Importance and necessity of specification .

 The cost of unit item of work is governed by specification.

 To check and verify the strength of material for a work involved.

 Tender and contract agreement without specification is incomplete and

voidable.

 Specification specify equipment tools and plant to be employed for certain

items of works.

 Helps on procurement of goods.

 It serve as a primary Evidence in case of dispute.

 It act as a guide for site Engineer.

 Specification helps contractor to fill BOQ.

 Specification is required for Arbitration .

Types of specification

Specification are broadly classified into two parts.

General specification

Detail Specification .

General specification :
In General specification Nature and class of works name of material proportion of
material are basically described .in this type of specification general information
for the quantities of the material nature and class of the work can be known. It
doesnot form a part of contract document.

Detail specification : Detailed Specifications are comprehensive,

precise descriptions of materials, workmanship, performance
requirements, methods of construction, and other essential elements
involved in a project. They ensure that all parties (clients, contractors,
engineers, and suppliers) clearly understand the exact requirements for
the completion of a project or the manufacture of a product. These
specifications are often used in industries such as construction,
engineering, manufacturing, and product design.

What principle should be adopted while writing specification of any

item of works ? Clarify the relation between specification and
Drawing.(POU2019)
First parts:

General principle or technique of specification writing are:

Specification Langauge: Simple and clear sentence should be used without

ambiguity.

Brief: As brief as possible standard article should be specified by refrence.

Main body parts :

Description of the material : The Quality and Size of material of work shall be
fully described.
Workmanship: the complete description of the workmanship, method of mixing
of the proportion ,method of laying preparation of base surface ,finishing and
curing shall be clearly state in different clause.

Tools and plants :.Tools and plants to be Engaged in the works shall be described.
The method of the operation and by whom it shall be supplied shall be strated.

Protection of New works: It should describe the method for the protection of new
works against damage. Methd of of curing that should be adopted shall be
described in separate clause.

Expression :Specification shall be made to express the requirement of the

specification clearly it should avoid repetition and unusual requirement.Sentence
should be simple short and concise.The term and word Giving multiple meaning
should be avoided

Second parts :

A specification is a written document that describes the requirements for a project,

while a drawing is a visual representation of that project. Specifications provide
details that can't be shown in a drawing, and drawings can help visualize the
project.

1. Purpose

 Specification: Defines the detailed requirements, standards, materials,

dimensions, and performance criteria of the product or project. It serves as a
written document to outline how the product should function or behave.
 Drawing: Provides a visual representation of the product or structure. It
conveys the geometric form, dimensions, tolerances, and layout of parts or
assemblies. Drawings help to visualize the specifications in a tangible way.

2. Content

 Specification: Includes textual descriptions, material lists, process

requirements, safety standards, and other essential details that might not be
explicitly conveyed in a drawing.
  Drawing: Focuses on the visual layout and precise dimensions of the
product. It might include views (top, side, isometric), cross-sections, and
symbols to provide more details about assembly or construction.

3. Complementary Nature

 Specifications often rely on drawings for clarity and context, providing a

more detailed understanding of the shape, size, and relationships of
components. In contrast, drawings rely on specifications for ensuring the
product meets functional requirements.
 For example, a drawing may show the shape of a part, while the
specification will describe the material type, tolerance limits, or finish
quality required.

4. Interpretation

 Specifications help engineers, designers, and manufacturers interpret how to

achieve the intended result, including parameters like material strength,
finish, or regulatory compliance.
 Drawings guide the actual creation of the part or assembly by illustrating
how the design should be realized in three-dimensional space.

5. Accuracy

 Both need to be accurate and consistent to ensure that a product or project

meets the required quality standards. Discrepancies between specifications
and drawings can lead to manufacturing errors or failures in product
performance.

Example:

In a construction project, the drawing might show the layout of a building,

including dimensions of rooms and placement of structural elements. The
specification would describe the material properties of the foundation, insulation,
and finishes, as well as any specific construction techniques required.

Write short notes on specification writing

Technique.(pou2015,2017,2018,2019)
1. Use Clear and Precise Language

 Avoid ambiguity: Use precise terms and unambiguous language. For

example, instead of saying "strong material," specify the exact material type
and its strength properties (e.g., "steel grade ASTM A36").
 Be specific: Include measurements, performance criteria, and standards
wherever possible.

2. Follow Standard Formats and Structures

Specifications are often divided into sections, depending on the industry. A

common structure includes:

 Title/Identification: State the name of the project, product, or component

being specified.
 Scope of Work or Description: Provide a summary of what the
specification covers.
 Materials: Detail the materials or components required for the project or
product.
 Performance Requirements: Define the functional and performance
requirements that the item must meet (e.g., load-bearing capacity,
temperature tolerance).
 Dimensions and Tolerances: List the exact dimensions, tolerances, and any
allowable deviations.
 Standards and Codes: Reference relevant standards, codes, or regulations
that must be followed.
 Testing and Inspection: Specify the testing methods, criteria for
acceptance, and inspection procedures.
 Delivery and Handling: Provide details on delivery, packaging, and
handling requirements.

3. Use a Consistent and Formal Tone

 Avoid using subjective terms like "good quality" or "reasonably strong."

Always specify exact criteria.

4. Use Unambiguous Measurement Units

 Clearly state measurement units (metric or imperial) and avoid mixing

systems. For example, specify "mm" or "inches" and avoid using vague
terms like "approximately."
5. Provide Test Methods and Acceptance Criteria

 Specify how the product will be tested and the criteria that must be met for
acceptance. For instance, "The weld must pass a dye penetrant test according
to ASME section IX."

