Commissioning plan
Commissioning refers to the process of bringing an item into operation and ensuring that it is in good working order. On building projects, this refers primarily to building services.
Commissioning activities may include:
- Ensuring client access and providing client training and demonstrations.
- Completing operating and maintenance manuals, record drawings, software and test certification.
- Obtaining statutory approvals and insurance approvals.
- Manufacturers work testing.
- Component testing.
- Pre-commissioning tests.
- Set to work: this is the process of switching on (i.e. setting to work) items such as fans and motors to ensure that they are operating as specified (for example checking that fans are turning the right way).
- Balancing: this follows setting to work and involves looking at whole systems (rather than individual components) to ensure that they are properly balanced (ie water is coming out of all the taps at the correct pressure, air is coming out of the correct diffusers etc).
- Commissioning checks and performance testing.
- Post commissioning checks and fine tuning during occupancy.
For more information see: Commissioning.
A commissioning plan is a document used to outline the scope and define the responsibilities of the commissioning process as well as the activites, schedules and documentation required. It is part of the commissioning management process, intended to ensure the client receives an efficient, fully functioning building by the planned occupancy date. An effective commissioning plan can help ensure handover to the client is smoother and less troubleshooting and fine tuning is required.
The best commissioning process is one that is planned from the project’s very inception. Designing in the ability to commission systems properly from the outset can provide huge benefits, especially on cost and performance.
The commissioning plan should be started early, and populated with detail as it becomes available. This approach calls on project professionals to plan, reality-check as they go along, prepare fully for handover, and follow through after occupation to fine-tune and resolve issues as they emerge.
According to BSRIA Guide BG 8/2009 Model Commissioning Plan, the plan should:
- Provide general information about the project.
- Identify the commissioning team members during each stage of the commissioning process.
- Define the roles and responsibilities for each commissioning team member.
- Identify the systems to be commissioned.
- Create a schedule of commissioning activities for each stage of the commissioning process.
- Establish documentation requirements associated with the commissioning process.
- Establish communication and reporting procedures for the commissioning process.
Commissioning may benefit from a dedicated commissioning manager acting as the focus for activities.
See also:Planning the commissioning of buildings.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- At your services - What to expect during commissioning.
- Client commissioning.
- Commissioning building systems.
- Commissioning construction works.
- Commissioning documents.
- Commissioning notice.
- Commissioning planning.
- Commissioning report.
- Commissioning v testing.
- Handover to client.
- Initial commissioning case studies.
- Planning the commissioning of buildings.
- Seasonal and continuous commissioning.
- Soft landings.
- Specialist commissioning manager.
Featured articles and news
Download your free guide.
Four new types of prior approval for solar developments
Online Planning Portal application types from 5 September.
Election fails to spark construction industry revival
Contract awards and planning; post election.
Making diversity and inclusion easy for SMEs
The CIOB tool for companies with limited resources.
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living
BSRIA Briefing 2024, initial speakers announced.
Looking back at the UK's first Passivhaus leisure centre
Reflections on St Sidwell’s Point with CIAT.
A-Level results and electrical apprenticeships
Electrical Skills Index highlights areas with skills shortages.
One of the world's more unusual drive-throughs.
A quick introduction.
Hadrian's Wall Path and the national trails
The trails are heritage assets in their own right.
Articles on timely advice and hydraulic lime.
Building Designers Association of Australia
CIAT and BDAA sign Memorandum of Understanding.
Built Environment Inclusive partners issue statement committed to inclusion.
Building regulation requirements can have unintended consequences.
CIOB announces 2024/25 vice president
Sustainability champion Professor Saul Humphrey.
Accelerating towards a net-zero built environment.