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CIBSE

dti
Department of Trade and Industry
CIBSE Commissioning Code NI
commissioning management
 The rights of publication or translation are reserved
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No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a

retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means
without the prior permission of the Institution.

0 June 2003 The Chartered Institution of Building Services

Engineers London

Registered charity number 2781 04

ISBN 1 903287 33 2

This document is based on the best knowledge available at

the time of publication. However no responsibility of any
kind for any injury, death, loss, damage or delay however
caused resulting from the use of these recommendations can
be accepted by the Chartered Institution of Building Services
Engineers, the authors or others involved in its publication.
In adopting these recommendations for use each adopter by
doing so agrees t o accept full responsibility for any personal
injury, death, loss, damage or delay arising out of or in
connection with their use by or on behalf of such adopter
irrespective of the cause or reason therefore and agrees to
defend, indemnify and hold harmless the Chartered
Institution of Building Services Engineers, the authors and
others involved in their publication from any and all liability
arising out of or in connection with such use as aforesaid
and irrespective of any negligence on the part of those
indemnified.

Typeset by CIBSE Publications Department

Printed in Great Britain by Page Bros. (Norwich) Ltd.,

Norwich, Norfolk, NR6 6SA

Note from the publisher

This publication is primarily intended to provide guidance to those responsible for the
design, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of building services. It is
not intended to be exhaustive or definitive and it will be necessary for users of the guidance
given to exercise their own professional judgement when deciding whether to abide by or
depart from it.

Printed on 100% recycled paper comprising at least 80%

post-consumer waste
 Foreword
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Commissioning of buildings and building services is vitally important to the safe and
energy efficient operation of buildings but it is not always carried out - or carried out
systematically. Buildings in the UK account for around 45% of energy demand and
therefore are a key target for action to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon
emissions. For this reason commissioning is now a requirement under Part L of the
Building Regulations. The CIBSE Commissioning Codes set out clearly and
systematically the steps required to commission building services in a proper and timely
manner and will make a significant contribution to achieving properly commissioned
buildings.
This key step in the construction of a building enables the systems to operate as they were
designed to do. When coupled with good maintenance practice, commissioning, and
periodic re-commissioning, helps provide building occupiers with a safe, good quality,
comfortable internal environment using heat and electrical energy (whether generated on
site or obtained from public networks) efficiently and cost effectively. Compliance with
CIBSE Codes should also help to achieve compliance with the current requirement of
Part L of the Building Regulations for commissioning of building services systems.
Good commissioning of buildings requires specialist skills and knowledge. It also
requires input early in the life of a project, when key decisions relating to the
construction process are taken. The Code therefore gives the strongest encouragement to
designers and clients to consider commissioning and to seek specialist input at these
earliest stages. Building Regulations Approved Document L2 emphasises the need for
commissioning to be certified by suitably qualified persons, and building control bodies
have been encouraged to satisfy themselves as to the ability of project teams to comply
fully with this requirement.
CIBSE Commissioning Code M presents current standards of good commissioning
practice in the form of recommendations and guidance. The Code acknowledges that it
may be used in a variety of contractual frameworks. Users will need to ensure that the use
of the Code is considered when contractual arrangements are being made, to ensure that
the recommendations of the Code are not in conflict with those of the contract. In
particular, it is important that contractual arrangements make due allowance for taking
the needs of commissioning engineers into account during design stages and the time
required properly to commission building services systems in full accordance with the
requirements of Part L.
I therefore welcome the publication of this new Code, as it seeks to enable UK
construction to improve the performance of its product through better commissioning of
our buildings.
Bryan Franklin
Chairman, Commissioning Code M Steering Committee

Author
J Armstrong (consultant)

Commissioning Code M Steering Committee

Bryan Franklin Chairman
Marcus Dicks (BSRIA Ltd)
Mike Duggan (FETA)
Andrew Ford (Fulcrum Consulting, for DTI)
Martin Lowe (for Commissioning Specialists Association)
George Moss (C R Burgess Commissioning Ltd)
Saud Muhsinovic (Fulcrum Consulting, for DTI)
Peter Rees (TA Hydronics, for Commissioning Specialists Association)
Bart Stephens (Max Fordham LLP)
Neil Woodcock (AYH plc)
Hywel Davies (CIBSE Research Manager)

Co-ordinating editor
Dr Hywel Davies
 Editor
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Ken Butcher

Publishing Manager
Jacqueline Balian

Acknowledgements
This work was part funded by the Department Trade and Industry (DTI) under the
Partners in Innovation Scheme, and the CIBSE Research Fund. This document is
published with the Department’s consent, but the views expressed are not necessarily
accepted or endorsed by the DTI.
CIBSE acknowledges the support and contribution of the Commissioning Specialists
Association and Pat Carroll (Bovis Lend Lease Ltd, for Commissioning Specialists
Association) in the preparation of this Code.
 Contents
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MO Introduction
MO.l Scope
M0.2 Purpose
M0.3 Summary of commissioning requirements
M0.4 The importance of commissioning
M0.5 Other guidance
M0.6 Commissioning definitions
M0.7 Commissioning records
M0.8 Responsibility

MI Legislation 4
M1.l Safety requirements 4
M1.2 Statutory regulations 4

M2 General considerations
M2.1 Commissioning management
M2.2 Selection and appointment of a commissioning management
organisation (CMO)
M2.3 Communications 5

M3 Design for commissionability

M3.1 Inherent commissionability
M3.2 Design responsibility
M3.3 Ease of access
M3.4 Design requirements

M4 Programming and co-ordination of the commissioning process 7

M4.1 General considerations 7
M4.2 Specifying requirements for commissioning 7

M5 Installation quality assurance 7

M6 Pre-commissioning 8
M6.1 Risk analysis 8
M6.2 Plant ready for commissioning 8
M6.3 Control system requirements for commissioning 9

M7 Commissioning
M7.1 Commissioning certification
M7.2 Phased completion
M7.3 BMS as a commissioning tool

M8 Witnessing compliance 9
M8.1 Objective 9
M8.2 Witnessing arrangements 10
M8.3 Witnessing duties 10

M9 Building log book 10

 MI0 System handover 11
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References 11

Appendix MA1: Guidance documents on commissioning specific 13

building services

Appendix MA2: Example responsibility matrix 14

Appendix MA3: Designer's checklist for commissionability 16

Appendix MA4: Example certificate of readiness 17

Index 18
 1

Commissioning management
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- a guide for all members of the project team to enable

Introduction
commissioning to be achieved in partnership
The main objective of commissioning management is to - a guide to provide an understanding of cam-
manage the overall commissioning activities, including missioning management procedures; detailed
programming, to achieve the project completion date. information on procedures for particular types of
installation are provided in o t h e r CIBSE
The commissioning programmes produced by building Commissioning Codes.
services installers and their sub-contractors are frequently
over-optimistic and unco-ordinated. They assume that It is not intended that contracts or specifications should
others will co-operate in providing water, gas and electric refer to this Code in its entirety, rather that direct
supplies, a weather-tight building, unobstructed access references be made to specific sections of the Code when
and a dust-free environment. A risk of project overrun will specifying requirements for systems commissioning.
exist unless the interdependencies of all the building
services systems and plant are identified, together with
their integration with on-going construction activities. M0.3 Summary of commissioning
T h i s complex, often highly fragmented part of t h e requirements
construction process demands good management.
Building services plant and control systems should be
inherently commissionable. This is most likely to be
MO.l Scope achieved if the requirement is in the brief from the outset,
and specialist commissioning advice sought early in the
T h i s Code provides an overview of the management design process. The requirement may be compromised by
arrangements required to ensure that building services overdesign.
systems are commissioned to meet the objectives of Part L
of the Building regulation^('-^). T h e Code represents T h e following summarises the key requirements for
standards of good practice which are presented in the form successfully commissioned building services systems :
of recommendations and guidance for the building - The contractor and client should allow sufficient
services industry. time for the complete commissioning process and
ensure integration into the overall programme.
It is applicable to the management of commissioning of all - A commissioning management team should be
building services systems, particularly those covered by formed.
the commissioning requirement of Part L(1-3),including
new-build and retrofit applications, for example following - Maximum use should be made of off-site pre-
major maintenance o r replacement of components. commissioning activities.
Commissioning of specific systems is addressed by other - Manufacturers of equipment should be involved in
CIBSE Commissioning Codes (see Appendix MA1, the commissioning process.
including Table MA1.1). - Thorough commissioning procedures should be
Compliance with this Code should satisfy building control adopted.
officers that the commissioning requirements of Part L of - Documentary evidence that the requirements of
the Building Regulations('-3) have been met. the Building Regulations have been met should be
provided.
Compliance with the Code does not confer immunity from - User feedback should be obtained to confirm the
relevant statutory and legal requirements. performance of the system(s) and the attainment of
required internal environmental conditions.
M0.2 Purpose
M 0.4 The importance of
The Code is intended to be used as:
commissioning
- a guide to good practice of the commissioning
management of building services systems The proper commissioning of building services is crucial
- a tool to assist the definition of commissioning to ensure the correct operation of the system and its
management procedures associated building services plant. Part L of the Building
regulation^('-^) requires that all controlled services that
- a basis for the preparation of commissioning fall within t h e scope of t h e regulations will be
specifications commissioned. Evidence will be required from a suitably
 2 Commissioning management

