able to fulfill their contractual obligations to financial hardship-- project schedule and cost at stake
When should the meeting notes be distributed and why?
Immediately after meeting is complete, to ensure accuracy and decrease liability
Why is the original cost estimate corrected based on buyout data?
Improves on accuracy of cost predictions-- more effective comparisons, future info for change orders, communication with owner once the bid/proposal is accepted by client, cost estimate is corrected based on buyout values. These are the actual values of the subcontractor and supplied bid packages.
What processes are used to actively manage quality on a construction project?
Inspections, punchlists, RFIs, shop drawing reviews
Contractual close-out
Main items: - as-built drawings - operation and maintenance manuals - test reports - extra finish materials - signed-off permits
Tests and Inspections
Large projects: full-time inspectors might be requested. GC procures Initial inspections, daily follow-ups to ensure compliance: ensures work is acceptable and complete before next sub begins work -- subs should not build over work that's been improperly installed
Build to Lease
Lease and Retain - retain ownership, leases out use e.g. Strip Mall
Build to Sell
Lease and Transfer - transfer ownership, lease out use e.g. Residential Developer
Why is substance abuse an important safety issue on a construction jobsite?
Liability on site-- poses danger to one-self and all others on site.
Construction Manager
Like general contractor, doesn't self-perform work
A project manager working for a GC is selecting an electrical contractor for a high-rise building. Three electrical contractors submit similar bids. One of these firms is unknown to the GC. Another firm has developed a great relationship with the GC on previous projects, but it looks like all its best crews and site managers are already assigned to other projects. The third firm has worked well with the GC, and after completing another project they are currently working on, they will transfer those crews to the current project. The project manager selects the third firm. What type of risk control method is the project manager using? Against what risk?
Loss prevention-- poor sub performance (?)
Competitive bidding selection
Low Price. DBB. A+B Bidding--> A=cost; B=time Sometimes requires pre-qualifications to bid (ensure that GC qualifies) or bond purchase (sureties only sell to reliable GC) Prevalent in public firms. Popular due to simplicity. Quality of design package makes or breaks the effectiveness. Also, differing site conditions. Often incorporates value engineering (VE) change proposals
Best Value Selection
Multi-criteria. Any PDM. Usually RFP-->RFQ
Qualification-based Selection
Multi-criteria. De-emphasizes price.
How does EMR affect a contractor's labor costs?
Multiplier for damages/insurance coverage-- if EMR >1, insurance costs increase
Why should quality control inspectors be involved in the submittal process?
Must be familiar with shop drawings and submittals to ensure that materials conform with project specifications.
What type of information would have to be reported to OSHA regarding a construction injury in which a carpenter broker her arm?
Name, date of injury, occupation, description of injury, lost time due to injury
Do all RFIs result in change orders?
Not all. Sometimes they are rejected.
Operation and Maintenance manuals
O&Ms: large physical volumes that gather manufacturers' data regarding operational, preventative maintenance, and repair procedures for all equipment + finish materials
Why does the design team not indicate the exact location of each item in the project?
Often too specific, or simply cannot know the answer before construction
Who is responsible for on-site safety?
PM and Sup - focus on hazard reduction
Who on the GC's team is responsible for the accuracy of the weekly owner-designer coordination meeting notes?
PM is 'responsible' for just about everything which occurs on a jobsite, along w the superintendent. Taking meeting notes is often delegated to the PE, but the PM should review for accuracy
Who on the GC's team often prepares or drafts meeting notes?
PM/PE (?)
Home office reporting
PM: reports time and cost Superintendent: reports safety and quality
Why is close-out a 'get-to' opportunity for project engineers and foremen?
Opportunity to take an early leadership role in career and demonstrate organizational capacity. Opportunity to build leadership skills, PM and Sup skills, establish trust from the GC's upper management and the owner and designer
Lead Designer
Overseer/Manager of design staff
Which of the controls managed by PE?
PE will input all of the control functions and help the PM and superintendent in all aspects of project control, especially documentation
Who reviews vendor submittals in the GC's office, and what is he or she looking for?
PE-- dimensions are accurate, specs align with owner/design intent
What is an interim punch list?
PEs/foreman create informal punch lists by doing walkthroughs as tasks near completion-- before formal punch list
Why would a submittal be considered part of the design process?
Submittals may lead to design changes, iron out kinks and discrepancies in designs
How are drug and alcohol abuse programs in the construction industry typically administered?
Testing by 3rd party: during hiring process, after accident, after suspicious activity
Why should the GC diligently review a vendor's shop drawings?
To compare accuracy of product data to specs, dimensions to architect's drawings-- "meets intent of specs"
Why do clients, rather than the GC, contract with third-party testing agencies?
To ensure complete independence of reporting, sometimes required by AHJs.
Why are mock-ups required?
To measure level of craftsmanship on particular critical/special building component
Why are RFIs used on construction projects?
To resolve conflicts/inconsistencies/lack of clarity in designs during construction phase.
When should RFIs be used on construction projects?
To resolve discrepancies before field installation
Why are submittals (e.g., shop drawings, product data, or product samples) required from suppliers?
To verify that the products/materials they will be fabricating/supplying align with the contract specifications. it is difficult if not impossible to draw everything exactly, and sometimes, suppliers either bid incorrectly or are trying to cut corners
What is the difference between a project and a program?
a program is a set of related projects
change orders
all sub/supplier scopes of work that feature modifications when conditions are different than those they contracted to. COPs (Change Order Proposals) should be processed and logged.
