Liability: Attitudes and Procedures

The impact of individual and organizational policies concerning liability are reflected in the techniques and procedures followed by an organization. Minimizing liability exposure is the engineering management imperative of the 1980's. Attitudes of engineers and clients must be changed to reduce liability exposure. Attitude changes are reflected in office procedures, and contract procedures. This includes contract documents and contract administration. Improved office procedures include limitation of practice, peer review, independent review, maintenance of records, disposal of records, and timely responses. Improved construction contract procedures include EJCDC contract documents, procedures for changed conditions, delay compensation, and a geotechnical report for construction.