CLASSIFICATION

SYSTEMS IN
CONSTRUCTION
PROJECTS (INDIA)
Merun Jyoti Deka
Chetna
ABOUT
Classification systems in construction
projects are frameworks or categorization
methods that help organize and define
various aspects of construction endeavors.
These systems provide a structured
approach to understanding and managing
different types of projects, making it
easier for stakeholders to communicate,
plan, and execute projects effectively.
Several classification systems are
commonly used in the construction
industry.

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 P a g e 5 . C P W D ( C e n t r a l P u b l i c Wo r k s D e p a r t m e n t )
Classification:
• The CPWD classification system is widely used for government construction
projects in India.
• It categorizes construction works into various classes, such as Class A, Class B,
and so on, based on the complexity and cost of the project.

Page 7. IS (Indian Standard) Classification:

• The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) provides standards for various construction
materials and practices.
• IS codes are used for classifying materials, methods, and specifications in
construction projects.
THE
CLASSIFICATION Page 9. MES (Military Engineering Services) Classification:

SYSTEMS IN • The MES classification system is commonly used for construction projects related
to defense and military infrastructure.
CONSTRUCTION
• It includes different categories for various types of construction works.
PROJECTS
P a g e 11 . C P M ( C r i t i c a l P a t h M e t h o d ) C l a s s i f i c a t i o n :
MOSTLY USED IN
INDIA • CPM is a project management tool that helps in scheduling and managing complex
construction projects.
• It classifies activities based on their importance to the project schedule and
completion.

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 Page 13. Nature of Construction Classification:
• Projects are often classified based on the nature of construction, such as residential,
commercial, industrial, infrastructure, etc.

Page 15. Project Size Classification:

• Construction projects may be classified based on their size, such as small-scale,
medium-scale, and large-scale projects.

Page 17. FIDIC (International Federation of Consulting Engineers)

THE Contracts:
CLASSIFICATION • FIDIC contracts, though international, are often used in large construction projects
in India.
SYSTEMS IN • These contracts provide a framework for the rights and responsibilities of the
CONSTRUCTION parties involved in a construction project.
PROJECTS Page 19. Green Building Certification Systems:
MOSTLY USED IN • With increasing focus on sustainable construction, classification systems such as
INDIA LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and GRIHA (Green
Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) are gaining prominence.

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 CPWD (CENTRAL PUBLIC
WORKS DEPARTMENT)
CLASSIFICATION:

1 The CPWD (Central Public Works Department) classification is a

widely used system in India for categorizing construction
projects, particularly those associated with government
infrastructure and public works. The classification system is
based on the estimated cost of construction projects and helps in
standardizing and streamlining the execution of various types of
construction works. The primary purpose is to facilitate the
planning, tendering, and execution processes by providing a
systematic approach to different classes of construction projects.

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GENERAL OVERVIEW OF THE
CPWD CLASSIFICATION:

CLASS A: • High-Cost Projects

• Major infrastructure projects fall under this category.

CLASS B: • Medium-Cost Projects

• This class includes projects of moderate cost and complexity.

CLASS C: • Low-Cost Projects

• Smaller projects with relatively lower costs are classified under
Class C.

CLASS D: • Miscellaneous Works

• This class includes various small-scale works and maintenance
projects.

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 IS (INDIAN STANDARD)
CLASSIFICATION:

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The IS (Indian Standard) classification is associated with the standards set
by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). BIS is the national standards body
of India, responsible for the development and maintenance of standards
covering various products and services, including those in the construction
industry. The IS codes are a set of standards that provide guidelines and
specifications to ensure the quality and safety of materials, products, and
practices in different sectors, including construction.
The IS classification system helps in ensuring that construction practices in
India adhere to established standards, promoting safety, quality, and
uniformity in the industry. It covers a wide range of materials and
construction processes, and compliance with these standards is often a
requirement in construction contracts.
As with any standardization system, IS codes are periodically updated to
reflect advancements in technology, changes in construction practices, and
improvements in safety standards. Users in the construction industry refer
to the relevant IS codes to ensure that their projects meet the specified
quality and safety requirements.