qualified person that all services have been commissioned - dissatisfied building occupants, possibly affecting
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and are operating correctly. their productive capacity and causing excessive
energy consumption.
The building owner or hidher agent has a statutory duty to
ensure compliance with the requirements of Part L(1-3).It Recommended comfort criteria for specific applications are
is therefore essential that they ensure that the construction given in CIBSE Guide A: Environmental design(4),Table 1.1.
programme incorporates a sufficient time element to
enable commissioning to be completed prior to handover.
Failure to do so may delay completion and handover of the M0.5 Other guidance
building. Early involvement of a commissioning
management organisation (CMO) will facilitate t h e Guidance concerning the commissioning of building
provision of adequate time in the programme. services systems is contained in CIBSE Commissioning
Codes and other sources, such as those published by the
All works approved u n d e r P a r t L of t h e Building Building Services Research and Information Association
are required to be commissioned i n (BSRIA) and the Commissioning Specialists Association
accordance with the design intent. (CSA). Details of these publications are given in Appendix
MA1.
Note: for domestic buildings this applies to heating,
ventilation, hot water and external lighting; for non-
domestic buildings this applies to heating, ventilation, M0.6 Com missioni ng definitions
cooling/refrigeration, lighting, controls and water.
Balancing
T h e following main factors a r e influenced by t h e
commissioning of the services: T h e process of adjusting the flow rates of a fluid in a
- plant operation within the design parameters distribution system to achieve the design flow rates within
specified for the installation, including internal the specified tolerances.
and external design conditions
- Calibration of controls
maintenance of internal design parameters within
defined tolerances at all load conditions
T h e a d j u s t m e n t of control devices to meet t h e
- m i n i m i s i n g t h e energy consumption of t h e performance requirements of the system specification.
equipment
- future maintenance requirements. Commissionable system

A poorly commissioned system has t h e potential to A system designed, installed and prepared to specified
compromise t h e safety of b u i l d i n g occupants a n d requirements in such a manner as to enable satisfactory
maintenance personnel. commissioning to be carried out.

M0.4.1 Energy consumption Commissioning

Building services systems that are set up and controlled The advancement of an installation from the state of static
properly use less energy. This requires that the set-up and completion to full working o r d e r to t h e specified
operation of the component plant and control systems are requirements. I t includes t h e setting to work of an
checked. Incorrectly commissioned building services installation, the regulation of the system and the fine
systems can use excessive energy due to: tuning of the system.

(a) unnecessary periods of plant operation

Commissionability
(b) poor control to set points.
The ability of a system to be commissioned satisfactorily.
M0.4.2 Indoor environmental conditions
Commissioning
The achievement of satisfactory indoor environmental
conditions is crucial in order to provide a healthy and The advancement of an installation from the stage of static
comfortable working environment. A poorly commissioned completion to full working order to specified require-
control system can result in: ments.
- failure to achieve desired levels of internal air
temperature and humidity Commissioning completion certificate
- inadequate levels of ventilation
A document to confirm that commissioning has been
- levels of air movement that are too high or too low completed.
- excessive noise due to plant cycling
Commissioning engineer
- inappropriate lighting levels
- unsafe electrical installation The person undertaking the commissioning procedure.
 Introduction 3

Commissioning management Operation and maintenance manual

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The planning, organisation, co-ordination and control of A series of documents detailing the design, mode of
commissioning activities. operation and maintenance requirements of building
services systems.
Commissioning management organisation
Performance testing
The firm or person appointed to manage the commission-
ing process, being for Overa1' planning, T h e testing of a system, or a grouping of systems, to
supervision and witnessing of the results of the integrated
determine if certain performance criteria are met.
commissioning of all installed building services systems.

Commissioning plan or timetable Portable or test instrument

A time schedule for t h e various works required to This means an instrument not permanently connected to
complete commissioning. the installation and which, where appropriate, is recali-
brated at required intervals by an approved, independent
authority e.g. a laboratory accredited by the National
Commissioning specialist
Measurement Accreditation Service (a service of the
T h e firm (or person) appointed to carry out specified National Physical Laboratory).
duties in connection with commissioning engineering
services in accordance with a commissioning specification. Pre-commissioning

Commissioning specification Specified systematic checking of a completed installation

to confirm its state of readiness for commissioning.
The document which prescribes the detailed requirements
with which the various commissioning services have to pressure and leakage testing
comply. Note: the specification should refer to drawings,
schedules and relevant parts of the Code, manuals, guides
The measurement and recording of a specified pressure
and other standards.
retention or loss within a system or system component.

Design criteria
Regulation
The specified numerical quantity together with allowable
tolerances. The process of adjusting the rates of fluid flow and heat
transfer in a distribution system, to achieve specified
values within specified tolerances.
Energy sources

All fuels and forms of motive power supplied to the system. Setting to work

Fine tuning The process of setting a static system into operation.

Local adjustment to the system where usage and system Specification

proving have shown such a need. This may also include
the re-assessment of control set points and values to T h e document that prescribes the system design and
achieve optimum performance. requirements for commissioning by reference to drawings,
information schedules and relevant codes, manuals, guides
lnstallation and standards.

A system placed in position as required by the design or

specification. Static completion

The state of a system when it is installed in accordance

Log book with the specification, i.e. clean and ready for setting to
work. In the case of water systems this includes flushing,
T h e permanent record of calibration settings and
cleaning, pressure testing, filling and venting.
performance test result that is initiated by commissioning
kngineers and maintained thereafter-by responsible
persons. System

Operating levels A set of connected components for heating, cooling,

ventilation or air conditioning consisting of plant,
T h e set points of all control devices under operating distribution ducting, piping and terminal units and
conditions. arrangements to control their operation.
 4 Commissioning management

System proving The various tasks included in the Codes are arranged in a
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deliberate sequence which has been found to be

Measuring, recording, evaluating and reporting on the advantageous based on wide, general experience. It is
seasonal performance of the system against design criteria. therefore recommended that this sequence be followed. In
some cases, where the sequence is of exceptional impor-
tance, attention is drawn in the text of the particular
Testing
Commissioning Code to the need for some tasks to be
preceded by others.
The measurement and recording of system parameters to
assess specification compliance. Some equipment and its operation calls for specialist
knowledge. For this reason the design, installation and,
particularly, the commissioning of such equipment will
M0.7 Commissioning records generally be required to be carried out by the manufacturer's
specialist personnel, or in close association with them.
It is essential that the results of all checks and measure-
ments are recorded in writing by the commissioning A number of different skills will be involved and strict
engineer as commissioning proceeds, together with any attention to formal co-ordination between those involved
appropriate comments. Breaks in the continuity of should be defined in the contract documentation.
commissioning operations are likely and proper records However, it is recommended that the control of the entire
will show the state of progress at any particular stage. commissioning procedure be vested in a single authority.
Good records should include anecdotal comment from the
commissioning engineer setting up the system as well as BSRIA TM 1/88: Commissioning HVAC systems - division of
details of the actual system performance suggests appropriate arrangements for
re~ponsibiZities(~)
projects where a commissioning specialist is to be
The provision of commissioning records is an essential appointed.
part of the handover information for the building user.
Knowledge of the way a system has been set up is a
necessary base when considering the scope for any
improvements or modifications, including fine tuning. It M1 Legislation
is recommended that a pro forma for these records be
compiled from the relevant Commissioning Code for each
particular type of installation. M1.l Safety requirements

