FIELD LOG No.

00001

OWNER: MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

PROJECT: CONSTRUCTION OF EDUCATIONAL COMPLEX, DR. DARIO GONZALEZ, 9a C. Pte. N 1554, SS
CONSTRUCTOR: CONTRACT No.
SUPERVISOR: CONTRACT NO.

DESCRIPTION
FOR:

THE USE OF THE

LOG OF
WORK

SENDER: RECEIVE:
MAE. Ing. Herbert W. Chacón H.
COMPANY: DAY MONTH YEAR FIRM: DAY MONTH YEAR
30 Oct 10

ORIGINAL: BLANCO/ 1a copia AMARILLO: PROPIETARIO/ 2a copia CELESTE: SUPERVISOR/ 3a copia ROSADA: CONSTRUCTOR
 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

CONTENT
I.-INTRODUCTION: ................................................................... 3

II.- DEFINITION: ........................................... 4

III.- GENERALITIES OF THE LOGBOOK.................................. 5

III.1.- FORMAT THAT A LOGBOOK MUST MEET. ...... 7

III.2.- RULES FOR GOOD USE OF THE LOGBOOK........ 8
III:3:- CLASSIFICATION OF A LOG NOTE ......... 14
III.4.- STRUCTURE OF A LOG NOTE ............ 17
III.5.- REGULATION OF THE WORK LOG............. 18
IV. - EXAMPLE..................................................... 20

IV.1.- EXAMPLE OF FILLED LOGBOOK ................................ 20

IV.2.- PROPOSED LOG FORMATO .................... 23
V. -NORMATIVE FRAMEWORK......................................................... 24

VI. -BIBLIOGRAPHY............................................................. 24

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 2

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

I.- INTRODUCTION:
The Logbook is the instrument used in construction projects to
communication between the owner, the builder, and the supervisor, as well as with the
representatives of the authorities or inspectors from the different entities that regulate the
construction in El Salvador.
The logbook is the official and legal means of communication between the parties that sign it.
contract and will be in effect during the completion of the work. Its use is mandatory in
all the works and services, for which the construction company and the supervision must foresee
that the internal control bodies will oversee the use and monitoring of it.
Additionally, the Logbook serves as a witness to the activities carried out during
the execution of the work.
The Log at the end of the project will also serve as a silent witness to all the
executed processes as well as the corrections of the deficiencies that occurred in the
project, which in case the project were to have any claim from the parties
the document supports the argument in dispute.
This is why we must take care to record all the incidents that occur.
during the execution of the project and this includes, for example: documenting the
rainy days and amount of rain, temperature, wind, sunny or cloudy day,
cantidad de obreros laborando, tareas iniciadas, en ejecución o finalizadas, materiales
o equipos ingresados o retirados de la obra, días laborados o no, debemos de enfatizar
whether the activities are within the work program or outside of it.
In El Salvador, the Logbook does not have a standard format, and it will depend on the
characteristics specific to the institution being worked with, adapting them more to
the experience of the professionals involved in the project.

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 3

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

II.- DEFINICION:

The term "notebook or logbook" comes from the words used in the
navigation and refers to 'Book in which the course, speed, maneuvers, and
other navigation accidents.
The Royal Academy describes it as:
Notebook.
(From Latin quaterni).
1.m. Set or collection of some sheets of paper, folded and sewn in
form of a book.
2.m. Small book or set of paper in which accounts and records are kept, or in
that some news, ordinances, or instructions are written.
3.m. Punishment imposed on students for minor offenses.
4 a.m. colloq. Deck of cards.
[Link] of four sheets placed one inside the other.
~ of the log.
1.m. Sea Logbook in which the course, speed, maneuvers, and others are recorded.
navigation accidents.
~ of Cortes.
1.m. Extract and official account of the agreements made in each meeting of
they, and it was printed and published since the 16th century.
In construction processes, the Logbook is a paginated and bound book that is
utiliza para “prescribir teóricamente” y corregir las desviaciones que por incidentes o
accidents occur at the site that due to these circumstances are not completed on time;
In it, the observations made during visits by the Engineer, Manager, will be noted.
Superintendent, Owner, etc. (In the document we will use the term of
Owner to define the organization or its representative who has commissioned the
execution of the Work. Engineer, to describe the Supervisory office or its
representative in the work, independent of the organizational structure that it has and
of the number of staff and specialists as it depends on the complexity and
scope of the project, the Engineer is also a specialized representative of
Owner. We will refer to the contractor as the company or its representative that
find in charge of the execution of the work, whose organizational structure depends on
the complexity and type of work.
The Logbook is used to provide instructions for structural safety, installations.
of urban and architectural design, the standards that must be met will be detailed
materials used for structural or safety purposes, procedures of
construction and quality control; as well as the certification of each of them;
they will authorize all construction stages of the work, modifications and expansions,