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IN THE CONTEXT OF CONSTRUCTION, THE IS
C L A S S I F I C AT I O N M AY R E F E R T O VA R I O U S I S C O D E S
T H AT C O V E R D I F F E R E N T A S P E C T S , I N C L U D I N G
M AT E R I A L S , D E S I G N , C O N S T R U C T I O N P R A C T I C E S ,
A N D S A F E T Y. H E R E A R E A F E W E X A M P L E S O F H O W I S
C L A S S I F I C AT I O N I S A P P L I E D I N T H E C O N S T R U C T I O N
SECTOR:

IS 456:2000 - CODE OF PRACTICE FOR PLAIN AND

REINFORCED CONCRETE:
This standard provides guidelines for the design and construction of plain and
reinforced concrete structures.

I S 3 3 7 0 ( PA R T 1 T O 4 ) - C O D E O F P R A C T I C E F O R C O N C R E T E
STRUCTURES FOR STORAGE OF LIQUIDS:
These codes provide specifications for the design and construction of structures for
the storage of liquids.

IS 800:2007 - GENERAL CONSTRUCTION IN STEEL - CODE OF

PRACTICE:
This code covers the general design and construction requirements for steel
structures.

I S 4 5 6 ( PA R T 1 ) - C O D E O F P R A C T I C E F O R P L A S T E R I N G A N D
POINTING:
This standard provides guidelines for plastering and pointing in construction.

I S 1 2 0 0 ( PA R T 1 T O 2 8 ) - M E T H O D O F M E A S U R E M E N T O F
BUILDING AND CIVIL ENGINEERING WORKS:
This set of codes provides methods for the measurement of various construction
works, facilitating uniformity in measurement and billing.

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 MES (MILITARY ENGINEERING
SERVICES) CLASSIFICATION:
The Military Engineering Services (MES) classification system is

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primarily used in India for construction projects related to defense and
military infrastructure. MES is one of the largest government construction
and maintenance agencies in the country, and it plays a crucial role in
providing engineering support to the Indian Armed Forces.
It's important to note that the MES classification system is specific to
military construction projects and is tailored to meet the unique
requirements of defense infrastructure. The details of specific projects and
their classifications are typically not publicly disclosed due to security
concerns.
Contractors and professionals involved in MES projects would need to
adhere to the specific guidelines, standards, and specifications set by the
MES for each category of work. The MES classification system helps
ensure that military construction projects are executed with precision,
considering the strategic and operational requirements of the armed
forces.

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T H E M E S C L A S S I F I C AT I O N S Y S T E M C AT E G O R I Z E S
C O N S T R U C T I O N P R O J E C T S B A S E D O N VA R I O U S
FA C T O R S , I N C L U D I N G T H E N AT U R E A N D C O M P L E X I T Y
O F T H E W O R K . W H I L E S P E C I F I C D E TA I L S O F T H E M E S
C L A S S I F I C AT I O N M AY N O T B E P U B L I C LY AVA I L A B L E
D U E T O T H E N AT U R E O F D E F E N S E - R E L AT E D
PROJECTS, SOME GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS CAN
BE OUTLINED:

INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECTS:
MES often undertakes the construction of critical military infrastructure such as airfields,
bunkers, roads, bridges, and other facilities essential for defense operations.

O P E R AT I O N A L A N D N O N - O P E R AT I O N A L P R O J E C T S :
Projects may be classified based on whether they are directly related to operational
requirements (essential for military operations) or non-operational projects that
support the overall functioning of military establishments.

S T R AT E G I C I M P O R TA N C E :
Projects are likely classified based on their strategic importance and the critical role they
play in national defense

S P E C I A L I Z E D FA C I L I T I E S :
MES may be involved in constructing specialized facilities such as training centers, weapon
storage areas, and communication networks.

S E C U R I T Y C O N S I D E R AT I O N S :
Given the sensitive nature of military infrastructure, the classification may also consider
security parameters and the need for confidentiality.

