Questionnaire Set No.

2 27 September 2012

ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLE
1. What is double entry?
It is a system based on the accounting equation and requires that every business transactions
shall be recorded in a manner that the total debits must be equal to the total credits and hence, it
has specific rules of debit and credit for recording transactions in the balance sheet accounts.

2. What is the importance of maintaining accounts?

We can track expenses, debts and credits, settle liabilities on time and accurately thus, avoid
penalty charges. Maintaining an account helps the organization to prepare ‘true and fair’ annual
accounts which could be used as a reference when measuring the financial strength, the adequacy
of owner’s funding and the overall profitability of the business. Through this account, the top
level management can better strategize the business operation in case the overall profitability is
at risk.

3. What are the documents included in an audited financial report?

Director’s report, Auditor’s report, consolidated income statement, consolidated balance sheet,
consolidated cash flow statement, Statement of changes in equity, Notes to financial statements.

4. What is cost of capital and cost of revenue?

Cost of capital is an amount spent to acquire or improve a long-term asset or help generate
profits. For example, purchase of equipment or buildings and vehicles. It is usually classified in
an account as Property, Plant & Equipment. The cost of revenue is an amount that is expensed
immediately or the day to day running cost of the business thereby being matched with revenues
of the current accounting period. Servicing a machine, spare parts, repair and maintenance of
equipment and office consumables are some of the examples.

BUSINESS PLANNING

5. How do you start a cost Consultant firm?

I have to check the feasibility of my firm. I have to conduct market analysis, like SWOT analysis
to evaluate the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats involved in my business venture.
This would help me to formulate my strategy. If found feasible, I have to ensure that I have the
proper license to operate, professional indemnity insurance, human and financial resources, office,
firm’s policy and procedures.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

6. What are the things included under Health and safety plan?
Health and safety plan must be developed from the design phase up to construction phase of the
project. During design plan, the main component includes Health and Safety Information,
Organization and Responsibilities, Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment. During the
procurement plan, the main components include Material Hazards, Construction Risks and
Selection of Contractors. During construction, the plan includes management organizations and
responsibilities, selection of sub-contractors, site rules and procedures, welfare arrangements,
Training, Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, Method Statements, Environmental Control,
Monitoring Auditing and Review.

7. What are the advantages of having proper health and safety?

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By having proper health and safety, the health of all project personnel and subsequent
employees would be protected; the risks of accidents/ incidents both during construction and
for the lifetime of the process/production plant would be minimized; the fatalities associated
with the accidents would be avoided; the agreement on the health and safety policy and
procedures would be ensure by all person involved with the project; and the environment
would be protected from pollutants.

8. As a consultant QS if you see that the contractor does follow the proper safety measures
in the site what will you do?
I will encourage them to follow the proper safety measures as they are bound to follow the
health and safety policy procedure as per the terms of contract. If still they would continue
not following the proper safety measures, I would advise the Client upon due Consultation
with the Engineer to deduct portion of amount allocated to health and safety under
preliminaries.

9. What is Construction Design Management (CDM)?

This regulation came into force last April 2007 replacing the CDM 1994 and Construction
Health, Safety and Welfare 1996. They were introduced to ensure Clients, designers, contractors
and others involved in project consider the health and safety during construction, maintenance
and demolition of works within their role. Their aims are to provide a simplified set of
construction regulations; to clear what is expected of duty holders and to offer flexibility to
work across a range of construction arrangements.

10. What have you notices as biggest difference between health and safety in your country
and UAE?
I noticed that the authorities responsible for health and safety here in UAE are more stringent in
their policies and procedures and thus the fatalities due to accidents / incidents are negligible when
compared with the health and safety policies and procedures in our country.

COMMUNICATION AND NEGOTIATION

11. What are the negotiation techniques you adopt?
Negotiation is some meeting and expression of views between two people or parties, who may
disagree but intend to come to some sort of agreement. The techniques that I used to adopt
include, establish negotiation position; Set objectives; Compile supporting evidence; Establish
non-negotiable areas; Identify areas of compromise; Become realistic and focused; Don’t be in
hurry to close the deal; and Assess other side’s position.

12. What are the modes of communication?

The different modes of communication are oral, written and graphical. The oral communication
can be done through phone calls, reporting at meetings, chairing a meeting, bid presentations,
public speaking and contractor interviews.

DATA MANAGEMENT
13. What are the data management software you aware of?
We have are having a database server wherein all the authorized employee and top level
management can be able to access. We used to store our documents in this server to a structured
manner approved by our Document Control department and being backed up by our IT
department periodically. We also have vicidocs software wherein our Document Controller

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stores all the incoming and outgoing correspondence. In terms of quantification, we have
Dimension X wherein we can measure and store data of our measurements.

14. How do you manage data?

I keep adhering to the policy and procedures imposed by our Document Control when storing
cost data. I separate the original documents from the copy and ensure confidentiality of some
documents like fee proposal, documents related to disputes, etc. I never download documents
and software without the permission of our IT department. I properly use the computer software
and internet for the purpose of accomplishing my office workloads.

15. What are sources of cost data?

BCIS, pricing books like SPONS, in-house cost data, and previous tenders.