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 4

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

as long as they comply with the Construction Regulations and the Standards
Techniques, the names and the authorized signatures to enter notes in the Logbook are
will be recorded at the beginning of the Log, as well as the construction permit data,
como son: No. de permiso, descripción detallada, ubicación, vigencia, uso autorizado,
construction area, maximum height, authorized floors, free area, etc.
The Construction Log is theoretically an official and legal means of communication.
among the parties signing a construction declaration.
construction manifestation?) It will be in effect during the development of the work and its
The objective is to formalize that all possible changes comply with the regulations.
of Construction and its Technical Standards, for the declaration of completion of work
and authorization of use and occupation. Likewise, in case of a conflict, it is the only
legal document that serves to disclaim responsibilities.
Given that, the seriousness that the logbook must have, it is important to point out that its
use should be limited to matters related to the work. It should avoid noting,
matters that are not only insignificant, but also of a personal nature, for which they are presented
rules to govern the use of the logbook.

III.- GENERALITIES OF THE LOGBOOK

FORMAT THAT MUST BE FOLLOWED BY A WORK LOG

Leafed sheets
Original and copies
Space on each page for:
Project name (or must be printed)
To open or close the sheet
Space to write the sender's name
Space to write the recipient's name
Space to write the subject or description
Space for the signature and seal of both the sender and the recipient
hard pastas
Letter or legal size paper

2.- RULES FOR APPROPRIATE USE OF THE LOGBOOK

Unique
Opening of the logbook
Closure
Series of Notes
Closed
Writing
Errors

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 5

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

Scratches or Repairs
About positions or additions
Signatures
• Construction Managers
• Inspectors of official institutions.
Disposal of excess spaces
Withdrawal of Copies
Cantidad de Notas
Seriousness
Commitment to Use of Logbook
Writing
Spelling
Closing of the entries in the Logbook
Logbook Custody
Reading habit

3.- CLASSIFICATION OF A LOG NOTE

Orders
Certifications
Authorizations
Reports
Recommendations

4.- STRUCTURES OF A LOG NOTE

Order
Certification
Classification
Authorization
Reports
Recommendations
Subject or problem
Location
Cause
Solution
Deadline
Prevention
Explanatory sketch
Reference to the regulations, technical specifications, technical conditions, etc.

5.- REGULATIONS OF THE WORK LOG

Availability
Signed

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 6

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

Withdrawal of copies
Inviolability of seats
Clarity of the copies
Writing instruments
The following will describe each of the previous sections.
III.1.- FORMAT THAT A LOGBOOK MUST COMPLY WITH.
1) The original sheets must be numbered, in consecutive order, and have for the
fewer than two copies with the same number each, or as many copies as
institutions are involved in the project, generally they
established in the contract or in the terms of reference. Also in these
documents refer to who is in charge of the printing of the
logs.
The layering of the leaves must be checked before starting to use them, as
there may be printing errors, in which case it is advisable to discard the
logbook. If it were possible to paginate it by hand, this will be done by
triplicated and with indelible ink, ensuring that no number is omitted.
2) In original and copies, the first sheet, called original, at all times
it will remain in the work and at the end of the project it will be delivered to the owner and the
two copies, one for the Project Engineer and another for the Supervisor of
the work.
3) The copy pages must be detachable, not the original, and preferably
each one should be a different color and must have printed at the bottom
sheet to whom each sheet belongs.
4) On the first sheet or on the cover page, the general data will be noted.
proyecto: Nombre del proyecto, nombre del propietario, nombre de la empresa
contractor and its site representative, Name of the Supervising company
of the Engineer, contract number, building permit number,
General aspects of the project such as direction, total area, and construction area.
authorized levels, etc.
At the top of each page, the name of the
It is advisable that there are two lines to write it down.
The following line must contain the project location or have a
line to write it.
The middle of the logbook page must have several printed lines for
facilitate writing or it should be printed in grid format of size
half a centimeter, in any case these lines must be
light, to facilitate writing or the development of schemes or sketches
The following line must print the word 'From:' or 'Sender:' with a
line to write the name of the sender of the note, whether it is from the builder,
supervisor or any inspector of the governing institutions of the country.

