Evolving delivery models in cleanroom construction: the rise of design-assist and design-build

A Shift in Cleanroom Construction Delivery Models: The Rise of Design-Assist and Design-Build

1. The Changing Landscape of Cleanroom Construction

Cleanroom construction projects increasingly demand high technical standards and tight timelines, exposing the clear limitations of the traditional Design-Bid-Build (DBB) model—where design is completed before bidding and construction. This model is prone to delays and lacks the necessary coordination for special environments where contamination control and time are critically important.

2. New Trends: Design-Assist and Design-Build

Design-Assist (DA)

The DA model integrates specialized contractors, such as those for cleanroom architectural systems, HVAC, control systems, and process equipment suppliers, into the early design phase. While architects and engineers retain primary responsibility for the drawings, the involvement of specialized parties helps optimize constructability, coordinate technical aspects, and resolve challenges related to airflow and contamination control.

Design-Build (DB)

In the DB model, a single entity is responsible for the entire process from design to construction. This approach creates clarity, centralized responsibility, and consistency in technical coordination specific to cleanrooms—which is particularly useful in strictly controlled environments like GMP or ISO Class 5.

3. The Positive Impact of DA and DB

Accelerating Deployment in Ultra-Strict Environments

In many industries such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and biotechnology, DA and DB models help address design complexities, from HVAC airflow layouts to ISO zoning. This can save up to 40% on RFI requests, reduce change order costs, and shorten schedules by nearly 2 months compared to traditional DBB.

Increasing Prefabrication Efficiency

Early collaboration models allow for the integration of prefabrication, such as modular walls, utility racks, and pre-assembled ceilings. This:

• Improves ISO compliance through factory-controlled manufacturing.
• Reduces on-site dust generation.
• Shortens commissioning and validation time.
• Enhances the quality and stability of cleanroom assemblies.

Digital Technology for Precise Coordination

Tools like BIM and VDC facilitate 3D spatial simulation, clash detection, and schedule and cost simulations. This is particularly useful when working with globally distributed teams.

Flexible Contracts for Risk Control

Clients are prioritizing contract models like Progressive Design-Build or Hybrid Design-Assist to:

• Start with a limited design scope, then transition to construction once details are clearer.
• Allocate clear responsibilities, control costs, and enhance quality from the outset.

Aligning Sustainability Goals with Operational Performance

DA and DB teams help integrate energy-saving solutions such as VAV, smart lighting, low-carbon materials, and prefabrication, helping to achieve LEED, WELL, or net-zero certifications without compromising cleanroom performance.

Anh Khang's Perspective

Summary of Benefits of Design-Assist & Design-Build in Cleanroom Construction

By promoting early collaboration models, Design-Assist and Design-Build not only help minimize management issues but also deliver high-quality, efficiently operated cleanrooms that meet the strictest global standards.

ANH KHANG CLEANROOM MECHANICAL AND ELECTRICAL JOINT STOCK COMPANY Hotline: 1900 636 814 - 0902 051 222 Email: info@akme.com.vn Website: akme.com.vn Add: Lot B7 - Xuan Phuong Garden - Phuong Canh - Nam Tu Liem - Hanoi.