Commissioning and Start-Up.

Commissioning

Commissioning process carries out verification, testing, demonstration and start-up of the installed equipment and ensures that all systems meet the design intent. This is accomplished by developing and implementing a commissioning plan that provides direction on as to how the project will be commissioned. The commissioning plan is supported by some of the following major elements:

  • Scope of work
  • Document owner’s commissioning requirements
  • Communication and Management Plan
  • Schedule
  • Commissioning Organization
  • RACI Matrix
  • Turnover Process
  • Transfer of Control
Commissioning is established as an integral part of the project and at this stage it is developed and performed the following:

Identify Systems

The commissioning team works from the pre-design phase to develop a list of systems, sub systems and components.

Design Reviews

The commissioning team carries out a review of design documents (drawings and specifications) as they are produced, particularly from the valuable and practical perspective of extensive field experience.

Commissioning Specifications

The commissioning team reviews the specifications to ensure inclusion of material describing the contractor’s responsibilities related to commissioning.

Expanding on the pre-design phase scope of commissioning the team prepares the commissioning plan based on the final and complete design information.
The commissioning plan submitted to the owner for their review and acceptance typically includes the following:

  • The scope of commissioning
  • The commissioning team and responsibility matrix
  • Reference documents
  • Commissioning Communication Plan
  • System-specific details
  • O&M staff orientation and training
  • Documentation requirements
  • Schedule
The commissioning plan is implemented during the construction phase with an integrated approach of the construction and commissioning teams. Communication is key deliverable turnover process and for the success of the project.
The commissioning plan for this phase typically refers to the following activities:

  • Support for Commissioning
  • Coordinate Planning
  • Review Commissioning Procedures
  • Observe Site Installation
  • Monitor Project Schedule
  • System Verification Checks
  • Punch List
  • Address the deficiency list and Re-test
  • Documentation and Training
  • Preparation for Functional Performance Test phase
The acceptance phase involves functional performance tests of specified systems after the completion and documentation of the installation. During this phase the owner’s staff receives the documentation and training necessary to become familiar with all installed systems. Acceptance of systems by the owner initiates warranties required by project specifications.

For this stage of the project the commissioning plan provides guidelines on the following:

  • Documentation of construction phase
  • Documentation of pre-operational tests
  • Commissioning Report
  • Execution of Functional Performance Tests (FPTs)
  • Turnover
  • Transfer of Control to operations