16. What are the advantages of electronically managed data system?

It creates collaboration and enhances team working of all the key players in the company. For
example, if the players are keen to beat the tight schedule of their cost estimates, the team leader
can easily split the work if the data is managed electronically. The team leader can easily check
the status of his team members’ progress. Whenever, the responsible leader is out of the office
and an update needs to be done, then anyone of his member can access the data and do the
updating.

CONFLICT AVOIDANCE
17. What are the dispute resolution methods available?
The available dispute resolution procedure includes Negotiation, Mediation, Conciliation, Early
Neutral Evaluation, Expert Determination, Adjudication, Arbitration, and last is Litigation.
However, in most of our projects under FIDIC 4th edition 1987, the disputes usually settled
amicably through negotiation, and in some cases disputes referred to arbitration.

18. What is Ad-Hoc arbitration?

Ad hoc arbitration is a proceeding that is not administered by others and requires the parties to
make their own arrangements for selection of arbitrators and for designation of rules, applicable
law, procedures and administrative support. Provided the parties approach the arbitration in a spirit
of cooperation, ad hoc proceedings can be more flexible, cheaper and faster than an administered
proceeding. The absence of administrative fees alone makes this a popular choice.

19. What are the 5 sources of UAE law?

Court of First Instance, Court of Appeal, Court of Cassation, Federal Supreme Court and Sharia
Court

20. What are the elements of a binding contract?

The elements of a binding contract include the offer by one party and acceptance by the other,
intention to create legal relations, agreement on the same thing, capacity of the parties, legality of
objects, possibility of performance and certainty of terms.

21. How do you avoid conflict in pre contract and post contract?
During pre-contract stage, to avoid conflicts, there should be sufficient time to develop the design
for each package, better coordination between the project team, qualified staff to prepare all pre-
contract documents, clear understanding about the client brief and design ambiguities, and better
communication through effective cost planning. Also, allow to use standard form of contract as it

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contained dispute resolution procedure which would be more essential during construction stage.
During post-contract, to avoid conflicts, the parties in contract should fulfill their obligations with
due care and diligence as per the terms of contract. It is essential not to amend standard form of
contract so that when dispute arise professionals know how to deal them through previous cases.
There would also be less ambiguities and thus allow for a proper contract administration.

TEAMWORK
22. What is supply chain management?
Supply chain management is a process that attempts to fully integrate the network of all
organizations and their related activities in an efficient manner. The focus of SCM is to add value
to the product or service at each stage of the chain so that it meets or exceeds customer
expectations.

23. What is team dynamic?

Team dynamics is the force bringing group members closer together. It is concerned with the
interaction between members of the team and how this relates to the team performance in
achieving the common goal of the organization. This relates to the interpersonal and
interdependent process of work, how things get done by people, and how team members relate
their task to each other.

24. Can a physical object be a team dynamic?

Yes. It has been noted that most important contributions to team dynamics are the ability to provide
communication and fostering relationship among the team members. These are achievable if the
team will work in open workstations, meaning there is no partition physically dividing each other
which would encourage for a smooth line of communication. Another example is a computer
which could be used as a medium of communication.

SUSTAINABILITY
25. What are the critical issues affecting sustainability in UAE/ Worldwide?
Global warming, climate change, water scarcity, carbon emissions and waste management

26. How do you contribute to sustainability in your day to day life?

I have to conserve the consumption of energy and water, take the advantage of public transport,
use recycle paper in the office, etc.

27. Can you explain waste management process?

Waste management process includes the collection, transport, processing or disposal, managing
and monitoring of waste materials. The term usually relates to materials produced by human
activity, and the process is generally undertaken to reduce their effect on health and environment.

28. What are the organizations responsible to Sustainability in UAE?

Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council and Emirates Green Building Council

29. What are the Sustainability criteria that LEED Certification considers?
For LEED certifications, we have to consider how much energy we save, how much water we
recycle, how sustainable we are.

30. What are the advantages of a sustainable building?

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Environmentally it protects the ecosystem, improve air and water quality, reduce waste streams, waste
reduction, reduce emissions, conserve emissions, conserve water, conserve and restore natural
resources, and temperature control. Economically, it optimizes the life cycle of the building, increase
property value, reduce operating cost, and improve occupants’ attendance and productivity. Socially,
it improves occupants comfort and health, maximizes strain on Local Infrastructure, Improves
productivity, create an aesthetically pleasing environment and increases occupants overall morale.

CONDUCT RULES, ETHICS AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

31. What are the Ethical standards?

The five (5) Professional and Ethical Standards are:
1) Act with integrity
2) Always provide a high standard of service
3) Acts in a way that promotes trust in the profession
4) Treat others with respect
5) Take responsibility

