Building Commissioning Guidelines PDF
Building Commissioning Guidelines PDF
Building
Commissioning
Guidelines
MARCH 2019
Contents 2
1 GLOSSARY OF TERMS 3
2 Introduction 5
3 General Information 7
4 Project Classification 8
6 Re-commissioning 22
1 GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Term Definition
Basis of Design (BOD) A standalone document, produced by the design team, that records the concepts,
analysis, decisions, and system/product selections used to meet the Owner’s
Project Requirements (OPR) and to satisfy applicable regulatory requirements,
standards, and guidelines. The document lists individual items that support
the design process and may include narrative descriptions of systems. The
Commissioning Provider (CxP) reviews the BOD against the OPR and reports back
to the Owner.
Commissioning (Cx) Plan Document that outlines and specifies the commissioning processes, roles and
responsibilities, resources required, schedule and sequence, for new or renovated
building projects and systems.
Commissioning Provider The entity identified by the Owner or BC Housing who leads, plans, schedules
(CxP) and coordinates the commissioning team to implement the commissioning
process. This is an independent 3rd party personnel working under a separate
contract directly with the Owner or BC Housing. The CxP provides the Owner an
unbiased, objective view of the systems: installation, documentation, operation,
performance and witnessing of tasks and tests.
Contractor’s Individuals, each having authority to act and report on behalf of the entity they
Commissioning Agent represent, explicitly organized to implement the commissioning tasks required for
(CxAg) within their respective contracts (such as mechanical, electrical, etc) and aiding
in the overall commissioning (Cx) process through coordinated actions, within the
Cx Team.
Functional Testing Testing of system against the specified sequence of operation. This includes
testing of various modes of operation, failure scenarios, alarms, etc.
Issues Log Issues logs are a formal and ongoing record of problems or concerns—and their
resolution—that have been raised by members of the commissioning team during
the course of the commissioning process.
Owner’s Project A stand-alone document that details the functional requirements of the
Requirements (OPR) building systems installed as part of the project. The OPR document is critical
to the commissioning Process because it forms the foundation for the design,
construction, occupancy and operation of the facility and is the standard that
will be used for verification. The Owner will create the OPR at conceptual design
stage and the document may evolve as decisions are made to reflect the current
project requirements of the Owner.
Operations and A required set of documents that provides information on the operation and
Maintenance Manual maintenance of the building. (i.e.. List of systems, operating instructions,
(O&M) maintenance and lubrication instructions, Installation, operation and maintenance
information, etc.)
Pre-functional Testing This is analogous to static verification to conduct and verify proper installation
of equipment. Pre-functional checklists are primarily static inspections and
procedures to prepare the equipment or system for initial operation. Pre-
functional checklists augment and are combined with Manufacturer’s Equipment
Start-up Checklist.
Static Verification This is analogous to pre-functional or static checks, and entails reviewing
equipment installations against the design documents and equipment installation
manuals.
Start-up Verification A process to physically witness equipment start-up or review the equipment after
it is operational.
2 Introduction
BC Housing is providing an updated set of commissioning guidelines, encompassing both new
development and renovation/capital improvement projects, financed or funded by BC Housing.
This guideline document explains the commissioning needs of such projects, in accordance with
the type and complexity of each project.
Commissioning is an integrated set of activities intended to ensure that a project meets both
the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) and the operational needs. The Owner’s goals and
objectives should drive the project team. The value of commissioning lies in its power to verify
and document that all building systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested,
operated and maintained to meet those goals and objectives.
Historically, the term “commissioning” has referred to the process by which only the heating,
ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems of a building were tested and balanced
according to established standards prior to acceptance by the building Owner/Operator. Today’s
use of commissioning recognizes the integrated nature of all building systems’ performance,
which impact sustainability, improve occupant comfort, productivity and indoor air quality, and
reduce maintenance and operating expenses.
The commissioning process focuses upon verifying and documenting that all of the commissioned
systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained
to meet the OPR. This guide provides an overall framework for building commissioning for
different types of BC Housing projects, systems to be commissioned, and commissioning
activities depending on buildings type from project planning through post-occupancy, covering
the roles and responsibilities of each project participant in support of the process. It is the
Owner/Operator’s way of making sure that the systems are installed properly, calibrated as
planned, and performing according to project requirements. This guide aims to streamline
the commissioning process, ensure that the systems are installed properly and performing
according to the contract documents and enable the Owner/Operator to improve building
handover and operation.
While recognizing that every project is unique and that required activities will vary, this guide
provides the minimum requirements of commissioning for BC Housing projects depending
on the project sizes and best practices based upon industry guidance. The level and depth of
commissioning required for the project will be determined by the size and complexity of the
project itself and by the needs defined in the OPR.
