What is the FIDIC Red Book 1987 and why is it important for civil engineering projects?
The FIDIC Red Book 1987 is a set of conditions of contract for works of civil engineering construction, published by the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC). It is one of the most widely used standard forms of contract in the world, especially in developing countries. The FIDIC Red Book 1987 provides a balanced and fair allocation of risks and responsibilities between the employer and the contractor, as well as clear and comprehensive procedures for the administration and management of the contract. The FIDIC Red Book 1987 also includes provisions for dispute resolution, payment methods, and variations.
The FIDIC Red Book 1987 has been updated and supplemented several times since its first publication. The most recent supplement was issued in 1996, which introduced a new option for dispute adjudication boards (DABs), a new method of payment on a lump sum basis, and a new clause for late certification. The FIDIC Red Book 1987 is still widely used today, although it has been superseded by the FIDIC Red Book 1999, which incorporates more modern practices and terminology. However, some employers and contractors may prefer to use the FIDIC Red Book 1987 for its simplicity and familiarity.
The FIDIC Red Book 1987 is an essential document for anyone involved in civil engineering projects, whether as an employer, a contractor, a consultant, or a lawyer. It provides a clear and comprehensive framework for the successful delivery of quality works within time and budget. It also helps to avoid or resolve disputes that may arise during the execution of the contract. The FIDIC Red Book 1987 is available in PDF format from various online sources[^1^] [^2^], but it is advisable to purchase a hard copy from the official FIDIC website[^2^] to ensure authenticity and validity.
fidicredbook1987pdf31
What are the main features of the FIDIC Red Book 1987?
The FIDIC Red Book 1987 consists of two parts: Part I - General Conditions and Part II - Conditions of Particular Application. Part I contains 72 clauses that cover the general aspects of the contract, such as definitions, obligations, risks, liabilities, insurance, performance security, tests, defects, payments, variations, claims, disputes, and termination. Part II contains specific clauses that modify or supplement Part I according to the particular requirements of each project. Part II also includes the appendix to tender, which contains the tender and acceptance forms, the contract agreement, and the schedule of prices.
The FIDIC Red Book 1987 is based on the principle of a fixed-price contract with measurement. This means that the contractor agrees to execute the works for a fixed lump sum price, which is subject to adjustment only in certain circumstances. The contractor also agrees to measure the works and provide bills of quantities for payment purposes. The employer agrees to pay the contractor according to the schedule of prices and the measured quantities of work done. The employer also agrees to provide the contractor with all necessary information, drawings, specifications, permits, and access to the site.
The FIDIC Red Book 1987 also incorporates the concept of an engineer, who is appointed by the employer to act as his representative and agent in administering and supervising the contract. The engineer has various duties and powers under the contract, such as issuing instructions, approving drawings and materials, certifying payments, determining variations and claims, and deciding disputes. The engineer is expected to act impartially and fairly between the parties, but he is not a neutral arbitrator or mediator. The engineer's decisions are binding on both parties unless they are disputed within a specified time limit.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using the FIDIC Red Book 1987?
The FIDIC Red Book 1987 has many advantages for both employers and contractors who wish to undertake civil engineering projects. Some of these advantages are:
It is a well-known and widely accepted standard form of contract that has been tested and proven in many projects around the world.
It provides a clear and comprehensive framework for the execution and management of the contract, with detailed provisions for all aspects of the project.
It balances and allocates the risks and responsibilities between the parties in a fair and reasonable manner.
It facilitates communication and cooperation between the parties through the role of the engineer.
It offers various options and flexibility for adapting the contract to suit different types of projects and circumstances.
It promotes dispute avoidance and resolution through clear procedures and mechanisms.
However, the FIDIC Red Book 1987 also has some disadvantages or limitations that should be considered before using it. Some of these disadvantages are:
It may not reflect the current best practices and standards in civil engineering construction, as it was published more than 30 years ago.
It may not suit all types of projects or contractual arrangements, especially those that involve complex or innovative designs or technologies.
It may not address all the legal or regulatory issues that may arise in different jurisdictions or countries.
It may require extensive modifications or amendments to suit the specific needs or preferences of each party or project.
It may create confusion or conflict between the parties if it is not properly understood or applied by them or by the engineer.
29c81ba772
https://www.eak.co.at/group/mysite-231-group/discussion/199d5cbf-99c8-40a5-912b-9ab828b38940
https://www.surrasa.com/group/workshop-members/discussion/5d46a1fb-3643-4436-ad24-9ff14ad8e2ac