32. What is decision tree?? Explain?

Decision tree is a step by step practical advice on how to deal with any ethical issue that you might
face as a profession. At some point in our career we may face situations that are difficult to act upon.
When we have a certain issue, we need first to check and follow the steps set out in the Decision Tree
[questions/or a checklist]. To start with we need to check whether we have sufficient facts on the
issue [we need to answer the question “Do you have sufficient facts on the issue”?], trying to separate
the facts from our and others emotional response. If the answer is NO, then do not proceed however
if the answer is YES, then proceed to step 2 and check if it is legal [we need to answer the question
“Is it Legal”?] and if the answer is NO then do not proceed but if UNSURE then check if you can
get more information or seek advice. From this, if answer is NO then do not proceed but if YES then
if it seems legal proceed to the next step. Third step to check if it is in line with RICS global
professional and ethical standards. If it’s NO then do not proceed however if YES then proceed to
the next step. Step 4 is to check whether you consulted with appropriate people to make an informed
decision, considering or further checking if you have assessed the risk involve and if you have
considered what the options are and again if the answer is NO, do not proceed but if YES, proceed
to next step and check if you have clear reasoning in reaching your decision(?)And if your decision
is informed (?) and in here you to decide what action you are going to take while recording the
decision and the reasoning on it. If the answer is again NO, do not proceed but if YES, proceed to
next step and check if you be content for your actions to be made public – in the newspapers or in
the internet (?). If the answer is NO, then do not proceed but if YES, then ACT AND REFLECT ON
THE OUTCOME.

33. What are the penalties imposed by the disciplinary panel if the member misbehave?
If a member misbehave or breaches the rule 3 –professional behaviour, and where a public
disciplinary hearing is called for, the disciplinary panel can impose a range of penalties such as:
(1) Caution; (2) reprimand; (3) Undertakings as to future conduct; (4) Fines (in accordance with
Supplement 2 to the Sanctions policy – Fines, Costs, and Administration Fees); (5) Conditions
on the member’s continued membership of RICS; (6)conditions on the firm’s registration for
regulation; (7) expulsion of the member from RICS; and (8) Removal of the firm’s registration
for regulation.
The penalty imposed will be appropriate to the breach and all the circumstances. There is a
need for RICS to demonstrate to society and to other members or firms that it takes firm action
in order to protect the public interest and promote regulatory compliance and it is also

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necessary to deter the member or firm and other members or firms from future non-compliance.

34. What is consent order?

Consent Order is a formal written agreement between RICS and a member or firm dealing with a
disciplinary issue arising from an identified breach of RICS’ rules.
A consent order may include terms to: take a certain action, desist from taking a certain action within
a specified period of time, pay a fine (up to £2000 per breach), and pay RICS’ costs where
appropriate.
For the previous 12 months, several counts of consent orders where given to Firms occurring breaches
of the Rules of Conduct for Firms such as: Rule3-professional behavior, 4-competence, 5-service, 6-
Trainingand CPD, 7-complaint handling, 8-client’s money, 9-PI insurance, 10-advertising, 11-
solvency, 12-arrangement to cover incapacity or death of a sole practitioner, 13-use of designation,
14- information to RICS, and 15-Cooperation.
Consent Order is requiring a member or firm from taking or restraining from taking certain actions
for a specified period of time and may require them to pay a fine or costs.
For members several counts of consent orders where given on occurring breaches of Rules of Conduct
for Members such as: Rule 3-Professional behaviors; Rule 4-Competence; Rule 5-service; Rule 6-
Training and Continuing Professional Development (CPD); Rule 7-Solvency; Rule 8-Information to
RICs and Rule 9-Cooperation.

35. What are the factors considered to determine the seriousness of breach??
Several factors that will be considered in determining the seriousness of breach and would include:
1) Whether the breach involved wrongdoing, blame, recklessness or dishonesty.
2) The risk of loss, or size of damage to the public or consumers.
3) The member or firm’s level of experience in practice.
4) Where relevant, the length of time over which the breach occurred.
5) The number or frequency of the breach(es); and
6) The duration of the breach (es).

36. Mitigating factors when in breach

Mitigating factors would include:
1) the steps taken to rectify breaches and to put things right, or to avoid a repeat of the breach in the
future;
2) the responsibility taken by the member or firm for any failings;
3) whether the member or firm notified RICS of the breach;
4) any admission and/or regret expressed;
5) any steps taken by the member or firm to compensate the client;
6) a willingness to assist RICS; and
7) ill health.
The extent to which a member or firm has benefited or stood to benefit from the breach can exacerbate
the situation.

37. Purpose of disciplinary action?

RICS take disciplinary action in cases where members and/or regulated firms fall short of the
standards expected of them. The purpose of disciplinary action is to make the member or regulated
firms maintain the standards expected of them.

38. What is Client complaint Handling procedure?

RICS regulation is responsible for ensuring the members and firms meet the requirements of the
Rules of Conduct. These rules define the the professional, ethical and business standards which are

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expected of our members and firms. They also require RICS-regulated firms to have a complaints
handling procedure (CHP) to deal with potential complaints about the firm.
In complaining to a regulated firm, you should ask the firm details of its CHP. Every regulated
firm must have this in place and the firm’s CHP will have two stages:
▪ Complaints will be considered by a senior member of the firm or a designated complaints
handler
▪ If the complaint cannot be resolved, it will be referred to an independent redress scheme
such as an ombudsman. There are a number of redress schemes and the firm's CHP must
give details of the redress scheme to which it refers complaints so that you know where to
take your complaint

