Management of Hold points / EPC 1

[jamesbanda]

I have taken over as a client rep for an EPC project for my operating company. The Front end package was completed by one firm and handed over to another firm for detailed design.

I've been surpirised how often a hold is used and how these are not easily tracable with in the deliverables list in the FEP. We have holds per section and on the database. Often they are easy to clear ie piping to clear hold other are more difficult or take longer. Ie HOLD waiting on inlet vent sizing.

Is this a normal way to handle the holds. Normally i would have expected a central list.

 

[pennpiper]

jamesbanda
You wrote:
"Is this a normal way to handle the holds. Normally I would have expected a central list."

My initial response is to say No! But then I realize that you did not give us enough information.
Information such as:
- What happens to the work process when a "HOLD" is placed on some aspect of the work?

To my way of thinking the average "HOLD" by itself should not cause a work stoppage. However there might be an issue that could cause a complete halt to all work. It would have to be a major issue of the magnitude that would be a deal breaker to the project.

All other issues (sometimes called "HOLDS") tend to be:

A- Missing information This might be an item (line size) that was missed, or an item (Pump outline) that has not yet been received and/or is not yet due.

B- Unapproved Item This might be an item that has been completed, submitted to the Client (or Vendor) for approval and is waiting that approval.

C- Unresolved Item This might be an item of work in my engineering group that depends on input from another engineering group or entity.

The other thought that comes to mind is more sinister.
Is there a possibility that the Detailed Design contract of your project is being worked as a "Cost Plus" basis? With this, the contractor could fatten their Fee and Profits by extending the work process.

You might want to (as the Client Rep.) institute the Central "HOLD" Control list and a review process for all "HOLDS".