This is where building commissioning comes into play. Commissioning is a quality assurance process that starts in design and continues through construction and occupancy. It verifies that the new building and its systems are designed, planned, installed, tested, operated, and maintained as originally intended by the owner.
Typically the Commissioning Provider (CxA) is engaged in the commissioning process at the pre-design phase and becomes the ownerâs technical expert. The CxA should be involved in the design review process to help establish the Ownerâs Project Requirements (OPR) and make sure these are incorporated into the design. The CxA should also be available to assist the design team throughout design and construction.
At the start of construction, the CxA helps to clarify the commissioning scope and plan with the design team and contractor. This ensures that everyone is on the same page regarding the commissioning process and expectations. The CxA will also perform commissioning reviews during construction to verify that all of the design requirements are being met and that the systems will function as required at start-up and through occupancy.
The CxA will be present at meetings with the construction contractor to address issues that will be critical during construction and to verify that the construction is being done correctly. This will include reviewing and approving equipment and material submittals, witnessing and verifying the testing of construction phases and performing commissioning functional tests as construction nears completion. The CxA will be able to close out any commissioning issues created proactively via checklists so that all issues are resolved prior to the facility being turned over for operation.
There are several benefits to a well-executed commissioning process. Those include:
Reduced change orders during construction and operations.
Improved energy efficiency test and balance company and occupant comfort.
Greater sustainability and LEED credit opportunities.
The process of building commissioning should not be overlooked by any project. It is the only way to guarantee that all of the systems work together as they should and will operate efficiently for the life of the building.
Those with a thorough understanding of the process and who are experienced in commissioning can make a significant difference in the success of any project. A good commissioning team can help to reduce construction and operational costs by implementing the ownerâs OPRs during construction and ensuring that the systems are operating as originally intended after the building has been turned over for occupancy.
The field of Building United States of America Commissioning is a growing and exciting one with an ever-increasing number of projects seeking to incorporate the latest technologies in order to improve occupant comfort, energy efficiency, sustainability and security.Those 1651 N Glenville Dr. Ste 201 that wish to become skilled in this field should consider taking courses and/or self-study to earn Rirchardson their CxA certification. To learn more about this profession please visit the Commissioning Professionals Association. They offer a range of courses, seminars and workshops for those interested in learning about building commissioning
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