The consultant team shall consult the re-zoning and building commissioning by-law requirements
before establishing the commissioning activities for the project. Regardless of whether a
third-party (3rd party) Commissioning Provider (CxP) is hired by the Owner or BC Housing, the
consultant team shall ensure that the contract documents are in accordance with the OPR,
basis of design, BC Housing Design Guidelines, other project specific requirements, building
code, bylaws and requirements of authorities having jurisdiction and that the commissioning
requirements and process for all building systems and integration of the systems are outlined
in the contract documents. The general contractor is ultimately responsible for ensuring that
all building systems and integration of the systems are operating and functioning as intended in
the contract documents.
There are four options (Article 5.1.2. Third Party Commissioning Provider Scope And
Responsibilities) of implementing the 3rd party independent commissioning process initiated
by the Owner/BC Housing. The Owner/BC Housing is responsible for choosing one of the four
options based upon the local re-zoning by-laws, project classification and size/complexity of the
building to complete the commissioning process at a minimum.
The primary audience for this guide are the Owner/Operator of the building, its non–profit
society, development team including consultants, construction manager/contractor, and the
Commissioning Provider. The secondary audience for this guide include the many stakeholders
in the commissioning process including the balance of the project team as well as other funding
partners of the project.
3 General Information
The aim of the commissioning process is to confirm that the building systems are functioning and operating
in accordance with the OPR, the basis of design, and contract documents. Full commissioning requires the
systematic review of activities during all project phases including design, construction, verification and
testing, and post-occupancy.
All building systems are integrated, therefore a defect in one or more of the components can result in
suboptimal operation and performance among other components. A properly executed commissioning
process clearly expresses the OPR along with a variety of benefits including:
•• improved systems and equipment function and extended life cycle; and
•• better building documentation and improved building operation and maintenance (O&M).
In 2018, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory and the Building Commissioning Association (BCxA)
updated a previous study from 2009 which included the survey data on the costs of commissioning. They
found that from 2009 to 2018 the cost of full building commissioning had gone down significantly. The
median cost was found to be $0.82/sq.ft., with the 25th percentile at $0.40/sq.ft. and the 75th percentile at
$1.06/sq.ft.
At BC Housing, the average cost of full building commissioning has been approximately 0.5% of the
project’s gross capital budget. The cost can be lower for high rise buildings with single use occupancy.
Considering that the O&M costs for the lifecycle of a building can be up to 80% of the total project cost; a
less than 1% upfront spend on advanced commissioning can lead to a savings expected within the first 5
years (or 10% of a building’s lifespan) of up to 13%. This would reduce the total O&M costs by at least 1%
over the course of the building’s life. If recommissioning is completed every 3 -5 years, this savings in total
O&M costs can increase to 5% or more.
It is therefore required, on both BC Housing new construction and renovation/capital improvement projects
to engage a Commissioning Provider (CxP) to perform the commissioning activities. Not all smaller projects
will require a 3rd party independent commissioning hired by Owner but buildings with multi-unit housing,
mixed -use facilities, larger in size, and buildings with complex mechanical or electrical systems will require
proper commissioning by an independent CxP. Whatever the building type, commissioning is an all-inclusive,
quality-assurance-based process, and the Owner/Operator can benefit from some level of commissioning.
Recommissioning 3-5 years after completing a new building is also recommended, in order to maintain
operational savings and ensure that the building operates at its optimum level.
4 Project Classification
BC Housing undertakes projects that can be classed as either new developments, renovation/capital
improvements, or conversion. Under these parent categories, exists sub-categories of 7 storeys and higher,
3-6 storey, and 1-2 storey projects. These can be further sub-divided according to a range of attributes such
as construction methods (wood frame, concrete, modular or pre-manufactured), parking type (underground
or surface), building form (transition/second stage housing, emergency shelter, licensed group home,
townhouses, low to medium density apartment, or high-density housing) and housing client types
(homeless, families, seniors, etc.). Some buildings may not fit into this classification but the complexity of
systems should be considered. For the purposes of commissioning or quality assurance activities, new-build,
renovation/capital improvements, or conversion projects should be primarily classified as follows:
•• Underground parking
•• Surface parking
Lions Valley
View Estates.
32 units –
2 storey
wood frame
with surface
parking
Hart Heaven.
30 units senior
housing – one
storey wood
frame modular
construction
For 1-2 storey projects, the system specific commissioning is to be carried out by an independent
agency contracted by the project’s mechanical contractor as per the contract document. Refer to
Article 5.1.2. Third Party Commissioning Provider Scope And Responsibilities.
5 Commissioning Requirements
.1 PROJECT COMMISSIONING ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
.1 Consultant and Contractor Commissioning Responsibilities
The design and construction team shall be responsible for ensuring that all building systems
function and operate properly and that integration of the systems are achieved as required by
the contract documents, regardless of whether a third party commissioning process is initiated
by the Owner or BC Housing. The contractor is ultimately responsible for delivering a fully
commissioned building.
.2 The mechanical consultant is responsible to ensure that all commissioning items, related
tests (outlined below and if any additional) are incorporated in the contract documents
and final testing reports are conducted at the end. The mechanical consultant is to
review and update the list of the tests as necessary based on the complexity of the
building and to meet the local codes and authority having jurisdiction.
