BE 3103Specification WritingCourse WorkSpecifications for Partitioning and Air Conditioning/ Ventilation SystemStudent Name(s)Reg. No.

Asmone A.S.092404N

Kodippily T.T.092647K

Saranga N.B. Ranasinghe 092457D

Satharasinghe N.R.P.

082460V

Senarathna W.D.D.A.

092687G

Wijekoon K.A.D.N.C.092451E

Lecturers Name: Prof. Archt. Lalith De Silva: Miss. Harshini Mallawarachchi

Date of Assignment: 16th May 2012

Date of Submissions : 11th June 2012

Department of Building EconomicsUniversity of Moratuwa

Course Work Brief and Feedback Form

Degree programme titleHonours Degree of Bachelor of Science in Quantity Surveying and Honours Degree of Bachelor of Science in Facilities Management

Module number and title BE 3103 Specification Writing

Lecturer(s) name(s)Prof. Arch. Lalith De SilvaMs. Harshini Mallawarachchi

Moderator(s) name(s)

Course work titleSpecifications for Partitioning and Air Conditioning/ Ventilation System.

Set date

Moderated date

Date of assignment 16th May 2012

Dates of submissions11th June 2012

Student declaration

I / We confirm that the works submitted for this assignment are my /our own work

Students names / Signatures

Asmone A.S.Kodippily T.T.Saranga N.B.Satharasinghe N.R.P.Senarathna W.D.D.A.Wijekoon K.A.D..N.C.

Stamp for date receipt of the assignment

Assessment Criteria

Report Feedback SheetReport Evaluation

Group BasisTotal

Preparation/ organization and structure of reportNew design of work place with provisions of appropriate assumptionsIdentifications of different types of partitioning and A/C and or ventilation system for different floor locationsIdentification of specification formats and clausesCorrect writing of specification for each itemConclusion

Maximum marks101520103510100

Student(s) names(s) / Reg. No.

Asmone A.S.

Kodippily T.T.

Saranga N.B. Ranasinghe

Satharasinghe N.R.P.

Senarathna W.D.D.A.

Wijekoon K.A.D.N.C.

Table of Content1. Introduction32. New Design of the Work Place43. Selection of a Specification Writing Method and Language54. Selection of a Partitioning System for Floor Locations64.1 Board Room74.2 Specification Board Room Partitioning84.3 Cubicle of Staff/ Research Room/ Computer Room94.4 Specification Cubicles of Staff/ Research Room/ Computer Room104.5 Documentation Room114.6 Specification Documentation Room125. Selection of a Air Conditioning System and Accessories135.1 General Notes136. Specification - Installation of Air Conditioning Units and Accessories156.1General Specification156.2 Compressor Specification156.3 Air Condition Unit Enclosure166.4 Room Conditions176.5 Installation, Testing and Commissioning176.6 Maintenance Period186.7 Technical Literature186.7 Special Specifications197. Conclusion20References21Annexure22BE 3103 - Specification Writing Specifications for Partitioning and Air Conditioning/ Ventilation System

Department of Building Economics 10

IntroductionSpecification can be defined as a detailed, exact statement of particulars, specially a statement prescribing materials, dimensions, and quality of work for something to be built, installed, or manufactured. In the eye of a professional in the construction industry or built environments, specifications are found as an integral element of project information.Common Arrangement of Work Sections (CAWS) is a working convention designed to promote standardization of, and detailed coordination between, bills of quantities and specifications. It is part of the industry wide coordinated projects information (CPI) initiative and has been used for the arrangement of the national Building Specification. With the coordination given by CAWS between drawings, specifications and bills of quantities and flexibility to the contractor in dividing the project information into work packages. But here in this report we have used the traditional method of specification writing instead of CAWS method because Sri Lankan construction industry is not used to use it. And usage of CAWS will make the bidders ambiguous about the specification.Given above is the basic introduction to specifications and the scope of specification related in this study. The understanding of writing and understanding specification is quite important to quantity surveyors as well as facilities managers who will have to deal with specifications of all sorts and means, day-in and day-out. Therefore the coursework for this module BE 3103 Specification Writing, Specifications for partitioning and air conditioning systems has proven to be of utmost interest and significant to the undergraduates. In this course work report where a scenario is given for them to redesign the space plan of the department of Building Economics and to prepare a proper air circulation and conditioning system, the specifications for all these proposals are given in detailed manner following international standards and methods.The report unveils with the first chapter where we identify an appropriate method of specification writing for the selected systems, then we have selected suitable partitioning systems for office spaces with different functional requirements. Afterwards we have selected a suitable air conditioning system and developed a specification.

