You are reviewing shop drawings for structural steel that differ from the original design drawings. What is your primary responsibility as the general contractor?
Correct Answer
B) Submit the shop drawings to the engineer of record for review
Shop drawings must be submitted to the engineer of record or architect for review and approval, especially when they differ from the original design. The general contractor coordinates this review process but does not approve structural changes.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
When shop drawings differ from the original design drawings, the general contractor's primary responsibility is to submit them to the engineer of record or architect for professional review and approval. The engineer who designed the structure is the only qualified professional who can determine if the changes maintain structural integrity and meet design requirements. General contractors coordinate the submittal process but do not have the authority to approve structural modifications themselves.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Approve the shop drawings if they meet building codes
General contractors are not qualified to approve structural shop drawings that differ from original designs, even if they appear to meet building codes. Only the engineer of record has the expertise and authority to evaluate structural changes.
Option C: Reject the shop drawings and require resubmission
Automatically rejecting shop drawings without professional review would be premature and could delay the project unnecessarily. The changes might be acceptable improvements that need proper engineering evaluation.
Option D: Install according to the shop drawings since they are more detailed
Installing according to shop drawings that differ from approved plans without engineering review could result in structural deficiencies, code violations, and significant liability issues for the contractor.
Memory Technique
Use the acronym 'SEND': Shop drawings that are different must be SENT to the Engineer for review, Not Decided by the contractor.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code, Chapter 1, Section 107 - Submittal Documents, and AIA Document A201 - General Conditions, Article 3.12 Shop Drawings
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