GUIDELINES FOR

STRUCTURAL

ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR

BUILDING PROJECTS

ASSOCIATION OF
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS
OF BRITISH COLUMBIA

FEBRUARY 4, 1993

GUIDELINES FOR

STRUCTURAL
ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR
BUILDING PROJECTS

February 4, 1993

PUBLISHED BY:

ASSOCIATION OF PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS

OF BRITISH COLUMBIA
200 - 4010 Regent Street, Burnaby, B.C. V5C 6N2
Telephone: (604) 430-8035
E-Mail: [email protected]

Toll Free (BC) 1-888-430-8035

Fax: (604) 430-8085

Internet: www.apeg.bc.ca

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0

INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1

PURPOSE OF GUIDELINES

1.2

SCOPE OF GUIDELINES

1.3

QUALIFICATION

2.0

DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

3.0

PROJECT ORGANIZATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

4.0

3.1

COMMON FORMS OF PROJECT ORGANIZATION

3.2

RESPONSIBILITIES OF ORGANIZATION PARTICIPANTS

3.2.1 Owner
3.2.2 Coordinating Registered Professional (Prime Consultant)
3.2.3 Structural Engineer of Record
3.2.4 Specialty Structural Engineers
3.2.5 General Contractor

6
6
7
7
8
8

3.3

SELECTION OF CONSULTANTS

GUIDELINES FOR PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

4.1

SCOPE OF SERVICES

4.2

BASIC STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING SERVICES

4.2.1 "Conceptual" or "Schematic" Design Stage
4.2.2 Design Development Stage
4.2.3 Contract Documents Stage
4.2.4 Tendering Stage
4.2.5 Construction Stage

9
9
11
12
17
18

4.3

ADDITIONAL STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING SERVICES

20

4.4

FABRICATION DRAWINGS AND DOCUMENTS

4.4.1 Structural Element Drawings
4.4.2 Erection Drawings
4.4.3 Shop Fabrication/Connection Design Drawings
4.4.4 Construction Engineering Drawings

22
23
23
23
23

5.0

APPENDIX - COMMON ORGANIZATIONAL CHARTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

6.0

BIBLIOGRAPHY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

GUIDELINES FOR

STRUCTURAL
ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR
BUILDING PROJECTS

1.0

INTRODUCTION

1.1

PURPOSE OF GUIDELINES

The "Guidelines For Structural Engineering Services For Building Projects" have been
prepared by a sub-committee of the Association of Professional Engineers and
Geoscientists of the Province of British Columbia (the "Association") and have been
adopted by the Council of the Association.
The Guidelines have been prepared to set out the standards of practice which Members
should meet and follow in providing professional engineering services. The Association
and its Council have a commitment to improve the quality of the services Members provide
to Clients and the public, and have published these Guidelines for that purpose.
It is anticipated that variations in the application of these Guidelines may be required. A
Member must always exercise professional judgement in providing services. It is not
intended that the Guidelines be used as a legal document or to alter contracts between
Members and Clients.
However, a variation that detracts from the overall purpose of the Guidelines should never
be made. The Guidelines are intended to establish minimum standards of practice which
Members must meet to fulfil the Member's professional obligations, especially in regard
to the primary duty to protect the public. The Council of the Association intends that failure
to meet these standards may give rise to disciplinary proceedings.
Finally, the Association supports the proposition that Members should receive fair and
adequate compensation for services rendered and that this principle applies to the
services provided to comply with these Guidelines. In no event will low fees be justification
for services which do not meet the minimum standards set out by these Guidelines.
Members may wish to discuss these Guidelines with their Clients when receiving
instructions for assignments and reaching agreements regarding compensation.

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1.2

SCOPE OF GUIDELINES

These Guidelines apply to the practice of Structural Engineering for buildings governed
by Part 4 of the British Columbia Building Code and the City of Vancouver Building By-law.
The Guidelines outline the professional services which should generally be provided by
the Structural Engineer of Record (SER) in a building project. They specify tasks which
should be performed by the SER to achieve designs which are in the best interest of the
Client and the public and which are properly coordinated with the work of other design,
fabrication and construction team participants. These Guidelines should assist in
maintaining the integrity of the overall and detailed designs.
These Guidelines also take into account the commitments which municipalities may
require from Members as set out in the Letters of Assurance.
1.3

QUALIFICATION

Notwithstanding the purpose and scope of the Guidelines in sections 1 through 4, the
decision by the SER not to use one or more of these Guidelines does not mean that the
SER is legally negligent or unprofessional in the performance of professional services as
that judgment or decision will depend upon a detailed analysis of all the facts and
circumstances to determine if another Structural Engineer in circumstances of a similar
nature would have conducted himself/herself in a similar manner.