Records of all commissioning activities should include The principal contractor, as defined in the Construction
details of tests undertaken and results achieved. I t is (Design and Management) Regulations 1994(@,has the
recommended that the format of record sheets should be lead responsibility for ensuring safety d u r i n g t h e
agreed before testing and commissioning commences. construction process, which includes commissioning. The
Record sheets should be completed once only (i.e. not commissioning manager should support this role and
subsequently transcribed by typing since this can lead to review the commissioning plan to monitor safety aspects.
errors being introduced). Where hand written records are Any areas of concern will need to be raised with the
subsequently transcribed into typed format there should be commissioning engineer and agreed with the principal
a formal checking process to validate their accuracy. Records contractor prior to the work being carried out.
should also include calibration certificates for all
instruments used during the commissioning process.
M1.2 Statutory regulations
Availability of these records will help to demonstrate
Applicable legislation includes, but is not limited to, the
compliance with the Building regulation^('-^). following:
Building Regulations 2000(1-3)
M0.8 Responsibility Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 19740
The objective of the particular Commissioning Codes is to Management of Health and Safety at Work
prescribe all the procedures entailed in bringing a system Regulations 1999@)
into full working order. Requirements for commissioning Construction (Design and Management)
a particular system will be included in the commissioning Regulations 1994@)
specification for the project. Logical areas of involvement
for the design engineer, the installation engineer, the Construction (Head Protection) Reg~lationsl989(~)
specialist or manufacturer and the commissioning Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare)
engineer are indicated in the particular Codes based on Regulations 1996(1°)
typical practices. An example overall responsibility matrix
is shown in Appendix MA2, in this instance based on a Confined Spaces Regulations 1997(")
management contract. Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations
1992(12)
It is stressed, however, that the attribution of responsibility
is a contractual matter and that parties involved in any Working Time Regulations 1999(13)
works must comply with the relevant contract requirements. Electricity at Work Regulations 1989(14)
 Legislation 5

Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations M2.2 Selection and appointment of
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1994(15)
a commissioning management
Personal Protective Equipment at Work
Regulations 1992(16) organisation (CMO)
Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Commissioning management in the context of this Code is
Regulations 1992(17) a contracted-for activity in which a specialist company or
Provision a n d Use of Equipment at Work individual manages the commissioning process. The term
Regulations 1998(lS) commissioning management organisation (CMO) has been
adopted in this Code for the organisation providing this
Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000('9) role.
Noise at Work Regulations 1989C2O)
Selection of the CMO will depend on the nature and size of
Notification of Cooling Towers and Evaporative the project. Options include competitive tender o r
Condensers Regulations 1992(21) interview. They should be assessed by their relevant
Control of Substances Hazardous t o Health knowledge and experience The assessment should also
Regulations 1999(22) include how they would tailor their services to meet the
activities listed on the responsibility matrix.
Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations
1999(23) . The role of the CMO and its relationship with the employer
and other members of the construction team can be many
The Commissioning Codes for specific systems include and varied, depending on how the contract has been
legislation relevant to particular system components. established. The contractual relationship of the CMO is
very important since it will define its authority and
responsibility and, hence, its ability to have an effect.
Research in this area has indicated that the structure
M2 GeneraI considerations illustrated in Figure 1 can provide an effective position for
the CMO. In this example the CMO is appointed by the
principal/main contractor and is part of the project
M2.1 Commissioning management management team. However, each contract will need to
define the particular relationships of the parties involved.
All projects should be assessed t o see if t h e r e is
justification for appointing a commissioning manager.
M2.3 Communications
The responsibilities of the commissioning manager can be
extensive and various depending on how early the person The objective of a CMO is to co-ordinate and oversee the
is appointed and the extent of the brief. If appointed early commissioning process. For projects with relatively
enough, the commissioning manager's input at the design simple engineering services, the formation of a full
stage can make a significant contribution to ensuring the commissioning management team may not be appropriate.
success and timely completion of a project. See BSRIA It is still advisable to use the procedures described in this
AG5/2002(24), section 6.1, for details of the potential Code to ensure that commissioning is accomplished in the
responsibilities which can be placed on the commission- correct order to ensure certainty of project delivery. If a
ing manager. specialist CMO is not appointed, then it is important that
the tasks outlined in this Code are specifically assigned to
T h e calibre of the resources appointed to carry out others within an agreed timetable.
commissioning management is critical. T h e detailed
knowledge and past experience of competent commission- Communications between the various parties is vital and it
ing management practitioners should include: is important that all members of the project team meet at
commissioning procedures for main systems and appropriate intervals convened by the CMO.This will enable
components the installation contractor and commissioning engineers to
programme their work and co-ordinate with other
t h e logical sequencing of installation and
activities. Where a CMO has not been appointed, it is
commissioning activities important to ensure that communication routes are
programming skills and critical path analysis established and meetings convened on an appropriate basis.
techniques
The following procedures should be followed:
resource planning
(U) At the start of a project, the various parties should
report writing and administrative skills
agree on communication routes for commissioning
communication skills aspects.
pragmatic leadership skills (b) A framework for a communication network should
be drawn up to aid the smooth flow of information.
services design principles
Commissioning Specialist Association (CSA) Figure 1 shows an example contractual relationship and
level 6 qualifications, or equivalent engineering communications route in a commissioning situation
experience. where a CMO has been appointed.
 6 Commissioning management

Figure 1 Possible contractual

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Client relationships and

communications routes

Project manager
(if appointed)
1
\
\
\
\
Design team --- Principal/main contractor
I \)
Commissioning management
organisation
__ ____ I -_-- 1
1
p
i

/’
/ I
/
I
M&E installing contractor I
‘ _I___I
- -- --
Commissioning
supervisor/engineer ,

-_---A

---- communication route

contractual connection

M3 Design for precise location in the system to enable them to function

as required.
comrnissionability
Information from the designer should be given either on
Appendix MA3 provides a designer’s checklist for drawings or in the design specification. The latter should
commissionability always include a clear description of how it is intended
that the system should operate and the design parameters.
I t is particularly important that the system capacity,
M3.1 Inherent commissionability controls and safety devices permit stable operation over
the specified range of load conditions. T h e designer
It is important that all those responsible for the design should also produce ‘cause and effect’ sheets showing how
and specification of building services systems are aware of the design is intended to operate.
the requirements to ensure that the building services
systems are inherently commissionable. Otherwise, it may T h e success a n d feasibility of t h e commissioning
not be possible to balance and commission systems in procedures will be influenced by the facilities afforded by
accordance with the CIBSE Commissioning Codes. The the design. In the context of the CIBSE Commissioning
involvement of a specialist in commissioning at the design Codes, the design objective must be to provide a system
stage should be considered, particularly where in-house which is, i n all respects, properly matched to t h e
experience is not sufficiently comprehensive. installation as a whole. Oversizing should be avoided and
stand-by arrangements should be consistent with the
Further details concerning design for commissionability design risk.
are provided in Appendix CA1 of CIBSE Commissioning
Code Design responsibilities for specialist plant such as major
refrigeration e q u i p m e n t generally rest with t h e
manufacturer.
M3.2 Design responsibility
Design responsibilities for systems rest with t h e
Commissioning is not an optional requirement. T h e manufacturer, or consultant, or contractor, depending
designer must accept the implications of the commission- upon the overall contractual arrangements.
ing procedures to which the system will be subjected. To
ensure proper commissioning, the designer must provide a In the context of this Code the term ‘designer’ applies to
particular and definitive commissioning specification the person or organisation having responsibility for the
setting out clearly what is expected of the commissioning system or for the building engineering services system of
specialist. It should include tolerances on all commission- which this forms a part.
ing parameters. Adequate safety controls and interlocks
need to be provided to protect the equipment and per-
sonnel during the commissioning process and throughout M3.3 Ease of access
subsequent operation. The system and equipment should
be designed and installed with all necessary components T h e design engineer must ensure that safe access is
and facilities and with adequate access to permit the specified to all pressure test points, flow measuring
required commissioning procedures to be properly carried devices, double-regulating valves and concealed items of
out. It is the designer’s responsibility to specify not only equipment requiring adjustment during commissioning
these components and facilities in detail, but also their and maintenance.
 Design for commissionability 7

M3.4 Design requirements ensure that commissioningltesting actions are

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performed correctly and not repeated unneces-

Efficient operation of any system will depend on effective sarily.
commissioning in accordance with the commissioning All parties involved in the commissioning process
specification. (e)
must have documentation procedures for dealing
with variations to contract. A change control
An important design objective is to ensure that balancing mechanism should be set up which includes
requirements are considered fully at the conceptual stage. documentary records of what has been changed,
To facilitate this, design engineers are recommended to how it has been changed, and why.
ensure that these requirements are taken into account and
an unequivocal specification is provided so that (f> A unique numbering system a n d use of
satisfactory balancing and commissioning are assured. mnemonics should be used to identify individual
Early discussions with the commissioning specialist will work items. (This applies particularly to control
assist the design engineer. system items and devices.)

