MASHRAE Independent Commissioning Specialist (iCxS)

INTRODUCTION

Today the role of the building independent commissioning specialist (iCxS) has become a central component to the whole building design process as the built environment continues to include more complicated and interdependent systems and owners focus on energy efficiency to keep operational costs down. Various Green Building Rating Systems recognize the need to address typical shortfalls of the building industry where it relates to the need for proper design and commissioning of a building’s energy related system.

ROLE OF iCxS

The iCxS can and should play a key role in the whole building design process. The iCxS should become involved during the pre-design phase or be the first person by the side of the owner. Involvement continues through design and construction, providing continuity as the owner's expert, making sure that their requirements are being met. The primary role throughout the project is to understand the OPR, making sure that these are incorporated into the design, installed during construction, and tested with a completely functional building being returned to the owner. During this whole process the iCxS works with the design team to accomplish this.

Designing, constructing, and operating a building is a complex feat that involves input from many different team members. While many of these professionals have high levels of competence they are still prone to the issue of poor coordination and integration due to schedule and budget constraints. This is where the iCxS can assist the project team, not only by leveraging their experience and knowledge, but also through project iteration.

The iCxS is expected to be well-qualified for the managerial and technical aspects of the project and exhibit experience in construction management, design, engineering, hands-on field experience with equipment and troubleshooting, energy efficiency, and operations & maintenance.

In a nutshell, the iCxS must ensure that the building’s energy related systems are designed and installed to achieve proper commissioning so as to realise their full potential and intent.

INDEPENDENT ROLE OF iCxS

The iCxS should be an independent, third-party expert who serves as an objective advocate of the owner, directs the commissioning process, and presents final recommendations to the owner regarding the performance of commissioned building systems.

The design reviews and submittal reviews must be performed by a firm other than the design firm. It is the function of the iCxS to introduce standards and strategies early in the design process and ensure the implementation of selected design measures by seeing that clearly stated target requirements are included in the construction documents. A knowledgeable iCxS on a team can greatly facilitate the design process through collaborative design reviews. These reviews can help minimize costs and maximize compliance by ensuring that rating requirements can be met.

Download:

1. MASHRAE iCxS Application Form
2. MASHRAE iCxS Registration & Prerequisites

MASHRAE Independent Commissioning Specialist (iCxS)