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2.0

DEFINITIONS

Additional Services:
Services which the SER may provide in addition to the Basic Services as set out in section
4.3
Association:
The Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia.
As-Built Drawings:
Drawings which are prepared from measurements taken on site to depict accurately the
actual sizes of elements of the construction. Structural As-Built Drawings should indicate
variations from the structural construction documents which occurred during construction.
Authority Having Jurisdiction:
The governmental body (usually municipal) with authority to administer and enforce the
British Columbia Building Code or the local building by-law.
Basic Services:
The Services provided by the SER as set out in section 4.2.
Client:
The party who engages the SER to provide professional structural engineering services.
Contract Documents:
All documents including the engineering and architectural drawings and specifications as
defined in the construction contract(s) for the construction of the building.
Coordinating Registered Professional:
Often referred to as the "Prime Consultant", the Coordinating Registered Professional is
the individual who or firm which is registered as a Member in good standing of the
Association or the Architectural Institute of British Columbia, and who or which has the
responsibility to coordinate the design and Field Reviews of the various design
professionals (such as electrical, structural, mechanical, geotechnical, architectural) for
the project.

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Field Services:
The services provided by the SER as set out in paragraph 4.2.5.3 to ascertain if the
structural construction work is generally in accordance with the structural Contract
Documents.
General Contractor:
The contractor who has a contract with the Owner for the construction of all or a portion
of the building.
Member:
A Member in good standing of the Association.
Non-Structural Elements:
Elements of a building that are not part of the Primary Structural System or of Secondary
Structural Elements. Examples of Non-Structural Elements are: non-bearing partitions
and suspended ceilings.
Owner:
The party who owns the building.
Primary Structural Element:
A beam, column or other structural element which when combined with others forms the
Primary Structural System.
Primary Structural System:
The combination of elements which support the building's self weight and the applicable
live load based on occupancy, use of the spaces and environmental loads such as wind,
snow and seismic forces.
Record Drawings:
Drawings which represent the final drawings issued and which normally incorporate such
items as addenda, change orders and significant modifications made during construction.
Site measurements need not be incorporated onto these drawings unless significant
differences from the specified dimensions occur. Variations from the Contract Documents
may be noted, where appropriate, with remarks or comments.

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Secondary Structural Elements:

Elements that are structurally significant for the function they serve but do not contribute
to the overall strength or stability of the Primary Structural System. Examples of
Secondary Structural Elements are: elevator support rails and beams, curtain wall
systems, cladding, and seismic restraints for architectural, mechanical and electrical
elements.
SER:
The Structural Engineer of Record.
Specialty Structural Elements:
Structural elements which are designed by the Speciality Structural Engineer. These
elements, normally fabricated off-site, may require specialized fabrication equipment or a
proprietary fabrication process not usually available at the job site (for example open web
steel joists, wood trusses, combination wood and metal or plywood joists, precast concrete
elements, and prefabricated wood or metal buildings).
Specialty Structural Engineer:
The Member who prepares the design and supervises the preparation of documents for
any of the Specialty Structural Elements.
Specifications:
A written description of the materials, standards of quality and construction requirements
for the items included in a building project.
Structural Engineer of Record:
The Member with general responsibility for the structural integrity of the Primary Structural
System as provided by section 3.0 of the Guidelines.
Sub-Contractors:
Contractors who have a sub-contract with the General Contractor to provide labour,
materials and equipment for the execution and quality control of portions of the work
shown in the Contract Documents. The Sub-Contractor's work is generally performed
under the direct supervision of the General Contractor.
Submittal(s):
Items required by the Contract Documents to be submitted by the General Contractor,
such as requests for payment, progress reports, shop drawings, manufacturer's literature
on equipment, concrete mix designs, aggregate gradation reports, schedules, etc.
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Submittals are normally used by the SER to aid in determining if the work and work
products conform with the intent of the Contract Documents.

3.0

PROJECT ORGANIZATION AND RESPONSIBILITIES

3.1

COMMON FORMS OF PROJECT ORGANIZATION

Project organizations vary according to the needs of the project and the parties. Some
common organizational charts are included in the Appendix.
3.2

RESPONSIBILITIES OF ORGANIZATION PARTICIPANTS

3.2.1

Owner

3.2.1.1
In order that the design and construction of the project may be carried out
in a manner that meets appropriate standards of public safety and the requirements of
applicable building regulations, the Owner should:
(a) retain or cause to be retained qualified design professionals including
a Coordinating Registered Professional (CRP) and a SER with
responsibility for the design of all aspects of the building;
(b) cooperate with the SER to set out a written description of the scope of
the SER's services as referred to in paragraph 3.2.3.5;
(c) not proceed with the contemplated project without adequate financing;
(d) cooperate with the Coordinating Registered Professional so that an
adequate written description of the project is developed;
(e) before the commencement of the SER's services, finalize or cause to be
finalized a written agreement with the SER (directly with the Owner or
with the Coordinating Registered Professional or with another
appropriate party);
(f)

cooperate with the Coordinating Registered Professional and the SER

to establish a realistic schedule for the provision of the SER's services;

(g) authorize in writing any additional services that may be required beyond
the scope of the SER's contract;
(h) assure that all required approvals, licences and permits from the
Authorities Having Jurisdiction are obtained;
(i)

