Sustainability
January 28, 2009
Disclaimer: Grammar is not my strong suit so ignore grammatical errors, however if you want some Differential Equations done, give me a call.
New Construction Commissioning is becoming more and more prevalent. The obvious result is every MEP Engineering firm out there claims to offer Commissioning services. This reminds me of the early 2000’s when Mechanical Contractors decided they wanted to also install HVAC Controls. Similar to the lesson learned by the Mechanical Contractor that HVAC Controls requires unique skills and business models the standard MEP Engineering firm will find the same with Commissioning.
To some, Commissioning encompasses searching the web for generic Commissioning forms, adding their logo, creating glorified punch lists, and then handing the forms to the contractor expecting them to critique their own installation. Even if they make their own forms chances are the contractor is still expected to implement the check lists. In my opinion this is far from “Results Based Commissioning”, this simply creates additional work for the installing contractor. Inherently there is some value to this task, however is this really Commissioning or just a feel good exercise for the owner?
You may ask, OK smart guy what is Commissioning then? In the immortal words of the GREAT Gary Short; Commissioning = MAKE IT WORK. Now to answer the next obvious question what do you mean MAKE IT WORK? Before I commence with the answer I must advice you to buckle up and hold on because I’m about ready to blow your mind.
The statement MAKE IT WORK seems far too simple of a statement to come from an Engineer. While the statement is simple getting to the end result requires a complex and systematic process detailed below:
1. Hire a company that doesn’t just offer Commissioning, but specializes in Commissioning.
a. Wow this step is extremely easy, just give sys-tek a call.
2. Don’t use generic forms and plans, create job and equipment specific documents.
a. Yet again very simple give us a call.
3. Have Commissioning Agents implement validation and testing procedures, don’t rely upon the installing contractor. This requires the Commissioning Agent to have unique skill sets. These skill sets include but are not limited too; knowledge in MEP Engineering, Testing, Adjusting, & Balancing expertise, extensive knowledge in Building Automation Systems, ability to use tools such as a screwdriver and wrench, communication skills including the ability to talk the language of the owner and the contractors, and finally a never say die attitude.
a. Not sure if you see a trend, but give us a call, because ironically we have all of the above skill sets and more.
Wow, getting RESULTS BASED COMMISSIONING isn’t that hard, just call sys-tek.
-Gary Short