Electrical BOQ Preparation Guide for MEP Engineers and Civil Engineers for a G+45 High Rise Building

Course Description

Electrical works in a G+45 high rise building are not limited to lighting and power points. They involve complex distribution systems, vertical risers, safety systems, backup arrangements, and strict coordination with architectural and structural elements. Any small mistake in quantity calculation or scope identification can lead to major cost overruns, execution delays, and disputes during billing.

This course is designed to give MEP and civil engineers a step-by-step, practical understanding of how to prepare an accurate and complete Electrical BOQ for a high rise project. The focus is not on theory, but on how quantities are actually derived from drawings, how items are structured in BOQ format, and how hidden or missed items are identified before they turn into problems on site.

By the end of this course, participants will be able to confidently read drawings, extract quantities, structure BOQ items, and understand how electrical scope grows vertically and system-wise in a G+45 building.

Module 1: Introduction to Electrical BOQ for High Rise Projects

This module sets the foundation for understanding why Electrical BOQ preparation is different for high rise buildings compared to low-rise or standalone structures.

The purpose and importance of Electrical BOQ in high rise buildings are explained with real project logic. In tall structures, electrical costs form a major portion of total MEP cost, especially due to risers, panels on multiple floors, backup systems, and safety installations. A well-prepared BOQ helps in budget control, contractor comparison, billing clarity, and smooth execution.

The BOQ format and standard structure are discussed in a practical manner. Participants learn how electrical BOQs are typically arranged system-wise, floor-wise, or area-wise. The logic behind item descriptions, units of measurement, and segregation of material and installation components is explained clearly.

Key electrical systems in a G+45 building are then introduced. This includes incoming power systems, main and sub distribution, vertical risers, lighting and power layouts, earthing, lightning protection, fire alarm systems, lift power supplies, and emergency backup arrangements. The module helps engineers understand full scope coverage so that no system is ignored while preparing quantities.

Module 2: Understanding Project Drawings and Specifications

Accurate BOQ preparation starts with correct interpretation of drawings. This module focuses on how to read drawings not just visually, but analytically.

Reading architectural and electrical layout drawings is explained step by step. Participants learn how to understand floor plans, sections, riser diagrams, and typical floor layouts. Special attention is given to repetitive floors, refuge floors, service floors, and basements, which often have different electrical requirements.

Interpreting schedules such as lighting schedules, power schedules, panel schedules, and earthing layouts is covered in detail. Engineers learn how schedules connect with layouts and how missing or conflicting information is identified.

Identifying scope from specifications and notes is a critical skill taught in this module. Many electrical items are mentioned only in general notes or specifications and not shown clearly in drawings. This module trains participants to read specifications carefully so that items like testing, labeling, supports, and accessories are not missed in the BOQ.

Module 3: Cabling Systems and Conduits

Cabling and conduit works form a major quantity portion in high rise electrical projects, especially due to vertical distribution.

Power and control cabling types, sizes, and routing methods are explained with high rise logic. Participants learn how cable sizing changes with load, distance, and voltage drop considerations. Horizontal and vertical routing differences are discussed clearly.

Conduit and trunking systems are covered in detail, including concealed and surface systems. The impact of slab thickness, beam coordination, and shaft routing on conduit quantities is explained in a practical manner.

Quantification methods for cables and conduits are then explained step by step. Participants learn how to measure cable lengths from drawings, apply floor multipliers, include wastage factors, and account for vertical drops and riser heights accurately.

Module 4: Lighting System BOQ

Lighting systems in a G+45 building include residential, commercial, common area, façade, and external lighting.

Fixtures and fittings for internal and external areas are discussed in detail. Participants learn how to classify lighting fixtures based on area usage such as flats, corridors, staircases, basements, podiums, and landscape areas.

Lighting controls and accessories such as switches, dimmers, motion sensors, and emergency lighting components are explained. The importance of including accessories in BOQ and not limiting it to fixtures alone is emphasized.

Estimating quantities and unit rates is covered using logical approaches. Engineers learn how to count fixtures floor-wise, apply typical floor repetition, and ensure that special floors are treated separately to avoid quantity mismatch.

Module 5: Power Distribution Board and Panel Schedules

This module focuses on the backbone of electrical power distribution in a high rise building.

Main and sub distribution boards are explained along with their roles at different levels of the building. Participants learn how power flows from incoming panels to floor-level distribution boards.

Panel schedules and breaker details are explained in a practical way. Engineers learn how to read panel schedules, understand breaker ratings, incomer and outgoing feeders, and spare provisions.

BOQ items for boards, breakers, and accessories are structured logically. This includes enclosures, busbars, breakers, metering components, supports, and labeling items which are often overlooked.

Module 6: Power Outlets and Receptacles

This module focuses on final power points used by occupants and services.

Types of outlets and location planning are explained for residential units, common areas, service rooms, and equipment spaces. Participants learn how outlet requirements differ by area usage.

Quantification of sockets and associated hardware is explained in a systematic way. This includes outlets, switch plates, mounting boxes, wiring connections, and termination components.

Rate analysis and inclusion in BOQ are discussed from a practical estimation perspective. Engineers learn how to structure outlet items so that material and installation costs are properly captured.

Module 7: Earthing and Lightning Protection

Safety systems are critical in tall buildings and must be carefully quantified.

Earthing system design basics are explained in simple terms. Participants learn about different earthing arrangements used in high rise buildings and their purpose.

Lightning protection components such as air terminals, down conductors, and earth pits are explained along with their placement logic.

BOQ preparation for earthing and protection systems is covered in detail, including conductors, clamps, test links, pits, and inspection chambers.

Module 8: Fire Alarm and Safety Systems

Fire safety systems are mandatory and involve coordination with electrical works.

Fire detection and alarm components such as detectors, manual call points, sounders, and panels are explained in practical terms.

Integration with electrical systems is discussed, including power supply arrangements, cable routing, and interface with backup power.

BOQ items and quantity take-off practices are explained clearly so that all safety-related components are included properly.

Module 9: Vertical Transportation Services (Electrical)

Vertical transportation systems add a specialized electrical scope.

Power supply and control requirements for lifts and escalators are explained. Participants learn how lift electrical scope differs from general power systems.

Emergency power and backup provisions are discussed, including power changeover and essential supply arrangements.

BOQ preparation for lift electrical works is explained so that coordination gaps between electrical and lift contractors are minimized.

Module 10: Testing, Commissioning, and Handover

The final module focuses on completion stage items that are often forgotten.

Inspection and testing items to include in BOQ are explained with clarity. This includes testing of cables, panels, earthing, and safety systems.

Commissioning documentation requirements are discussed so that engineers understand what needs to be accounted for in BOQ.

Final adjusting items and provisional sums are explained with practical examples, helping participants prepare a complete and balanced BOQ suitable for tendering and execution.

Course Outcome

After completing this course, participants will be able to prepare a complete, accurate, and practical Electrical BOQ for a G+45 high rise building. They will understand drawings better, avoid missing items, reduce quantity errors, and communicate confidently with contractors, consultants, and project teams.

This course is especially valuable for engineers involved in estimation, billing, planning, and execution of high rise electrical works who want clarity, confidence, and control over project quantities.