SN 507118:2013

Allgemeine Bedingungen für Bauarbeiten

General terms and conditions for construction works

SIA

Publikation: 2013-01-0172 SeitenICS: 91.010.20

Implementing the SN 507118:2013 SIA 118 guidelines is crucial for organizations aiming to enhance their construction contract management processes. This guide provides a thorough overview of the necessary steps to achieve compliance with these standards.

Why implement SN 507118:2013 now

The implementation of SN 507118:2013 is increasingly becoming essential for organizations in the Construction Materials & Buildings industry due to several compelling business drivers. First and foremost, regulatory pressure is rising globally, necessitating adherence to standardized practices to avoid legal repercussions. Additionally, customer requirements are evolving, with clients increasingly demanding compliance with recognized standards to ensure quality and reliability. Lastly, internal quality goals may push companies to adopt these guidelines to enhance operational efficiency and project outcomes. By implementing SN 507118:2013, organizations can improve their reputation, minimize risks, and ensure a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Prerequisites and readiness check

Before adopting SN 507118:2013, organizations should ensure they have the following prerequisites in place:

• Management commitment to uphold the standards and lead the implementation process.
• Resource allocation, including financial and human resources, to support compliance efforts.
• Current process documentation to identify existing workflows and practices.
• Training programs prepared for staff to understand the guidelines and their implications.
• Stakeholder engagement to ensure buy-in from all parties involved in the construction process.

Step 1: Gap analysis

Performing a gap analysis against SN 507118:2013 is crucial in identifying areas of non-compliance and opportunities for improvement. Begin by gathering relevant inputs such as existing contracts, project management procedures, and quality assurance protocols. Next, map these inputs against the requirements outlined in SN 507118:2013 to determine discrepancies. Common findings often include insufficient documentation, lack of clearly defined roles, and inadequate quality control measures. Tools such as checklists and compliance software can aid in this analysis, providing a structured approach to identify and prioritize gaps. Documenting these findings will serve as a foundation for subsequent steps in the compliance process.

Step 2: Design and documentation

Once the gap analysis is complete, the next step involves designing and documenting the management system in accordance with SN 507118:2013. Key components to document include:

• Scope statement: Clearly define the boundaries of the management system.
• Policy: Develop a quality policy that aligns with the organization’s strategic objectives and the requirements of SN 507118:2013.
• Objectives: Establish measurable objectives to guide compliance efforts.
• Procedures: Create detailed procedures for core processes, ensuring alignment with the relevant clauses of SN 507118:2013.
• Records: Identify what records must be maintained to demonstrate compliance, including contracts, audit reports, and training records.

This documentation will serve not only to guide operations but also to prepare for future audits and assessments.

Step 3: Implementation and training

Implementing the designed management system requires effective change management strategies and comprehensive staff training. Begin with a clear communication plan to inform all stakeholders about the changes and the importance of compliance with SN 507118:2013. Conduct training sessions that cover the specifics of the guidelines, focusing on how they affect daily operations and responsibilities. Ensure that all staff members understand their roles in the new system.

Common pitfalls during this phase include resistance to change, inadequate training, and failure to monitor process adoption. Address these issues proactively by providing ongoing support and reinforcing the benefits of compliance.

Step 4: Internal audit and certification

Internal audits are crucial for assessing the effectiveness of the implemented management system. Conduct audits periodically, focusing on both documentation (Stage 1) and implementation (Stage 2). Stage 1 involves reviewing the documentation to ensure it meets the requirements of SN 507118:2013, while Stage 2 assesses whether the system is effectively in place and being followed.

Establish a structured audit process that includes planning, conducting interviews, and documenting findings. Use these audits as an opportunity to identify further improvements and prepare for external certification audits, ensuring that your organization meets all compliance requirements.

Common pitfalls

Here are some common mistakes organizations make when implementing SN 507118:2013, along with suggested fixes:

• Insufficient management buy-in: Ensure top management is actively involved and supportive of the implementation process.
• Lack of employee training: Develop a comprehensive training program to educate all staff on the guidelines and their responsibilities.
• Inadequate process documentation: Create detailed and accessible documentation to guide employees in compliance practices.
• Failure to monitor and review: Implement regular reviews and audits to ensure ongoing compliance and continuous improvement.
• Ignoring stakeholder feedback: Engage with stakeholders to gather insights and feedback for refining processes and improving compliance.