Construction

The next CANDU nuclear unit may be a repeat of an existing design or a pre-engineered prototype of an all-new design. Regardless, the common feature will be a late commitment to power requirements and a shortage of money. The pressure will be on to shorten durations and cut costs while maintaining quality. The ability to influence the cost of a project decreases rapidly as the project progresses. Hence it is essential to look at phases that come before construction in the project cycle. Maximum benefits occur when the optimum use is made of construction knowledge and experience in planning, design, procurement and construction to achieve overall project objectives. (L.L.)