In the world of construction projects and technical installations, commissioning is an important step in ensuring that systems function correctly and meet the client’s expectations as well as laws and regulations. In this blog article, we’ll tell you more about the what and why of the basics of this concept.
New construction
There are several components within commissioning. In new construction, for example, we look with you from the design stage to ensure that everything meets the customer’s demand specifications. Consider size, cooling, heating et cetera. We look at the drawings with you and can make any necessary adjustments and improvements already in the foundation. During the construction phase, we check that everything is realized according to the drawings and that all connections are working, such as fire alarms and elevators. From all that, we issue a report. This report is a valuable reference for the client, but also provides transparency and accountability. It goes without saying that we check not only that everything matches the client’s requirements, but also that it complies with applicable regulations and standards.
Existing construction
Another component of commissioning is existing construction. The client has a building that was once completed, or is renting it, and wants to know if it still meets specifications. Case in point: a rental building had a capacity of 500 people, but complained of poor air quality and high employee absenteeism due to sick days. Finally, measurement and monitoring were based on air quality and CO2. When the people were counted, it was found that over 800 people worked in the building. That, too, is commissioning.
Different parts
The main principles of commissioning are:
- planning and design
- control of the construction and installation phase
- functional tests
- documentation and reporting
Why is commissioning important?
There are several reasons why commissioning is so important is:
- agreements and results are established for now and later
- problems are identified in a timely manner and project turnaround time is ensured
- delivery is not delayed
- prevention of failure costs
- the building/plant meets the safety requirements set forth
- the commissioner serves as arbitrator where necessary
Independent
D-TACS is the first and largest independent commissioning company in the Netherlands. This is what sets us apart from our competitors. Engineering firms and consulting firms must also perform the task of commissioning because of legislation, but then you are no longer independent. That could be compared to a butcher inspecting his own meat.
Contact
We are here to take the worry out of “auditing” your installations. Many major clients – such as Schiphol, Shell and the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment – have already gone before you. In view of The Building Quality Assurance Act (Wkb), the responsibility for demonstrating construction quality lies with the construction industry itself. Quality assurance officers from companies only look visually, but not installation-wise. We do look at that. Want to find out more about the basics of commissioning or have other questions? If so, please contact with us.
