If you are a project owner, contractor, surety or simply curious about how construction projects take shape and how risks are managed throughout the process, understanding the role of engineering standards in projects is key.
It does not take long to realize just how much weight engineering standards carry over the life of a construction project from start to finish. Much as gravity shapes our natural world, these standards guide every aspect of how a project is executed. They influence design, construction, safety and even the project’s long-term success. Understanding these standards is not just important, it is essential for ensuring a project’s success.
In this post, we take a closer look at:
- What engineering standards actually are,
- why standards are important to construction projects and
- the role of standards in construction contracts.
What Are Engineering Standards?
In simple terms, engineering standards are sets of rules or guidelines that define the technical requirements for building and maintaining infrastructure or products. They cover everything from materials and safety protocols to design practices and environmental considerations.
Some of these standards are developed by organizations including:
- ASTM International (American Society for Testing and Materials)
- National Electric Code (NEC)
- ACI (American Concrete Institute)
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Engineering standards help regulate how things are done in construction to ensure safety, quality and efficiency. It is like creating a common language through which various parties can communicate.
Some key areas that engineering standards cover include:
- Design standards for structural integrity
- Material standards to ensure quality and durability
- Safety standards to protect workers and the public
- Environmental standards to ensure sustainability
Why Are Engineering Standards Important in Construction?
Now, you might wonder why these standards are so important. Why not just hire a contractor and get to work?
Engineering standards ensure that every aspect of a construction project is done to the highest level of quality and safety. These standards prevent costly mistakes, legal issues and safety hazards. In most places, they are not just “recommendations” but are legally required.
Think of them as the blueprint for the entire construction process. They guide decisions on materials, methods, safety precautions and even testing and inspections. When contractors follow these standards, they are not just protecting themselves – they are protecting the project owners, workers and the environment.
How Do Engineering Standards Impact Construction Contracts?
Contracts define what is expected from all parties and engineering standards are often woven directly into these agreements. But how do these standards come into play exactly?
When drafting a construction contract, the owner and contractor agree on the scope of the project: what will be built, how and to what standards. Engineering standards help define the technical specifications for every phase of the work.
The specifications reduce misunderstandings and help set clear expectations about the quality and safety of the work.
For example, when erecting a building, the contract might specify that all concrete must meet certain standards for strength and durability, like those defined by ASTM or ACI. The contractor must then ensure that the materials used and the methods followed align with those standards.
Moreover, construction projects must comply with local, state and national regulations. Engineering standards are the foundation of these regulations, so when they are referenced in a construction contract, they help ensure the project meets legal requirements. This might include building codes, fire safety standards and environmental laws.
Imagine you are building a new commercial building, and the contract requires compliance with fire safety standards like those set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). If the project does not meet those standards, it could result in fines, delays or even the need to tear down and rebuild parts of the structure.
By including these standards in the contract, the parties involved are essentially agreeing that the project will be executed according to regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of penalties, safety violations or potential misunderstandings by the contractor.
Meeting engineering standards often means using specific materials or construction methods, which can affect the cost of the project. For example, high-quality and eco-friendly windows may cost more upfront, but may provide long-term savings by reducing the risk of repairs or increasing the building’s energy efficiency.
The construction contract will outline the costs associated with meeting these standards. If changes are necessary to comply with updated regulations or standards, there may be provisions for change orders or agreements that adjust the budget and timeline to accommodate the new requirements. While this adds a layer of complexity to budgeting, it also helps ensure that the project will not face unexpected costs or delays due to substandard work or non-compliance.
Another typical scenario where engineering standards play a crucial role is in defining liability in case something goes wrong. If the project does not meet the required standards, the contractor could be held responsible for rework, delays or safety issues. In contrast, if the project owner makes changes that compromise safety or ignore required standards, they could be liable for those decisions. For instance, if a contractor uses subpar materials or skips a required inspection to save time, they could face legal consequences. If an owner asks the contractor to make changes that violate building codes or standards, they may be accountable as well.
By clearly outlining the standards in the contract, both parties know exactly what is expected, reducing the chances of costly disputes down the line.
Even with clear engineering standards, disagreements can still arise during a project. What happens if the contractor and the project owner disagree on whether a certain aspect of the work meets the required standards? Or what if something goes wrong and one party blames the other?
Having engineering standards clearly outlined in the contract helps prevent confusion. These standards can act as a neutral reference point when disputes arise, guiding resolution through negotiations, third-party mediation or legal action if necessary. If, for example, the contractor used the wrong grade and size of steel for a concrete slab, and the project owner believes this will affect the element’s durability or capacity, the standards can provide evidence for both sides. Was the contractor at fault for using non-compliant materials or was the owner at fault for failing to specify the required standards in the contract?
In construction, engineering standards are far more than just technical specifications; they form the backbone of every successful project. These standards ensure quality, safety and compliance, while also helping to manage risks, costs and potential disputes. When incorporated clearly into construction contracts, standards
- Set expectations,
- Protect all parties involved and
- Ensure that the outcome is built with durability in mind.
Whether you are an owner, contractor, surety or project manager, it is critical to remember that engineering standards are there to guide the work. While they might seem like nuances at times, their impact is felt in every phase of a construction project.
In the event of problems or disputes — especially if a bond claim arises — the integration of engineering standards into the project can provide clarity and help define project and role expectations. This can expedite the claim process and provide a foundation for resolution. When handling a complicated claim, it is essential to involve a qualified expert familiar with these standards early in the situation. Doing so offers a significant advantage in evaluating risks and exposure, and in developing an effective strategy for resolving the issue.
How Can VERTEX Help?
To learn more on how the Vertex team can help with questions regarding engineering standards and construction contracts, please contact William Dauhajre at wdauhajre@vertexeng.com or call +1.781.952.6000 or submit an inquiry.