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 CPM (CRITICAL PATH
METHOD) CLASSIFICATION::

4 The classification of construction projects based on the nature of construction

refers to categorizing projects according to their purpose, use, or the type of
structures being built. This classification helps in understanding the specific
requirements, design considerations, and construction methods associated
with different types of buildings and infrastructure.

CPM is a valuable tool for project managers to optimize project timelines,

allocate resources efficiently, and identify areas where delays can have the
most significant impact on the overall project completion. It doesn't classify
projects but rather focuses on the sequencing and scheduling of activities
within a project. The critical path, identified through CPM, is crucial for
ensuring that the project is completed in the shortest possible time.

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H E R E ' S A B R I E F O V E RV I E W O F H O W C P M W O R K S :

1.Activity Definition:
1. Break down the project into a series of activities or tasks that need to be completed.
Each activity should have a defined duration and dependencies on other activities.

2.Network Diagram:
1. Create a network diagram that visually represents the sequence of activities and their
dependencies. Nodes represent activities, and arrows represent the flow and
dependencies between activities.

3.Duration Estimation:
1. Assign time estimates to each activity. This involves estimating the time it will take to
complete each task.

4.Critical Path Identification:

1. Use the network diagram and activity durations to calculate the earliest start time,
earliest finish time, latest start time, and latest finish time for each activity. Identify the
critical path, which is the longest path through the network and determines the
minimum project duration.

5.Schedule Development:
1. Develop a project schedule based on the critical path. The schedule includes start and
finish dates for each activity, as well as milestones and the overall project completion
date.

6.Project Monitoring:
1. Throughout the project, monitor progress by comparing the planned schedule with the
actual progress. Adjust the schedule as needed to address delays or changes in the
project scope.

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 NATURE OF CONSTRUCTION
CLASSIFICATION:

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The classification of construction projects based on the nature of
construction refers to categorizing projects according to their purpose,
use, or the type of structures being built. This classification helps in
understanding the specific requirements, design considerations, and
construction methods associated with different types of buildings and
infrastructure.

The classification based on the nature of construction is essential for

stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and investors,
as it helps in tailoring the construction approach to meet the specific
requirements and challenges associated with each type of project.
Different types of construction projects may have distinct regulations,
design considerations, and materials, and understanding these nuances is
crucial for successful project delivery.

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IN INDIA, AS IN MANY OTHER PLACES,
CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS ARE OFTEN CLASSIFIED
B A S E D O N T H E I R N AT U R E . H E R E A R E S O M E C O M M O N
C AT E G O R I E S :

1.Residential Construction: Involves the construction of buildings primarily used for housing
purposes, such as houses, apartments, condominiums, and residential complexes.

2.Commercial Construction: Encompasses projects related to commercial activities, including office

buildings, retail spaces, shopping malls, and other structures designed for business and commerce.

3.Industrial Construction: Involves facilities dedicated to industrial processes, manufacturing, and

production. Examples include factories, warehouses, and industrial plants.

4.Infrastructure Construction: Focuses on the development of essential public infrastructure, such as

roads, bridges, highways, airports, seaports, and utilities (water supply, sewage, etc.).

5.Institutional Construction: Pertains to buildings used for educational, healthcare, and government
purposes. Schools, hospitals, government offices, and other institutional buildings fall into this category.

6.Recreational Construction: Involves the construction of facilities designed for leisure and
recreation, such as sports stadiums, parks, entertainment complexes, and cultural centers.

7.Specialized Construction: Encompasses projects with unique and specialized requirements. This
may include structures like dams, power plants, communication towers, and other specialized facilities.

8.Mixed-Use Construction: Involves projects that combine multiple functions within the same
development, such as a building with both residential and commercial spaces.

9.Green Construction: Focuses on environmentally sustainable and energy-efficient construction

practices. Green construction may include the use of eco-friendly materials and design principles.

10.Renovation and Retrofitting: Involves projects that aim to modify or upgrade existing structures.
This can include renovations of residential homes, commercial spaces, or historical buildings.