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 7

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

The following line must print the word Receives: with a line with the
end of writing the name of the recipient of the note, whether it is the builder or
supervisor.
6) There should be a designated space to write the date of the official document.
At the bottom of the page there should be space for the signatures of both the supervisor
like the constructor, with those names already printed.
The size of the logbooks must be letter or legal size and
usually depends on the owning institution of the project and some others
like the FISDL or the OPAMSS, they sell the logbook, which is available
in a format according to your interests.
9) The covers must be durable and resistant to mistreatment, and preferably made of
some moisture-resistant material.
III.2.- RULES FOR A GOOD USE OF THE LOGBOOK
In this section, we will make a list of a series of indispensable rules for the
proper use of the Work Log. The intention is to assist the Directors
Site managers, the correct use and full utilization of it.
Since the logbook is managed by the representatives of the owner and of the
Responsible for the Work.
1) UNICA. Only one logbook should be used for each work of
construction. The leftover sheets from another project will never be used for which
It is going to start, the Log starts with page number one (1) on each
work.
2) OPENING, The opening of the logbook is done as a first entry,
After the general data on the first sheet, which mentions the
relationship between the parties, is the beginning of the relationship between the representatives of
contractor and the field personnel of the construction company. From this
way is defined the 'opening'. As for the content of this
In the first entry, we will say that the following data must be related.
First, the information of the authorized persons to sign will be recorded.
the logbook with addresses and phone numbers from the owner, builder, and the
Engineer and/or co-responsibles; the project data such as: address, number
building permit.
The following points must also be included in the first note: must
write down the start date of the project execution, and have it recorded
delivery of the land of the site to the contractor, the names of the
representatives of the construction and supervising company, residents, person in charge
of quality control, etc.
At all times, in the work, a set of plans must remain.
detailed construction report duly signed and sealed by the responsible parties
Just like this set of plans, they must show the permit seal.

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 8

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

construction.
4) Arrange where to place the construction sign with the data according to
the provisions established in the terms of reference or in accordance with the requirements of the owner.

The contractor must be instructed to construct the sanitary facilities.

portable sanitary sea, or latrine, drinking water, fire extinguisher, and a
first aid kit for any emergency.
All modifications that are intended to be made must be consulted.
first with the Engineer to assess its magnitude and feasibility of being carried out, and
The owner will be informed if it is feasible to carry out.
7) NOTE SERIES. All notes must have a reference regarding
previous notes, respecting the order without exception.
8) CLOSED. All log notes must be dated on the day they
the entry is made
9) WRITING. The entries must be made with indelible ink, never with
ink that can be erased, much less with a pencil. It is also important to have
be careful to write in easily readable handwriting and without abbreviations. Any
A person must be able to read everything that is written.

10) ERRORS. When a drafting error, intention, or

spelling, the note must be annulled accompanied by a legend that says 'This
the note is canceled for having an error.” Immediately, the following note opens.
repeating what is established, this time without errors. If possible, it should be avoided
You have to proceed as indicated, but when the time comes it is essential.
do it.
11) CORRECTIONS OR EMENDATIONS. The same applies in the log.
rules for the issuance of a bank check. A note with
scratches or repairs automatically void, with all the
consequences that may arise from the fact. One should not take risks. If by
If there is a reason, something needs to be crossed out, it must be done according to the instructions.
at the point of errors, of this relationship.
12) OVERLAYS OR ADDITIONS. Overlaying or adding is not permitted.
nothing to the log notes, neither between lines, nor in the margins, nor in
no other site. If there is a need to add something, another note will be opened.
referring to the original. sometimes it is necessary to accompany the
log notes with schematics or plans as is the case with workshop plans,
therefore it should be recorded in the log note 'workshop plan attached'
Regarding ... As an annex ... x”y the attached sheets or plans must ...
contain said reference 'Annex of log sheet #'
13) SIGNATURES. As previously mentioned, all sheets must be
stamped with the signatures of those responsible for the execution of the work or of the
project. Such authorization was recorded in the first annotation of the
logbook and if there is a change of authorized personnel, it must be recorded.

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 9

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

the new signature authorization in the log, thus indicating to whom they transmit the
authority to continue with the management of the work log.
Stamping the signature implies that the log note has been read and it should
write the date on which it has been signed.
Occasionally, visits from inspectors or officials are received.
representatives of the governing public institutions of construction, that
they carry out monitoring of the different works, those who have the obligation to
note in the log the observations of your visit, as well as the date and your signature.
It is recommended that your participation in the log be restricted exclusively to
these functions, in order to avoid contradictions.
14) UNUSABLE SPACE ELIMINATION. Upon completing the filling of
Each of the pages of the logbook must have all canceled.
remaining spaces. This is achieved by crossing them with diagonal stripes or a
line, to disable them.
15) WITHDRAWAL OF COPIES. Immediately after each of the sheets has been filled out.
from the logbook, and in general, once a week, as is customary in the country, one
They must withdraw the copies and deliver them to the appropriate person for safekeeping.
This practice prevents loss, negligence, or intentional loss from occurring.
Logbook, the control of the work is lost.
16) VALIDATIONS. There are various means of communication and transmission of
orders and information. The most common are: the letters, the minutes of the
meetings, memorandums, circulars, and telephone communications.
It is easy to lose control of the instructions. For this reason,
It is important to validate any of the mentioned means when necessary.
require, through a log note in which we cite the medium used
and we turned it into an integral part of the logbook. According to the importance of the
theme and at our own discretion, we will only proceed to mention the
document and its central theme, or to attach as many copies as you have
logbook, or in extreme cases, transcribe the entire document in the book: In this
the information generated will be handled appropriately
back to work.
17) NUMBER OF NOTES. It is necessary to make as many entries as there are
convenient to the project, without worrying about whether many pages have been used
logbook. The work log is not a space to demonstrate much work,
since it is not paid per filled page, nor is it a measure of problems.
SERIOUSNESS. All the above points make it clear the seriousness that is
requires managing a work log. Therefore, we recommend
that, before making an entry, one should consider the necessity of doing so. If
we decided to do it, we must think carefully about what we want to say.
Before recording the note in the Log, it is necessary to make a draft, under no circumstances.
We consider it appropriate to write the note directly in the log. It is
necessary to first make a draft of it, to ensure that we are

