A Testing and Commissioning Framework for MEP Systems

For their senior design project, Cal Poly Mechanical Engineering students Seth Squire, Cadan Crowley, and Alfonso Magallanes completed a Webcor-sponsored project addressing inconsistent testing and commissioning practices for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Their study identifies several recurring challenges, including varying project workflows, unclear responsibilities, scheduling and communication gaps, and inconsistent documentation and training. The team’s objective was to develop a standardized, general-contractor-focused framework that improves coordination, quality control, and commissioning efficiency.

The proposed framework organizes commissioning activities from pre-design and programming through design, buyout, construction, functional testing, and closeout. A responsibility matrix defines accountable, supporting, and informed roles for the commissioning authority, commissioning coordinator, and quality-control team. The students also recommended dedicated commissioning coordinators, structured meetings, standardized milestones and documentation, hands-on training, improved trade-partner evaluation, and stronger accountability throughout the project lifecycle.