39. What is client money handling procedure?

Clients' money is any money received by a firm, in the course of its business activities, that does not
solely belong to it or any principal or principals of the firm. And they are simply entrusted to you
and you will hold the funds as a trustee for the party or parties ultimately entitled to them.
Procedure in handling client’s money:
a) Must have a separate designated client account – properly named
b) Before opening an account, ensure bank or building society at which account is maintained
has agreed the account opening conditions in writing
c) Notify clients in writing of the bank account details and agree terms of handling including
arrangements for interest and charges (copy of letter in Client’s file), in writing
d) Monies must be available to client on demand, interest is to be paid to clients unless
otherwise agreed
e) Signatories must be agreed, only authorized staff allowed and at least two is required
f) A bank reconciliation must be undertaken at regular intervals
g) All firms will be audited by RICS’ appointed accountants
h) These firms are required to pay RICS an annual fee as monitoring costs
i) In case if a sole practitioner died, receiver or liquidator is to be appointed

40. How do you under take CPD??Why it is important?? What is the RICS minimum
requirement?
From January 2010, Rules of Conduct for members concerning CPD is that “Members shall plan,
undertake, record and evaluate appropriate continuing professional development and, on request,
provide RICS with evidence that they have done so”. There are four learning process: (1) Appraisal,
(2) Planning, (3) Development, and (4) Reflection.
In Appraisal, check where you are now and know what are your strengths and weaknesses. From
there you need to plan. Planning is knowing where you are going, knowing your skills, competence
and experience. You must check the areas where you are unaware, aware, skilled, capable and expert.
Then from there you have to know how will you get there or the Development. You must need to
know your learning styles such as innovative, analytic, common sense and dynamic. Once done, you
must reflect or know when you got there, evaluate the outcomes and establish whether you have
achieved your objective.
The aim of CPD is: (a) to improve your professional competence, and (b) demonstrate how you have
maintained professional competence. Continued professional development is an integral part of
every RICS member's working life. It is necessary for growth and development of surveyors at all
levels. CPD requirements allow for flexibility in how members build their CPD hours. Activities can
be based around work-based learning, personal and informal learning, distance learning or voluntary
work, as well as the more traditional courses and seminars.
The RICS minimum requirement for a member, must at least achieve and recorded 20 CPD hours

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per year.

41. Why organizations prefer to have MRICS in their organization?

As RICS is a reputed organization, being a member of RICS one must adhere to the set of standards,
procedures, rules set by RICS. A RICS member could provide high standard of service to the
profession.

PROCUREMENT AND TENDERING

42. Explain the selective tendering procedure??

Selective tendering has two types: the Single Stage Selective Tendering and Two stage Selective
Tendering. In Single Stage selective tendering, Tenderers are called for to tender. A
Contractor will then be selected, just like in traditional procurement path.

Two stage tendering is a refinement of the management procurement route wherein it is used to
appoint a contractor on the project as early as possible so that their expertise can be used in the
project. This allows Clients to appoint Contractor on the basis of anticipated competency as well
as price. This is split into two stages: First Stage, or the pre-qualification stage, the Tenderers
submit a price based on the information available and an outline method statement. As part of
their first stage submission, tenderers will submit programmes, method statements, preliminaries
costs, initial prices for constructing those packages that have been designed at the time of
tendering, and provisional sums for those packages yet to be designed, together with the
percentage margin they seek to earn on them. The second stage comprises negotiation with the
winning tenderer from the first stage. During this process, a price is negotiated with the Client to
reflect the additional design information now available.
The second stage of the process encompasses the competitive tendering of the provisionally-priced
packages to subcontractors until the proportion of the work that has received a fixed price (from
either the main Contractor in the first stage, or main Contractor or package subcontractors in the
second stage) is considered sufficient to agree a price for the whole project. This is generally done
when a fixed price for at least 80% of the project has been obtained.
The major benefits of two-stage tendering when over Traditional single-stage tendering are:
• Allows for a quicker start on site than a Traditional lump sum route due to a shorter tender
documentation period.
• Quality is controlled by identifying the subcontractors, who may have design
responsibilities (where permitted by the form of Contract used).
• Design can extend into the construction period.
• Main Contractors can be informed of the required package subcontractors (where known)
at the
time of the first stage tender. This helps them to decide if their will proceed to tender for
the work.
• The second stage price can be converted to a guaranteed maximum price (GMP).
Disadvantages of two-stage tendering:
➢ There can be problems if the design solutions of the work package subcontractors do not
meet the Client's requirements.
PROJECT FINANCIAL CONTROL and REPORTING

43. What is Benchmarking??

Benchmarking is the process of collecting and comparing data within the organization or

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external to an organization to identify the ‘best in class’ or comparing to the average

performance or the minimum acceptable standard. It is a systematic method of comparing the
performance of your organization against others, then using lessons from the best to make
targeted improvements.
There are financial benchmarking tools used such as:
- Income statements, balance sheet, cashflow analysis and financial ratios.
- Five-year industry forecast
- Data to compare the company results with its competitors
- KPI based benchmarking
Advantages of benchmarking are:
- Understand where cost saving and efficiency gains could easily made.
- To understand and compare the company profit levels with industry average.
- To identify the scope of growth and how the growth prospects change if business conditions
are adjusted.

