Engineering Documentation: Introduction
Engineering Documentation: Introduction
DOCUMENTATION
Arsene Mbikayi Mbikayi
PLAN
The key purposes of engineering documentation are effective communication, accurate cost estimation,
contract administration, and dispute resolution.
CESMM3 uses coding systems and standardized units of measurement to ensure consistency and clarity
in the documentation process.
Proper documentation enables effective collaboration among project stakeholders, enhances project
control and management, and ensures transparency in financial transactions.
Engineering professionals should have a sound understanding of documentation practices and CESMM3
guidelines to accurately measure and document civil engineering works.
CESMM3 (Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement) is a widely recognized standard for
measurement and documentation in civil engineering projects.
CESMM3 provides a structured approach to measurement, enabling consistent and accurate
quantification of civil engineering works.
The standard is organized into various sections, each focusing on different aspects of civil engineering,
such as earthworks, concrete works, pipelines, and more.
CESMM3 utilizes a coding system to uniquely identify and classify different items and activities within
each section.
The coding system helps in referencing and cross-referencing items, ensuring clarity and consistency
throughout the documentation process.
CESMM3 provides guidelines on how to measure and quantify different items, specifying the units of
measurement to be used.
It also offers rules for the preparation of bills of quantities, which are essential for cost estimating,
tendering, and contract administration.
CESMM3 is widely adopted by engineering professionals, contractors, and clients to ensure uniformity
and accuracy in the measurement and documentation of civil engineering works.
Being familiar with CESMM3 and its application is crucial for professionals involved in preparing bills
of quantities, estimating project costs, and managing construction contracts.
D
The first letter "D" represents the main section of CESMM3. Each main section covers a specific
category of work. For example, "D" represents the section for "Demolition and Site Clearance" work.
2
The second digit "2" represents the sub-section within the main section.
In this case, sub-section 2 refers to “Trees"
1
The third digit “1" represents the sub-section within the second section.
In this case, sub-section 1 refers to “Size of the trees"
0
The last digit “0" represents the sub-section within the last section. It is
used whenever a division is empty or without value
2 First Division
1 Second Division
0 Third Division
CODE
2023 Arsene Mbikayi 10
TAKING OFF AND PREPARING A BILL OF QUANTITIES
USING CESMM3
1. Taking off quantities
GEN.
TIME (X) I T E M Q UA N T I T Y DESCRIPTION
Q UA N T I T Y
A M O UN T
CODE ITEM DESCRIPTION UNIT Q UA N T I T Y R AT E
R C
2
Which main section does the code "C" belong to in CESMM3?
3
What work item is represented by the code "B220" in CESMM3?
4
EXERCISES What does the code "J310" denote in CESMM3?
Answer: Answer:
2. Which main section does the code 4. What does the code "J310" denote
"C" belong to in CESMM3? in CESMM3?
Answer: Answer: