PROJECT PLANNING GUIDE
Commissioning checklist
A structured list of questions to settle before an automation change reaches the plant.
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Scope and responsibilities
List the equipment, software and interfaces included in the work. Identify what is outside the scope, which suppliers are involved and who accepts the completed installation. A written boundary makes it easier to allocate an unexpected issue during commissioning rather than debating responsibility during a shutdown.
- Agreed functional description and operating modes
- Named software, electrical and mechanical responsibilities
- Interface list and third-party contacts
- Acceptance authority and escalation contacts
Software and records
Confirm that the team has the current programs and configuration records before any change is made. Keep a copy of the installed state and agree where the final backup will be stored. Record version information that will matter when the plant is supported later.
- PLC, HMI and relevant device backups
- Firmware, software and device-version register
- Current electrical drawings and network details
- Licence availability and authorised access
Site readiness
A test plan is only useful if the plant can support the planned checks. Confirm site access, equipment readiness and availability of operations staff. Establish what materials, utilities and production conditions are required to demonstrate the sequence. Apply the site’s procedures for isolation, equipment operation and approval of changes.
- Commissioning window and production coordination
- Available utilities, materials and process conditions
- Local operator and maintenance support
- Pre-start checks and permissions
Functional acceptance
Write each check with an expected result. Include normal operation and abnormal conditions relevant to the equipment. Record actual observations and repeat affected checks after a change. Safety-related validation requires its own defined responsibilities and applicable procedures.
- Start, stop and controlled restart
- Equipment feedback and sequence progression
- Alarms, HMI indication and settings
- Interlocks and upstream/downstream handshakes
Completion and follow-up
Agree what needs to be completed before the plant returns to production and which items can be followed up later. Give each outstanding item an owner. Ensure the final records represent the installed system rather than a pre-commissioning version.
- Signed or otherwise agreed acceptance record
- Final backups and change summary
- Training and operating notes
- Outstanding-item register with owners and dates
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