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 10

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

saying precisely what we want to establish. The logbook should never

to be used for insignificant matters, nonsense, and much less for
vent grievances or make attacks.
The logbook is not the place to engage in personal disputes, it is very common.
finding settled in it, personal assaults and their responses.
19) COMMITMENT TO THE USE OF THE WORK LOG. Both the Engineer
like the Builder, they are committed to using the log. Of no
In this way, one should be allowed to evade the responsibility of making entries.
To avoid commitment, this condition is essential. It is advisable.
clarify that if one of the parties observes that the counterpart avoids the use of the
logbook, it is wise to do nothing and consider that a note is still valid
when it is not signed by the counterpart, serving as printed witness
of the topics asked but not answered.
Recommendations for deanotations of the Engineer in declarative form, but not
limiting
Reports on any abnormal circumstances that may influence the
development of the work, on the unit prices established in the contract, or the
satisfactory reception of the work.
a) Related to the documents of the work
Instructions for additional or extraordinary work, requesting you
the program.
Certificate of agreements and solutions that are being generated in the
work process.
b) Related to the timeline and schedule of the work
Modifications to the work program.
Weather conditions that influence the execution of the
jobs.
Progress of the work, lost time due to various causes and
delays regarding the schedule.
Detail the causes that may lead to expansions in the
deadline.
When changes are made to engineering specifications and
scopes that involve modifications to the program.
When due to causes attributable to the owner, the property in which
the work must be carried out, or the necessary access to carry out the
work, are not available.
c) Related to the execution of the work
In your case, the start of each phase of the work.
Orders for the contractor's representative to appear at the
work and periodic meetings, as well as agreements and commitments
agreed upon in those meetings.

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 11

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

Significant materials and equipment provided by the owner.

Correction orders for work defects.
Internal and external incidents that affect the development of the work.
Conditions of insecurity, environmental damage, lack of hygiene
in some work area(s).
Accidents occurred at the site.
Certificate of the date of receipt of the submitted estimates
by the contractor or their representative for their review.
Suspension orders of the work, if applicable, indicating the cause and
restart orders of it.
Registration of the documents that officially identify the change
of technical staff who will be authorized as a representative of the
involved companies.
Date of the reception of the works.
d) About annotations made previously
Notices of breach of orders given to the contractor
Comentarios sobre las anotaciones hechas previamente por el
contractor or their representative.
Cancellation or change of orders or instructions.
Recommendations for annotations from the contractor to their representative.

Observations regarding the orders you have received from the engineer,
dissatisfaction with them and any circumstance that in their opinion influences
the execution of the work or modified the conditions agreed in the contract in
particular
a) Related to the project documents
Requests for missing information, licenses, permits, release of
banks or sections, feasibility studies, plans or sketches of the work and
any other missing items necessary for compliance with the
scope of the contract.
Acknowledgment of receipt of plans, specifications, and sketches of the work.
b) Related to the deadline and schedule of the work:
Acknowledge receipt of orders related to the work program, or
modifications to it.
Causes of delays not attributable to the contractor and requests for
extension of deadline and/or modifications of the work program.
Clarifications and grievances regarding observations made by
the supervision of delays and non-compliance with the program.
c) Related to the execution of the work

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 12

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

Acknowledgment of receipt or observations of orders from the supervision regarding

