Communication Breakdown: Misinterpreted Drawing Revision
You are a technologist overseeing the installation of a HVAC system. The project uses a set of drawings that have been revised multiple times. The latest revision (Rev C) shows a duct routing that conflicts with a structural beam. You notice the conflict and inform the site superintendent verbally. The superintendent says he will look into it but later tells you to proceed with the Rev B routing, which avoids the beam but is less efficient. You know that Rev C is the current approved drawing and that using Rev B could void the warranty and cause performance issues. The superintendent argues that Rev C is impractical and that the designer will likely approve a change. You have a copy of Rev C with the engineer's stamp. The installation crew is waiting for your direction. The project schedule is tight, and any delay could cost $2,000 per day.
1. What should you do to resolve the conflict between the drawing revisions, and what communication steps should you take?
Read the worked answer
You should not proceed with Rev B without written authorization. The current approved drawing is Rev C, and any deviation requires a formal change order or a revised drawing from the engineer. Your first step is to document the conflict: take photos, mark up the drawings, and write a clear description of the interference. Then, send a formal RFI (Request for Information) to the design engineer, copying the project manager and superintendent, asking for clarification and a resolution. In the meantime, you should instruct the crew to hold work in the affected area and redirect them to other tasks to minimize delay. You should also check if there is a formal change management procedure and follow it. Verbally informing the superintendent is not enough; you need a written record. If the superintendent insists on proceeding with Rev B, you should escalate to the project manager and the engineer. Your professional obligation is to ensure that the installation matches the approved design and that any changes are properly authorized. This protects the client, the contractor, and you.
2. If the engineer approves Rev B verbally, what must you do before proceeding?
Read the worked answer
You must obtain written confirmation from the engineer before proceeding with Rev B. A verbal approval is not sufficient because it is not traceable and could be disputed later. Ask the engineer to issue a formal revised drawing or a signed change order. If the engineer is unavailable, you should escalate to the project manager and request that they obtain written authorization. Until you have written confirmation, you should not allow the crew to install the Rev B routing. You can document the verbal approval in a memo and send it to the engineer for confirmation, but you should not proceed until you receive a written response. This is essential for quality assurance, warranty, and legal protection. You should also update the as-built drawings to reflect the approved change.