M4.2 Specifying requirements

M4 Programming and for commissioning
co-ordination of the
Where possible, the following should be included in the
commissioning process commissioning specification:
The main objective of commissioning management is to a clear description of the divisions of respon-
manage the overall commissioning activities, including sibility between the various parties
programming, to achieve the project completion date. pre-commissioning procedures (off-site and on-
Commissioning activities should therefore be calculated site)
back from the planned completion date. By so doing,
clashes of priority with the construction programme can commissioning procedures (on-site)
be highlighted and resolved. requirements for any point-by-point verification of
correct operation
M4.1 General considerations requirements for evaluation of control loop
performancelloop tuning
I n order properly to commission a building services
requirements for the control system (BMS operator
system, the commissioning engineer must be provided
workstation), to be used to assist in t h e
with comprehensive details relating to its design and
commissioning of plant
specification. In addition, commissioning must be clearly
specified and the needs of the commissioning process arrangements for management of delays
addressed d u r i n g initial design t o ensure that t h e phased completion requirements
commissioning of the system can be performed correctly.
Specialist commissioning input at this stage will be requirements for demonstration/witness testing to
beneficial to the process. be identified; the witnessing requirements should
include the identification of those responsible
The following commissioning management actions and
requirements for witness testing of controls on the
considerations should be observed:
basis of a percentage of points or on a point-by-
(a) A commissioning programme should be compiled. point basis (it may be appropriate to define
This should be co-ordinated with the design and witnessing on a controlled plant-by-plant basis);
installation programme of the main contractor, the witnessing requirements should include the
who will need to agree the programme as part of identification of those responsible
the contract conditions
involvement in any complete system and sub-
(b) The detailed commissioning programme should be system performance testing
prepared as early as possible to allow comment by
system documentation
all interested parties.
operator training requirements before and during
(c) Appropriate health and safety risk assessments and
the commissioning period (there may also be a
method statements for the tasks should be com-
requirement for post handover operator training)
pleted and submitted to the planning supervisor.
post occupancy checks.
(d) A means of monitoring the progress of t h e
commissioning should be established a n d
integrated into the commissioning contractor’s
quality management system. Checklists are
essential for monitoring t h e progress of t h e
Installation quality
commissioning. A checklist should be used to assurance
record how the job will be commissioned and 10
. monitor progress. Source information for such Commissioning does not replace the process of inspection,
checklists is provided in Appendix MA1. Proper which should be carried out during manufacture and
progress monitoring procedures will help to construction as part of normal, good engineering practice.
 8 Commissioning management

An important role of commissioning management is to Before commissioning major plant, the CMO should ensure
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ensure that all relevant inspection requirements, the following:

including the responsible organisation, are identified in (a) Water systems:
the commissioning plan and included in the overall
construction programme. Commissioning management (i) Systems have been cleaned and flushed to
should also ensure that all inspections are carried out to an remove any debris, appropriate debris
acceptable standard. collectors and flushing facilities are
incorporated. T h i s is essential before
The installer should carry out progress inspections in the commissioning commences.
course of installation to ensure that: (ii) A pressure test certificate for the instal-
lation is completed.
(a) all plant items are in accordance with the design
drawings, specifications and, where applicable, the (iii) All regulating, isolating and control valves
manufacturers’ instructions are in place and operating correctly.
(b) correct installation procedures are being followed (iv) Flow measuring devices are in place and in
the correct location for accurate measure-
(c) standards of installation and site cleanliness are ment (including pressure tappings).
acceptable.
(v) The system is vented.
Commissioning management should be involved in the Pump flow rate is adjusted to provide the
(vi)
benchmarking and establishing standards for site and specified flow rate.
installation cleanliness.
(vii) (Where appropriate, completion of propor-
tional balancing to obtain the branch flow
rates in the correct ratio (or through the
M6 Pre-commissioning use and setting of self-balancing valves).)
(b) Air systems:
M6.1 Risk analysis (i) Ductwork air leakage testing, where
specified, is performed and certificates
A risk analysis of the commissioning procedures is an issued (see HVCA DW/144(26)).
important part of commissioning management and should (ii) Systems are cleaned and blown through to
be obtained from all the parties involved in the remove any debris; appropriate cleaning
commissioning process before any on-site commissioning and inspection facilities are incorporated.
activities commence. This is essential before commissioning
commences (see HVCA TM2(27)and
T h e risk analysis will identify areas of possible risk, TR17(28)).
degree of risk and potential impact. Where the degree of Dampers are in the correct location and
risk is assessed as significant, method statements of how (iii)
fully functional.
the work is to be carried out will be required. These need
to define step-by-step the specific stages to be undertaken (iv) Fire/smoke dampers are open.
during the commissioning process. They should be (v) Test holes are drilled and sealed with
obtained from those undertaking the commissioning removable plugs.
activities. Generic method statements are unlikely to be
suitable, particularly for large and complex installations. (vi) In situ flow measuring devices (e.g. Wilson
Flow Grid) are installed, where specified.
The discipline of preparing method statements will help (vii) Regulation of the fan(s) to provide the
to minimise any risk associated with the commissioning specified flow rate.
process.
(viii) (Where appropriate, completion of propor-
tional balancing of regulating dampers so
that terminals share the air flow in the
’ M6.2 Plant ready for commissioning correct proportions.)
At this stage a report (including a pre-commissioning (c) Packaged equipment:
checklist) should be obtained, confirming that the system Plant and controls are fully commissioned
(i)
design is commissionable and that all pre-commissioning and functional, ready for integration with
checks have been completed. This should state that the other plant/systems.
system as installed is complete and ready for commission-
ing. It should also be confirmed that the specified level of (ii) Control equipment inputs/outputs are in
cleanliness has been achieved. the specified format for connection to the
main control system.
Building services plant (e.g. heating and ventilation (iii) Support services such as power and
installations) should ideally be installed and properly balanced water supplies are provided.
commissioned before starting the commissioning of major
capital plant (e.g. boilers and refrigeration plant). Many Full details relating to the commissioning of air and water
items of pre-commissioning can be performed before the systems are provided in the CIBSE and BSRIA commis-
plant is fully commissioned. sioning publications, which are listed in Appendix MA1.
 Pre-commissioning 9

M6.3 Control system requirements It is therefore essential to identify which systems are to be
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operational to allow phased completion and also how to

for plant commissioning prove them as complete and ready for operation as
independent entities.
As a minimum, t h e control system should be pre-
commissioned to allow the building services plant to A ‘certificate of readiness for employer’ (COR) can be a
operate under ‘manual’ running conditions. useful tool as part of this process. The COR is a series of
documents that gather together all of the submittal data,
Issues concerning the use of control systems as a plant tests reports, snag lists etc. and present them in such a way
commissioning tool are outlined in CIBSE Commissioning as to show that a particular system is complete and ready
Code C(24). to be set to work as designed and specified.