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recognize that, since no design team nor its design is perfect, some
errors or omissions may occur and that accordingly a reasonable
contingency should be included in the Owner's budget;

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(j)

recognize that drawings, Specifications and other documents prepared

by the SER are for the project and that such documents should not be
used or copied for other projects without the agreement of the SER and
without advice from a qualified design professional;

(k) recognize that, because code interpretation of the Authority Having

Jurisdiction may differ from the SER, some changes may occur.
3.2.1.2
If the Owner fails or refuses to carry out the obligations as set out in
paragraph 3.2.1.1, the SER should:
(a) consider giving written notice to the Owner advising the Owner of the
SER's recommendations;
(b) consider whether the SER can continue with the project,
because in any event the SER must comply with the minimum requirements of these
Guidelines.
3.2.2 Coordinating Registered Professional (Prime Consultant)
To enable the SER to perform his duties properly, the Coordinating Registered
Professional (Prime Consultant) should:
3.2.2.1
Interpret and define the needs of the Owner and in doing so should define
the Owner's intended functions and needs. The Coordinating Registered Professional
(Prime Consultant) should identify any special design criteria such as equipment and other
loads, and span requirements and should advise the SER accordingly;
3.2.2.2
Outline the scope of assignment to each design professional for design,
preparation of Contract Documents, review of work during construction and contract
administration;
3.2.2.3
Inform the SER, preferably in writing, of fees submitted by all engineers
invited to submit service proposals;
3.2.2.4
Provide timely information in sufficient detail as required to adequately
perform the SER duties;
3.2.2.5
Coordinate and review the designs, drawings and other Contract Documents
produced by all participants of the design team;
3.2.2.6
Coordinate communication of information between the Owner and the
contractor and the design professionals including the SER so that the work proceeds in
a manner that complies with applicable codes and regulations and meets the Owner's
needs.

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3.2.3 Structural Engineer of Record

3.2.3.1
The Structural Engineer of Record (SER) is responsible for the structural
integrity of the Primary Structural System.

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3.2.3.2
The SER may rely on other Members to be responsible for elements of the
Primary Structural System but the SER has the overall responsibility to see that all design
is undertaken as is necessary to achieve a Primary Structural System that meets
acceptable engineering standards. In this event the SER must require the other Members
to sign and seal the documents for such elements.
3.2.3.3
Unless otherwise noted, the SER is not responsible for the design of any
Secondary Structural Elements or Non-Structural Elements. However, the SER remains
responsible for designing the Primary Structural System to accommodate these elements
and for allowing for their effects on the Primary Structural System. For this purpose the
SER is responsible to review these elements.
3.2.3.4
The SER signs the Assurance Of Professional Design And Commitment For
Field Review regarding the structural design plans and supporting documents which he
prepares. When required by the Authorities Having Jurisdiction, the SER coordinates the
preparation and submission of the Record Drawings of the project.
3.2.3.5
The SER together with the Client is responsible for setting out a written
description of the scope of the SER's services sufficient to enable and permit the SER to
meet the design and field review requirements of these Guidelines and applicable building
regulations.
3.2.4 Specialty Structural Engineers
3.2.4.1
The SER should define clearly the scope of work to be performed by the
Specialty Structural Engineer. The Specialty Structural Engineers are responsible for the
integrity of their design.
3.2.5 General Contractor
3.2.5.1
The General Contractor has a contract with the Owner. This contract usually
provides that the General Contractor is responsible for the labour, materials and
equipment for the work and that the General Contractor is responsible for the construction
methods, techniques, sequences, procedures, safety precautions and programs
associated with the construction work, all as set out in the Contract Documents.
3.2.5.2
The General Contractor is responsible for coordinating the work of the SubContractors and for checking the Sub-Contractor's work prior to field review by the SER.
3.2.5.3
The General Contractor is responsible for providing reasonable notice to the
SER when components are ready for field review.
3.3

SELECTION OF CONSULTANTS

The recommended procedures for selecting a consultant are as described in the "Outline
of Services and Schedule of Fees to Sub-Consultants" booklet published by the

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Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of B.C. and the Consulting

Engineers of B.C.

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4.0

GUIDELINES FOR PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE

The following are outlines of the Services which an SER should consider providing as part
of good practice. They may assist an SER in explaining his services to a Client. These
outlines are not intended to be exhaustive, and should not be interpreted to detract in any
way from the previous provisions of these Guidelines.
4.1

SCOPE OF SERVICES

Before commencement of design Services, the SER shall meet with the Client, (who
generally is the Owner or the Coordinating Registered Professional, but who may be others
such as the contractor in a design-build contract) to:
4.1.1 Determine the terms of reference and the scope of work for Basic Services and
Additional Services;
4.1.2 Reach agreement on fees, payment schedule and professional liability insurance
coverage;
4.1.3 Reach agreement on a contract. (Documents No. 31, 32 or 32-S prepared by the
Association of Consulting Engineers of Canada are recommended as a basis for this
contract);
4.1.4 For a "fast-track" project, in addition to the above, the SER should:

4.2

(a)

Establish with the Client the terms and conditions under which preliminary
or partially complete Contract Documents may be issued in advance and
clearly define the requirements for partially complete Contract Documents;

(b)

Advise the Client that no part of the structural documents can be considered
complete before all Contract Documents including architectural, mechanical
and electrical drawings are completed.