44. How do you prepare cash flow??

Cash flow is the lifeblood of the construction industry and it relates to the incoming and
outgoing of money to or from a company over a given period (usually monthly). Within
construction contracts a cash flow is used to inform the employer as to what and when their
monetary commitments under the contract would be.
In preparing a cash flow, I need to know the contract value and the construction programme.
The contract amount are distributed or subdivided through the work packages and these costs
are then linked to the programme which would effectively provide a monthly breakdown of
cost. From the monthly forecasted cost an S-curve would then be developed. This will be kept
updated on a monthly basis when the project started and on-going. Actual amounts will be
reflected for the past and current months and the monthly forecast will be added on the
remaining months. This will be compared to the budget cashflow and will then provide an
indication of the status of the project against the total amount expended. This will act as a check
against valuations and provide early indication of any likely difficulties.

45. Change control procedure?

Change control procedures ensure that each change introduced to the project is appropriately
defined, evaluated and approved prior to implementation. In establishing change control
strategy in a project, the following are considered:
- Set the main client objectives.
- Define the change control procedure
- Documentation process – prepare a change control log or registry
- Monitor the change – identify the potential change.
- Reconciliation with budget limit
- Remedial actions to be taken.
The purpose of change control on a construction project is to provide a method of assessing
and managing change, giving details of consequent cost, programme and scope effect.
Effective change control procedure enables the monitoring and reporting of changes where
they affect the out-turn cost and enables the project team to monitor and appraise programme
implications and impact. The Client is made aware of the consequences of a potential change
and the effect that this would have on the overall project, this allowing an informed decision to
be made with a full understanding of the impact of implementation.

46. What measures can be taken to effectively control costs during the construction phase
of a project?

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To effectively manage and control costs during the implementation phase of a project, several
measures can be taken into account such as:
• Proactive risk and contingency management
• Implementing a robust change control process
• Managing Provisional Sums within budget
• Regular cost reporting which is also forward looking

47. What is the purpose of a financial report?

Financial Report purposes are:
• To report against budgeted values and act as a working cost check on the project budget.
• To give the Client an understanding of any savings or additional monies required.
• To report on contract progress against pre-contract predictions.

48. Having advised the client and established the change control procedure on a
Project, how was this then implemented?
• The procedure was communicated to the rest of the consultant team through a report and flow
diagram, which were prepared and then presented at a meeting. This change procedure was
also included within the Project Execution Plan.
• Change Proposal proformas were issued to the design team with instructions for use.
• A schedule of change control meetings were agreed with the project team.
• A register of change controls and a tracker was maintained.
• Change proposals were fully co-ordinated by the Initiator and checked prior to costing and
submitting to the client for approval.
• Monitored the other consultant’s and the client to ensure the correct procedures were being
implemented, e.g. to ensure potential changes are raised at an early stage, the full consequences
of changes are established and changes are only instructed following client sign off.
49. On the project that you were involved, what cost reporting protocol you had
established?
In the project that I had worked on previously, although we have a standard cost report format
within the organization, a cost reporting protocol had agreed with the Client and the Project
Director at the start of the project and this includes:
• Content and format of report
• Timing and frequency of issue
• Interfaces with other parties such as the contractor and client’s finance team
• Any additional requirements of stakeholders, such as funders
• Distribution list and means of issue
• Method of presentation of the report.

50. What information would you include within the cost report for a project procured
under a single stage traditional procurement route?
In the project that I had worked previously, the cost report that I would prepare for the client
would include the following:
1 ) Executive summary which would include:
- Current budget (usually the contract sum) and forecast (anticipated final account total)
- Contingency position
- Level of cost ‘certainty’, i.e. agreement of provisional sums
- Total commitment and expenditure to date
- Final account progress
- Contract position
- Cash flow position

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- Progress in the period and current financial position

- Outstanding information
- Major risks or causes for concern
- Next steps and recommendations
2) Register of approved changes/ instructions and pending changes / early warnings /
claims
3) Analysis of contingency and risk status
4) Summary of provisional sums and progress against these
5) Value engineering or opportunities register
6) Risk register
7) Cash flow forecast

DESIGN ECONOMICS

51. What are the process/phases in value engineering??

Value Engineering is an organized approach aimed to providing the necessary functions at the lowest
cost without detrimental effect to quality, reliability, performance and delivery. And Value
Engineering processes is a technique used to control the project cost by looking at key factors that
contributes to the cost with the objective of achieving best economical value without sacrificing the
quality.
Value Engineering occurs during the Conceptual Stage (RIBA Stage C) and Design Development
Stage (RIBA Stage D). The phases in Value engineering are:
- Information phase: Functional analysis of component: [FAST diagram]
- Speculation phase: creative thinking techniques: [BRAIN STORMING]
- Evaluation Phase: Evaluate solutions [Cost and Feasibility] List of Options
- Development Phase: Detailed development of surviving ideas and interfaces: [LCC
techniques]
- Presentation Phase: Best solution identified and recommendation made: [Written/ oral
report].