the correction of defects, construction and supply procedures
of personnel, equipment, and materials.
Proofs of bad weather, lack of materials and equipment that was supposed to be
deliver the owner of the work, if applicable, mandatory stops and others
circumstances that, in the opinion of the contractor's representative, deviate
of what is provided in the contract.
Study requests for each of the additional unit prices
or extraordinary changes or modifications in this regard.
Special recommendations
a) Instructions that must be referred to in the logbook
The changes to the project, with their additional work and/or
extraordinary, engineer change, delay notifications in the
work, with application of sanctions, suspensions, restarts,
early terminations and rescission.
b) Follow-up on notes and instructions
Follow-up should be given to the notes or indications so that they do not
leave them pending and finalize them with a closing note, to avoid the
possibility of oversights that may have consequences in the closure of
contract.
15) WRITING. This is a matter of vital importance. Since it frequently
we observed that another thing was being tried to be said, that it was forgotten to make a
clarification or that "there are several ways to interpret the written." You are
responses and others are motivated by writing errors, and all indicate as
result of economic alterations, sometimes very costly for anyone
the parts. We must therefore consider that we cannot be professionals.
in our work, if we present deficiencies in this regard. IMPROVE
WRITING
16) SPELLING. A Construction Engineer, who prides themselves on being a professional, is
forced to handle spelling well. Although it can be considered that this
the topic is a matter of secondary importance, we place special emphasis on it,
well, it means a lot for the image it provides of the person who writes with
spelling mistakes, likewise the proper writing (syntax) allows that the
written concepts should be easily understood by any reader.
17) CLOSING OF ENTRIES IN THE WORK LOG. Each and every one of
the notes must be closed, that is, resolved. Naturally, we
we refer to notes that address matters that need to be attended to. It is also
it is essential to close them as soon as possible while resolving the problems or
situations that motivated them. To us, as Responsible Directors of
Work affects us a lot, our time and our concentration, the fact that
to be dragging unresolved issues, a sufficient reason to
que pongamos especial atención en cerrar las notas lo más pronto posible. El

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 13

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

not addressing this efficiently results in time,

such is the number of unresolved issues that we end up blocked and
we effectively lost control of the events and, consequently, the
from the work itself and the log, ceases to be the main control instrument
to become our executioner. We should never leave loose threads. When
if we mention several problems on the same sheet it is advisable to enumerate them,
for future reference.
18) CUSTODY OF THE LOGBOOK. Due to its nature as an instrument of
control and for the reasons for which it was created, the Work Log book,
it must remain under the custody of the Engineer, generally this situation remains
elucidated in the TDR. Regardless of who safeguards it, what is important
it is really available for both parties and in this regard it is
It is convenient to regulate in each case how, when, and where it is found.
the book, to have free access to it, during work hours, of course, in the
same place where the work takes place. In fact, it is absolutely
incorrect, remove the work log, except in exceptional cases, when
there's no place to keep it. It should be noted that custody does not want
to say property, and that it is a very serious matter to hide the book, which affects by
equal, to any of the parties involved in the construction process.
19) READING HABIT. It should become a habit to read every day, the
noted in the logbook. This rule must always be followed, which, us
it will avoid unpleasant surprises. We want to take the opportunity to make
this recommendation extensive to all documentation that it is managed
related to the work, during its development. One of the
the most significant aspects of this topic are those that refer to the
specifications and quality control, because an excellent one will be of no use
integration work of these, so that later, they are not read and therefore, not
to be applied in the execution of fieldwork.
20) CLOSING OF WORK LOG When the work is finished,
including the activities related to its delivery and when
there are no pending items left, meaning that all the notes written in the log,
without exception have been closed, the final entry or closing is carried out
from the logbook. This last note must express that through it, it is acknowledged that
the field technical relationship has been completed, having been fulfilled in all that in
She was deposited. Then it proceeds to sign and annul all the sheets.
surpluses, rendering them unusable without tearing them from the book and through the Engineer,
is attached to the Notice of Work Termination and Authorization of Use and Occupancy,
to be delivered to the owner
The project completion date and the conditions must be mentioned.
that has been completed, a brief description of the contractual movements and
financial, extensions to the deadline, change orders.
III:3:- CLASSIFICATION OF A LOG NOTE

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 14

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

ORDERS: The most frequent use that the Engineer makes of the Logbook is for
order the contractor on what to do, always indicating the Standard,
specifications or article to which one must adhere. Let's say that through
the engineer's log, arranges what is necessary to ensure that the work is carried out
according to the current Construction Regulations and regarding Safety
Hygiene and Quality.
When the contractor did not follow a previously given instruction and in
the construction process has some imperfection that goes beyond the
established tolerances, their correction is also usually ordered.
The order instruction is also used to correct any deviation that
it is observed regarding quality, time, or cost of the work. It is of utmost importance
the importance of these orders being given appropriately, always based on
any note that has already been issued previously and make reference to it
breach
We also use this type of note frequently when necessary.
accelerate a construction process or increase the workforce when
there is a need to arrive on time on a certain date.
We consider it appropriate to clarify that the Engineer never requests, asks for, and
much less pleading through the log. Any word
Different from "ordering" represents a distortion to the function that
They should not be used, even if they hurt sensitivities.
Let us remember that the Director is in the play to organize, he must do it with
courtesy, but always ordering. This is a specific delegation of
contract.
2) CERTIFICATIONS. In the logbook, the Engineer must certify or attest.
of situations or the fulfillment of orders on one's own initiative of the
Owner or Builder. Let's remember that whenever something is certified, it is
because it is certain that it is written exactly and precisely as it is
the logbook. It is not allowed to make a mistake when acting.
practically in the capacity of a notary. The responsibility in these cases is
huge and it is suggested to compare with the Complementary Technical Standards,
Current Building Regulations and the Building Standards of the
Dependencies as well as the Particular Specifications of the Project.
It is also common to have evidence of strokes and irregular situations outside of the
building where the work is carried out, such as foundations
adjacent, poor structuring of properties, nearby dangers, etc. to
less than twice what is claimed and, if possible, gather evidence
that support the certification. This can be done through photography and
written results of the Materials and Quality Control Laboratory.
3) AUTHORIZATIONS. It is common for the authorization engineer to
logbook conduit. In fact, it should be done routinely on aspects
critics, such as authorizations for concrete pouring, compacting of

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 15

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

fills, level banks, lines for the fixation of vertices of the properties and
every critical aspect of each particular project. This type of authorizations
regularities in the development of the work require careful review
previous, to ensure that everything is correct. While it is true that
We have the authority to authorize these critical executions, it is also true
that at the time of authorizing them, we are jointly responsible with the builder
in the final result of the work. Consequently, these reviews must
to be carried out with a system or guide that ensures we have covered everything
eventuality or irregularity to arrange its correction before authorizing.
There are other types of authorizations and these refer to aspects
non-routine, meaning that they are matters that differ from what was previously established
in the technical annexes. While it is true that we are responsible for the
logbook and in it we issue the orders, it is also true that we are not
authorized to modify anything in the Construction Permit or
in the executive project. Therefore, if we act by transmitting an order or
modification of a plan, we at the same time require that it is essential that
we are authorized to do it. If we do not proceed this way, we will be taking
attributions that do not correspond to us and acquiring responsibilities that do not
they are ours, since if a structural engineer is paid to design and
take responsibility for the structure of the work, we cannot, as
Engineer, modify any part of that structure on our own since
in this way we automatically become the sole responsible party for it
structure exempting the structural engineer from their responsibility. In case of
any subsequent claim the structural engineer could argue with
all the reason that what he designed was not built.
A matter like the one we mentioned can be very delicate and we hope that
be illustrative enough to leave us with the rule of not taking
external responsibilities and that if we transmit an order or an authorization of
a third party to the log, is because we have signed authorizations and
officials, who fully support us.
4) RECOMMENDATIONS. Another type of notes is the recommendation and this one
we use it as advice to improve a construction procedure, to
improve the quality and time, without altering the cost of the work. The
Recommendations are generally made based on experience and with
good results, however compliance is not mandatory for
part of the constructor.
5) COMMUNICATIONS. This type of note refers to those, through the
which is communicated in writing and requires leaving some legal precedent in the
logbook, regarding situations, personnel changes, official visit review
special etc. It is also used to validate in the Work Log: Offices, fax,
memorandums, bulletins, and statements, as well as scheduled visits or
change in the regular meetings
6) CONTROL THROUGH WORK LOG. This topic that, as we have said, is

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 16

 THE USE OF THE CONSTRUCTION LOG

the central from the perspective of Responsible Work Management, in reality

it includes a bit of all the topics we have already discussed before,
more than a bit of its own. The control will then be exercised, making use of
all topics according to the needs of each moment of development. Each
Engineer, you will have your own style and criteria to take advantage of what was presented.
properly dosing the options.
III.4.- STRUCTURE OF A LOG NOTE
In this section, we will describe the content that the note must include.
logbook.
Essential parts that must be included in a logbook note.
1) CLASSIFICATION OF THE NOTE The first words of the entry must
refer to the purpose of the note. In this case, it will be an order.
It should begin by saying: 'it is ordered', 'it is certified', or 'it is authorized',
etc.. Occasionally we use the log note to inform the builder,
You are informed that.
2) DESCRIPTION OF THE MATTER. Below we write the issue that motivated
the note, the writing would be for example: "The resistance tests on concrete"
correct the assembly of the work, these parts deal with expressing the reason for
the order that is issued.
3) LOCATION: It consists of mentioning the location of the element we are referring to.
we refer. The delicate nature of this seems to be when it comes to a repeated element
many times, for example, beams and walls. Regarding the mention of
it is necessary to mention the location of these elements with sufficient data to
that can be located without any doubt. It is therefore essential to indicate the
location very clearly, so that it does not appear in any
it allows avoiding responsibilities, for example by arguing: "It's just that
I had understood it was from the other side," etc. To avoid problems
let's indicate clearly. "at the base of column B7, on the third level,
in building A5." Better to exaggerate than to sin by lack of data.
4) CAUSES OF THE PROBLEM. Following the location, we need to
mention the causes of the note, briefly, but accurately covering it.
to the article and section of the Construction Regulations or Technical Standards
Complementary or, if not, some with respect to the authorized project or
from the particular technical specifications.
SOLUTION: It is very important to point out in this part that we must establish
the solution to the problem, for which we must rely on the regulations of
constructions and the Complementary Technical Standards or specifications
particular techniques of the project.
6) DEADLINE FOR EXECUTION: Immediately after the solution
descriptive, a maximum time limit is set for its execution. The deadline
it must be feasible to meet considering all the steps that

