Civil engineers design projects that are most efficient and capable in a real world setting. While they try their best to perfect each design, some mistakes may arise in their design plans. Therefore, projects have design review checklists to ensure thorough review of all project documentation. These checklists cover all aspects of a typical civil engineer project. Here are seven of the common items on a civil engineer’s design review checklist.

1. General Siting Check
This item covers most of the basics of an engineer’s Master Plan. Proper clearances from other facilities are measured for fire protection purposes. Real estate boundaries and square footage's are required for legal purposes. Approved data must be shown on this Master Plan to ensure a safe and manageable design.

2. Detail Site Plan
The site plan shows sufficient dimensions and grades that are vital to construction. Details on the site plan includes sidewalks, gutters, transformers, and other important facilities on the construction site. A clearly understandable legend must be incorporated into the site plan to avoid confusion about the design and structure of the civil project.

3. Pavements
Both current and future pavements must be marked on a civil engineer’s Master Plan. These pavements include sidewalks, roadways, and parking spaces. All of these pavements must meet the proper dimensions.

4. Storm Drainage
Stormwater runoff must have a proper disposal area that is environmentally friendly. Water pipe strengths, types, and encasement's must be noted in case of damage or replacement. This drainage system should include adequate erosion control.

5. Water Supply and Treatment Systems
The Master Plan must mark all water and sewer line locations, including the distances between each. Fire hydrants must be spaced properly based on fire marshal regulations. The designated water supply source must comply with the Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC).

6. Sewerage Systems
The sewerage systems implements in a design plan must include the correct grades and slopes. All sanitary sewers are expected to discharge at peak rate to avoid clogs or other issues. Each Master Plan should include the most economical and suitable sewer system.

7. Miscellaneous Checking

This item serves more as a second look for thorough review and design accuracy. Here, the drawings of the Master Plan must reflect the criteria presented in the project proposal. All latest revisions and specifications must be included in the final Master Plan.

CEDARVILLE Engineering Group, LLC (CEG) reviews every civil engineering project with detail and precaution. We strive to please our clients with quality work by managing a well-balanced design review. Call us at 610-705-4500 or email info@cedarvilleeng.com to find out more.

By: J. Auerbach