2. New Design of the Work PlaceThe existing premise of the Department of Building Economics is located at the 3rd floor of sumanadasa building. Interior of it is bit congested because they have to accommodate several functions within a limited floor area. Workplace environment quality makes a big impact on employee productivity and efficiency and the Department of Building Economics is not exempt. We have understood certain negative aspects of the existing layout and partitioning system/ air conditioning system and suggested alterations as mentioned below. For existing layout of premises, proposed partitioned layout and air conditioning system layout please refer annex 1, 2 and 3.Drawbacks of Existing SystemProposed Suggestions

Partitioning System and Layout

Partition layout does not allow space for future expansion Install demountable partitioning system at eastern side of the premises rather than around the perimeter. Tenants can merge with existing class room and make space for future expansion.

The strength of existing system is not sufficientUse 75mm powder coated aluminum frame partition

Existing layout limits visual privacy because the cubicles are arranged around the passagePlace the cubicles at the rear and make separate access to them

The partitioning at the documentation area is not fire rated, this is a critical drawbackUse 120 minutes fire rated partitioning system

Space for data cabling, electricity wire cabling is insufficientUse a partitioning system that have insulation of at least 40mm wide

Air Conditioning System and Layout

Current layout does not allow proper air flow to some cubiclesArrange the cubicles in stacked form to allow moderate flow of air

3. Selection of a Specification Writing Method and LanguageWhen selecting an appropriate method of specification writing, we have considered that partitioning system requires a specification that identifies both performance as well as aesthetical appearance. Because of that we have selected a combination of descriptive-performance specification writing method. When scrutinizing on the specification writing methods practiced in the Sri Lankan industry we have understood that it is more meaningful and bidders will get a good idea on what the design intents.While we have recognized that the specification of air conditioning system should be based on performance of the selected service. That allows the bidder to use suitable air conditioning system to cater the need and detach the client or consultant from the responsibility of selecting a system. Hence when writing specification for air conditioning system we have used performance specification method after carrying out a technical analysis.To be effective, writing needs to be clear and unambiguous, it should be technically correct and correct grammatically. Moreover it shall be concise so the bidders get the information they need with least amount of effort. We have avoided using dead words and broad statements when writing the specification, and have written the attribute of the specification first followed by a colon and then the details. Examples are mentioned below;i. Attribute: Details of specificationii. Fire resistance: To BS 476, 30 minutesiii. Cavity filling: 45mm thick mineral fibre wool to density of 60kgm-3

4. Selection of a Partitioning System for Floor LocationsA partition wall can be considered as a wall or division made up of bricks, studs, timber, plasterboard, glass or other such material and provided for the purpose of dividing one space from another. Generally partition walls are designed as non-load bearing walls and may come from folding, collapsible or fixed types. Selection of a partition system depends on several factors such as Required level of acoustics Required level of fire resistance Required level of thermal insulation Structural criteria (dead load, imposed loads) Services, fixtures to be installed Budget available Nature of the environment and occupants Material, technology and craftsmen availability The department of building economic premises is the space that is needed to be partitioned, the spaces of the department accommodate several functions. Based on those functional requirements, the type of partition can be varied. We have identified the spaces and categorized them as follows,i. Board roomii. Cubicles of academic/ non academic staffiii. Toiletiv. Kitchen/ lunch roomv. Documentation room/ research roomvi. Computer room

4.1 Board RoomRequirement ConsideredDetails

AcousticsAcoustical control is critical in virtually every office space but it is of paramount importance when it comes to partitioning a board room. The partition at a board room shall absorb internal sounds so that it will not reflect and cause resonance, secondly it should keep sound from outside coming in and sound of inside not reflecting to out. Hence we have determined that the selected partition shall have following characteristics Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC) > = 0.70 Sound Transmission Class (STC) > = 0.45 as per BS 2750-3:1995

Fire resistanceThe selected space is not subjected to a higher level of fire hazard. Hence we assumed that there is no requirement of using a partition with superior fire resistant characteristics. Fire resistance shall be 30 minutes

Thermal insulationThe board room is air conditioned with a separate split type air conditioner. The important factor we have to consider is that one adjacent side of the room is the proposed kitchen area. But since that side is covered by existing block wall, there is no need of consideration on that matter.

