Construction management: production information

This stage is concerned with preparing the information that the trade contractors will need to construct the project. It should also include the completion of applications for statutory approvals. In this work plan we suggest the construction manager is appointed on completion of concept design. Earlier or later appointment will result in some activities being re-allocated between the consultant team and the construction manager (for example the role of cost consultant).

[edit] Starting the work stage.

The lead consultant co-ordinates a work stage start-up meeting with the client, construction manager and the consultant team to pass on feedback from the previous stage and agree the programme for the preparation of production information, along with its format, identification of work packages, sequencing and co-ordination procedures, including co-ordinating and integrating information from specialist trade contractors.

There should be a particular emphasis on equipment with long manufacturing times such as switchgear, chiller units, lifts, escalators and bespoke cladding systems, some of which may justify early ordering. The front-end construction work of service diversions, demolition, setting out, underground drainage, piling and groundworks may merit placing of preliminary contracts.

[edit] Agreeing tendering and construction procedures

The construction manager instigates discussions with the client regarding tendering and construction. Discussions might include:

1. The possible use of preliminary contracts (for works such as ground exploration, demolition, decontamination or site clearance).
2. The possibility of ordering long-lead items (such as switchgear, transformers, or booking piling rigs).
3. The form of contract and contract conditions for works contracts (if this has not already been agreed).
4. The nature of warranties and performance bonds that will be required from trade contractors.
5. Exclusions from the contract.
6. The date of possession and any phasing requirements.
7. Tender procedures and the tender period.
8. Any client contributions required for the contract documents.
9. Insurance of the works.
10. The need to appoint site inspectors.
11. The need to appoint party wall surveyor(s) or rights of light surveyors.

[edit] Preparing production information and completing statutory approvals.

The lead designer prepares a schedule of production information, responsibilities for its preparation, a programme for its preparation and a document control system for version control.

The lead designer co-ordinates:

• The preparation and integration of production information. Any gaps in this information that will require specialist input after a tender process should be clearly defined, showing abutment details to adjacent work faces and how such work is integrated into the overall scheme.
• The preparation of schedules of inspections and tests, mock ups and samples.
• The preparation of a draft building user's guide and a building log book.
• The establishment of quality control systems and setting out criteria.
• Outstanding information needed for building regulations and other statutory approvals (such as negotiations with the Highways England, structural calculations, CO2 emission rate and a list of specifications used in the CO2 emission rate calculations) which must be submitted before works start on site.

The consultant team or construction manager may prepare or develop the site waste management plan if required.

The lead designer, consultant team and construction manager undertake a design review of the production information and make amendments or additions as necessary.

The construction manager develops the draft preliminaries document, draft tender documents and proposed contract conditions for the trade contracts (including relevant pre-construction services) and assesses any changes relative to the approximate quantities cost plan.

The lead consultant co-ordinates the preparation of a production information report for the client including any remaining components, assemblies, specialist items, samples or materials still requiring approval by client.

The construction manager and client should ensure that relevant party wall notices have been served.

The client considers the production information report and if necessary issues instructions to the lead consultant regarding changes required.