BASIC STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING SERVICES

The usual stages of the Basic Services, as discussed below, are generally organized in
an agreement according to the sequential stages of a typical project. Although each stage
of the Basic Services generally contains those items which pertain most typically to the
progress of work for that construction stage, it is normal practice, because of the
requirements of a specific project, for certain Basic Services activities to be performed out
of the normal sequence or in different stages than indicated in the scope of Services.
4.2.1 "Conceptual" or "Schematic" Design Stage
In the Conceptual or Schematic Stage, the SER may:

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4.2.1.1
Attend, as required, periodic meetings with the Client and design team to
obtain the Client's instructions regarding the Client's functional, aesthetic, cost and
scheduling requirements, to prepare a preliminary design concept, and to report on the
structural systems considering economy, performance, capital cost, compatibility with other
design elements and requirements of relevant codes and authorities;
4.2.1.2
If required, assist the Coordinating Registered Professional (Prime
Consultant) and Owner in:
(a)

Defining the need for any specialist consultants who may be required for the
project with respect to the Primary Structural System, such as geotechnical,
material testing, vibration analysis and wind tunnel testing;

(b)

Developing or reviewing the project schedule, including any milestone dates;

(c)

Determining channels of communication;

(d)

Defining the responsibility for showing overall and detail dimensions on the
drawings;

(e)

Determining drawing standards and Specifications format;

(f)

Determining the number and timing of project team meetings during each
stage of the project;

4.2.1.3
Establish dates by which information affecting the structural design will be
needed from other disciplines, such as electrical and mechanical;
4.2.1.4

Conduct field reviews and review existing drawings where appropriate;

4.2.1.5
Establish criteria relating to the Primary Structural System for the
geotechnical consultant and other consultants as required. Comment on reports
presented;
4.2.1.6

Establish structural design criteria for the Primary Structural System;

4.2.1.7
Check applicable codes, regulations and restrictions, insurance requirements
and other factors affecting the design of the project;
4.2.1.8
Establish, where appropriate, comparative information to be used in selection
of a Primary Structural System for the project;
4.2.1.9
Develop the structural scheme for the Primary Structural Systems, together
with alternate schemes where appropriate. Consider materials and systems suitable to the
project requirements. Consider the requirements of the other design professionals and
provide the information relating to the Primary Structural System they require;

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4.2.1.10

Provide, if required, brief outline specifications for proposed materials;

4.2.1.11
Describe the Primary Structural System(s) detailing each significant
component and material;
4.2.1.12
Explain in writing to the Client all new construction materials or new
techniques the SER proposes for use in the project and the alternatives, including the
risks, advantages and disadvantages over both the short and long term, so that the Client
can weigh the choices and make an informed decision before the SER proceeds further;
4.2.1.13
If required, recommend to the Client a Primary Structural System. Review
the effect of the selection on the structural construction budget for the project;
4.2.1.14
Prepare a summary report which defines the Primary Structural System
selected for the project and outlines the reasons for the selection;
4.2.1.15
A Client may assume responsibility for all or some of the foregoing
Conceptual or Schematic Design Stage activities provided:
(a)

the SER's ability to satisfy the requirements of the subsequent stages of

these Guidelines is unimpaired;

(b)

the responsibility for such preliminary design activities is clearly defined in

writing; and

(c)

the Client, in writing, waives the SER's responsibility for such preliminary
design activities and their effect on the selection of the Primary Structural
System.

4.2.2 Design Development Stage

In the Design Development Stage when the selected scheme is developed in sufficient
detail to enable commencement of the final design and construction documents by all
participants of the design team, the SER may:
4.2.2.1

Attend, if required, meetings with the Client and design team;

4.2.2.2
Identify desired standards of quality and the effect of such standards on
serviceability requirements such as:

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(a)

Deflection of slabs and beams and the effect of deflection on non-structural

items such as curtain walls and glazing;

(b)

Control of potential vibration induced by footfall or machinery;

(c)

Lateral drift of the structure;

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(d)

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Crack control in concrete and masonry elements;

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(e)

Foundation settlement;

(f)

Soil-structure interaction;

(g)

Seismic deformations (permanent) and movements.

4.2.2.3
Review reports by specialist consultants, such as geotechnical, dynamics or
wind tunnel;
4.2.2.4
Prepare preliminary structural analysis and design calculations for typical
Structural Elements of the Primary Structural System;
4.2.2.5
Prepare preliminary foundation drawings based on recommendations by the
geotechnical consultant;
4.2.2.6
areas;

Prepare preliminary framing design and drawings showing layouts of typical

4.2.2.7

Prepare or edit the "outline Specifications" for structural items, as required;

4.2.2.8
Coordinate structural design with deflection and lateral movement criteria to
meet the requirements of the other design team participants;
4.2.2.9
Client.