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 17

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

it involves the process. We recommend noting them down with a fixed date. In
This way we will know that by that date the problem should be resolved.
sometimes the contract specifies the deadline by which corrections must be made
the deficiencies.
7) PREVENTION: This is undoubtedly the most important part of the note.
logbook. Recording the preventive part of the log note has a certain degree of
difficulty, because it is necessary to meditate on the way it is most
it is convenient to carry out the work at hand, requiring analysis of the process
and perhaps even observing that process during its execution, in search of
elements that allow us to perfect them and rationalize it.
8) RESPONSIBILITY OF THE NOTE AND ECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES. The
the last part of the log note corresponds to indicating that in case
non-compliance with the orders issued is the responsibility of the contractor;
the costs for modifications, corrections, or penalties imposed by the
contract or the institutions, for non-compliance with the orders issued in
Logbook.
9) EXPLANATORY SKETCH: It is recommended to draw in the logbook, one or several
sketches that accompany the text as aids to improve understanding.
In special situations, it may be essential to draw a sketch, of such
size that does not fit on the log sheet. In such circumstances it is
it is correct to do it on a separate sheet; the drawing is validated later with each person's signature
one of the parts, under a text that should say: This sketch is part of the
note 'X' from page No. 'Y' of the Work Log. It is worth remembering that to the
At the time of preparing the entry, the necessary copies must be attached.
attaching the respective sketch stapled to the logbook and each of its
copies. By adhering to identical guidelines, we can validate and
attach photographs, if required, with the condition of having them
necessary reproductions and properly sign each of them before
attach them to the log.
10) FOLLOW-UPS: Follow-ups are managed outside of the log. They are
indispensable since deadlines have been granted that must be monitored
that they be fulfilled on the stipulated date. The follow-ups are not relevant.
directly to the builder and it is most convenient to take them in the diary of
work.

III.5.- REGULATIONS OF THE WORK LOG

Because the 'Logbook' is handled by people who represent
different interests, it is necessary to regulate their use to avoid misunderstandings and
manipulations that distort the proper progress of the work and harm the labor of
control of the same, to the detriment of the owner. In this way, it is possible to formalize and
integrate the rules that compose it. Therefore, we will proceed to list the rules
basics that will help us start our first application. These rules do not

MAE. ENG. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 18

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

they have no priority order and are given solely as examples:

1) AVAILABILITY. The Logbook will be available at the offices of the
work on business days. Any temporary or permanent change, will
will communicate in the same Logbook, with 24 hours' notice.
SIGNED. All log notes must be signed by the Engineer.
and the Builder. Only those authorized to do so should write in the log and sign.
Hello.
The sender (either party indiscriminately) as responsible for
the recipient must sign to acknowledge or agree. In case
The dissent will be addressed in the following note, therefore, a concession is granted.
plazo de 48 horas para firmar. (Debemos suponer que todas las notas deben
be settled by mutual agreement and only in exceptional cases.
will present this situation).
3) WITHDRAWAL OF COPIES. The original sheets of the logbook must always be present.
attached to the book and belong to the owner, therefore, during the
It is strictly forbidden to detach them.
The copies will have their recipient printed at the bottom. Interested parties must
pick it up once they are complete and signed.
4) INVULNERABILITY OF THE ENTRIES. It is prohibited to write in the logbook.
about any of the notes already signed, even if they have been
issued by the same that alters them.
5) CLARITY OF COPIES. It is the responsibility of the person writing a note in
the logbook, make sure that the carbon copies are placed
correctly, just as until the last sheet, it was clearly passed
seated. The letters must be printed and easily readable. In general,
prefers to use carbon paper, this can be established in the Terms of Reference, it is more
easy and simple.
6) WRITING INSTRUMENTS. The entries in the logbook
They must be done with a pen. One should not write with
marker and pencil, not fountain pen. The ink color should preferably be
blue.
The creation of the logbook regulations, with at least the rules that we mentioned.
it will avoid unnecessary problems and discussions. There is no reason not to take advantage
the advantages that this represents. If a little time is invested at the beginning of the
work, difficulties can be avoided and a time savings that can add up significantly
hours at the end of the work.
To prevent that on the day a note is entered in the Log, it is not counted with
a pen with the recommended features, it is practical to chain from
some way a pen accepted into the log.

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 19

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

IV. - EXAMPLE

We present a complete log entry example, pointing out in each one of

its parts, in parentheses and in lowercase, to the section of the analysis carried out
corresponding.

