What is the PQS Process?

The Performance, Quality and Safety (PQS) process is a prequalification process conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) to assess the suitability of vaccine products, equipment, and devices for use in immunization programs. Prequalification is a voluntary process, but it is highly regarded by UN agencies, member states, and other stakeholders, as it provides assurance that the products have been evaluated to meet high standards of quality, safety, and performance.

The PQS process consists of three steps

  1. Application: Manufacturers submit a dossier of information about their product, including data from preclinical and clinical studies, quality control systems, and manufacturing processes.
  2. Assessment: WHO experts review the dossier and conduct site inspections to verify the information provided.
  3. Decision: If the product meets all of the PQS requirements, WHO grants it prequalified status.
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The PQS process is important for a number of reasons:

  • It helps to ensure that high-quality vaccines and related products are available to children in all countries, regardless of income level.
  • It promotes competition among manufacturers, which can lead to lower prices and better products.
  • It helps to strengthen national regulatory systems.

PQS Surveyors

PQS surveyors play a vital role in the PQS process. They are responsible for conducting site inspections of manufacturing facilities to verify that they meet WHO's quality and safety standards. PQS surveyors must have a high level of technical expertise and experience in the pharmaceutical industry.

PQS Construction

PQS construction is the process of building and maintaining facilities that meet WHO's PQS requirements. This includes factors such as the design of the facility, the equipment used, and the quality control procedures in place. PQS construction is essential for ensuring the production of high-quality vaccines and related products.

Benefits of PQS Prequalification for PQS Surveyors and PQS Construction

PQS prequalification offers a number of benefits for PQS surveyors and PQS construction companies, including:

  • Increased credibility and reputation: PQS prequalification is a highly regarded mark of quality. PQS surveyors and construction companies that are prequalified by WHO are seen as being experts in their field.
  • Access to new markets: PQS pre qualification is required for many UN agencies and member states to purchase vaccines and related products. This means that PQS pre qualified surveyors and construction companies have access to a wider range of potential customers.
  • Opportunities for professional development: PQS surveyors and construction companies can participate in a variety of training and development programs offered by WHO. These programs help to ensure that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the latest PQS requirements.

Conclusion

The PQS process is an important tool for ensuring the quality, safety, and performance of vaccines and related products. PQS surveyors and PQS construction companies play a vital role in this process. PQS prequalification offers a number of benefits for PQS surveyors and construction companies, including increased credibility and reputation, access to new markets, and opportunities for professional development.

Choose HJH Commercial Consultants for your PQS surveying and construction needs

HJH Commercial Consultants is a leading provider of PQS surveying and construction services. We have a team of highly experienced and qualified professionals who can help you to ensure that your project meets the highest standards of quality, safety, and performance.

We offer a wide range of services, including:

We can work with you at all stages of your project, from the initial planning stages to the final completion. We will tailor our services to your specific needs and requirements.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you to achieve your PQS goals.

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frequently asked Questions

Our team of experienced quantity surveyors is dedicated to providing accurate and reliable cost management solutions for your projects. We know that navigating the intricacies of construction expenses can be overwhelming, so we're here to support you and the process.

Browse through our FAQ section to find answers to common queries, ranging from what a quantity surveyor does, to how we can optimize your project's budget and ensure its success. We're committed to transparency and clarity, so if you can't find the information you're looking for, don't hesitate to get in touch with us directly.

What is a Quantity Surveyor?

A Quantity Surveyor is a professional in the construction industry who focuses on managing costs, contracts, and ensuring value for money in construction and infrastructure projects.

What is the primary role of a Quantity Surveyor in a construction project?

Their main role is to manage and control the costs of a construction project, from initial estimates through to the final accounts. They also handle contractual matters and ensure value for money.

What is a Bill of Quantities (BoQ) & Activity Schedule?

Bill of Quantities is a detailed document in construction and procurement that lists the quantities, descriptions, and estimated costs of materials, labour, and services required for a project. It provides a clear breakdown for pricing and bidding purposes.

Activity Schedule, on the other hand, is a timeline that outlines the sequence of tasks, their start and finish dates, and dependencies within a project. It helps in project planning and management by organising the work into specific activities. Both documents aid in cost estimation, resource allocation, and project scheduling for effective execution.

When should I engage a Quantity Surveyor for my project?

It's best to involve a QS at the earliest stages of your project. Early involvement can ensure a more accurate budget estimate and more effective financial management throughout the project.

Are Quantity Surveyors only involved in large-scale projects?

No. While QS are often associated with large projects, their expertise can be valuable for projects of any size, providing cost management and contractual advice.

Can a Quantity Surveyor assist with dispute resolution?

Yes. QS have expertise in contractual matters and can offer advice or act as mediators in disputes over project costs, variations, or other contractual issues.

Is it compulsory to have a Quantity Surveyor for construction projects?

It's not always compulsory, but having a QS ensures costs are effectively managed and the project remains on budget. In certain contracts or regions, it might be a requirement.

What is the difference between the NEC, JCT and FIDIC and other forms of contract

NEC, JCT, and FIDIC are all standard types of construction contracts used in the infrastructure  industry. They each have their own distinct characteristics and are designed to serve different purposes. Here's an overview of the differences between these three and other contract types:

NEC (New Engineering Contract):
Focus: NEC contracts highlight collaboration, flexibility, and risk-sharing between parties.
Management: NEC contracts place a strong emphasis on project management, with clear roles and responsibilities for each party. The Project Manager (PM) has a central role in administering the contract.
Risk Allocation: The party best equipped to manage a particular risk is assigned that risk under NEC contracts. The contract promotes early identification and resolution of issues.
Compensation: Payment mechanisms are based on defined costs, target costs, and gain/pain share mechanisms.
Time Management: NEC contracts use a "compensation event" mechanism to manage changes and delays.
Versions: NEC3 and NEC4 are the two most commonly used editions of NEC contracts.

JCT (Joint Contracts Tribunal):
Focus: JCT contracts provide a balanced approach to allocating risk between parties.
Tradition: JCT contracts have a long history and are widely used in the UK construction industry.
Varieties: There are various types of JCT contracts available for different project types and procurement methods.
Payment: JCT contracts typically include interim payments and final payments based on defined project stages.
Dispute Resolution: JCT contracts often include mechanisms for resolving disputes, such as adjudication, arbitration, or legal action.
Types: Examples include JCT Standard Building Contract, JCT Design and Build Contract, and more.

FIDIC (Fédération Internationale Des Ingénieurs-Conseils):
International: FIDIC contracts are commonly used for international building projects and are sometimes called the "Rainbow Suite" due to their various contract types represented by different colors.
Risk Sharing: FIDIC contracts aim to strike a balance between the interests of parties and include provisions for sharing risks.
Editions: FIDIC contracts come in different editions and contract types, such as Red Book (Construction), Yellow Book (Plant and Design-Build), Silver Book (EPC/Turnkey), etc.
Dispute Avoidance: FIDIC contracts emphasize avoiding disputes through mechanisms like the Engineer's role in decision-making and dispute resolution boards.
Types: Different FIDIC editions suit different project types and delivery methods.

Other types of contracts:
ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers): Frequently used for civil engineering projects.
PPC (Project Partnering Contract): Stresses collaboration and long-term relationships.
ACA (Association of Consultant Architects): Tailored for architectural and design-related contracts.