Submit design development documentation for review and approval by the

4.2.3 Contract Documents Stage

4.2.3.1

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General:

(a)

Design the Primary Structural System;

(b)

Determine and specify in the contract documents which Structural Elements,

such as connection details and proprietary products, are to be designed by
Specialty Structural Engineers. Specify the type of element, its position
within the structure and the method of connecting to the Primary Structural
System. Specify the loads and design criteria for use by the Specialty
Structural Engineer in his design;

(c)

Review the effect of Non-Structural Elements attached to the Primary

Structural System and design the structure to accept and support such
items. Provide information regarding the supporting capability and physical
attachment limitations of the Primary Structural System;

(d)

Attend periodic coordination meetings, as required;

(e)

Assist in coordination with the Authority Having Jurisdiction, as required;

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(f)

Assist in establishing testing and inspection requirements;

(g)

Comply with fire resistance requirements as determined by the Coordinating

Registered Professional or specialty consultants.

4.2.3.2

Structural Calculations

The SER must prepare structural calculations to support all structural designs. The
structural calculations should be prepared legibly and presentably and filed by the SER
for record purposes. Hard copy of input and output of any computer analysis should be
included as well as description of the software used.
In general, structural calculations include but are not limited to:
(a)

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Design criteria:

Discussion and description of design basis including assumptions;

Building codes used with edition dates;

List of live loads, snow loads, seismic factors and wind load criteria and
any special loads and provisions greater than building code
requirements as requested by the Client or otherwise used by the SER;

Structural material specifications for concrete, reinforcing steel,

masonry, structural steel, wood and other materials used;

Geotechnical report information and design criteria;

Deflection limitations of structural elements and systems.

(b)

Location diagrams for structural elements;

(c)

Vertical load analysis and design of:

Roof structures;

Floor structures;

Frames or trusses;

Columns;

Walls;

Foundations.

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(d)
(e)

Lateral load analysis and design for seismic and wind forces;
Computer analysis and design results, if applicable;

(f)

Special studies and analysis (dynamic, vibration, etc.), where used;

(g)

Independent check of the final structural design and documents to confirm

the adequacy and appropriateness of the design. The independent check
shall be performed by an engineer other than the original design engineer,
but not necessarily from a separate company;

(h)

The names of the structural design engineer(s) and design check engineer;

(i)

Table of contents for or index to the structural calculations.

4.2.3.3

Structural Drawings

Structural drawings typically show the locations, sizes, reinforcing, and connections of the
structural elements in sufficient scale and detail to enable the fabrication, installation, and
connection of the members in a reasonable sequence by a competent contractor familiar
with the techniques of construction for the specified materials.
Framing plans may refer to architectural drawings for dimensions where appropriate and
mutually agreed to by the SER and the architect. Elevations, sections, and details should
be of appropriate scale, number, and extent to portray the relationship of members to each
other and their interconnection(s). Care should be taken to ascertain and determine that
details noted "typical" are applicable to the condition being portrayed and that their
location and extent are explicit;
The drawings should define the complete extent and detail of the work;
The drawings which should include but not necessarily be limited to the following may vary
depending on the complexity of the job and the materials:
(a)

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Structural Notes:

Design criteria indicating all superimposed vertical and horizontal loads

used in the design including live, snow, earthquake, wind and dead
loads (such as landscape, partition and equipment loads) not shown on
the structural drawings. These loads should be designated as
unfactored;

Reference to the geotechnical report on which the foundation design is

based;

Brief material specifications;

Absolute or relative deflection criteria for structural members;

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Where forces are shown, the forces should be clearly identified as

factored or unfactored;

Pertinent design standards;

Reference to drawings and Specifications prepared by other participants

of the design team.

(b)

Typical Details;

(c)

Foundation Plans and Schedules:

(d)

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Allowable soil-bearing capacity, pile capacities and lateral earth

pressures for retaining structures;

Sizes, locations, dimensions and details of all foundations;

Assumed bearing strata or elevation(s);

Estimated pile length(s) or source of this information;

Location of known existing Services and existing foundations which

conflict with structural foundations or reference to the source where this
information can be found;

If underpinning or temporary shoring is specified to be designed by

others, indication on the drawings of the areas designated to be shored
or underpinned. If shoring or underpinning is designed by the SER,
indication of all details and construction sequences.

Floor and roof framing plans and details:

General gridline dimensions and overall building dimensions;

Sizes, locations, dimensions and details of all structural elements;

Elevations, including slopes and depressions;

Lateral load resisting system;

Governing forces, moments, shears or torsion required for the

preparation of shop and detail drawings;

Reinforcing bar sizes and details with fabrication and placing criteria;

Locations and details of control, construction, contraction and

expansion joints;

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(e)

(f)

(g)

4.2.3.4

Locations, sizes and reinforcing of significant openings;

Provision for future extensions.