T h e COR is designed to enable all parties to identify a

particular mechanical or electrical system that is essential
M7 Commissioning for operation of the project and may need early completion
but which either contractually or logically cannot be
Guidance concerning the commissioning of building identified as complete before the issue of a certificate of
services systems is contained in CIBSE Commissioning (partial) completion.
Codes and other sources, such as those published by
BSRIA and the Commissioning Specialists Association. One example of where such a document could be applied
Further details of these are provided in Appendix MA1. is on a shell and core contract. Here the M&Esystems have
to be handed over to another contractor to enable the fit-
out work to be completed. It may be only after the end of
M7.1 Commissioning certification the defects liability period that the M&Esystems are fully
commissioned and running.
W h e n t h e commissioning procedures have been
satisfactorily completed, the commissioning specialist An example format for a certificate of readiness for
should certify that the system has been commissioned in employer is shown in Appendix M A 4
accordance with the project specification and the relevant
commissioning codes. T h e certificate should be
countersigned by the designer, the CMO and the accepting M7.3 BMS as a commissioning tool
authority who may be the contractor, design engineer,
client or some other witnessing authority. Where the control system is a BMS, it can provide a
monitoring facility which can help the commissioning
process. In particular, a BMS can demonstrate that the
The certificate should be accompanied by the appropriate
controls are working correctly, by logging their
supporting documentation, together with copies of the
performance and producing real-time data.
static completion certificates.
In this role, and once correctly set up and approved, the
T h e design of pro forma record sheets for the various data logging a n d display functions of a correctly
requirements for commissioning records and certification functioning BMS can be used to monitor and record the
is a matter for agreement between parties and is outside operation of the building services plant. In particular the
the scope of this Code. However, as a minimum, the basic BMS can:
information stated in the specific CIBSE Commissioning
Codes should be detailed. (a) monitor plant operating conditions, e.g. display
sensor readings by using trend logs and dynamic
trending
M7.2 Phased completion (b) indicate whether items of plant are operating
correctly
Phased completion may be a requirement of the contract
where a large and/or complex building services instal- (c) record and document test results.
lation is to be commissioned. Phased completion will need
the checking and handover procedures to be broken down
into manageable packages. T h e approach to phased
completion will depend on the nature of the building and
M8 Witnessing compliance
its engineering services. Where installed, a BMS can act as
a commissioning aid when phased completion is adopted, M8.1 Objective
however the availability of the BMS for use during the
commissioning process is likely to be determined by the The objective is formally to witness, on behalf of the client
terms of the contract, and not be a matter of choice by the or his/her representative, t h e degree to which t h e
commissioning management organisation. requirements of the commissioning specification have
been met. The commissioning management programme
Where there is the possibility of phased completion being prepared by the CMO should establish check points when
required, it is important that, as early as possible in the witnessing will occur; for example, when sections of an
contract, all the systems to be completed and commis- installation are deemed complete a n d suitable for
sioned early a n d ready for t h e employer’s use are witnessing, attendance at plant and system demon-
identified and agreed with the employer. strations, signing off certificates of completion.
 10 Com missioning management

I t should be noted that under Part L of the Building M8.3 Witnessing duties
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Regulations(’) there is a requirement for demonstrations to

be planned and witnessed. Witnessing duties may be undertaken by the CMO or other
organisation appointed by the client.

M8.2 Witnessing arrangements The witnessing agent should:

(a) be satisfied that, throughout the installation and
M8.2.1 Witnessing period balancing process, t h e requirements of t h e
commissioning specification and the appropriate
A specific period of time for client witnessing should be commissioning code have been met
indicated in the initial project programme, with a written
(b) check the flow rate at any selected flow measurement
contingency allowance.
point using a similar instrument and compare with
the data recorded by the commissioning engineer
M8.2.2 Witnessing requirements and with the designer’s requirements, which should
include any permitted tolerance
All requirements for witnessing should be expressed in an
agreed written format, copies of which should be made (c) check performance of all plant and systems
available to the commissioning specialist. This format (d) visually inspect any part of the system covered by
must contain full details of the tolerances applicable to all this section to ensure that certification is correct
parameters. Similarly, consideration should be given to
permissible tolerances on repeatability of measurement (e) countersign and endorse as necessary the certificate
readings. of the appointed commissioning specialist verifying
that systems have been balanced in accordance with
I n deciding the detailed requirements for witnessing the specification requirements
commissioning, the interaction of various aspects of an cf> where required, complete a separate witnessing
installation in determining its overall performance must certificate confirming satisfaction, one copy of
be borne in mind. For example, the commissioning of a which is handed to the commissioning specialist
water distribution system might be witnessed against the
requirements of CIBSE Commissioning Code W(29)and (g) check correct operation of the control system
t h e project specification. However, witnessing t h e (h) check the correct operation of life safety systems.
performance of heat exchangers connected to the water
distribution systems would interact with the commission-
ing of air distribution and automatic control systems as
well as of boiler and refrigeration plant. Witnessing is thus M9 Building log book
an all-embracing and interactive task and this must be
reflected in the agreed written format. I n accordance with Building Regulations Approved
Document L2(3),the owner/occupier ‘should be provided
M8.2.3 Particular arrangements for with a log book giving details of the installed building
witnessing services plant and controls, their method of operation and
maintenance, and other details that collectively enable
The following are essential arrangements for witnessing: energy consumption to be monitored and controlled.’

(a) the provision of a definitive statement of the site The requirement to produce a building log book needs to
attendance availability of the witnessing agent be set out in the design specification. Responsibility for
(b) the standards required its preparation and for ensuring its completion by a
specified period within the contract programme should
(c) the extent of witnessing which will be performed be included in the commissioning specification. The CMO
(d) additional requirements in the event of defaults is well placed to ensure that a satisfactory building log
(e.g. the number of additional items which must book, that complies with the requirements of Part L of
be witnessed for every one which fails to comply). the Building Regulations(’).

The contents of a building log book could include:

M8.2.4 Witnessing liaison
(a) a description of t h e building, including its
T h e witnessing agent should liaise in detail with the intended use
installer and the commissioning specialist, as necessary, a schedule of t h e floor areas of each zone
(b)
with regard to: categorised by environmental service type
(a) the means to be used to demonstrate that fluid the purpose of the individual building services
(c)
mass or volume flow rates are within the specified systems
tolerances
(d) the location of the relevant plant and equipment
(b) co-ordination requirements where the perform-
ance aspects to be witnessed interact with other (e) the installed capacities (input power and output
systems or equipment rating) of the services plant
(c) the running and monitoring period of the BMS to cf> simple descriptions of the operational and control
prove its functionality. strategies of the energy consuming services
 Building log book 11

Cg) a copy of the report confirming that the building References

Licensed copy from CIS: george.irwin@wspgroup.ae, WSP Management Services, 04/05/2017, Uncontrolled Copy.

services have been satisfactorily commissioned

1 Building Regulations 2000 Statutory Instruments 2000 No. 440
(h) operating and maintenance instructions including as amended by the Building (Amendment) Regulations 2001
provisions enabling the specified performance to Statutory Instruments 2001 No. 3335 (London: The Stationery
be sustained during occupation Office) (2000/200 1)

(i) a schedule of building’s energy supply meters 2 Conservation of fie1 and power in dwellings Building Regulations
including fuel type, location, identification and 2000 Approved Document L1 (London: The Stationery Office)
description (2001)

a design assessment of the carbon emissions and 3 Conservation of fuel and power in buildings other than dwellings
(j)
comparable performance benchmarks Building Regulations 2000 Approved Document L2 (London:
Stationery Office) (2001)
(k) the measured air permeability of the building.
4 Environmental design CIBSE Guide A (London: Chartered
Institution of Building Services Engineers) (1999)
5 Commissioning Of HVAC systems - division of responsibilities BSRIA
M10 System handover TM1/88 (Bracknell: Building Services Research a n d
Information Association) (1988)
System handover is the point where, to all intents and 6 Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 1994
purposes, the engineering systems are determined to be Statutory Instruments 1994 No. 3140 (London: The Stationery
complete and ready for the client. Once completion has Office) (1994)
been certified, the client takes over responsibility for the
7 Health a n d Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 ( L o n d o n : T h e
systems. Stationery Office) (1974)