Structural characteristicsThe structural characteristics considered are the horizontal imposed loads (crowd pressure) and vertically imposed loads. Since there are no imposed horizontal loads, we have reflected on horizontally imposed forces only.

Services to be installedThere may be a requirement to install service lines such as audio system and electricity lines. But because there are existing block wall partitions on 3 sides of the space, we assumed necessary service line will be fixed on them. We have suggested a dry wall lining to the existing block walls.

Selected partitioning systemWe have suggested a dry wall lining to the existing block walls.

4.2 Specification Board Room Partitioning

Performance Criteria Fire resistance: To BS 476, 30 minutes Noise reduction coefficient: Equal or exceed 0.70 Sound Transmission Class (STC): Equal or exceeding 0.45 as per BS 2750-3-1995 Strength: Shall be capable of withstanding a nominal horizontal concentrated force of 700N acting nominal to the wall surface over an area of 0.1 m x 0.1 m at any point Cavity insulation: With mineral fiber confirm to BS 2750 part 3 of 1995

Materials Studs: Single frame of 50mm CStuds at 700mm centers and 50mm UChannel for the head/base track Lining: 15mm thick acoustic panel Cavity filling: 45mm thick mineral fibre wool to density of 60kgm-3 Finishing: 20mm width, 2mm thick aluminum beading Glazing: With 4mm thick toughened clear glass

Fixing and installation Studs: Fixed to inner side of existing wall with 50mm stainless steel screws, CStuds at 700mm centers and UChannel for the head/base track at 1000mm centers Cavity filling: Install 45mm thick mineral fibre cavity filling, cut neatly between studs to ensure no gaps or excessive filling

4.3 Cubicle of Staff/ Research Room/ Computer Room

Requirement ConsideredDetails

AcousticsAcoustical control is not the major factor when it comes to partitioning the cubicles. Sound Transmission Class (STC) > = 0.25 as per BS 2750-3:1995

Fire resistanceThe selected space is not subjected to a higher level of fire hazard. Hence we assumed that there is no requirement of using a partition with superior fire resistant characteristics. Fire resistance shall be 30 minutes

Thermal insulationThe cubicles of staff are air conditioned. Since there arent dedicated air conditioners or air supply ducts, it is important to install cubicles in such a way that air flow will be maintained at an acceptable level. To allow moderate air flow within cubicles, it is assumed that fully covered partitioning is not supportive.

Structural characteristicsThe structural characteristic considered was the dead load of the partitioning system. Since there is a large area to be partitioned the weight of the cubicles might be considerable.

Services to be installedThere may be a requirement to install service lines such as internet cables and electricity lines.

Selected partitioning systemWe have concluded that an aluminum framed composite partitioning system with plasterboard lining is appropriate for cubicles.

4.4 Specification Cubicles of Staff/ Research Room/ Computer Room

Performance Criteria Fire resistance: To BS 476, 60 minutes Sound Transmission Class (STC): Equal or exceeding 0.25 as per BS 2750-3-1995 Strength: Shall be capable of withstanding a nominal horizontal concentrated force of 500N acting nominal to the wall surface over an area of 0.1 m x 0.1 m at any point Cavity insulation: With extruded polystyrene foam confirm to BS 2750 part 3 of 1995

Materials Frame: Single frame of 75mm powder coated aluminum at 700mm centers and 100mm powder coated head and base rails Covering: 10mm thick plasterboards on both sides fitted with 25mm screw bolts Cavity filling: 55mm thick mineral fibre wool to density of 60kgm-3 Finishing: 20mm width, 2mm thick aluminum beading

Fixing and installation Studs: Base rail fixed to floor with 50mm stainless steel screws, vertical braces at 700mm centers fixed to base rail and head rail Cavity filling: Install 55mm thick mineral fibre cavity filling, cut neatly between studs to ensure no gaps or excessive filling. Covering shall be upto 1.20m height on both sides Glazing from 1.20 level to ceiling level with single 4mm thick clear glass Contractor shall calibrate with electrical contractor in providing space for cables inside the cavity

4.5 Documentation Room

Requirement ConsideredDetails

AcousticsAcoustical control is not the major factor when it comes to partitioning the documentation room since it is not used by occupants that often, hence it is acceptable to use partitioning with lower STC value

Fire resistanceThe selected space is not subjected to a higher level of fire hazard. But the protection of the documents is of utmost importance. Hence we assumed that there is a considerable requirement of using a partition with superior fire resistant characteristics. Fire resistance shall be 120 minutes

Thermal insulationAs previously stated this area is not used by occupants commonly, hence thermal insulation is not considered.