Golden rule of contracting
allocate each particular risk to the party that is best equipped to handle it
mock-ups
allow design team to establish expected quality levels. Expensive submittals.
cost codes
allow monitoring of project costs, compare to estimates - provide owner w cost report - evaluate effectiveness - track historical data for future estimating - identifying problem areas, establishing mitigation measures - IDing additional costs for change order proposals point of contact bw estimating, scheduling, cost & schedule control, accounting
Alternative Technical Concepts
allowed in heavy civil instead of VE
Project Delivery
act of achieving project objectives
Procurement
act of purchasing external services and materials
actual unit prices
actual cost or hours/ actual quantities input into company database, improves future estimates
as-built schedule
actual dates and durations
Guaranteed Maximum Price
addresses price uncertainty in cost plus a fee Max price acts as cap for owner payments Difficult to establish when designs are incomplete-- design package should be 60-90% before accurate GMP established
Schedule of Values
adopted in lump sum pricing to break down work items Used to identify progress payments through an assessment of % completion of each item
A value engineering change proposal is usually submitted
after a construction contract has been executed (i.e. signed by the parties) at anytime during construction execution
liability insurance
after bid and award, before work starts, subs must provide certificates of liability insurance. Coverage reqs dictated in sub agreement
Identify the individual with more responsibility for construction quality assurance on a project
agency construction manager (?)
MEP testing
aggressive commissioning tests, duplicating climatic seasons experienced by the building. If performed by 3rd party tester, cost can amount to 1% of entire project.
Prime Contract
agreement between owner + other party defines rights/obligations of each signatory party Private owners tend to negotiate contracts more Public owners rarely negotiate anything that may have affected selection
Risk identification sessions
best with diverse groups of individuals - executives evaluate risks with winning bid (owner's financial stability) - operation manager: evaluate means and methods
which procurement methods allow an owner to use multiple decision criteria?
best-value selection qualification-based selection
Carrot
better safety performance - improved reputation - higher workforce morale - less/no fines, decreasing insurance rates
complementary bids
bid cartel/bid rigging illegal
bid shopping
bids received from one subcontractor should not be disclosed to another to drive prices down. Unethical, illegal on public projects
Alternates
breakout prices/ideas on designated items owner can match the contract to the budget
BIM
building information modeling
vertical projects
buildings and other projects (industrial facilities)where the vertical dimension is comparable, if not predominant, against the other two
Joint venture
business entity created for a specific project to pool resources without requiring individual investments - useful for contractors that lack adequate bonding capacity
Standard contracts
can be adapted to a specific project by filling in the blanks Include: - AIA Contracts (American Institute of Architects) - ConsensusDocs - NAHB Contracts (National Association of Home Builders): Residential - Engineers Joint Contract Documents Committee (EJCDC) Contract Documents
When does the warranty period begin?
certificate of substantial completion
Direct labor
costs based on estimated productivities - subs failure to perform as they bid may increase GC costs large projects: estimates produced on site small projects: at home office
Addenda
changes to the procurement documents while in progress
CIM
civil information modeling
demobilization activities
closing project office, removing equipment, staff phased out + reassigned, record files taken to GC home office
material safety data sheets
communicate hazards for all chemical products - procedures for handling/using/storing + first aid measures - copies must be available to all - collected as a required submittal
Project specific safety planning
company level: - in house company safety program - executive mgmt's commitment to safety - affects overall effectiveness of any program/plan project level: - JHA - control hazards
Which procurement method should be used to place the most emphasis on price?
competitive bidding selection
OSHA
compiles statistics, oversees safety standards - states usually have self-administered programs
Design Development
construction documents
Timing of hazard controls
construction planning early: eliminate/substitute late: engineering construction in progress - administrative measures - PPE
Other hows
contract administration: - changes to contract - disputes - unforseen circumstances - design flaws - contract termination
Insurance policy
contract bw insurance company, insurer, insured
Subcontract
contract following prime contracts, does not involve owner defines rights/obligations of each signatory party mirrors details of prime contract to streamline process
active retention
contractor evaluates risk, consciously decides to take it without mitigation
passive retention
contractor retains risk because they are not aware of it - most damaging outcome
Agency Construction Manager
coordinate with subs that contract directly with owner assist project owners as consultants An out-of-house owner's representatives
Which one of the following is considered to be part of direct costs?
cost of construction material stored on site
What are the four dimensions to measure project success?
cost, time, quality, safety
Why should the GC's project engineer diligently review a vendor's shop drawings?
to avoid passing through shop drawings with errors to owner/architect
Why are submittals required from suppliers?
to verify that what the supplier/subcontractor is intending to provide meets the owner and designer intent Submittals are last step in design and an early step in QC
submittal cover sheets
transmit materials to designer. Format may be specified in contract.
Contractual relationship with designer
trust-based
warranty period
typical: 1 year after issuance of substantial completion - longer warranties required for selected components (roofing, glazing, elevators, emergency generator) - two warranty aspects conveyed to subcontractors: 1. sub warranty matches prime contract 2. warranty info is part of close-out **final payments to subs should not be made until warranty documents received - if possible, GC should keep sub performance bonds active until the end of warranty period
Project
unique, temporary
unbalanced bids
unit prices are increased and decreased in a compensating manner (hide contingencies)
What are as-built schedules used for?
up to date schedules important. Greatest risk: direct craft workforce productivity
Inspection report
used by superintendent to document inspection of subcontractor work once completed
subcontractor analysis form/bid tab
used to assist in sub selection
earned value management
used to determine estimated value of the work completed to date, compare it to actual cost of work completed
Risk checklists
used to identify risks
Submittal Review by GC
vendors may attempt to substitute less expensive, non-specified products --> GC must review submittals carefuly to ensure conformance w specs + dimensions
VDC
virtual design and consruction