6. List Requirements in Logical Order

 Organize the specification logically, beginning with general requirements

(e.g., material type, performance) and narrowing down to specific details
(e.g., surface finish, tolerances).

7. Include References to Drawings and Other Documents

 Reference any related drawings, standards, or previous specifications

clearly. For example, "See Drawing #ABC123 for dimensions" or "Refer to
ASTM A36 for steel properties."

8. Avoid Redundancy

 Repeating information unnecessarily can cause confusion. If details are

already provided elsewhere (such as in a drawing), don't restate them in the
specification unless it's absolutely necessary for clarification.

9. Incorporate Safety and Regulatory Requirements

 Ensure that any required safety standards, codes, or legal regulations are
explicitly included in the specification. For instance, "This product must
comply with OSHA standards for safety in manufacturing."

10. Be Clear About Installation and Maintenance (if applicable)

 If the specification relates to equipment or systems, include details about

installation procedures, maintenance, and warranties, as applicable.

11. Use "Shall" for Mandatory Requirements

 In formal specifications, use the word "shall" to indicate mandatory

requirements. For example, "The material shall be of steel construction."

12. Include Environmental Considerations (if necessary)

  Specify any environmental standards that the product or project must meet,
such as energy efficiency, sustainability, or disposal requirements.

13. Proofread and Review

 Before finalizing the specification, review it carefully to ensure accuracy and

completeness. A peer review or expert review is also recommended to catch
any inconsistencies or errors.

Q) Specification is the essential document in contract .Doyou

agree(POU 2015’2016).
Yes ,I agree with the statement that specification is the essential
document of the contract. Without specification contract can be declared
as a void.
Specification support in the following circumstance, which justify it is
essential document in the contract.

1. Defines the Scope of Work

 Specifications clarify the exact scope and requirements of the work

to be performed. They provide detailed descriptions of the
materials, products, and methods required to complete the project.
Without specifications, there would be uncertainty about what is
expected, leading to potential misunderstandings between parties
(client, contractor, or supplier).
 Example: In a construction contract, specifications detail the
quality of materials (e.g., type of concrete or steel) and the method
of installation (e.g., how concrete should be mixed and poured).
This ensures the contractor knows exactly what is expected.

2. Establishes Quality Standards and Performance Requirements

  Specifications set the quality standards and performance
expectations for the materials, equipment, and workmanship.
These criteria ensure that the finished product meets the required
functional and aesthetic standards.
 Example: A specification might outline that a roof should be able
to withstand certain wind speeds or that insulation must meet a
specific R-value. These performance standards ensure safety,
durability, and compliance with relevant codes and regulations.

3. Helps in Bidding and Cost Estimation

 Specifications serve as a basis for cost estimation and bidding.

Contractors or suppliers need clear and detailed specifications to
submit accurate bids. Without specifications, bids might vary
widely because different contractors could assume different
requirements.
 Example: If specifications state that the electrical system must
meet a certain standard, all bidders will know they need to quote
based on that standard, ensuring a level playing field for
comparison.

4. Sets Legal and Contractual Expectations

 Specifications, along with drawings, form the basis of a contract.

They serve as legally binding documents that establish what is
expected in terms of materials, workmanship, and performance. If
there are disputes later, the specifications can be referred to as the
authoritative document for resolving conflicts.
 Example: If a contractor uses substandard materials or deviates
from the prescribed method without approval, they could be in
breach of the contract. The specifications provide a clear point of
reference for such disputes.

5. Guides Compliance with Codes and Regulations

  Specifications ensure that the work complies with relevant codes,
regulations, and industry standards (e.g., local building codes,
environmental regulations, and safety standards). This helps
prevent legal issues or delays due to non-compliance.
 Example: Specifications might require a building to comply with
fire safety codes, specifying fire-resistant materials or sprinkler
systems, ensuring the project passes inspections.

6. Prevents Misunderstandings and Ambiguities

 Clear specifications minimize the risk of misunderstandings

between the contractor and the client. They provide a precise
understanding of what needs to be done and prevent issues arising
from unclear language or assumptions.
 Example: If a specification says, "Use 20mm thick tempered
glass," there is no ambiguity, reducing the risk that the contractor
might use a different material by mistake or assumption.

7. Facilitates Project Management and Quality Control

 Specifications are vital tools for project management and quality

control. They provide a benchmark for the quality of materials and
the work being done. Inspections and tests can be performed to
ensure the work meets the specifications.
 Example: Regular inspections might be conducted during
construction to verify that the concrete mix used matches the
specified strength and composition, ensuring the structural
integrity of the building.

8. Establishes Warranty and Maintenance Expectations

 Specifications can also outline the requirements for warranties

and maintenance. These details ensure that the parties involved
know their responsibilities regarding the performance and upkeep
of the product or project after completion.
  Example: A specification might state that certain materials should
be warrantied for 10 years or that maintenance of a mechanical
system is required at certain intervals, ensuring the contractor’s
accountability after the project is completed.

9. Clarifies Responsibilities of All Parties

 Specifications help clarify the responsibilities of all parties

involved in the contract. They clearly define what the contractor
must provide and how the work is to be completed, as well as what
materials or quality standards are required.
 Example: Specifications may specify that the client is responsible
for providing certain materials, or the contractor must source
certain items from approved suppliers. This prevents
misunderstandings about who is responsible for what.

10. Provides a Basis for Evaluation and Acceptance

 Upon completion of the project, specifications serve as a basis for

evaluation and acceptance of the work. The completed work
must be checked against the specifications to ensure it meets the
required standards before final acceptance.
 Example: After construction is finished, a building inspector
might check that the materials used match the specifications and
that the performance of the HVAC system meets the required
standards before the building is handed over to the client.