Structural characteristicsThis area is subjected to loading and unloading of documents in bulk. Due to that reason the partition system shall have sufficient strength to bear heavy forces.

Services to be installedRequirement of service cabling or lighting on partitions is minimal. It is not considered when selecting a partitioning system.

Selected partitioning systemWe have concluded that a steel framed and steel covered partition system is appropriate for documentation area.

4.6 Specification Documentation Room

Performance Criteria Fire resistance: To BS 476, 120 minutes Strength: Shall be capable of withstanding a nominal horizontal concentrated force of 1000N acting nominal to the wall surface over an area of 0.1 m x 0.1 m at any point

Materials Frame: Double frame of 100mm powder coated aluminum at 700mm centers and 100mm powder coated head and base rails Covering: 10mm thick plasterboards on both sides fitted with 25mm screw bolts Cavity filling: 90mm thick mineral fibre wool to density of 60kgm-3 Finishing: 20mm width, 2mm thick aluminum beading

Fixing and installation Studs: Base rail fixed to floor with 50mm stainless steel screws, vertical braces at 700mm centers fixed to base rail and head rail Cavity filling: Install 90mm thick mineral fibre cavity filling, cut neatly between studs to ensure no gaps or excessive filling. Covering shall be upto ceiling height on both sides Contractor shall calibrate with electrical contractor in providing space for cables inside the cavity

5. Selection of a Air Conditioning System and Accessories 5.1 General NotesNature of BidThe Contractor shall carefully study the drawings mentioned under scope of work and fill in the price in the attached bill of quantities. It is to be distinctly understood that the total quantity Bided for is to be complete and comprehensive of all minor deficiencies if any, in the brief description. No variation or extras will be allowed except in respect of alterations, which are specially authorized in writing. No alterations shall be made without the written permission of the Engineer.Surplus StockNo compensation shall be paid by the Board on completion of the work for any surplus stock of pipes, specials, fittings etc. and materials obtained for the purpose of this Contract. However, on completion of the Contract, the Engineer may retain any surplus stock, which would be useful for the maintenance of the above Air Conditioning Unit and pay at prices agreed upon at that time by the Engineer and the Contractor.Power SupplyThe necessary 230 V, single phase and neutral 50Hz electric power will be made available at the power distribution panel of the floor. The power required for the distribution panel for air conditioning units shall be from the aforementioned electrical power distribution point and all cabling and accessories shall be provided and fixed by the Contractor. All electrical equipment and wiring shall conform to the standards set by the I.E.E., (UK) as well as Sri Lanka regulations and be acceptable to the Ceylon Electricity Board, Sri Lanka.

Calibration of Instrument & MetersAll instruments and meters shall be calibrated in the Metric Units as follows;(a) Pressure shall be indicated in kg/ cm2(b) Temperature in C(c) Voltage in V(d) Time shall be indicated in Hours(e) Amperage shall be indicated in Amperes(f) Relative humidity in RH % with dry bulb temperature

Literature On Equipment And MaterialsThe Bidder shall supply detailed literature and specifications from the manufacturers in respect of all equipment and materials included in his offer and give the names of all such manufacturers and the countries of origin of the materials and equipment. Installation, Testing And CommissioningRefer the specific specifications for split type Air conditioning units and Accessories.

Calculation of Operational CostIn the evaluation of bidders of the capacity more than 18,000 Btu / hr Air Conditioning units with the capacity present worth of operational cost will be considered and followings will be used in calculation of operational cost.a) Overall efficiency of the Air conditioning unit / COPb) Economic life of equipment - 07 yearsc) Annual operational hours of each unit (As per the specific specifications for Air Conditioning units and Accessories)d) Cost of Electrical Energy Rs. 19.40 per kWhe) Discounting Rate - 12%Warranty PeriodThe supplier should provide a warranty period of minimum 05 years for trouble free operation of the Compressor and one year trouble free warranty for all equipment and accessories supplied under this contract. During first year of warranty period all the works describe under the maintenance period have to be attended. This should include at least six free services within warranty period. The contractor should provide required materials, labour and spare parts during the warranty period without any charged to the Department of Building Economics. The warranty period commences from the completion date as per the completion certificate. The contractor has to assure that he is equipped with sufficient resources to attend any maintenance or major breakdowns immediately after informed by Department of Building Economics.