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 PROJECT SIZE
CLASSIFICATION:

6 Project size classification in the context of construction refers to

categorizing projects based on their scale or magnitude. The size of a
construction project can vary significantly, and different classifications
help in understanding the complexity, resources required, and overall
scope of the project.

Project size classification is essential for various stakeholders, including

contractors, investors, and project managers. It helps in estimating
resource requirements, assessing risks, and determining the appropriate
project management and delivery strategies. The categorization can vary
across industries and regions, and it often considers factors such as cost,
complexity, and duration to determine the appropriate classification.

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W H I L E T H E R E I S N O U N I V E R S A L S TA N D A R D F O R
P R O J E C T S I Z E C L A S S I F I C AT I O N , C O M M O N
C AT E G O R I E S M AY I N C L U D E :
• Small-Scale Projects: These projects typically involve relatively simple construction tasks and have
a smaller scope. Examples may include home renovations, small commercial fit-outs, or minor
infrastructure repairs.

• Medium-Scale Projects: Medium-scale projects are larger in scope than small-scale projects but are
not as extensive as large-scale projects. Examples may include the construction of a standalone
commercial building, a school, or a residential complex.

• Large-Scale Projects: Large-scale projects involve significant resources, complexities, and longer
timelines. Examples include the construction of large office complexes, shopping malls, or multi-
building residential developments.

• Mega-Projects: Mega-projects are massive undertakings that involve extensive financial

investments and often have a substantial impact on the economy and community. Examples include
the construction of airports, major infrastructure developments, and large-scale industrial complexes.

• Infrastructure Projects: This classification focuses specifically on projects related to critical

infrastructure, such as highways, bridges, dams, airports, and other major public works.

• Commercial and Residential Projects: Classification based on the primary use of the construction.
Commercial projects may include office buildings, malls, and hotels, while residential projects focus
on housing developments.

• Mixed-Use Developments: These projects integrate various functions such as residential,

commercial, and recreational within a single development, creating a mixed-use environment.

• Public Sector vs. Private Sector Projects: Projects can be classified based on the funding source
and ownership. Public sector projects are funded and owned by government entities, while private
sector projects are financed and owned by private organizations.

• Social Infrastructure Projects: Focuses on projects related to social amenities and services, such as
schools, hospitals, and community centers.

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 FIDIC (INTERNATIONAL
FEDERATION OF CONSULTING
ENGINEERS) CONTRACTS:

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FIDIC, which stands for the International Federation of Consulting
Engineers (Fédération Internationale Des Ingénieurs-Conseils), is an
international organization that sets standards and provides guidance for
the consulting engineering industry. FIDIC is particularly known for its
standard forms of contracts for use in the construction and engineering
industry. These contracts are widely used globally and help establish a fair
and balanced relationship between the various parties involved in a
construction project.

It's important for parties entering into a construction contract to carefully

review and understand the specific FIDIC contract being used, as well as
any project-specific amendments. Consulting with legal professionals
experienced in construction law is advisable to ensure that the contract
meets the specific needs of the project and the parties involved.

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W H I L E T H E R E I S N O U N I V E R S A L S TA N D A R D F O R
P R O J E C T S I Z E C L A S S I F I C AT I O N , C O M M O N
C AT E G O R I E S M AY I N C L U D E :
• Standard Forms of Contracts: FIDIC has developed a series of standard forms of contracts, each
tailored for different types of construction and engineering projects. The most used contracts are the
FIDIC Red Book (Conditions of Contract for Construction), Yellow Book (Conditions of Contract
for Plant and Design-Build), and Silver Book (Conditions of Contract for EPC/Turnkey Projects).

• Fair and Balanced Approach: FIDIC contracts are known for their fair and balanced approach to
risk allocation among the parties involved in a construction project, including the employer,
contractor, and engineer.

• Roles and Responsibilities: FIDIC contracts clearly define the roles and responsibilities of each
party, including the employer, the contractor, and the engineer. This includes obligations related to
design, construction, payment, and dispute resolution.