.4 These tests and any other related tests as per the contract documents are typically the
pre-requisites for performing pre-functional and functional testing for commissioning of
the mechanical systems.
.5 The Owner/BC Housing will retain a 3rd party CxP to perform the commissioning process
in Options 1, 2, and 3 as outlined in Article 5.1.2. Third Party Commissioning Provider
Scope And Responsibilities for overseeing pre-functional testing, performing functional
and seasonal testing, coordinating owner’s demonstration, reviewing O&M
documentation, , and warranty reviews. In Option 4, the Owner/BC Housing
may choose not to retain a CxP directly but the mechanical contractor will
be expected to hire their own mechanical commissioning agency (CxAg)to
carry out the commissioning tasks.
.2 The electrical consultant is responsible to ensure that all commissioning items, related
tests (outlined below and if any additional) are incorporated in the contract documents
and final testing reports are conducted at the end. The electrical consultant is to review
and update the list of the tests as necessary based on complexity of the building and to
meet the local codes and authority having jurisdiction.
.3 At a minimum, the contractor performs the following tests and submits the completed
reports at or before substantial completion:
• Building Distribution system;Low Voltage Switchgear and Motor Controls (600 volts
and below);
.3 Building Envelope
.1 The commissioning of the building envelope systems is the responsibility of the general
contractor.
.3 All buildings shall meet or exceed the whole building performance targets identified in
BC Housing Design Guidelines and Construction Standards, Section 2 - Energy and
Environmental Design. These targets shall be verified though mandatory building and
energy modelling as per the Provincial Energy Step Code. Energy modelling shall be
performed in all types of BC Housing projects and the results shall be submitted to the
architect at schematic design, building permit and as-built stages.
• The contractor will perform the pre-installation laboratory tests (as required) and
field testing for fenestration products as outlined in BC Housing Design Guidelines
and Construction Standards, Division: 08 50 00 – Windows, Side Hinged and
Sliding Glass Doors. The architect ensures the testing reports meet the contract
documents and is submitted to Owner at substantial completion.
.4 Architectural Systems
.1 The general contractor is responsible for commissioning architectural systems, with a
focus on systems that may be integrated into life safety systems, such as fire shutters,
door hardware, operable louvres, and other systems.
.2 The architect shall ensure that these items are included in the contract documents and
related test results/reports are collected at substantial completion.
.5 Elevator
.1 The commissioning of the elevator systems is the responsibility of the general contractor.
.2 The architect shall ensure that the elevator commissioning requirements are included
in the contract documents and meet the building code requirements. The architect will
collect all the testing results at or before at substantial completion.
.2 Pre-requisites for integrated systems testing are individual verification reports such as
fire alarm verification report, sprinkler sign off, elevator sign off, fire/smoke/life safety
fan balancing reports, and others.
.3 The intent is not to replicate the tests of each device, but to test the operation of the life
safety systems as a whole. Examples include but are not limited to the following:
• Proper operation of door hold-open devices, mag locks, fire shutters, etc.;
• Elevator recall to home and alternate home floors;Operation of life safety systems
upon loss of power or on generator power; etc.
.4 The architect shall ensure that these items are included in the contract document and
related test results/reports are collected at substantial completion.
.5 Based on the level of 3rd party commissioning hired by the Owner/BC Housing required
for the project, the CxP will be requiring to witness these tests. Refer to Article 5.1.2.
Third Party Commissioning Provider Scope And Responsibilities.
.2 Depending on the local re-zoning by-laws, project classification and size/complexity of the
building, there are four options of implementing the commissioning process in BC Housing
projects. These four options described here are for an independent 3rd party commissioning
hired by the Owner/BC Housing. This should not replace the consultants, contractor, their
sub-contractors or their own 3rd party agency’s responsibilities as outlined in Article 5.1.1.
Consultant and Contractor Commissioning Responsibilities.
.3 The project team is responsible to choose one of the four options based upon the project
complexity. The options are as follows:
Before the design development phase is complete or per rezoning, the Owner shall
retain the CxP who will review the design requirements/concepts and oversee/implement
the Enhanced Commissioning process of the mechanical, electrical and building envelope
components (if required) as related to functionality, energy performance and durability.
The commissioning process will depend as indicated by the rezoning or funding partner’s
requirements and may follow ASHRAE Guideline 0-- “The Commissioning Process”,
ASHRAE Guideline 1.1- “HVAC&R Technical Requirements for The Commissioning
Process”, or an alternate commissioning standards required by municipalities such as
ASHRAE Standard 202- “The Commissioning Process for Buildings and Systems”, CSA
Z320- “Building Commissioning Standard”, CSA Z8001- “Commissioning Standard of
Health Care Facilities”, or the upcoming CSA Z5000- “Building Commissioning For
Energy Using Systems.”