Schedules and Details for Columns, Beams and Walls:

Element sizes;

Elevation of bottom of columns;

Reinforcing steel and splice details for concrete columns;

Splice locations for structural steel columns;

Structural details of masonry or reinforced concrete walls including

lintels, details and reinforcing of significant openings;

Stiffeners, lateral bracing and local reinforcements for steel members.

Connections:

Where connections are specified to be designed by Specialty Structural

Engineers, indicate on the contract drawings all required information
and governing forces. In such cases the Specialty Structural Engineer
shall seal, sign and date the fabrication drawings. Where connections
are designed by the SER, show all dimensions and comprehensive
connection details requiring no further engineering input. Under these
circumstances, the SER retains responsibility for these connections;

The SER shall consider the design of the connections when sizing the
structural members, e.g., HSS truss joints, post-tensioned anchorages;

Show general arrangement and details at intersections of different

structural materials.

Sequence of construction, if this is critical to the functioning of the finished

structure;
Specifications

(a)

Specifications are prepared using a format suitable for inclusion with the
overall Contract Documents;

(b)

The Specifications should include information on the following:

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standards, codes, by-laws governing work;

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GUIDELINES FOR STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR BUILDING PROJECTS

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Submittals required;

quality control requirements;

materials;

workmanship and fabrication;

tolerances;

information for temporary works and erection information, where

necessary, to ensure the intent and integrity of the design;

construction inspection and testing;

notification by the contractor before significant segments of the work are

begun;

warranties;

performance criteria for design by Specialty Structural Engineers.

(c)

Where appropriate, the Specifications may be abbreviated and become part

of the drawings;

(d)

The Specifications generally set out that the SER's review of Submittals and
inspection of work as well as any testing by independent agencies reporting
to the Client are undertaken to inform the Client of the quality of the
contractor's performance and that this review and testing are not for the
benefit of the contractor. The contractor must provide his own independent
quality control program.

4.2.4 Tendering Stage

4.2.4.1

Assist in the preparation of pre-qualification documents, if required;

4.2.4.2

Assist in the preparation of the contract, if required;

4.2.4.3

Assist in reviewing bidder's qualifications, if required;

4.2.4.4
Assist the Client in obtaining required approvals, licences and permits.
Prepare Letters of Assurance and documents required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction;
4.2.4.5

Assist in analysis and evaluation of tenders submitted;

4.2.4.6
required.

Provide structural addenda and clarification of structural documents, as

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4.2.5 Construction Stage

It is essential that Services during construction be provided for all systems for which the
SER is responsible.
It is preferable that the Services during construction be provided by the SER; however,
where practical the SER may delegate these duties to others.
Services during construction by the SER should not be construed to relieve the contractor
of the contractor's responsibility for building the project in accordance with the Contract
Documents, controlling the progress, providing safe working conditions, and correcting any
deviations from the project requirements.
Some items reviewed by the SER may also require review by other members of the design
team or by testing and inspection agencies. Such work may include piles, anchors,
precast concrete elements, structural steel, welding, proprietary products, and Secondary
Structural Elements designed by others.
4.2.5.1

General Services During Construction

Field Services should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following and may vary
depending on the complexity of the job.

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(a)

Attend construction meetings, if required;

(b)

Confirm communication channels and procedures;

(c)

Assist in confirming, reporting and scheduling procedures for testing and

inspections;

(d)

Assist in confirming procedures for shop drawings and other Submittals;

(e)

Confirm that the qualifications of fabricators meet the Specifications;

(f)

Advise the contractor and the Coordinating Registered Professional on the

interpretation of the structural drawings and Specifications and, if required,
issue supplementary details and instructions during the construction period
as required;

(g)

If requested, advise, the Client on the validity of charges for additions or

deletions from the contract and on the issue of change orders;

(h)

Review and comment on, if requested by the Client, the contractor's

applications for progress payments. Estimate, if required, completed work
and materials on site for payment according to the terms of the construction
contract;

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(i)

Review reports from the testing and inspection agencies to determine if the
agency has verified compliance of the reported item of work with structural
Contract Documents;

(j)

Conduct substantial and total performance inspections of the structural

components of the project noting deficiencies observed and inspect
completed corrections;

(k)

Submit, if required, Record Drawings to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

4.2.5.2

Review of Submittals

Submittals should be reviewed for general compliance with the structural Contract
Documents but generally the review does not go so far as to include matters such as
checking dimensions or quantities or the review of the contractor's safety measures or
methods of construction.
(a)

Confirm that the Submittals have been reviewed by the General Contractor
before review by the SER;

(b)

Review the shop drawings and other Submittals for conformance with the
Contract Documents and the intent of the design;

(c)

When required by the Contract Documents, confirm that the shop drawings
bear the signature and seal of the responsible Specialty Structural Engineer.
The Specialty Structural Engineer whose seal and signature appear on the
drawings is responsible for the design of the Speciality Structural Elements
and connections indicated. To clarify responsibility, the Specialty Structural
Engineer may qualify the extent of work which has been designed by the
Specialty Structural Engineer. In the absence of a signature and
professional seal by a Speciality Structural Engineer, the SER may have
responsibility for the design of the elements and connections shown on the
Submittals;

(d)

Review shop drawings and other Submittals of pre-engineered or proprietary

structural elements for type, position, and connection to elements of the
Primary Structural System and for criteria and loads used for the design.

