One issue at this transition stage is that technical experts are often not sufficiently involved in the preparation of the PPP contract in relation to testing and commissioning - leading to a potential for unrealistic requirements. In particularly complicated projects with multiple assets, there may be requirements for independent testers to respond within a matter of days against complex testing criteria, which in practice requires weeks to prove to the relevant level of sign off. This can cause unnecessary tension among stakeholders and requires the Procuring Authority to be realistic about the overall construction timeline and desired commencement dates.
EXAMPLE Early planning for testing and commissioning The I-495 Express Lanes project in the USA highlights the need to build adequate time into the project schedule for testing and commissioning of complex tolling and traffic management systems. For that project, it was noted that detailed planning and coordination for the road opening and commencement of tolling should begin at least one year prior to the anticipated opening date. For more information, see the I-495 Express Lanes Case Study. |
A testing and commissioning panel can be set up to manage the challenge of a smooth transition from construction to operations. This panel may consist of representatives of the Procuring Authority, the Project Company, the construction contractor and the operations contractor. It should be set up before the commencement of testing and commissioning.
EXAMPLE Operational readiness and airport transfer team in Jordan An example of a testing and commissioning panel is highlighted in the Queen Alia International Airport Expansion project in Jordan, where the Project Company formed an 'Operational Readiness and Airport Transfer' team two years prior to service commencement. The Procuring Authority was closely involved, and the planning paid off with a successful transition. For more information, see the Queen Alia International Airport Expansion Case Study. |