What is Commissioning?

Per ASHRAE: Commissioning is a systematic process of ensuring that the building systems are installed and perform as specified in the design intent documents and to meet the Owner’s operational requirements.
 

Commissioning focuses on verifying and documenting that all the commissioned systems and assemblies are planned, designed, installed, tested, operated, and maintained to meet the Owner’s Project Requirements.

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The primary goals of the commissioning process are:

1. Deliver buildings and construction projects that meet the OPR.

2. Prevent or eliminate problems inexpensively through proactive quality techniques.

3. Verify systems are installed and working correctly and benchmark that correct operation.

4. Lower overall first costs and life-cycle costs for the Owner.

5. Provide documentation and records on the design, construction, and testing to facilitate the operation and maintenance of the facility.

6. Implement trend logs to enable O&M staff to perform ongoing Cx.

7. Maintain facility performance for the building’s entire life cycle.

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Commissioning includes the following to achieve the projects specific objectives:

• Document and verify that equipment is installed and started per the manufacturer’s recommendations and contract documents.

• Document and verify that equipment and systems receive complete operational checkout by installing contractors.

• Document and verify system performance with thorough functional performance testing and monitoring.

• Verify the completeness of operations and maintenance materials.

• Ensure that the Owner’s operating personnel are adequately trained in the operation and maintenance of building equipment.