4.2.5.3
(a)

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Field Review
Visit the site at intervals appropriate to the stage of construction to observe
the quality and the progress of the construction of those elements designed
by the SER. At the discretion of the SER, proprietary products, connections
and other structural elements which have been designed by Specialty
Structural Engineers should be inspected by those other engineers at the
appropriate stage of construction and reported in writing to the SER.

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4.3

(b)

Prepare site visit reports outlining observations and deficiencies in the work
and bring them to the attention of the contractor's site representative;

(c)

Distribute site visit reports to the contractor and the Coordinating Registered
Professional. Where the Owner directly retains the services of the SER, it
is recommended that the Owner also be sent copies of the reports;

(d)

Conduct a final project review and advise the Client of continuing or newlyobserved defects or deficiencies in the project.

ADDITIONAL STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING SERVICES

In addition to the Basic Services, the SER may provide the following Additional Services
if the SER and the Client reach appropriate mutual agreements. They are generally not
considered intrinsic parts of the basic structural design services, as discussed in
paragraph 4.2, and are not part of the minimum services which the SER should provide
under these Guidelines.
The Client should retain the SER as an Additional Service to review items designed by
others to confirm compatibility with the design of the Primary Structural System.
Examples of Additional Services are:
4.3.1 Design work resulting from changes the project as originally described and agreed
to under the contract between the SER and Client, such as changes in scope, complexity,
diversity or magnitude of the project;
4.3.2 Preparation of alternate structural designs and related documentation after
selection of the Primary Structural System made during the conceptual and schematic
design stages;
4.3.3 Review, design and preparation of documentation of alternate or substitute systems
if requested by the Coordinating Registered Professional (Prime Consultant), the Client or
the contractor for tendering to obtain competitive bids for items such as proprietary
products;
4.3.4 Work connected with the preparation of documents for tendering segregated
contracts, pre-tendered contracts, phased or fast-track construction;
4.3.5 Review of alternate designs or products after completion of the Contract
Documents;
4.3.6 Work resulting from changes necessary because of construction cost over-run
which is outside the control of the SER;
4.3.7 Translation of contract documents into a second language, conversion to other
units, special preparation of drawings for reduction;
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4.3.8 Work associated with Non-Structural Elements beyond those described under Basic
Services, such as:
4.3.8.1

Curtain wall systems and store fronts;

4.3.8.2

Building facing systems;

4.3.8.3

Architectural pre-cast or pre-fabricated systems and cladding;

4.3.8.4

Window-washing systems and tie downs;

4.3.8.5

Antennae and flagpoles;

4.3.8.6

Elevators and escalators;

4.3.8.7
tanks;

Mechanical, electrical and plumbing equipment, cooling towers and storage

4.3.8.8
Site-work elements exterior to and non-contiguous with the buildings such
as retaining walls, culverts, bridges, etc., and support for landscape furnishing such as
lighting poles, benches, fountains, pools, signs, etc.;
4.3.9 Review of design drawings or Specifications prepared by others to determine
adequacy of anchorage of Non-Structural Elements;
4.3.10
Preparing or assisting with cost estimates. The SER shall inform the Client
of the variables inherent in the estimate and the expected degree of variation from the
estimate. Where the degree of variation is critical, the Owner should have the estimate
independently verified;
4.3.11

Quantity take-offs and preparation of bills of materials;

4.3.12

Seismic risk analysis;

4.3.13
Special dynamic analysis beyond that required by the building codes such
as spectrum or time-history response to seismic forces or floor-response to vibratory
equipment;
4.3.14
Seismic restraints for mechanical or electrical equipment, architectural
features and other Non-Structural Elements;
4.3.15
tests;

Special physical model analysis such as wind-tunnel tests or shaking table

4.3.16
Field investigation of existing buildings and structures including surveys of
existing construction;

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4.3.17

Filing application for and obtaining permits;

4.3.18

Preparation of demolition documents;

4.3.19

Determination of structural fire-resistance requirements;

4.3.20

Tenant-related design Services;

4.3.21

Preparation of shop or fabrication drawings;

4.3.22
drawings;

Preparation of reinforcing steel bending schedules or other types of shop

4.3.23

Continuous or detailed inspections of construction;

4.3.24
Design review or field observations of shoring or of bracing for excavations
and building or of underpinning of adjacent structures;
4.3.25
Design or review of the contractor's methods, procedures and construction
equipment with respect to the effect on the structure;
4.3.26
Design or review of the contractor's design of formwork, falsework or
construction bracing;
4.3.27
Submittals;

Review of additional Submittals when occasioned by improper or incomplete

4.3.28
Work resulting from corrections or revisions required because of errors or
omissions in construction by the contractor;
4.3.29

Preparation of Record Drawings of the structures;

4.3.30

Work due to extended time schedules for design or construction;

4.3.31
Services as an expert witness in connection with any public hearing,
arbitration, or court proceedings concerning the project, including attendant preparation
for same;
4.3.32
Work resulting from damage as the result of fires, man-made disasters, or
natural disasters;
4.3.33

Overtime work requiring premium pay when authorized;

4.3.34

Travelling time outside of normal requirements.