IV.1.- EXAMPLE OF A FULL LOG

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 20

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

FIELD LOG No. 00028

PROPIETARIO: MINISTERIO DE EDUCACION

PROJECT: DR. DARIO GONZALEZ EDUCATIONAL COMPLEX, 9th. C. Pte. No.
1554, SS.
CONSTRUCTOR: CONSTRUCCIONES NASA
SUPERVISOR: CHAC SA de CV

DESCRIPTION
FOR:The Builder
The builder is ordered to(I.- Grading of the Note)remove the material from
construction(II.- Description of the matter)which has been since yesterday
outside the building, on the sidewalk, on the east side of the gate
entry to the project(III.- Location)since it is in the public way
and is violating the provisions of articles 242, 243, and 244 of the
regulation of the municipal ordinance(IV. Causes of the Problem) For
To use public space for this purpose, a request must be submitted.
written permission from the Corresponding Delegation,(V. Solution)yes
that, the material must be removed immediately(VI. Execution period), for
if the stated order is not addressed, the municipal government,
may impose the sanctions established in article 341 of said
ordinance, whose amount ranges from $350.00 to $3,500.00(VIII.-
Responsibility of the note and economic consequences. Continue on page
029

Remit: Receive:
Rigoberto R. Padilla, Supervisor Carmen Elena Martínez
Company: Date Signature: date
10/10/10 11/10/10
{"white_copy":"OWNER","yellow_copy":"OWNER","light_blue_copy":"SUPERVISOR","pink_copy":"CONTRACTOR"}

Name of the representative of the Name of the representative of the

Supervision/Builder or the person Construction Supervisor or of the person
that prepares and sends the note, with its I want the note, with its respective signature.
respective backup signature and the date of of backup and the reading date
settlement

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 21

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

FIELD LOG No. 00029

PROPIETARIO: MINISTERIO DE EDUCACION

PROJECT: EDUCATIONAL COMPLEX DR. DARIO GONZALEZ, 9th. C. Pte. No.
1554, SS.
CONSTRUCTOR: NASA CONSTRUCTIONS
SUPERVISOR: CHAC SA de CV

Scheme It comes from sheet N 0028

office of
Constructor

promontory of
garbage and rubble

1554 entryto
installations
9PonienteStreet

Send: Receive:
Rigoberto R. Padilla, Supervisor Carmen Elena Martínez
Company: date Signature: date
10/10/10 11/10/10
ORIGINAL: BLANCO/ 1a copia AMARILLO: PROPIETARIO/ 2a copia CELESTE: SUPERVISOR/ 3a copia ROSADA: CONSTRUCTOR

Name of the representative of the Name of the representative of the

Supervision/Construction or of the person Builder/Supervisor or of the person
that prepares and sends the note, with its I want to receive the note, with your respective signature.
respective backing firm and the date of backup and the reading date
settlement

(Recordar que la nota de bitácora la asientan y firman las personas autorizadas en la

first opening note)

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 22

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

IV.2.- PROPOSED LOG FORMAT

FIELD LOG No. 00001

PROPIETARIO: MINISTRY OF EDUCATION

PROJECT: CONSTRUCTION OF EDUCATIONAL COMPLEX, DR. DARIO GONZALEZ, 9th C. Pte. N 1554, SS
CONSTRUCTOR: CONTRACT No.
SUPERVISOR: CONTRACT NO.

DESCRIPTION
FOR:

SENDER: RECEIVE:

SIGNATURE: DAY MONTH YEAR FIRM: DAY MONTH YEAR

ORIGINAL: BLANCO/ 1a copia AMARILLO: PROPIETARIO/ 2a copia CELESTE: SUPERVISOR/ 3a copia ROSADA: CONSTRUCTOR

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 23

 THE USE OF THE WORK LOG

V. -NORMATIVE FRAMEWORK
Regulations to the Law on Development and Land Management of the Area
Metropolitan area of San Salvador and the surrounding municipalities with their annexes,
art. VIII.22, 1995, reform January 21, 2009.
Regulation of the Urban Planning and Construction Law of the Republic of El
Salvador, articles 17 to 22. Reform D. 70.91
Conceptual framework of the Terms of Reference and contracts
governmental

VI. -BIBLIOGRAPHY
Fundamental Aspects of Construction Supervision. ASIA, El Salvador,
1990
Strategy for proper use of the works log. Eng. J. Tonatiuh
Balanzarios. Xochimilco D. F. Mexico. 2007
Regulation of the Public Works and Related Services Law
Mismas (RLOPSRM), Federal Government of the United Mexican States
Management of Civil Works Contracts, E. Lindsy, Limusa Publishing, 2000
RAE, website DICTIONARY OF THE SPANISH LANGUAGE - Twentieth
second edition, 2001
Contratos de construcción de la Republica de El Salvador.

MAE. ING. HERBERT W. CHACON H. Page 24