If you’ve ever worked on a federal construction project—or are considering bidding on one—you’ve probably come across something called “Division One” in the specifications. While it might sound like just another section in a massive stack of paperwork, Division One is anything but minor.

In fact, it’s the backbone of how a federal construction project operates. It’s not about pouring concrete or installing HVAC systems—it’s about setting the rules of the game before the first shovel hits the dirt.

So, what is Division One exactly? Why does it matter so much? And how can contractors stay ahead of its requirements? Let’s break it down.

What Is Division One, Really?

In the world of construction, project specifications are divided into various groups or “divisions,” each covering a different part of the job—from site work to finishes to plumbing and electrical.These divisions are based on the Construction Specification Institute (CSI) Master Format, commonly called CSI Divisions. Every project utilizes this formatting framework as its universal language.  

But Division One stands apart.

Officially called “General Requirements,” Division One outlines how the project should be managed, documented, and delivered. It’s less about what is being built and more about how it’s being built—from an administrative, safety, and compliance standpoint.

Think of it as the operating manual for the entire job site.

It’s used by federal agencies like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, NAVFAC (Naval Facilities Engineering Command), GSA (General Services Administration), and others to ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all federal projects.

What Does “Division One” Cover?

CSI Divisions utilize a six-digit format to communicate information quickly.

Format: XX YY ZZ

XX = Division Number (e.g., 01 for General Requirements)
YY = Level 2 Section Group
ZZ = Level 3 Subsection

Example: 01 33 00 – Submittal Procedures

Simply put, “Division One” covers any specification section that begins with “01…” as the first two digits in that six-digit number.  While the contents can vary slightly depending on the agency or project, most Division One sections include:

• 01 33 00 – Submittal Procedures: What documents need to be submitted (and when), including shop drawings, material data, and certifications.
• 01 32 00 – Schedules and Milestones: Guidelines for baseline and progress schedules—often requiring Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project formats.
• 01 45 00 – Quality Control & Assurance: Expectations around inspections, testing, and the appointment of a Quality Control Manager (QCM).
• 01 50 00 – Site Logistics: Requirements for temporary utilities, storage, site access, and maintaining a clean, organized worksite.
• 01 35 26 – Safety & Security: Critical protocols aligned with EM 385-1-1, including the role of a Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO).
• 01 31 19 – Communication & Meetings: Details about pre-construction meetings, daily reports, progress updates, and how often you’ll be required to sit down and talk through progress (or problems).
• 01 77 00 – Closeout Requirements: Deliverables like warranties, operations and maintenance manuals (O&Ms), as-builts, and other turnover documentation.

Why It’s So Important

Let’s be real: Division One isn’t flashy. It doesn’t involve cranes or bulldozers. But ignore it, and you might not even get to use those cranes and bulldozers.

Here’s why Division One compliance is critical:

• Delays & Setbacks: Submittals not turned in on time? Your work might get held up for weeks.
• Payment Holds: Missing required documentation can delay payments or result in retainage being withheld.
• CPARS Ratings: Poor performance in areas like safety, communication, or quality control can lead to a bad CPARS rating—hurting your chances of winning future federal work.

Put simply, Division One is how agencies ensure contractors are doing things by the book. It’s accountability in action.

Who’s Responsible for What?

Staying compliant isn’t just one person’s job—it’s a team effort. But certain roles carry key responsibilities:

• General Contractors (GCs): Must establish internal systems and staffing for Division One tasks.
• Project Managers: Own the day-to-day execution, ensuring all requirements are tracked and met.
• Quality Control Managers (QCMs): Lead quality oversight, inspections, and document control.
• Site Safety & Health Officers (SSHOs): Monitor safety daily and ensure compliance with EM 385-1-1.
• Subcontractors: Need to align with the GC’s procedures and contribute to documentation and scheduling.

How to Stay Ahead of Division One

Whether you’re a seasoned federal contractor or just dipping your toes in the water, having a plan is everything. Here’s how successful teams stay on top of Division One:

• Create a Checklist at Kickoff: Lay out all Division One requirements early, assign ownership, and track progress.
• Establish Communication Protocols: Set a cadence for submittals, progress meetings, and reporting.
• Use the Right Tools: Scheduling software like Primavera P6 or MS Project isn’t optional—it’s expected.
• Work With Experts: If you’re unsure about something, bring in consultants who specialize in federal construction compliance.