The required commissioning activities and the systems to be commissioned will depend
on the local re-zoning by-laws requirements.
.A Systems to be commissioned:
The CxP’s involvement will begin at the design development stage and no later
than 50% construction document stage. The scope will be in line with Fundamental
Commissioning (as outlined in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, LEED
v4), with a few exceptions, notably the systems to be commissioned, and increased
involvement in the post-occupancy phase of the project.
The CxP will create the 25% sampling methodology of on-site checks that they will be
completing if an independent CxAg hired by the mechanical contractor. Otherwise, the
CxP will complete 100% on-site checks. The construction contract documents shall
clearly state who will perform the on-site checks.
5. Perform and document static verification and witness manufacturer’s start up, as required
.B Systems to be commissioned:
• Electrical systems as related to life safety; this is not duplication of ULC S537
“Verification of fire alarm systems”, but involves witnessing life safety tests of
key devices (such as smoke control and smoke venting equipment including fan
and dampers, hold-open device/electro-magnetic locks, fire-pumps, etc.);
.C Commissioning Management:
The CxP is to lead the commissioning process, and chair commissioning meetings
with the owner, consultant, general contractor and trades. As a guideline, at
construction stage, it is anticipated that the following would be required during the
final 4 to 6 months of construction:
If more value is found in Option 2 than Option 3, Option 2 can be chosen depending on
the complexity of the building subject to the Owner’s discretion.
100% checks of mechanical equipment are to be completed by the Mechanical CxP hired
by the Owner, unless there is an independent mechanical commissioning agency under
mechanical contractor’s scope as per the contract documents. Otherwise, CxP will create
the 25% sampling methodology of on-site checks that they will be completing.
The Mechanical CxP’s involvement will begin at the construction stage. The CxP will
create the Cx Plan outlining the scope of commissioning activities at construction phase,
along with responsibilities, schedules and procedures and distribute the plan to Owner
and commissioning team before the commissioning process starts at site.
2. Perform and document static verification and witness equipment start up, as required
.B Systems to be commissioned:
.C Commissioning Management:
The CxP shall check that specific equipment or system is ready for starting, that all
tests and certificates have been completed and all equipment have been verified by the
mechanical contractor and is ready to operate, including all wiring and controls. The CxP
shall issue pre-functional checklists and commissioning tracking checklists for the team.
The Issue logs shall be documented, discussed and monitored throughout Cx process.
100% checks of mechanical equipment are to be completed by the mechanical CxP hired
by the Owner if the construction contract did not specify an independent mechanical
commissioning agency under the mechanical contractor’s scope.
The CxP shall witness start-up and check-out operation, calibration, testing and adjusting
of all equipment and systems performed by the contractor or manufacturer and shall
certify the operations as complete. This also includes all air and water balancing performed
by an independent TAB agency. All deficiencies shall be recorded and reviewed with
the commissioning team (that consists mechanical consultant, general contractor,
mechanical contractor, contractor’s mechanical Cx agency, if any and Owner hired CxP)
and shall be corrected and verified prior to proceeding further.
The CxP shall create the functional testing checklists, perform functional tests, submit all
test certificates and the Commissioning Completion Certificate at the time of requesting
commencement of the verification process. The CxP shall draw up a schedule for the
verification inspection by the consultant. The schedule shall list all equipment and
systems and the estimated time required for verifying the operation of each item. This
phase includes reviewing the project record drawings for accuracy and completeness,
reviewing the O&M manuals, equipment warranty and maintenance schedules, and
submitting all testing/start-up reports and certificates/approvals from the authorities
having jurisdiction. When all required documents and certificates are complete, and all
equipment and systems are in full and satisfactory operation, the substantial completion
may be declared by the consultant. All this stage, all issues documented in the Issues
Log shall be resolved.
The CxP shall review mechanical O&M manuals and prepare a warranty summary
list and maintenance schedule for BC Housing. The CxP shall prepare a schedule for
the demonstration and instructional process, and a training agenda which shall be
coordinated with contractor and reviewed and by the commissioning team and the
Owner prior to implementation. The operation and maintenance requirements of all
equipment and systems shall be demonstrated and explained in detail to the Owner’s
operating personnel.
The controls contractor shall provide a separate demonstration/ training for controls
and sequences of operation. On completion of the demonstration and instructional
process, the CxP shall obtain a signed statement of satisfaction from the building Owner
and/or their operating personnel.
The CxP shall allow for a minimum of two separate site visits, scheduled for approximately
five months and 10 months after the date of substantial completion, for general trouble-
shooting, seasonal testing (if scheduled) and verifying the operation and maintenance of
all equipment and systems. These site visits are over and above normal trouble-shooting
and warranty call-backs that may require CxP’s coordinate with the contractor and
consultant team to perform. Following each site inspection and reviewing Operator’s
Issue Log document, the CxP shall submit a detailed report to the consultant and
the Owner outlining his findings, any problems encountered with the operation and
maintenance of equipment and systems and any required repair work or correctional
action. When all issues are resolved, the CxP shall prepare the final Cx report to the
Owner and Cx team.
