Approved by the Engineering Practice Policy Committee on April 14, 2025
Approved by the Policy Review Committee on June 4, 2025
Adopted by the Board of Direction on July 10, 2025

Policy

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) promotes and supports the use of peer reviews for projects. Peer review is the practice of obtaining an independent, unbiased evaluation of the adequacy and application of engineering principles, standards, and judgment from an independent group of professionals having substantial experience in the same field of expertise. Peer reviews are in addition to the normal quality control and checking procedures required on any engineering assignment. 

Issue

Projects are expected to meet industry standards of performance. Peer review is a separate, important step in the design process for selected projects to provide an evaluation of design concepts and management to meet performance objectives and community resilience. Peer reviews are recommended on projects:

  • That are critical or could endanger public health, safety, welfare, the environment, or national defense or security.
  • Where performance under emergency conditions is paramount.
  • When using innovative or untested materials, techniques, or design methods.
  • That could result in significant financial or operational losses. 
  • That could disrupt, adversely affect, or significantly change community well-being or quality of life.  

Peer reviews should be initiated by the owner/client or regulatory agency with full cooperation from the designer or consultant. Reviews address a defined scope as set forth by the initiating party. The number and timing of peer reviews vary by project. Reviews should normally occur before critical decisions are made or criteria have been adopted as well as prior to the completion and release of contract documents. Peer reviews should be performed by independent or external professionals not associated with or accountable to the original design team. 

Rationale

Quality control and checking of engineering project deliverables is an important but separate process normally undertaken by the designer, associated team members and organizations. Peer review can add a measure of increased confidence to the designer or consultant which leads to improved practices and benefit the public health, safety, and welfare. 

This policy has worldwide application

ASCE Policy Statement 351
First Approved 1989