Ward R. Malisch Concrete Construction Symposium (Part 2)-Achieving Performance-Based Concrete—Challenge for the Contractor, Producer and Owner (Recorded presentation)

Achieving Performance-Based Concrete—Challenge for the Contractor, Producer and Owner (Recorded presentation)

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Kevin MacDonald's presentation at the seminar focused on the significant transition and challenges in moving from prescriptive to performance-based concrete specifications. MacDonald acknowledged the role of various professionals like Dr. Malish and engineers in setting standards but highlighted the lack of trust between contractors, producers, and engineers. He explained the complexities in specifying concrete performance, such as setting time and strength differentials arising from varied fly ash sources. Addressing these complications, MacDonald introduced a checklist, co-created by experts, to preemptively manage expectations and communicate consequences between producers and contractors. The checklist serves as a guideline to ensure performance-based specifications are realistic and tailored to actual construction conditions, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and reliability of concrete projects. MacDonald concluded by emphasizing the importance of early planning and open communication to avoid costly errors in concrete construction projects.

Keywords

performance-based specifications

concrete construction

checklist

communication

trust issues

fly ash sources