.B Systems to be commissioned:
.2 In coordination with the project architect, the general contractor will be required
to perform in CAN/ULC S1001 Integrated Systems Testing of Fire Protection and
Life Safety Systems and document in a report. The report shall be submitted at
the substantial completion.
The systems to be commissioned will depend on the scope of the project and how the
other building systems are integrated with the upgrade. For an example, the scope of
an HVAC upgrade in a renovation/capital improvements project will require not only
the commissioning of HVAC and control systems but also their tie in to the life safety
systems.
The CxP hired by the Owner/BC Housing will be required to participate in CAN/
Brookland Court. 78 units –
ULC S1001 Integrated Systems Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems.
7 storey senior development.
Integrated Systems Testing is to be performed and documented by the general
Building envelope retrofit.
contractor and coordinated and reviewed by the consultant involved in the project.
4. Develop a master list of findings which includes details on the findings, recommendation, and listing of benefit (with
quantification of savings and costs if required by owner)
9. Follow up meetings with owner to review re-commissioned systems and ensure persistence
.1 COMMISSIONING MANAGEMENT:
Several factors affect how recommissioning may be executed, including the condition of the
building, size and complexity, scope and budget of the project, and availability of the resources
and expertise. A well-planned and executed recommissioning project generally occurs in four
phases: Planning, Assessment, Implementation, and Hand-over.
.2 Assessment: The consultant or RCxP assesses how and why building systems are currently
operated and maintained to identify issues and potential improvements; and select the most
cost-effective improvements for implementation. The consultant will produce an assessment
report for the Owner, describing the specific findings and identifying potential costs and
savings, outlining the recommissioning processes and procedures to be undertaken, a schedule
of activities, identifying RCx team and their roles, and creating a budget for this scope. These
findings identify not only the payback period, but also associated non-energy benefits such as
increased comfort, system’s reliability, etc.
.4 Hand-Over: After a successful recommissioning, the consultant or RCxP produces a final report
documenting the process and its findings, conducts O&M personnel training, and holds a project
hand-over meeting with the Owner/Operator.
2. ASHRAE Standard 202 – The Commissioning Process for Buildings and Systems
4. CAN/ULC S1001 Standard for Integrated Systems Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems
Depending on project region or partner organization, other requirements may need to be fulfilled:
•• City of Vancouver – Green Building Policy for Rezoning – Process and Requirements
The OPR is developed by the owner, in consultation with the project development team and CxP, (if
hired) at conceptual or schematic design phase. The following items shall be included in the OPR at a
minimum:
B. BC Housing Involvement
BOD shall be submitted by the design team at no later than schematic design phase. In some cases,
the OPR may need to be updated to comply with the BOD if the design team identifies approaches
that better satisfy the Owner’s needs.
• Diversity
• Occupancy
• Climatic design considerations
• Space environmental conditions
• Narrative description.
The preliminary version of the Plan shall be developed by the CxP at the pre-design phase for
commissioning Option 1, 2 and at the beginning of construction start for Option 3 as outlined above.
During the design phase, the Cx Plan is updated and incorporated into the construction contract
documents. It should be considered as a live document and updated on an ongoing basis to reflect
changes to the BOD.
In Option 3, where CxP is retained at the start of construction, the Cx Plan will be created based on
the Issued- for- Construction (IFC) document and commissioning scope of the project, and distributed
to the commissioning team.
General Project Project description, location, client type, number of units, building type (number
Information of storey), type of construction (wood frame, concrete, modular, etc.), summary of
functional spaces and overall building service life expectancy
Design Objectives and BC Housing design guidelines and construction standards compliance, energy and
Performance Targets sustainability performance targets, and design objectives
Building Systems Overview of the major systems i.e. mechanical, electrical, building envelope, elevator
Overview where applicable. and building integration system
Communication Plan & Methods of communications and coordination throughout the project
Protocols
Commissioning Summary of commissioning processes and activities, OPR and BOD review, static
Process verifications and start up checks by the contractor and Owner’s hired CxP (Option
1, 2 and 3), submission requirements, verifying and reviewing system performance
process, issue resolution process, training process, one -year warranty review process,
etc.
Commissioning Specific sequences of events and relative timeframes, dates and durations for
Schedule commissioning, overall project completion date and one- year warranty milestone
.4 COMMISSIONING REPORT
.1 Commissioning Report (Cx Report)
The Commissioning Report shall include information on how all of the above (i.e. OPR, BOD,
Cx plan) transpired, in addition to including Issues Log, commissioning document checklist,
submittals, a general description of testing and verification methods, O&M manuals, M&R plans,
and warranty information.
Cx report is typically issued as a draft, then captured any issues on installation, pre-functional
testing, functional testing, and a final report after all seasonal testing and warranty review is
complete.