6. Specification - Installation of Air Conditioning Units and Accessories6.1General SpecificationThe Air Conditioning Units shall be of the split type suitable for indoor installation unit with wall brackets which are necessary in the upper floors of the building, power connection, condensate water drain piping using suitable PVC piping to the nearest common drain line. The product shall be ASHREA Energy efficiency Class A with COP not less than 4.4. The outdoor unit shall be housed in a Galvanized steel fabricated box with acoustic, heat insulation and vibration protected painted with corrosion resistive paints suitable for Tropical climate. The indoor unit shall be architecturally designed and made in elegant appearance with sound and noise protections, piping and auto, remote controls. This installation shall facilitate in such a way to permit the removal of the units when the repairs to be carried out.a. The unit shall be with fully hermitic compressor,b. Operate on a Refrigerant free of halocarbons.c. Condenser with inbuilt fan.d. Evaporator with Squirrel Cage Fan,e. Air throws control facility with facility for control for efficient operation.f. Remote Control device.Original performance curves of the Air Conditioning units certified by the manufacturer should be provided and photocopies will be accepted which are duly certified by the local agent. A dimensioned drawing of the Air Conditioning Units complete with materials of manufacture shall be provided with the Bid. The brand of the Compressor shall be provided with performance efficiency, power supply and capacity details.

6.2 Compressor SpecificationThe Compressor shall be energy efficient fully hermitically sealed type rotary / reciprocating, 230 V + / - 10 %, 01 Phase, 50Hz. Operating on Refrigerant R134A. The compressor Motor shall be suitably protected against overloading using a removable suitably sized over load protection. These shall be mounted on resilient mountings for quite operation. It shall be with low vibration and noise less than 60dB(A) at 3 m distance.

6.3 Air Condition Unit EnclosureGeneralThe control panels shall be completely designed, fabricated, assembled, wired, checked and tested at the factory as per standards and per descriptions given below. Modern architectural design arrangement and finish suitable for luxury living environment shall be elegant and workmanship shall be of a high order with flushed and concealed type front cover. The unit shall be wall mounted and locked on to the steel enclosure made out of Galvanized steel with protective paints suitable for tropical climate. Earthing of the enclosure shall be ensured. The units and all electrical components should be suitable for the operation on 230 volts + 10% 01 phase 02 wire, 50Hz, AC power Supply.ConstructionThe panels shall be of sheet metal, wall mounted as per the specification. The design shall be totally enclosed, dust and rain splash-proof as per IP 55 of IEC publication 34-5. The housing of the panel shall be fabricated of 14 SWG. The outer and inner surface of the panels shall be primed and painted with corrosive resist PVC, Epoxy or plastic, marine grade special coating, colour as specified. Access to all equipment mounted inside shall be from the front. Switch gears and earth, main connections and auxiliary wiring shall be arranged and marked in general compliance with relevant British standards.EarthingA suitable earth terminal should be provided to facilitate the connection of the main earth. Earthing arrangement should be complies with BS 7430 and earth resistance of the main earth should not be exceed 5 .WiringControl wiring shall be concealed by taking through neatly arranged PVC Spiral wire protectors and all control wires shall be terminated with cable lugs or compression type terminals. All Current carrying bolts and nuts shall be of high conducting material.

Control Panel Equipment, Remote Controls and ProtectionsThe equipment to be mounted on the control panel / Remote controller of Air Conditioning Unit shall consist of the following and starting method as per the specification. Direct on-line (DOL) starting of the Compressora. Over Load protection for the all Motor.b. Thermostatic expansion and flow control of the refrigerantc. Room temperature sensord. Fan speed control, three minimum speeds.e. Compressor loading control, high / low and economicalf. Remote controller with LCD display shall be provided with one on / off timer, selecting fan speed (three speeds) and setup of temperature.

6.4 Room ConditionsPlease refer the room layout and the locations suggested for the installation of the Air Conditioning units. Room without Air conditioning Temperature shall be limited to 40 C with Relative humidity at 90%.

6.5 Installation, Testing and CommissioningAll installation work shall be carried out in accordance with relevant International Standards and CIBSE code of practice. When all installation work is satisfactorily completed, the contractor shall inform the Engineer in writing that equipment are ready for handing over and the Engineer shall then fix a date for taking over. At the taking over all equipment shall be tested for a period as per the application to determine the following.a. Power consumptionb. Room Temperature and Relative Humidity at full load as givenc. Vibration and NoiseIf the Engineer is not satisfied with the performance of the equipment or other installation, he may refuse to take over the equipment until necessary improvements are effected. Any time necessary for this additional work will be considered as contractors delay.