• Claims and Dispute Resolution: The contracts include provisions for claims and dispute resolution
mechanisms, often involving procedures for negotiation, mediation, and arbitration. This helps in
resolving disputes in a structured and efficient manner.

• Conditions of Contract: FIDIC contracts set out the general conditions of contract that govern the
relationship between the parties. These conditions cover aspects such as variations, delays, payment
terms, and completion requirements.

• Updates and Revisions: FIDIC periodically updates and revises its standard forms of contracts to
reflect changes in industry practices, technology, and legal considerations. Users are encouraged to
use the latest versions of the contracts.

• Global Applicability: FIDIC contracts are designed to be adaptable to different legal systems and
are used globally. They provide a common framework that facilitates international collaboration in
construction and engineering projects.

• User-Friendly Approach: FIDIC contracts aim to be user-friendly and comprehensive, providing a

well-structured framework that can be applied to a wide range of projects.

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 GREEN BUILDING
CERTIFICATION SYSTEMS:

8 Green building certification systems are frameworks or rating systems

designed to assess and recognize buildings that incorporate sustainable
and environmentally friendly practices in their design, construction,
operation, and maintenance. These systems aim to promote the
development of buildings that are energy-efficient, resource-efficient,
and environmentally responsible.

These certification systems provide a framework for sustainable building

practices, allowing stakeholders to showcase their commitment to
environmental responsibility. The specific criteria and rating levels vary
between systems, but they all share the goal of promoting
environmentally conscious construction and operation practices.

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S E V E R A L G R E E N B U I L D I N G C E RT I F I C AT I O N S Y S T E M S
A R E U S E D G L O B A L LY, A N D S O M E O F T H E W E L L -
KNOWN ONES INCLUDE:

• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): LEED is one of the most widely used green
building certification systems worldwide. Developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), LEED
provides a comprehensive framework for evaluating the sustainability of buildings. It covers various aspects
such as energy efficiency, water conservation, materials selection, indoor environmental quality, and
innovation.

• BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method): BREEAM is a

widely used certification system developed in the United Kingdom. It assesses the environmental
performance of buildings based on criteria related to energy, water, materials, pollution, and management
processes. BREEAM is applicable to various building types, including residential, commercial, and
industrial.

• GRIHA (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment): Developed by the Indian Green Building
Council (IGBC), GRIHA is a green building rating system specifically designed for the Indian context. It
assesses buildings based on criteria such as energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, and
the use of environmentally friendly materials.

• ENERGY STAR: ENERGY STAR, developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA),
focuses on energy efficiency in buildings and appliances. While it is not a building certification system in the
traditional sense, buildings can receive ENERGY STAR certification if they meet strict energy performance
criteria.

• Green Star (Australia and New Zealand): Green Star is a certification system developed by the Green
Building Council of Australia (GBCA) and the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC). It evaluates
buildings based on sustainable design, construction, and operation practices.

• WELL Building Standard: WELL focuses on the health and well-being of building occupants. Developed
by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), it assesses factors such as air quality, lighting, water
quality, and the promotion of physical and mental well-being.

• Living Building Challenge: The Living Building Challenge, developed by the International Living Future
Institute, is a rigorous certification program that goes beyond traditional green building practices. It
emphasizes regenerative design, requiring projects to produce more energy than they consume and use
sustainable materials.

• Estidama (Pearl Rating System - Abu Dhabi): Developed by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council,
Estidama's Pearl Rating System assesses the sustainability of buildings in Abu Dhabi, focusing on20energy,
water, and environmental impact.
 REFERENCES

1."Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling" by Harold Kerzner: This book
provides insights into project management methodologies, including critical path analysis.
2."Construction Project Management" by Frederick Gould and Nancy Joyce: A comprehensive guide to construction project
management.
3."Building Construction Handbook" by Roy Chudley and Roger Greeno: Covers various aspects of construction, including
materials, methods, and classifications.
4."Construction Technology" by Roy Chudley and Roger Greeno: Focuses on construction methods and technology.

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THANK
YOU

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