4.4

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FABRICATION DRAWINGS AND DOCUMENTS

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The fabricator or manufacturer shall produce all necessary drawings and documents to
represent the work covered by his contract with the contractor. These drawings and
documents are prepared following a review of the design drawings, Specifications and
Contract Documents supplied by the SER and following the resolution of any errors or
requested changes. Fabrication drawings and documents usually include:
4.4.1 Structural Element Drawings
The drawings for proprietary structural elements, such as open web steel joists, shall be
sealed, signed and dated by the Specialty Structural Engineer who designed these items;
4.4.2 Erection Drawings
These drawings shall specifically show the location of structural members, connections
and components to be supplied by the fabricator. When these drawings incorporate
design by the Specialty Structural Engineer, the drawings shall be sealed, signed and
dated by the Specialty Structural Engineer. To clarify responsibility, the Specialty
Structural Engineer may qualify the extent of work which has been designed by him;
4.4.3 Shop Fabrication/Connection Design Drawings
These drawings produced by the fabricator shall provide all information necessary for shop
personnel to fabricate and assemble the items. The drawings shall be sealed, signed and
dated when incorporating design by the Specialty Structural Engineer;
4.4.4 Construction Engineering Drawings
These drawings or documents produced by the contractor shall cover temporary loadings,
temporary bracing, falsework and erection sequence instructions. The drawings shall be
sealed, signed and dated by a qualified Member.

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5.0

APPENDIX

COMMON ORGANIZATIONAL CHARTS

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GUIDELINES FOR STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR BUILDING PROJECTS

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COMMON ORGANIZATIONAL CHARTS

1.

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER OF RECORD (SER)/

PRIME CONSULTANT CONTRACT

OWNER

COORDINATING REGISTERED
PROFESSIONAL
(PRIME CONSULTANT)

STRUCTURAL
ENGINEER
OF RECORD
(SER)

CONTRACTOR

TESTING
AGENCY

SUBTRADES
MECHANICAL
ENGINEER

ELECTRICAL
ENGINEER

GEOTECHNICAL
ENGINEER

(SPECIALTY
ENGINEERS)

NOTE: The Specialty Engineer may be hired by the Owner, the Structural Engineer of Record or by
contractors

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COMMON ORGANIZATIONAL CHARTS

2.

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER OF RECORD (SER)/

OWNER CONTRACT

OWNER

COORDINATING REGISTERED
PROFESSIONAL
(PRIME CONSULTANT)

STRUCTURAL
ENGINEER
OF RECORD
(SER)

MECHANICAL
ENGINEER

ELECTRICAL
ENGINEER

TESTING
AGENCY

CONTRACTOR

GEOTECHNICAL
ENGINEER

SUBTRADES
(SPECIALTY
ENGINEERS)

NOTE: 1.

The Specialty Engineer may be hired by the Owner, the Structural Engineer of Record or
by the contractors

2.

The Coordinating Registered Professional shall be responsible for coordination of the

subconsultants even though they are hired by the Owner.

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COMMON ORGANIZATIONAL CHARTS

3.

DESIGN/BUILD CONTRACT

OWNER

DESIGN/BUILD
CONTRACTOR

MECHANICAL
ENGINEER

ELECTRICAL
ENGINEER

STRUCTURAL
ENGINEER
OF RECORD
(SER)

ARCHITECT

SUBTRADES
GEOTECHNICAL
CONSULTANT

SPECIALTY
ENGINEER

TESTING
AGENCY

(SPECIALTY
ENGINEERS)

NOTE: The Specialty Engineer may be hired by the owner, the Structural Engineer of Record or by
contractors

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6.0

BIBLIOGRAPHY

"National Practice Guidelines for the Structural Engineer of Record" reported by CASE
National Guidelines Committee, October 1988.
"Guideline for Professional Engineers Providing Structural Engineering Work in Buildings",
Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario.
"Suggested Guidelines for Outlining the Scope of Consulting Structural Engineering
Services", Structural Engineers Association of Northern California, May 1988.
"Document No. 31-S", Association of Consulting Engineers of Canada.
"Outline of Services and Schedule of Fees for General Engineering Practice", Association
of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia and Consulting Engineer
of British Columbia.
"The Guide for Consulting Structural Engineering Services" by CEAC (Consulting
Engineering Association of California) and SEAOC (Structural Engineering Association of
California) (1979).
"Standards of Practice - Structural Engineering" by CEAC-SEAOC Joint Committee (draft,
1986).

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ASSOCIATION OF
PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS AND GEOSCIENTISTS
OF BRITISH COLUMBIA