You notice a discrepancy between the architectural drawings and structural drawings regarding beam locations. What is the best course of action?
Correct Answer
C) Issue a Request for Information (RFI) to the design team
Any discrepancy between drawings requires clarification from the design team through an RFI. Never assume which drawing takes precedence without official clarification.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
An RFI (Request for Information) is the proper protocol when discrepancies exist between contract documents. This formal process ensures the design team clarifies their intent and provides written documentation of the resolution. Making assumptions about which drawing takes precedence can lead to costly errors, liability issues, and potential safety problems. The RFI process protects all parties and ensures the work proceeds according to the design team's actual intent.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: Follow the architectural drawings since they show the overall design
While architectural drawings show overall design intent, assuming they take precedence over structural drawings without confirmation is dangerous and improper. Structural elements have safety implications that require engineer approval, and making this assumption could result in structural inadequacy or code violations.
Option B: Follow the structural drawings since they control structural elements
Although structural drawings typically govern structural elements, automatically following them without clarification ignores the possibility that the architectural drawings may reflect a design change or that both drawings may contain errors. This assumption bypasses proper communication protocols.
Option D: Make a field decision based on construction experience
Making field decisions based on experience, while sometimes tempting, bypasses the design team's authority and creates liability issues. The contractor is not licensed to make structural design decisions, and such choices could void warranties, violate building codes, or create safety hazards.
Memory Technique
RFI = 'Really Find Information' - always get official clarification for drawing discrepancies rather than making assumptions
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code, Chapter 1 - Administration and Enforcement, sections on construction documents and approved plans
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