The CMO can play a key role at this stage by co-ordinating 8 Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999
the activities needed to be achieved to reach this point, in Statutory Instruments 1999 No. 3242 (London: Her Majesty’s
accordance with the commissioning programme. T h e Stationery Office) (1999)
careful planning, organisation, co-ordination and control 9 Construction (Head Protection) Regulations 1989 Statutory
of the commissioning activities alongside other project Instrument 1989 No. 2209 (London: T h e Stationery Office)
processes are the key functions of the CMO. This role has (1989)
been identified as an essential function that needs to be 10 Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1996
made the specific responsibility of a designated party, e.g. Statutory Instruments 1996 No. 1592 (London: The Stationery
the CMO, to ensure certainty of delivery of the project, Office) (1996)
particularly where it is large and complex.
11 Confined Spaces Regulations 1997 Statutory Instruments 1997
No. 1713 (London: The Stationery Office) (1997)
The CMO may also co-ordinate the training of client and
other personnel in the operation and maintenance of the 12 Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992
installed systems as part of the handover process. It has Statutory Instruments 1992 No. 3004 (London: The Stationery
been found beneficial to support this with a report to the Office) (1992)
client on the effectiveness of the training provided. 13 Working Time Regulations 1999 Statutory Instruments 1999
No. 3372 (London: The Stationery Office) (1999)
A further role of the CMO, which has been found to be
beneficial to the client, is for the CMO to maintain a 14 Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 Statutory Instruments
1989 No. 635 (London: The Stationery Office) (1989)
presence on site for a period (e.g. six months) after
handover, possibly on a part time basis. This is to resolve 15 Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1994 Statutory
any issues which may arise after handover and to provide a Instruments 1994 No. 1886 (London: The Stationery Office)
focal point to ensure liaison continues to take place ( 1994)
between all parties involved in the construction process 16 Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations 1992
Statutory Instruments 1992 No. 2966 (London: The Stationery
Detailed information on responsibilities of parties during Office) (1992)
the handover process are given in BSRIA TN15/95:
17 Health and Safety (Display Screen Equipment) Regulations
Handover information for building services(30).
1992 Statutory Instruments 1992 No. 2792 (London: T h e
Stationery Office)
After handover there are several areas where a CMO can be
called upon. Examples include: 18 Provision and Use of Equipment at Work Regulations 1998
Statutory Instruments 1998 No. 2306 (London: The Stationery
- recommissioning of the building services during Office) (1998)
subsequent stages of the life of the building
19 Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 Statutory Instruments
- following major changes or adaptations 2000 No. 128 (London: The Stationery Office) (2000)
- periodic validation of control system settings, 20 Noise at Work Regulations 1989 Statutory Instruments 1989
particularly where occupation or use has changed No. 1790 (London: The Stationery Office) (1999)
- periodic building checks as required 21 Notification of Cooling Towers and Evaporative Condensers
Regulations 1992 Statutory I n s t r u m e n t s 1992 No. 2225
- decommissioning of t h e building or specific (London: The Stationery Office) (1992)
services
22 Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 1999
- mothballing the building prior to a period when Statutory Instruments 1999 No. 437 (London: The Stationery
the building is out of use. Office) (1999)
 12 Commissioning management

23 Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 Statutory 35 Commissioning of water systems in buildings BSRIA AG2/89.2
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Instruments 1999 No. 1148 (London: The Stationery Office) (Bracknell: Building Services Research a n d Information
(1999) Association) (1998)
24 Automatic control systems CIBSE Commissioning Code C 36 Commissioning of air systems in buildings BSRIA AG3/89.2
(London: Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) (Bracknell: Building Services Research a n d Information
(2001) Association) (1998)
25 Dicks M Commissioning Management: How to achieve a fully 37 Commissioning of pipework systems - design considerations BSRIA
functioning building BSRIA AG 5/2002 (Bracknell: Building AG20/95 (Bracknell: Building Services Research a n d
Services Research and Information Association) (2002) Information Association) (1996)
26 Specification for sheet metal ductwork - low, medium and high 38 Commissioning of VAV systems in buildings BSRIA AG1/91
pressure/velocity systems HVCA DW/144 (London: Heating and (Bracknell: Building Services Research a n d Information
Ventilating Contractors Association) (1998) Association) (1991)
27 Guide to good practice - internal cleanliness of new ductwork 39 Pre-commissioning cleaning of water systems BSRIA AG 8/91
installations HVCA TM2 (London: Heating and Ventilating (Bracknell: Building Services Research and Information
Contractors Association) (1991) Association) (1991)
28 Cleanliness of ventilation systems - guide to good practice HVCA
40 White water balancing CSA Guidance Note GN/1 (Horsham:
T R 1 7 ( L o n d o n : H e a t i n g a n d Ventilating Contractors
Commissioning Specialists Association)
Association) (1998)
41 Automatic balancing devices CSA G u i d a n c e Note GN/2
29 Water distribution systems CIBSE Commissioning Code W
(Horsham: Commissioning Specialists Association)
( L o n d o n : Chartered I n s t i t u t i o n of Building Services
Engineers) (2003) 42 Variable volume water systems CSA Guidance Note GN/3
(Horsham: Commissioning Specialists Association)
30 Handover information for building services BSRIA TN15/95
(Bracknell: Building Services Research a n d Information 43 Bacteria within closed circuitlpipework systems CSA Guidance Note
Association) (1995) GN/4 (Horsham: Commissioning Specialists Association)
31 A i r distribution systems CIBSE Commissioning Code A 44 Standard specification for the commissioning of mechanical engineering
( L o n d o n : Chartered I n s t i t u t i o n of Building Services services installations for buildings CSA Technical Memorandum
Engineers) (2002) TM/1 (Horsham: Commissioning Specialists Association)
32 Boilers CIBSE Commissioning Code B (London: Chartered 45 Health and safety legislation affecting commissioning CSA
Institution of Building Services Engineers) (2002) Technical Memorandum TM/5 (Horsham: Commissioning
33 Lighting CIBSE Commissioning Code L (London: Chartered Specialists Association)
Institution of Building Services Engineers) (2003)
46 Water treatment and the commissioning engineer CSA Technical
34 Refrzgerating systems CIBSE Commissioning Code R (London: Memorandum TM/9 (Horsham: Commissioning Specialists
Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) (2002) Association)
 ~

Appendix MA1: Guidance documents on commissioning specific building services 13

Appendix MA1:Guidance documents on commissioning specific building

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services
CIBSE Commissioning Codes: - AG8/91: Pre-commission cleaning of water systems(39)
- Code A: Air distribution systems(31) - AG512002: Commissioning management - how to
- Code B: Boilers(32) achieve a fully functioning building(24)
- Code C: Automatic controls(25) The Commissioning Specialists Association publishes the
- Code L: Lighting(33) following Guidance Notes and Technical Memoranda:
- Code R: Refigerating systems(34) - GN11: White water balancing(40)
- Code W: Water distribution systems(29) - GNl2: Automatic balancing devices(41)
- GNl3: Variable volume water systems(42)
Further commissioning guidance is provided in the
- GNl4: Bacteria within closed circuitlpipework
following BSRIA publications:
systems(43)
- AG2189.2: The commissioning of water systems in
buildings(35) - TM11: Standard specification for commissioning and
-
commissioning management(+')
AG3189.2: The commissioning of air systems i n
buildings(36) - TMIS : Health and safety legislation affecting
- commissioning(45)
TM1188: Commissioning HVAC systems - division of
re~ponsibilities(~) - TMl9: Water treatment and the commissioning
- engineer(46)
AG20195: Commissioning of pipework systems -
design considerations(37)
T h e scope and relationships between these various
- AG1191: Commissioning of v~v systems in buildings(38) publications is set out in Table MA1.

