Static field route #18804

What do I do when plumbing is already installed through my duct route?

Coordination, Clashes, Sequencing & Rework🚨 STOP / VERIFYV188 answer-gap expansion

📖 Verified core answer

Stop before flattening or rerouting duct around the pipe. Document the clash, confirm the latest coordination drawing, and get direction on pipe relocation, duct reroute, split duct, or engineered transition.

Open in Field Rescue Open category

Field verification checklist

Identify the blocking system: plumbing, waste, domestic water, sprinkler, conduit, cable tray, or structure.
Record grid, room, elevation, duct size, pipe size, and direction of conflict.
Check latest coordination/shop drawings, RFIs, addenda, and ceiling height constraints.
Take photos from wide view and close-up with reference marks.
Hold the section if the fix affects airflow, access, rated assemblies, ceiling height, or another trade.

Ask foreman

Plumbing is already through our duct route at [grid/elevation]. I checked the latest drawings and measured the conflict. Do you want me to hold this section for coordination/RFI, or is there an approved reroute/split/transition direction?

Text to foreman

Route options

AMake the small field correction only if it is within your assignment and the approved method.

BHold and document the condition if the fix affects airflow, access, life safety, pressure class, rated assemblies, equipment, or another trade.

CBring the foreman/detailer the location, what you checked, and what decision you need before cover, startup, or rework.

Do not do this

Do not flatten the duct, notch the duct, offset into another trade, or cut around the pipe without approved direction.

Why this matters

A field detour can create pressure loss, clearance problems, access problems, and another clash farther down the run.

Verification basis

Approved drawings/specs, project coordination drawings, manufacturer instructions/submittals, shop standards, foreman/detailer direction, employer policy, and AHJ/code requirements.