52. What are the stages in RIBA plan of work? What are the types of estimates used in each
stage?
The stages in RIBA plan of work 2007 (NRM1 page 7-8):
Stage A – Appraisal
Stage B – Design Brief
Stage C – Concept
Stage D –Design Development
Stage E – Technical Design
Stage F – Production Information
Stage G – Tender Documentation
Stage H – Tender Action
Cost estimates and cost plans will need to be prepared by QS/Cost Manager at various stages of RIBA
Plan of Work. To address these requirements, RICS has determined a series of formal cost estimating
and elemental cost planning stages. During the Appraisal Stage, an Order of Cost estimate would be
prepared and a Formal Cost Plan 1 to be prepared at Work Stage C+. This would normally comprise
the deliverables that the employer requires prior to submitting a building project for planning
approval. Formal Cost Plan 2 would be prepared during the Stage D – Design Development and
Formal Cost Plan 3 to be prepared at the end of the Technical design – Stage E. Pre-tender estimate
would be prepared on the Production Information – Stage F and Post Tender estimate on the Tender
Action – stage H.

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53. What is trade cost planning?

Trade cost planning is the process of controlling the realistic estimate based on more detailed
information available of the trade package. A Trade Cost Plan follows trade packages and often
can be sent out for pricing to Contractors easily.

54. What are risks in cost plan??

All building projects involve risks, some are obvious and some are less so; the proper
management of risk saves time and money. The risks that are to be considered in a cost plan
are the design development risks, Construction risks, Employer change risks and Employer
other risks. Separate risk allowances are considered on each and for the Design Developments
risks an allowance for use during the design process to provide for the risks associated with
design development, changes in estimating data, third party risks, statutory requirements,
procurement methodology and delays in tendering. Construction risks an allowance for use
during the construction processes to provide for the risks associated with site conditions, ground
conditions, existing services, and delays by statutory undertakers. For the Employer change
risks an allowance for use during the design process and the construction process to provide for
the risks of employer driven changes. For the Employer other risks an allowance for other
employer risks such as early handover, postponement, acceleration, availability of funds,
liquidated damages or premiums on other contracts due to late provision of accommodation,
unconventional tender action and special contract arrangements.

55. What costs do you normally exclude in Cost plan?

In a cost plan, the following are normally excluded:
- Land Acquisition Cost
- Government Authorities Fees
- Levies
- Taxes
- Marketing and Sales charges
- Consultant Fees

56. What are the difference between Elemental cost planning and comparative cost
planning??
Elemental Cost Planning – is based on elements of structure and intended for one design
Comparative Cost Planning – is the pricing of two different design options for comparison

57. How do you carry out Life cycle costing of an AHU??

Air handling systems are installed in order to create good Indoor Air Quality and proper
temperature control so that optimum conditions are created for people and processes. I would need
to determine the life span of AHU, total Investment cost including the Energy cost, Service cost,
Environmental cost and taxes (if any) to enable to carry out Life cycle costing. Based on a study,
in a period of 10-20, the overall life cycle cost was dominated by energy cost that can typically
add up to 80% of the total cost.

CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY

58. How do you construct Secant pile?? What are the differences between male and female
piles in Secant pile??
Secant pile walls are formed by constructing intersecting reinforced concrete piles. The secant piles
are reinforced with either steel reinforcement or with steel beams and are constructed by either

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drilling under mud or augering. Primary piles are installed first with secondary piles constructed in
between primary piles once the latter gain sufficient strength. Pile overlap is typically in the order of
3inches (8cm). The method consists of boring and concreting primary (female) piles at centers
slightly less than twice the nominal pile diameter. Secondary (male) piles are then bored at mid-
distance between the female piles, the boring equipment cutting a secant section from them. Male
piles are bored through female piles before the concrete has achieved its full strength. Secant piled
walls can either be true hard/hard, hard/intermediate (firm), or hard/soft, depending on design
requirements. Hard refers to structural concrete and firm or soft is usually a weaker grout mix
containing bentonite. All types of wall can be constructed as free standing cantilevers, or may be
propped if space and sub-structure design permit. Where party wall agreements allow, ground
anchors can be used as tie backs.
The main advantage s of secant pile walls are: (1) increased construction alignment flexibility; (2)
Increased wall stiffness compared to sheet piles; (3) can be installed in difficult ground (such
cobbles/boulders); (4) less noisy construction. The disadvantages are (1) verticality tolerances may
be hard to achieve for deep piles; (2) total waterproofing is very difficult to obtain in joints; (3)
increased cost compared to sheet pile walls.
Secant piles are constructed such that space is left between alternate ‘female’ piles for the subsequent
construction of ‘male piles. Primary piles are the ‘female’ piles and secondary piles are the ’male’
piles. Construction of 'male' piles involves boring through the concrete in the 'female' piles in order
to key 'male' piles between them. The male pile is the one where steel reinforcement cages are
installed, though in some cases the female piles are also reinforced.