Table MAL1 Building services commissioning: summary of codes and guidance

Subject Publication title
Commissioning management CIBSE Commissioning Code M: Commissioning management
BSRIA AG512002: Commissioning management - how to achieve afully functioning building(24)
CSA TMIl : Standard speclfication for commissioning and commissioning management(44)
CSA TMIS: Health and safety legislation affecting
Air systems CIBSE Commissioning Code A: Air distribution systems(31)
BSRIA AG3189.2: The commissioning of air systems in buildings(36)
BSRIA TM1188: Commissioning of HVAC systems - division of re~ponsibilities(~)
BSRIA AG1/91: Commissioning of v~vsystemsin buildings(38)
Boilers CIBSE Commissioning Code B: Boilers(32)
Controls CIBSE Commissioning Code C: Automatic controls(2S)
Lighting CIBSE Commissioning Code L:
Refrigeration CIBSE Commissioning Code R: RefitgeTating systems(34)
Water systems CIBSE Commissioning Code W: Water distribution systems(29)
BSRIA AG8191: Pre-commission cleaning of water systems(39)
BSRIA AG20195: Commissioning of pipework systems - design consideration^(^')
BSRIA AG2189.2: The commissioning of water systems in buildings(3s)
CSA GN11: White water balancing('"')
CSA GN/2: Automatic balancing dariced41)
CSA GNl3: Variable volume water systems(42)
CSA GNl4: Bacteria within closed circuitlpipework systems(43)
CSA TW9: Water treatment and the commissioning engineer(46)
 14 Commissioning management

Appendix MA2: Example responsibility matrix

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Activity Activity description Commissioning Building services Main contractor (MC) Consulting engineer (CE)
number management organisation contractor (BSC)
(CMO) I I I
Review design drawings Action, and advise CE. IAdvise MC of any ILiaise and assist all parties. [Review comments and
and specifications for Coordinate any comments comments. action as appropriate.
commissioning from BSC and MC.
requirements.
Review installation Action, and advise MC/CE. Prepare and submit for Coordinate, supervise and Review, comment and
drawings and technical review. Action any direct/instruct as issue directives to MC if
submissions from BSC for comments as instructed by appropriate. applicable.
commissioning MC.
requirements.
Review installations with Supervise inspection of Receive CMO reports, and Coordinate, supervise, and Review, comment and
respect to compliance with installations, and issue action as necessary. direcdinstruct as issue directives to MC if
specifications and drawing reports to MC. appropriate. applicable.
intent for commissioning.
4 Production of detailed Procure information from Submit information, and Review programme with Review, comment and
coordinated commission- BSC. Prepare programme, liaise with CMO. regard to impact on accept.
ing programme, including discuss with MC, and issue construction process. Issue
revisions and updating. to all parties for comment. comments and approve.
-
5 Production of detailed Guide and assist in their Discuss format and Receive, review and Review, comment and
commissioning method production. Review and content with CMO. Produce approve. Liaise with accept.
statements, including pre- ‘accept content. Liaise with method statements. CE/CMO.
commissioning, setting to ~MC/CE.

6
work, and interface tests.
Testing and pre- IProcure procedures from
1
ISubmit information and IReview/comment and IReview, comment and
commissioning, including BSC and suppliers for liaise with CMO. Complete approve. Carry out spot accept. Spot check as
off-site works testing. (As approval. Witness and outstanding works checks. required.
requested) validate tests and results. schedules.
-
7 Production of project Prepare and issue pro Liaise with CMO. Receive, review and Review, comment and
specific test sheets. forma sheets, including approve. accept.
interface and performance
tests.
-8 Monitor and report on Prepare spreadsheets to be Assist CMO during Receive and review reports Review and comment.
commissioning progress. used to monitor all monitoring process. and circulate. Monitor
progress. Issue and update progress, and manage any
at regular intervals. programme changes.

Monitor progress. Carry Review, comment and

tests and pre-commission. ensure accurate recording records, and demonstrate. out spot checks. accept. Spot checks as
of all results, in accordance required.
with method statements.
10 Pipework system flushing, Monitor, witness, and Implement activities, Monitor progress. Carry Review, comment and
cleaning and dosing. ensure accurate recording prepare records, and issue out spot checks. accept. Spot checks as
of all results, in accordance analysis reports. required.
with method statements.
11 Setting to work of plant Direct BSC, giving guidance Execute all planned Monitor progress. Witness Carry out spot checks, and
and systems, commis- as necessary. Witness activities. Demonstrate as required. witness activities on a
sioning and performance activities, and ensure selected items to MC/CE as selective basis.
testing in accordance with accurate recording of directed.
programme. results.
12 Prepare testing and Action and submit to MC. Liaise with MC and supply Monitor progress. Issue Review, comment, and
commissioning reports, all relevant documen- directiveslinstructions to accept. Issue directives to
incorporating all plant and ration. Action adjustments BSC as appropriate. MC as appropriate.
system test results. to system performance as
advised or instructed by
MC.

’ 13 Prepare ‘models’ for record Monitor preparation, and Submit information, and Monitor progress. Liaise Review, comment and
documents/drawings, and comment on submissions liaise with CMO. with client. Issue directive: accept.
O&M manual format. via MC. to BSC as appropriate.
14 Statutory demonstrations Manage and coordinate the Execute all planned Monitor progress. Attend Review, comment and
demonstration of all life activities in conjunction demonstrations. attend demonstrations.
safety systems as required, with the MC.
to the statutory authorities.
15 Prepare final record Receive, collate, and com- Submit record documents Issue to client, and Review, comment and
documents ment on submissions by for approval, and liaise coordinate all comments accept.
BSC. Advise on CDM issues. with MC. Update to suit with BSC.
comments.
 Appendix MA2: Example responsibility matrix 15
Licensed copy from CIS: george.irwin@wspgroup.ae, WSP Management Services, 04/05/2017, Uncontrolled Copy.

Activity Activity description Commissioning Building services Main contractor (MC) Consulting engineer (CE)
number management organisation contractor (BSC)
(CMO)
16 Client/end user awareness Coordinate activities, and Liaise with MC, and be Liaise with the clientlend Monitor status.
and liaison advise the client of all responsive to the user.
potential operational client/end user's needs.
implications.
17 Clientlend user training ICoordinate and manage Liaise with CMO. CO- Monitor progress and Review, comment and
programme. 'BSC contractual ordinate the activities of participate. Liaise with accept. Participate as
obligations. Prepare specialist suppliers. client/end user. required.
 16 Commissioning management

Appendix MA3: Designer’s checklist for commissionability

Licensed copy from CIS: george.irwin@wspgroup.ae, WSP Management Services, 04/05/2017, Uncontrolled Copy.

T h e following checklist is applicable to all sizes of Issues. which impinge upon the commissionability of
installations: building services systems include the following:
Has the appointment of a CMO been considered? Appropriate control strategies and set points: control
strategies must be appropriate for the building
Has the appointment of a commissioning specialist services systems and intended application.
been considered?
Packaged systems: ideally, as much use as possible
Can the system be commissioned in accordance should be made of ‘packaged’ systems which use
with the specification and CIBSE Commissioning pre-configured and pre-commissioned control
Codes? equipment and are suitable for use in the intended
climatic conditions.
Can the installed services be adequately and safely
maintained after handover? Interaction with existing or other control equipment:
most instances of integration involve the use of
Have validation checks at manufacturers’ works gateways. It is important that any gateway is fully
been allowed for on the major plant items? developed and appropriate for t h e intended
Have patented systems been checked or tested control and/or monitoring application. The impact
rather than assumed to be working? of the complexity and timescale of the integration
on the overall commissioning process should be
Has sufficient detail design information been carefully considered.
provided especially in respect of control regimes,
Fire alarm system: any interaction with fire alarm
including set-points, system flow rates and plant
systems will require the approval of a fire officer or
capacities? building control officer. The overall impact of this
Is the specification definitive in its content of the on building occupation should be considered. In
commissioning responsibilities, acceptance criteria practice, most fire or building control officers will
and tolerances? only accept interaction with an autonomous fire
alarm system, i.e. where the fire alarm system con-
Is the specification adequately detailed in respect tinues to operate as normal should the integration
of protection of plant and equipment during with the building control system fail.
transportation, installation, commissioning and
Sensor type and location: it is important that the
testing?
correct type and accuracy of sensor is used for the
Has a feedback procedure been implemented to intended app1ication(l0).Advice should be sought
recognise a n d address design problems that from sensor manufacturers concerning application
manifest during commissioning and testing in and installation issues.
order to prevent repetition on future projects? Access to control equipment: adequate access to
control equipment must be provided. This should
The following can simplify system commissioning. include access to field control devices which may
provide correct design information to allow the be installed in control cabinets, air handling units
selection of appropriate devices and terminal devices. Adequate access should also
be allowed for the checking and removal of sensors
design for self balancing wherever possible and actuators.
balance pressure drops across sub-branches and Adequate control system specification details: these are
terminal units essential for the commissioning process. Further
information on the necessary documentation are
avoid using different terminal units on the same provided in CIBSE Commissioning Code C(25),
branch section C3.2.
use reverse return pipework layouts
In addition to the above issues, which directly relate to
use automatic balancing valves control systems, it is essential that the building services
use variable speed drives for fan a n d p u m p systems are inherently controllable in terms of their
regulation where appropriate fundamental design, sizing and commissioning. T h e
commissioning of the control system can be simplified if
use computer analysis to determine settings for the commissioning of the building services systems are
pre-set valves. simplified.
 Appendix MA4: Example certificate of readiness 17

Appendix MA4: Example certificate of readiness

Licensed copy from CIS: george.irwin@wspgroup.ae, WSP Management Services, 04/05/2017, Uncontrolled Copy.

