What are the 7 Steps of Commissioning?

Commissioning is one of the most critical phases of any construction, industrial, or infrastructure project. It ensures systems are not only installed correctly, but also function as intended—safely, efficiently, and in line with project goals. Whether you’re bringing new machinery online or preparing a site for full operational handover, following a structured commissioning process is key.

In this article, we break down the 7 essential steps of commissioning - what they involve, why they matter, and how they help ensure long-term project success.

1. Planning

Commissioning success starts with early planning. This step sets the foundation for everything that follows.

Key activities:

• Define the scope of commissioning
• Identify systems to be commissioned
• Establish timelines and milestones
• Allocate roles and responsibilities
• Develop safety protocols and risk assessments
  
  

Why it matters: Planning allows teams to anticipate issues, align expectations, and build commissioning into the project schedule - not treat it as an afterthought.

2. Design Review

Before equipment even arrives on-site, the design should be reviewed with commissioning in mind. This ensures that the systems being built can actually be tested, operated, and maintained as intended.

Key activities:

• Review engineering drawings and system layouts
• Confirm testability and maintainability of designs
• Validate compliance with project and regulatory requirements
• Identify commissioning requirements early in the design
  
  

Why it matters: Catching design flaws now avoids rework, delays, and costly changes during later stages.

3. Pre-Commissioning (Construction Verification)

Also known as static commissioning, this step ensures that everything is properly installed and ready for operation before systems are energised.

Key activities:

• Perform inspections and punch list walkdowns
• Verify equipment installation against design/spec
• Complete mechanical completion checklists
• Conduct Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) documentation review
  
  

Why it matters: This step confirms that the physical setup is safe, complete, and ready to be brought online.

4. Commissioning (Functional Testing)

This is where the real action begins. The commissioning team tests each system to confirm it functions correctly and meets the intended performance requirements.

Key activities:

• Start-up equipment and perform initial runs
• Calibrate instruments and controls
• Test system integration and interlocks
• Verify sequences of operation
  
  

Why it matters: This ensures that each system operates correctly on its own and in coordination with others.

5. Start-Up

Start-up marks the transition from testing to live operation. It’s a tightly controlled process that brings systems online under real operating conditions.

Key activities:

• Introduce utilities (power, water, air, etc.)
• Load test equipment under normal conditions
• Monitor for stability, alarms, and performance
• Resolve any issues before full turnover
  
  

Why it matters: This phase demonstrates that systems are ready for production, while still under close supervision.

6. Performance Verification

Now that the system is operational, it’s time to prove that it meets the original design intent and stakeholder expectations.

Key activities:

• Measure performance against KPIs (efficiency, throughput, reliability)
• Complete full-system integration testing
• Verify compliance with regulatory and safety standards
• Document test results and certifications
  
  

Why it matters: This step gives owners confidence that their systems perform as promised—not just in theory, but in practice.

7. Handover and Close-Out

The final step involves transferring ownership of the systems to the operations team, complete with all documentation, training, and support materials.

Key activities:

• Deliver commissioning reports, test records, and as-built documentation
• Provide O&M manuals and training to site teams
• Review warranty terms and post-commissioning support
• Sign off on completion and formal acceptance
  
  

Why it matters: A strong handover ensures continuity, enabling the owner to operate and maintain the system effectively from day one.

Why the 7 Steps Matter

Commissioning isn’t just a checklist, it’s a disciplined process that protects your investment and supports long-term operational success. Following these 7 steps:

• Reduces risk of rework or failures
• Improves safety and compliance
• Enhances system performance and reliability
• Builds confidence across stakeholders