6.6 Maintenance PeriodThe Air Conditioning units and other equipment shall be satisfactorily maintained for a period of 24 months from the date of taken over. During the maintenance period, the contractor should attend to; a. All periodical serviceb. Maintain a maintenance recordc. Attending to all the repairs and replacements to avoid any failure of the system with in a time period not less than 03 working days from the date the contractor has been notifiedd. In addition to the equipment which fails, the equipment that do not give satisfactory performance during the period of maintenance shall be replaced by the contractor within 3 weeks from the date the contractor has been notifiede. In order to cut down the downtime in the event of any major failure of unit the supplier should provide the spare unit till such time the unit is replaced after repairsThe expenses involved in this connection shall be met by the contractor who should take this in to consideration when biding. If the contractor is not attended to the repair within the time specified as above, the engineer has the right to rectify the fault and claim the cost thus incurred from the contractor.

6.7 Technical LiteratureThe following technical literature for the Air conditioning units, Remote Controls, and accessories, shall be forwarded along with offer.Technical Specification of the Air conditioning units (Features, dimensions, cross Sectional drawing of the Air Conditioning Units showing materials, etc.).

6.7 Special SpecificationsThe Air conditioning units shall be providing the following room conditions and requirement.Number of Occupants : 25Number of Air changes per hour not less than 6 Nos.Floor Area - 500m2 and room height 3mWalls Brick / thickness : 225mmType of Ceiling / Floor Slab : Suspended Aluminum Grid CeilingNumber of Windows : 20 nr covering 50m2 area primarily facing north Electrical Equipment inside the Room and the heat out putRoom Lighting : With 60 nr of 65 Watt liner fluorescent lampsComputers : 25 nrPrinters : 5 nrPhoto copiers : 3 nrAny other heat sources : Oven, gas cooker, refrigerator and water heater

NoteRoom after Air Conditioning shall be 23C with Relative Humidity 65%Noise level at full load condition shall be less than 55dB (A)

7. ConclusionIn construction sector, it is vital for suppliers, purchases, and users of materials, products, or services in-order to understand and agree upon all requirements. A specification is a type of a standard, which is open reference by a contract with providing the necessary details about the specific requirements. The importance of giving crystal clear details on quality, standard, and workmanship arises when there is a discrepancy between the specifications and the drawings, the actual intent made explicit in the contract between the Owner and the Contractor is given the priority to the specifications.Compared to the past practices specification has gained the attention of both contractor and client as a major project information with the development of construction industry. The main feature of specifications which is the capacity of driving the cost of construction has dragged the attention of all interested parties. What is more, specifications build up a common language which any party who is in the field could understand. This becomes more important with the current trend of absorbing specialized skills with sub contracting.In general specification of any construction project can be divided into two major parts namely; structural specifications and services specifications. Having two separate specifications with as build drawings are much helpful for maintenance, renovations and re-designing of a facility. Moving further to redesigning aspect specifications should be prepared to minimize additional cost while making maximum use of current assets, materials and designs. Therefore, the effectiveness of specifications as a cost controller will always depend on the propose design for the project.Moreover, Common Arrangement of Work Sections (CWAS) is a framework introduced to make the specification writing a less burden in project management. It is an accepted structure followed by many professionals to make effective specifications for their construction project. CWAS can be used as reference without writing in detail specifications for each individual project. Also, it will guide almost for all constructions do a better specification document without neglecting any element to be described. But in Sri Lankan sector it is rarely used, knowledge of the bidders on that is minimal, hence traditional specification writing methods are continued to be used.In a word, specification is a tool which explains the unexplained of the drawings and drives the economic aspects of a construction project. Even it is prepared in the inception stage of the building life cycle, it is used throughout its life span as a reference. Therefore, it is an important document comes under bidding document which can be influence by both QS and FM professionals at different stages in diverse manner of the building life span.

References

Kalms, B., 1995. Guide to Specification Writing, Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra. Willis, A., Willis, A.J., Willis, C.J., 1997. Specification Writing for Architects and Surveyors, John Wiley and Sons, London. American Society for Testing and Materials, 2012 [online] Available from http://www.astm.org/Standards/C423.htm, [Accessed 28th May 2012]. International Organization for Standardization, 2012 [online] Available from http://www.iso.org/iso/iso_catalogue/catalogue_ics/catalogue_ics_browse.htm?ICS1=91&ICS2=120&ICS3=20, [Accessed 29th May 2012].

Annexure