READY FOR EMPLOYER'S USE Certificate number:

Job number:

I Project: I Floor:
I Building: I Zonearea:

I System:

I Base shop drawing: I Rev: I Date:

See attached A4-size copy of relevant part of drawing and system schematic

Activity 1 Checked I Date

1 I Water pipe hydraulic tests

2 1 Water pipe cleaned and treated I I I

3 1 Duct pressure tests
4 Ductwork cleaned
5 Electrical cable insulation tests
6 Switchgea r/sta rter f unctio ns
7 Air balance and volume checks
8 I Water balance and volume checks
9 1 Base system pre-commissioning complete

10 I Building automation system proved

~___ ~
I I I
11 Fire alarm system proved

12 I Building security system proved I I I

13 1 Commissioning complete (If necessary with simulated thermal conditions) 1 I I
1
14 Architectural snagging complete

15 I Mechanical snagging complete I I I

16 Electrical snagging complete
I

I Signed: for trade contractor I Date:

ISigned: for consultant 1 Date: I

ISigned: for commissioning manager 1 Date:'
I
 18 Commissioning management

Index Commissioning engineer

Licensed copy from CIS: george.irwin@wspgroup.ae, WSP Management Services, 04/05/2017, Uncontrolled Copy.

definition M0.6 2
Section Page Commissioning management MO 1
Access M3.3 6 contractual relationship M2.2 5-6
MA3 16 M2.3 6
Air leakage testing M6.2 8 definition M0.6 3
Air systems M6.2 8 quality assurance M5 7-8
Commissioning management organisation
Balancing definition M0.6 3
definition M0.6 2 handover M10 11
design for commissionability M3.4 7 log books M9 10
MA2 14 pre-commissioning M6.2 8
pre-commissioning M6.2 8 selection and appointment M2.2 5
witnessing duties M8.3 10 witnessing duties M8.3 10
BMS (building management systems) M4.2 7 Commissioning manager M2.1 5
M7.3 9 Commissioning plan M0.6 3
M8.2 10 M5 8
BSRIA AG 5/2002: Commissioning management M2.1 5 Commissioning programmes MO 1
BSRIA T M 1/88: Commissioning HVAC systems: division M4.1 7
of responsibilities M0.8 4 M10 11
BSRIA TN 15/95: Handover information for building witnessing M8.1 9
services M10 11 M8.2 10
Building management systems (BMS) M4.2 7 Commissioning records - see Documentation
M7.3 9 Commissioning specialist
M8.2 10 definition M0.6 3
Building Regulations 2000: Approved Document L1 MO. 1 1 Commissioning specification M0.6 3
M0.4 1-2 M4.2 7
M0.7 4 MA2 14
Building Regulations 2000: Approved Document L2 MO. 1 1 designers’ duties M3.2 6
M0.4 1-2 M3.4 6
M0.7 4 log books M9 10
log books M9 10 witnessing duties M8.3 10
witnessing M8.1 10 Commissioning timetable - see Commissioning plan;
Building services plant Commissioning programmes
commissioning M6.2 8 Communications M2.3 5-6
Completion certificates M0.6 2
Calibration M7.1 9
definition M0.6 2 Construction (Design and Management)
Calibration certificates M0.7 4 Regulations 1994 M1.l 4
Certificates Contract variations M4.1 7
air leakage tests M6.2 8 Contractual relationships M2.2 5-6
calibration M0.7 4 M2.3 6
completion M0.6 2 Control strategies MA2 14
M7.1 9 Control systems M6.3 9
pressure tests M6.2 8 commissioning specification M4.2 7
readiness for employer M7.2 9 specification MA2 14
MA3 15 witnessing duties M8.3 10
static completion M7.1 9 -see also Building management systems (BMS)
witnessing M8.3 10 Control valves M6.2 8
Change control mechanisms M4.1 7
Checklists M4.1 7 Dampers M6.2 8
M6.2 8 Design criteria
MA2 14 definition M0.6 3
CIBSE Commissioning Code C: Automatic controls M3.1 6 Design for commissionability M3 6
M6.3 9 MA3 16
CIBSE Commissioning Code W: Water distribution Designer
systems M8.2 10 definition M3.2
CIBSE Guide A: Environmental design M0.4 2 Designers’ checklist MA2
Cleaning M6.2 8 Documentation M0.3
CMO - see Commissioning management organisation M0.7
Commissionability contract variations M4.1
checklists MA2 14 design M3.2
definition M0.6 2 witnessing requirements M8.2
design for M3 6 - see also Certificates; Checklists; Guidance
MA2 14 documents
requirement for M0.3 1 Ductwork M6.2 8
Commissionable system
definition M0.6 2 Energy consumption M0.4 2
Commissioning M7 9 Energy sources
building services plant M6.2 8 definition M0.6 3
definition M0.6 2
importance of M0.4 1-2 Fans M6.2 8
programming and co-ordination M4 7 Fine tuning
Commissioning completion certificates M0.6 2 definition M0.6 3
M7.1 9 Fire alarm systems MA2 14
 Index 19

Fire dampers M6.2 8 Programming and co-ordination M4 7

Licensed copy from CIS: george.irwin@wspgroup.ae, WSP Management Services, 04/05/2017, Uncontrolled Copy.

Flow measurement devices M6.2 8 M10 11

Flow rates M6.2 8 Proportional balancing - see Balancing
M8.2 10 Pump flow rates M6.2 8
M8.3 10
Flushing M6.2 8 Quality assurance M5 7-8

Gateways MA2 14 Records - see Documentation

Guidance documents MA 1 13 Regulating valves M6.2 8
Regulation
Handover M0.7 4 definition M0.6 3
M10 11 Reports
Health and safety - see Safety pre-commissioning M6.2 8
Responsibilities M0.8 4
Indoor environmental conditions M0.4 2 MA4 16-17
Inspections commissioning managers’ M2.1 5
M5 7-8
Installations MS 8
definition M10 11
M0.6 3
designers’ M3.2 6
quality assurance M5 7-8 specification M4.2 7
Isolating valves M6.2 8 Risk assessments M4.1 7
M6.1 8
Leakage testing
definition M0.6 3 Safety M1 4-5
Legislation M1 4-5 M4.1 7
Life safety - see Safety designers’ duties M3.2 6
Log books M0.6 3 witnessing duties M8.3 10
M9 10-1 1 Sensors MA2 14
Setting to work
Maintenance manual definition M0.6 3
definition M0.6 3 Smoke dampers M6.2 8
Method statements M4.1 7 Specification
M6.1 8 definition M0.6 3
Monitoring M4.1 7 - see also Commissioning specification
M7.3 9 Static completion
definition M0.6 3
Operating levels Static completion certificates M7.1 9
definition M0.6 3 System
Operation and maintenance manual definition M0.6 3
definition M0.6 3 - see also Commissionable system
definition
Packaged equipment M6.2 8 System handover M0.7 4
MA2 14 M10 11
Performance testing System proving
definition definition M0.6 4
M0.6 3
Phased completion M4.2 7
Test holes M6.2 8
M7.2 9
Test instrument
Portable instrument
definition
. definition M0.6 3
M0.6 3 Testing M0.6 4
Post-occupancy checks M0.3 1
M0.7 4
M4.2 7 Tolerances M3.2 6
Pre-commissioning M0.3 1 M8.2 10
M6 8 Training M10 11
checklists M6.2 8
control systems M6.3 9 Valves M6.2 8
definition M0.6 3 Venting M6.2 8
in commissioning specification M4.2 7
Pressure test certificates M6.2 8 Water systems M6.2 8
Pressure testing Wi messing M4.2 7
definition M0.6 3 M8 9-10
Licensed copy from CIS: george.irwin@wspgroup.ae, WSP Management Services, 04/05/2017, Uncontrolled Copy.

The Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers

222 Balham High Road, London SW12 9BS
+44 20 8675 5211
www.cibse.org