Issue logs All issues in a tabular format itemized by equipment and overall functional
performance; highlighting unresolved issues and outstanding actions
Description of estimated Specific sequences of events and relative timeframes, dates and durations for
schedule and deferred testing testing and deferred testing, commissioning completion date including seasonal
testing and one-year warranty milestone
Owner’s Training Compiled equipment and system training list, parties involved in training, any
video-demonstration required as per construction contract documents or as
per Owner and estimated training dates and seasonal testing schedule
Final Cx report Estimated date of submission
Appendix: Cx Plan
For further reference and templates, refer to Building Commissioning Association (BCxA) templates
section 2.3.6 https://www.bcxa.org/knowledge-center/best-practices/cx-application-tools/#item-16 .
The following items shall be included in the commissioning meeting minutes at a minimum:
• Attendance;
• Topic of discussion;
• Summary description of discussed topic;
• Ongoing updates to discussed topic (until closed out and deleted from future minutes);
• Responsible parties or action items for each discussed topic;
• New business / topic; and
• Indication of next meeting time and date.
The CxP will create the Issues Log format at the beginning of the construction to facilitate the
documenting, tracking and resolution of commissioning related issues and maintain the document
until all issues are resolved. This document shall be distributed to the commissioning team as they
occur.
ISSUES LOG
Issue Number Observation Date Detail Observations and Responsible Party Status of Recommendation Response or Final Issue Additional
cause/comments (list 1. Main the Issue with timeframe to Action taken by Review resolved Comments
equipment tag, and zone) 2. Other resolve the issue Contractor, Design by CxP date
Coordination team, CxP or Owner
.1 Pre-functional Checklists
Pre-functional checklist is a list of items to inspect elementary component tests to conduct and
verify proper installation of equipment. Pre-functional checklists are primarily static inspections
and procedures to prepare the equipment or system for initial operation. Pre-functional checklists
augment and are combined with Manufacturer’s Equipment Start-up Checklist.
This checklist shall be created by the CxP with responsible party and distributed to the contractor.
Most checklists contain items for several sub-trades. The contractor shall ensure that checklist
items by their sub-trades are completed and checked off.
• Make/model of equipment;
The CxP has the flexibility to customize the checklist and a sample is included below. CxP
checklists are to be submitted in their commissioning plan for review by the team.
Make ABC
Model DEFG
Correct unit installed √ √
Mounting/support system/vibration isolation √ √
Seismic restraints √ √
Maintenance clearance and access panels √ √
Heat exchanger √ √
Local valving/piping correct √ √ *unit was originally piped wrong, fixed
Chemical cleaning & treatment complete √ √
Insulation/ lagging √ √
Refrigerant relief valve n/a n/a
Temperature and pressure gauges √ √
Flow switches - safety interlocks int int
Temperature sensors - safety interlocks int int
Control / diagnostic / programmable module √ √
DDC Interfaces with specified points e.g. chilled water setpoint and demand
√ √
limiter analogue inputs, and % load, run status and alarm outputs
OPERATIONAL CHECKS
√ blending √ blending
Start hydronic system to create load buffer tanks buffer tanks
to create load to create load
√4 √4
Modulation through specified range compressors compressors
observed observed
flow switch flow switch
Safety interlocks
checked checked
Installation Checks by: Date:
Operational Checks by: Date:
The CxP will compile an equipment tracking checklist for the various equipment that have been taken place of the manufacturer’s
recommended start-up procedures or report.
Tag / Name Equipment Service Installed Piping Duct / Electrical Controls System System Clean Pre- TAB Start-up Start-up Functional
Complete Vent Complete Complete Clean Ventilation functional Document- Document- Testing
Complete (End-to- Hydronic Checks ation Type ation
End) / Water Complete Received
Name of
Responsible
Parties
Contractor Control Contractors Sub-trades / 3rd Party
Trades Contractor / Agency
3rd party CxAg
MFG Start-
AHU-1 Main Ventilation yes no no no no no no no no no no
up Report
VFD Start-
EF-1 Bathroom Exhaust yes n/a no no no yes no yes yes no
up Report
Domestic Hot Start-up
P-1 yes yes n/a no no yes no yes yes yes
Water Reports
Domestic Hot
DHWT-1 yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes n/a None n/a n/a
Water
Backflow
Domestic Backflow
BFP-1 yes yes n/a n/a n/a yes n/a yes n/a Inspection yes n/a
Preventer
Repor
Heat Pump in
HP-1 yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes yes None n/a yes
Office
.3 Functional Checklist
Functional Performance Tests are performed after pre-functional checklists and start-up are
complete and TAB is performed by an independent agency hired by the contractor for a given
system. The CxP requests for test certificates and start-up reports from the contractor. They
perform pre-functional sample checks (100% or representative sample as outlined in Option 2
and 3) and these are prerequisites to pre-functional testing.
For all BC Housing projects, the Owner’s hired CxP shall perform functional tests for Option
1,2 and 3. In Option 4, the contractor-hired mechanical CxP will perform these tests and the
requirements are to be included in the specifications by the mechanical consultant.
