Catalog

6.5 Project Commissioning and Completion

Commissioning. Commissioning is a critical project milestone. It requires early planning and preparation of procedures so that operational tests can be done and the completed works turned over to the EA.

In some cases, the project manager will be involved in developing and administering a training program for the operating the project. The training program may be developed and carried out by suitably experienced training consultants; in some cases, manufacturer's representatives may be asked to propose training programs applicable to the items they have supplied.

The training program should be conducted prior to project completion. This will allow trainees the opportunity to observe the ongoing construction of the facilities, installation of the equipment and systems, and testing and commissioning of the completed works.

The operating agency (which is not necessarily the EA) is responsible for recruiting personnel to operate the completed facilities. The project manager may assist with indicating the position titles, qualifications, and job descriptions of the staff needed to operate the completed facilities.

Turnover at Completion. Overall responsibility for the completion of the project facilities rests with the project manager. Other project participants (such as consultants, suppliers, and contractors) are responsible for the successful completion of their individual tasks. There is a distinct point at which the responsibilities of the project manager and the project contractors cease and are transferred to the operators or end user(s).

Completed physical facilities should be transferred to the EA as provided in the contract. There is generally a period following physical completion when the contractor retains responsibility for works while acceptance inspection and operational testing are being performed. Major works should be turned over when physically completed, inspected, tested, and accepted by the project manager.

The following procedures should be employed for transferring responsibility:

1. Inspect equipment, materials, and equipment installation for compliance with the contract.
2. Inspect civil works and interfaces with installed equipment for compliance with the contract.
3. Provide fuels and utilities for operational start-up and testing and subsequent operations after turnover.
4. Conduct equipment and operational systems start-up and operational performance testing.
5. Accept and turn over equipment, systems, and facilities to operators.
6. Turn over equipment spare parts, special tools, and special fuels and lubricants to the operator.
7. Turn project documentation over to the operator, including
   1. as-built drawings and approved engineering shop drawings;
   2. the operations and maintenance manual and instructions;
   3. equipment and components catalogues, parts lists, listing of spare parts, etc.;
   4. completion certificates and warranty documentation; and
   5. bonds, insurance, and claims releases.