How this Manual is Organized

This manual is organized into
15
 chapters, as outlined in the following:
  • Chapter 1 - “Introduction” Provides a general overview of the purpose and scope of the manual.
  • Chapter 2 - “Pre-Award Activities” Provides guidance on
    FHWA oversight, Local Government
    , pre-award activities such as competitive bid requirements, Pre-Bid Q&A, addenda, Pre-Bid conference, and
    Contractor Signature of Authority
    .
  • Chapter 3 - “Post-Award Activities” Outlines
    post letting project information
    , legislative notification requirements,
    begin work
    , partnering, preconstruction and safety meeting.
  • Chapter 4 - “Project Records and Closeout” Summarizes the importance of accurate project records, Traffic Control Plan (TCP) and project closeout.
  • Chapter 5 - “Control of the Work” Covers project authority, work documents, staking the project, inspections, prime contractor performance evaluations and project evaluation.
  • Chapter 6 - “Control of Materials” Summarizes the control of materials covering material management, sampling and testing, and required forms.
  • Chapter 7 - “Changes to the Contract” Covers changes to the contract, including processing of change orders,
    approval authority, force accounts and other
     contract agreements,
    etc.
  • Chapter 8 - “Disputes and Claims” Outlines contract disputes and department claim process.
  • Chapter 9 - “Legal Relations and Responsibilities” Covers legal relations and responsibilities.
  • Chapter 10 - “Prosecution and Progress” Outlines project schedules, subcontracting, contract time, workday charges and time suspension, project timeliness, default of contract
    and terminations.
  • Chapter 11 - “Measurement and Payment”
    Outlines estimates and issues affecting payments, material on hand,
     outlines the importance of prompt pay.
  • Chapter 12 - “Environment” Provides insight into environmental permits, issues and commitments including other requirements. These topics include hazardous material/waste handling, biological and water resources, cultural resource management, noise/barriers,
    air quality,
     project-specific locations, and handling surplus materials.
  • Chapter 13 - “Health and Safety” Provides information on health and safety laws and contract requirements.
  • Chapter 14 - “Small Business Program” Provides an overview of the Department's Business Opportunity Programs.
  • Chapter 15 - “Contractor Workforce” Covers items such as labor laws and On-the-Job Training (OJT).
  • Chapter 16 - “FHWA Oversight Requirements” Outlines requirements including final inspection of federal-aid projects.