The CxP can customize this checklist but at minimum, it must include the following:
• Test procedure that aligns with the sequence of operation (Ie. Pumps lead/lag, flow rate
controls, boiler staging, etc.);
• Indication of Pass or Fail for each line item on the sequence of operation (if failed,
indication of whether there is a need to retest during seasonal testing); and
• Test notes (i.e. temperatures observed, issues encountered and rectified, and
supplemental information such as graphic screen shots or trends).
The contractor will perform and document the Integrated System Testing and Owner’s hired
CxP will witness the testing procedure.
.7 TRAINING REQUIREMENTS
The design team ensures that the needs of the Owner based on their capacity, function, level of
expertise and daily operational requirements captured in OPR are also in harmony with equipment
and system design and addressed earlier in the development process. The CxP shall consult with the
Operation maintenance staff and design team/architect to determine the special needs and areas
where training will be most valuable, and the training rigor desired for each piece of equipment. At
a minimum, a complete demonstration and training of all mechanical and electrical equipment and
systems and bed bug room operation (if exists) shall be included in the contract documents.
The CxP will develop an overall training plan and are responsible for coordinating and approving
the content and adequacy of the training of Operation maintenance personnel for commissioned
equipment. The CxP will create the training agendas, communicate the desired rigor to the contractor,
their sub-trades and vendors who have training responsibilities and ensure the Owner/Operator’s
needs are met and questions are answered. Depending the contract documents, the contractor or
Owner/Operator may require completing the video demonstration of these training sessions.
The contractor shall be responsible for training coordination, scheduling and ultimately for ensuring
that training is completed on all equipment per the specifications and to the Owner’s satisfaction.
The appropriate trade or manufacturer’s representative shall provide the instructions on each major
piece of equipment and must be expert in their knowledge of the equipment and familiar with the
installations for the project, including equipment locations and access requirements. Practical building
operating expertise as well as in-depth knowledge of all modes of operation of the specific piece of
equipment are required. More than one party may be required to execute the training to accomplish a
particular session based on he training agendas (e.g., for a chiller, the chiller vendor provides training
on the chiller and on board controls, the mechanical contractor’s start-up technician or the controls
contractor provides training on the chilled water system).
A separate training session shall be completed on building controls. The controls contractor shall also
attend sessions other than the controls training, as specified, to discuss the interaction of the controls
system as it relates to the equipment being discussed.
Systems Date Duration Intended Detail Instruction Modes of Operation Any Maintenance Any
and Participants 1. Start up Health Schedule Spare
Time 1. Mandatory 2. Shut-down and Safety Parts
(M) Issues
3. Fire/Smoke
2. Optional (O) Alarm
4.Power Failure
5. If any
1. Mechanical
Air Handling Units
Boilers
Pumps and VFD’s
Split System AC units
Other
2. Plumbing
Grey water system (piping,
valves, pumps, water
treatment)
Domestic water system
(booster pumps)
Domestic water heating
system (heaters, circulation
pumps, mixing valves)
Other
3. Life Safety Systems
Fire Alarm
Fire Suppression
Systems Date Duration Intended Detail Instruction Modes of Operation Any Maintenance Any
and Participants 1. Start up Health Schedule Spare
Time 1. Mandatory 2. Shut-down and Safety Parts
(M) Issues
3. Fire/Smoke
2. Optional (O) Alarm
4.Power Failure
5. If any
Elevators
Other
4. Electrical
Electrical Distribution
Emergency Generator
Transfer Switches
Lighting Controls
Digital Metering Systems
Other
5. Other Systems
.1 The training sessions shall follow the outline in the table of contents of the O&M manual and illustrate whenever possible the use of the
installation, operation and maintenance instruction material included in the O&M manuals and the latest drawing package O&M manuals
for reference.
.2 The training session shall emphasize safe and proper operating requirements, preventative maintenance, special tools needed and spare
parts inventory suggestions (as outlined in O&M). The hands-on training shall include start-up, operation in all modes possible, including
manual, shut-down and any emergency procedures, seasonal changeover, as applicable and preventative maintenance for all pieces of
equipment. BC Housing Commissioning Guidelines /// March 2019
Appendix A: Commissioning Reports Requirements and Templates 43
.3 The mechanical contractor shall fully explain and demonstrate the operation, function and
overrides of any local packaged controls, not controlled by the central control system.
.7 Local equipment supplier of parts, subcontractors and reputable and qualified service
companies
.9 Training shall occur after functional testing and piping and equipment labeling are complete
unless approved otherwise by the Owner/BC Housing.
.8 HANDOVER DOCUMENTATION
.1 Maintenance Schedule
The maintenance schedule and warranty summary should be created and reviewed by the CxP,
and prior to training session, and a draft of this should be prepared.
Operational Issues logs are completed by building Operator/Owner or their operational staff
and provided to the CxP for review.