Don’t Underestimate Division One

At first glance, Division One might look like paperwork and procedural noise—but don’t be fooled. It’s the administrative engine that keeps everything else running.

Want to avoid project delays? Want to keep your payments flowing? Want to win more bids down the line? It starts with mastering Division One.Because in federal construction, success isn’t just about what you build—it’s about how you build it.

If you’ve ever worked on a federal construction project—or are considering bidding on one—you’ve probably come across something called “Division One” in the specifications. While it might sound like just another section in a massive stack of paperwork, Division One is anything but minor.

In fact, it’s the backbone of how a federal construction project operates. It’s not about pouring concrete or installing HVAC systems—it’s about setting the rules of the game before the first shovel hits the dirt.

So, what is Division One exactly? Why does it matter so much? And how can contractors stay ahead of its requirements? Let’s break it down.

What Is Division One, Really?

In the world of federal construction specs, projects are divided into various sections or “divisions,” each covering a different part of the job—from site work to finishes to plumbing and electrical.

But Division One stands apart.

Officially called “General Requirements,” Division One outlines how the project should be managed, documented, and delivered. It’s less about what is being built and more about how it’s being built—from an administrative, safety, and compliance standpoint.

Think of it as the operating manual for the entire job site.

It’s used by federal agencies like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, NAVFAC (Naval Facilities Engineering Command), GSA (General Services Administration), and others to ensure consistency, safety, and quality across all federal projects.

What Does Division One Cover?

While the contents can vary slightly depending on the agency or project, most Division One sections include:

• Submittal Procedures: What documents need to be submitted (and when), including shop drawings, material data, and certifications.
• Schedules and Milestones: Guidelines for baseline and progress schedules—often requiring Primavera P6 or Microsoft Project formats.
• Quality Control & Assurance: Expectations around inspections, testing, and the appointment of a Quality Control Manager (QCM).
• Site Logistics: Requirements for temporary utilities, storage, site access, and maintaining a clean, organized worksite.
• Safety & Security: Critical protocols aligned with EM 385-1-1, including the role of a Site Safety and Health Officer (SSHO).
• Communication & Meetings: Details about pre-construction meetings, daily reports, progress updates, and how often you’ll be required to sit down and talk through progress (or problems).
• Closeout Requirements: Deliverables like warranties, operations and maintenance manuals (O&Ms), as-builts, and other turnover documentation.

Why It’s So Important

Let’s be real: Division One isn’t flashy. It doesn’t involve cranes or bulldozers. But ignore it, and you might not even get to use those cranes and bulldozers.

Here’s why Division One compliance is critical:

• Delays & Setbacks: Submittals not turned in on time? Your work might get held up for weeks.
• Payment Holds: Missing required documentation can delay payments or result in retainage being withheld.
• CPARS Ratings: Poor performance in areas like safety, communication, or quality control can lead to a bad CPARS rating—hurting your chances of winning future federal work.

Put simply, Division One is how agencies ensure contractors are doing things by the book. It’s accountability in action.

Who’s Responsible for What?

Staying compliant isn’t just one person’s job—it’s a team effort. But certain roles carry key responsibilities:

• General Contractors (GCs): Must establish internal systems and staffing for Division One tasks.
• Project Managers: Own the day-to-day execution, ensuring all requirements are tracked and met.
• Quality Control Managers (QCMs): Lead quality oversight, inspections, and document control.
• Site Safety & Health Officers (SSHOs): Monitor safety daily and ensure compliance with EM 385-1-1.
• Subcontractors: Need to align with the GC’s procedures and contribute to documentation and scheduling.

How to Stay Ahead of Division One

Whether you’re a seasoned federal contractor or just dipping your toes in the water, having a plan is everything. Here’s how successful teams stay on top of Division One:

• Create a Checklist at Kickoff: Lay out all Division One requirements early, assign ownership, and track progress.
• Establish Communication Protocols: Set a cadence for submittals, progress meetings, and reporting.
• Use the Right Tools: Scheduling software like Primavera P6 or MS Project isn’t optional—it’s expected.
• Work With Experts: If you’re unsure about something, bring in consultants who specialize in federal construction compliance.

Don’t Underestimate Division One

At first glance, Division One might look like paperwork and procedural noise—but don’t be fooled. It’s the administrative engine that keeps everything else running.

Want to avoid project delays? Want to keep your payments flowing? Want to win more bids down the line? It starts with mastering Division One.

Because in federal construction, success isn’t just about what you build—it’s about how you build it.