59. Explain the construction of PT slabs?

Post tensioned slabs are bonded post tensioned concrete; a method of applying compression
after pouring concrete and the curing process. First, unbounded tendons typically fabricated at
plant and are delivered to construction site ready to be installed. The tendons then are laid over
the forms in accordance with the construction drawings indicating the spacing and the height
above the forms should be placed and where they are stressed. After concrete pouring and had
reached about 75% of its required strength, the tendons then are stressed sufficiently according
to the design specifications and are wedged or anchored in position. The duct is then grouted to
protect the tendons from corrosion. The tendons like rubber band after stressing wanted to
return to its original length but are prevented from doing so by the anchorages. The fact that
the tendons are kept in a permanently stressed state causes a compressive force to act on the
concrete. The compression that results from the post tensioning counteracts the tensile forces
created by subsequent applied loadings (such as cars, people, weight of beam itself). This
significantly increases the load carrying capacity of the concrete. Since post tensioning is done
on site, therefore no limit of the shapes that can be formed such as curved facades, arched and
complicated slab edges. The advantages of using PT slabs are: - stronger and cheaper to
construct; - smaller/thinner depth of concrete used to obtain sam end result, thus lesser
construction cost; - increased span lengths; and – lesser joints therefore less maintenance.

60. What are the types of Formwork Systems are used in high-rise buildings?
Formwork is a complex technique involved in construction and there are different types of
formwork which are used in building. For high-rise buildings, formwork system used is:
1. Slip forming – is a construction method in which concrete is poured into a continuously moving
form. It enables continuous, non-interrupted, cast-in-place concrete structures which have
superior performance characteristics to piecewise construction using discrete form elements.
Slip forming relies on the quick-setting properties of concrete. Concrete needs to be workable
enough to be placed into the form and packed, yet quick-setting enough to emerge from the
form with strength. This strength is needed because the freshly set concrete must not only

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permit the form to “slip” upwards but also support the freshly poured concrete above it. In
vertical slip forming, the concrete form is surrounded by platform, together; the concrete form
and the working platform are raised by means of hydraulic jack. Generally, the slip form rises
at a rate which permits the concrete to harden by the time it emerges from the bottom of the
form.
2. Table or Flying Form System – these consist of formwork tables which are reusable. These
tables do not have to be dismantled and can be used in high buildings where cranes or elevators
are used to lift the tables. Once table is positioned, the space between the wall and table is
filled. The sizes vary and this type is a huge saver of both labour and time and is favourable by
engineers and architects. However, this is best used in construction of large, but simple
structures.
3. Climbing formwork (Jump form) - self climbing / crane-climbing / or gliding formworks. Self-
climbing formwork, the structure elevates itself with the help of mechanic leverage equipment
(usually hydraulic). To do this, it is usually fixed to sacrificial cones or rails emplaced in
previously cast concrete. Crane-climbing, once the hardening of the concrete has proceeded
far enough; this entails lifting the whole section or be achieved segmentally.
4. Engineered Formwork system – this formwork is built out of prefabricated modules with a
metal frame usually steel or aluminium and covered on the application side with material
having the wanted surface structure.

61. What are the types of water proofing system available?

Waterproofing describes making an object or structure waterproofed or water resistant. In
building construction, waterproofing systems are:
a) Conventional system – this involves using a membrane of one or more layer (PVC,
EPDM) that act as barrier between the water and the building structure preventing the
water passage.
b) Integral waterproofing – work within the concrete structure, giving the concrete itself a
waterproof quality.
c) Basement waterproofing
d) Exterior Waterproofing
e) Interior waterproofing

62. What are the types of concrete tests available?

A concrete test is performed to learn more about the properties of a specific sample of
concrete. A number of different tests can be performed on concrete both, on a job site and in
a laboratory. Because concrete is an important structural element, testing is mandatory in
many regions of the world, and construction companies must provide documentation of their
testing and results when asked to do so by government representatives. Test results are also
kept on file in case a problem develops in the future. There are a dozen different test methods
for freshly mixed concrete and at least another dozen tests for hardened concrete.
The different types of concrete testing:
One of the most classic concrete tests is a slump test. In a slump test, concrete is tamped into a
cone, which is then removed to see how far the concrete sinks or slumps without the support of
the cone. Changes in slump height between batches of concrete can indicate a consistency
problem. There are also slump requirements for different types of construction; low slump height
concrete, for example, cannot be used to build roadways. Thus, the slump concrete test is both a
quality control measure and a consistency measure.
Other types of concrete test can include laboratory analysis of the components of concrete, to
confirm that concrete contains what the manufacturer claims it contains and to learn more about

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properties, such as durability and permeability. Concrete must meet specific standards, especially
for high stress projects like bridges and high-rise buildings, which makes lab testing important to
confirm that concrete is safe to use and that it will withstand years of stress.
For test of Self Consolidating Concrete (SCC) where this is characterised by its unique fresh concrete
properties, methods are:
Test Method Description
ASTM C1611
Test is performed similar to the conventional slump test (ASTM C143) using
the Abrams cone (use of inverted cone possible). However, instead of
measuring the slumping distance vertically, the mean spread of the resulting
concrete patty is measured horizontally. This number is recorded as the
slump flow.
Slump Flow Additional information about the mixture can be obtained by measuring the
time it takes for the patty to reach 500mm (20in). This is called the T50 value
and is a measure of viscosity.
A final visual observation of the patty can be compared to an index called the
Visual Stability Index, which rates the degree of segregation during the test.
Measured characteristic: Filling ability (deformability), viscosity &
stability
ASTM C1621
The J-Ring consists of a ring of reinforcing bars such that it will fit around
the base of a standard slump cone. The slump flow with and without J-Ring
is measured and the difference calculated.
J-Ring
An index, called the Visual Blocking Index, is available to rate the
segregation of the mixture during the test; however, this is not part of the
ASTM standard.
Measured characteristic: Passing ability
ASTM C1610
This test evaluates the static stability of a concrete mixture by quantifying
aggregate segregation. A column is filled with concrete and allowed to sit for
a while after placement. The column is then separated into three or four
pieces. Each section is removed individually and the concrete from that
Column Segregation
section is washed over a No. 4 sieve and the retained aggregate weighed. A
non-segregating mix will have a consistent aggregate mass distribution in
each section. A segregating mix will have higher concentrations of aggregate
in the lower sections.
Measured characteristic: Stability