Any suggestions related to system improvements and changes to the O&M manuals must be
made at these reviews by CxP. The CxP also identifies areas that may come under warranty or
under the original construction contract.
Issue Observ- Description of Status of Priority Response or Any Final Issue Additional
Number ation Issue or Cause the Issue (less, Action taken recommend- Resolution resolved Comments
Date medium, by Owner’s ations (Reviewed date
high) maintenance provided by CxP and
or Contractor from Design Design
team or CxP team within
warranty
period)
The status (L, P, A) indicates the responsibility that a participant has for a particular commissioning activity.
A participant may lead (L), participate in (P), or approve (A) a commissioning activity. The participants are
listed below:
Status
(L) = Leads
(P) = Participates
(A) = Approves
Participant
Own = Building Owner/BC Housing, Building O&M staff, or another role.
BCH = BC Housing
CxP = Commissioning Provider
Des = Designer
Con = Contractor
Man = Manufacturer
CxAg= Contractor’s commissioning agency
COMMISSIONING PROCESS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
PHASES Option 2: Option3: Option4:
7 storey and higher 3-6 storey 1-2 storey
Concept /Schematic Phase
Develop and Document Owner’s Project
Requirements
• Define owner’s project requirement (OPR) (L) BCH/Own L) BCH/Own L) BCH/Own
(P) Des (P) Des (P) Des
• Review owner’s project requirement (OPR) or create (P) CxP, Des (P) CxP, Des n/a
a new, if it does not exists
Select a Owner’s hired commissioning provider (CxP) (L) BCH/Own (L) BCH/Own n/a
Form a commissioning team (L) CxP (L) CxP n/a
(P) BCH/Own, Des, Con, (P) BCH/Own, Des, Con,
Man Man
Develop and implement a commissioning plan
COMMISSIONING PROCESS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
PHASES Option 2: Option3: Option4:
7 storey and higher 3-6 storey 1-2 storey
• Develop the commissioning responsibilities into… (L) CxP (L) CxP n/a
project scope and schedule (P) BCH/Own, Des, Con, (P) BCH/Own, Des, Con,
Man Man
Review Basis of Design
• Develop basis of design (BOD) (L) Des (L) Des n/a
(P) CxP, Con, Man (P) Con, Man
Acceptance (A) BCH/Own (A) BCH/Own n/a
COMMISSIONING PROCESS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
PHASES Option 2: Option3: Option4:
7 storey and higher 3-6 storey 1-2 storey
Review commissioning activities into the current
construction documents
• Perform commissioning-focused design reviews of (L) CxP
drawings and specs (P) BCH/Own
Develop construction checklists and system test (L) CxP
procedures (and the activities listed under this- (P) Des, Con, Man,
similar to above) BCH/Own
Hold construction commissioning phase kickoff and (L) CxP (L) CxP n/a
progress meetings (P) BCH/Own, Des, Con, (P) BCH/Own, Des, Con,
Man Man
Perform and document static verification and start
up
• Perform and document static verification (Refer to (L) CxP/Con/ CxAg (L) CxP/Con/ CxAg (L) on/CxAg, Man
5.1.2 – if CxP conducts 100% check or sample check) (P) CxP/Con/CxAg, Man (P) CxP/Con/CxAg, Man
• Witness start-up (L) Con (L) Con (L) on/CxAg, Man
(P) CxP, BCH/Own, Con, (P) CxP, BCH/Own, Man
Man
Perform and document functional performance (L) CxP (L) CxP (L) on/CxAg, Man
testing (P) BCH/Own, Con, Man (P) BCH/Own, Con, Man
Prepare issue logs and coordinate to resolve all (L) CxP (L) CxP (L) on/CxAg, Man
issues resulting from all tests (P) Des, Con (P) Des, Con
• Verify, review, and conduct training (L) CxP (L) CxP (L) on/CxAg, Man
(P) BCH/Own, Des, Con, (P) BCH/Own, Des, Con,
Man Man
Review O&M manuals (L) Des (L) Des (L) Des
(P) BCH/Own, CxP, Con (P) BCH/Own, CxP, Con (P) BCH/Own, Con
COMMISSIONING PROCESS
PROJECT DEVELOPMENT
PHASES Option 2: Option3: Option4:
7 storey and higher 3-6 storey 1-2 storey
Coordinate to complete the seasonal/deferred (L) CxP (L) CxP n/a
testing and resolve issues resulting from seasonal/ (P) BCH/Own, Con, Man (P) BCH/Own, Con, Man
deferred testing
Complete final commissioning report (L) CxP (L) CxP (L) CxAg
(P) BCH/Own, Des, Con (P) BCH/Own, Des, Con (P) BCH/Own, Des, Con
Acceptance (A) BCH/Own (A) BCH/Own (A) BCH/Own
Warranty Walkthrough (L) Des, CxP (L) Des, CxP (L) Des
(P) BCH/Own,Con, Man (P) BCH/Own,Con, Man (P) BCH/Own,Con, Man