FLH PDDM Chapter 9 - Eastern Federal Lands Highway Division

9.4.K. Specifications.K. Specifications. Specifications are the compilation of directions, provisions, and requirements about thequality and performance of the work. They should describe the work with clarity and precision and have aclear logical format.Specifications should not specify impossibilities, near impossibilities, or contain unenforceable requirements.When ideal conditions cannot be obtained, specify tolerances to permit acceptable variations in the work.All specifications fall into three general categories:Performance or end result specifications. These specifications give the contractor the entireresponsibility for supplying an item or a product for construction that meets the specificationrequirements. The specification generally places no restrictions on the materials used or the methodsof incorporating them into the completed work. This type of specification is suitable for use when theend product is measurable, when a quick method of testing is available, and when deficiencies arecorrectable by reprocessing or reworking.Materials and methods specifications. These specifications are suitable for use when the end productcharacteristics are unknown or are not measurable. They also apply when no quick method ofacceptance test is available, or it is impractical to remove and replace the defective work. Use of thesespecifications directs the contractor to combine specified materials in definite proportions usingapproved equipment or to place a specified material or product in a specified way. Normally, theoperations are always under Government supervision and control.Restricted performance specifications. These specifications are the most widely used type. They allowthe contractor the fullest possible latitude in obtaining the desired end result as stated in the contract.However, they contain certain restrictions to ensure an acceptable level of quality and prevent theconstruction or production of a large quantity of defective work. In most cases, restrictions on aperformance specification shall not relieve a contractor of all responsibility. These specifications ensurea minimum acceptable quality and they also give the contracting officer (CO) some basis on which toadminister the contract and accept the work.1. Types of Specifications. Under the three general categories, there are three distinct types of specificationsused by Federal Lands Highway Division offices for contracts, and each has its place in the hierarchy ofcontract documents.Standard Specifications. The Standard Specifications for Construction of Roads and Bridges on FederalHighway Projects approved for general application and repetitive use.Supplemental Specifications. Additions and revisions to the standard specifications.Special Contract Requirements. Additions and revisions to the standard and supplemental specificationsapplicable to and individual project.See the glossary in Chapter 1 for their definitions, relationship with each other, and interaction with the otherparts of a contract.9 - 145