Guide for Design and Construction Responsibilities for Architectural Precast Concrete

Abstract

A successful precast concrete project requires teamwork among all the participants, including the owner, architect, structural engineer of record, construction manager, general contractor, precast concrete manufacturer (precaster), specialty structural engineer, and erector.

Establishing the scope of the precast concrete work and the responsibilities of each party at an early stage in the development of a project is important to achieve quality and keep the project on schedule.

During construction, each party is responsible for communicating with all other parties through the construction manager/general contractor.

When roles and responsibilities are coordinated, problems and conflicts of responsibility can be avoided.

Lines of communication among the parties involved in a project may be established by written documents, or during prebid and preconstruction conferences at which time the communication lines and responsibilities can be reviewed and the design requirements discussed.

To design economical structures for their clients, the designer needs to be familiar with architectural precast concrete and obtain design input from a local precaster early in the schematic design process.

The precaster will help inform the design and construction team regarding economical fabrication, delivery, erection processes, and any possible manufacturing limitations.

In the event alternatives are approved, the design team retains responsibility for providing revised details as needed and to show how other materials interface with the precast concrete.

The structural engineer of record takes overall responsibility for the structural design of the completed structure