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There are many other accepted tests for SCC that has not been standardized within ASTM. The
following table summarizes some of the more recent or commonly used methods:

Test Method Description

This test evaluates the passing ability of the mixture. Concrete is

placed inside the vertical portion of the testing apparatus. A grill
placed at the entrance of the horizontal portion simulates
reinforcement. Once the concrete has flowed to the resting
position, the heights of concrete in the vertical portion (H1) and
L-Box
the end of the horizontal portion (H2) of the apparatus are
measured. The ratio H2/H1 is used as a measurement of passing
ability. Values of 0.75 and higher are considered acceptable.
Measured characteristic: Passing ability
(photo courtesy of BASF Construction Chemicals)

The V-Funnel consists of a V-shaped apparatus with an opening at

the bottom. The time taken to empty the funnel is regarded as a
V-Funnel measure of the viscosity of the mixture.
Measured characteristic: Viscosity
(photo courtesy of BASF Construction Chemicals)
The segregation probe test is a quick and easy test that measures
the thickness of the mortar layer on the surface. A standard
150mm x 300mm (6in x 12in) cylinder is filled in one lift and
allowed to sit for two minutes. A wire ring with a graduated stem
is then placed on the top surface of a cylinder and allowed to settle
Segregation Probe
for one minute before the depth of penetration is recorded.
Penetration values range from less than 4mm (1/6in) for very
stable mixtures to more than 25mm (1in) for highly unstable
mixtures.
Measured characteristic: Stability

63. Explain the Construction of diaphragm wall??

Diaphragm wall is generally a reinforced concrete wall constructed in the ground using
under slurry technique. The technique involves excavating a narrow trench that is kept full
of an engineered fluid of slurry. Walls of thickness between 300mm to 1200mm can be
formed in this way up to depths of 45 meters.
Construction Procedure of Diaphragm Wall:
Stage-1: Fixing of Alignment
Stage-2: Guide wall Construction
Stage-3: Trenching
Stage-4: Trench Cleaning
Stage-5: Stop ends fixing
Stage-6: Reinforcement Cage lowering
Stage-7: Placing of Concrete
Stage-8: Withdrawal of Stop ends
• Diaphragm wall construction begins with the trench being excavated in discontinuous sections
or panels. Stop-ends are placed vertically at each end of primary panel to form joints for
adjacent secondary panel or closing panels. Panels are usually 4 to 6 meters long. Stop-ends
are used to form the joints between adjacent panels and a water bar can be incorporated across
these joints. Joints of adjacent panels to be cleaned to obtain watertight bond. Loose
materials to be lifted by suitable air lifting method. Excavation of panel is followed by
placing of steel reinforcement cage in center of the panel.

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• This is then followed by the placing of concrete. Placing of concrete having slump 150mm to
190mm by tremmie method. Concrete to be placed through a top metal hopper and into a
rigid leak proof tremmie pipe (2 sets), sufficiently large enough to permit free flow of
concrete. Initially there should be a suitable plug at the bottom of metal hopper, which will
not discharge concrete until sufficient concrete accumulate in the metal hopper. Concrete
displaces the slurry from bottom and rises in such a manner that mixing of concrete with
slurry does not occur. Pouring shall be continued till it accumulates in vertical Tremmie pipe
up to top of funnel. Tremmie pipe shall be raised so as to release the concrete in a single
continuous flow. Concrete to be discharged in the trench without any lateral movement of
Tremmie pipe.{Caution - Bottom end of Tremmie pipe must remains immersed in concrete}.
• Operation to be continued till good concrete reaches 300mm above the cut-off level of
Diaphragm Wall. This concrete above cut-off shall be removed when green Chipping of
concrete is not to be permitted. Length of Tremmie pipe shall be reduced by removal of
Tremmie segment stage by stage. Withdrawal of Stop ends just after the Initial setting of
concrete.
Diaphragm walls are commonly used in congested areas, can be installed in close proximity
to existing structure, practically suited for deep basements.
Diaphragm walls are:
• Very unstable soil profiles below the water table.
• Limited construction time Where deeper than normal cantilever support may be
required.
• Can be Installed to considerable depth.
• Formation of walls with substantial thickness.
• Flexible system in plan layout
• Easily incorporated into Permanent works.
• Designable to carry vertical loads.
• Construction time of Basement can be lowered considerably.
• Economic and Positive solution for large deep basement in saturated and
unstable soil profiles.
• Can be used for seepage control in Dams.
• Noise levels limited to engine noise only.
• No vibration during installation.

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