FIDIC Green Book 2017 is technically a misnomer, as FIDIC did not release a formal second edition of the Green Book until December 2021
. References to a "2017 Green Book" typically refer to the short-form contract principles aligned with the major 2017 Rainbow Suite updates (Red, Yellow, and Silver books). Core Purpose and Suitability
The Green Book (Short Form of Contract) is designed as a simpler, more flexible alternative to the complex Red and Yellow books. Howard Kennedy Knowledge Hub Target Projects : Originally intended for projects under US $500,000
with durations under 6 months, though often used for larger, straightforward works up to two years. Design Responsibility
: Can be used regardless of whether the design is provided by the Employer or the Contractor. Administrative Ease fidic green book 2017 pdf
: Requires significantly fewer administration and management resources than the full 2017 suite. Key Features and Comparison
While the 2017 main suite introduced heavy prescriptive language and formalized claims procedures, the short form maintains a more balanced and practicable model for low-risk projects. Green Book (Short Form) 2017 Rainbow Suite (Red/Yellow) Complexity Low; concise clauses High; detailed and comprehensive Simplified procedures Formalized and strict timelines Engineer Role Often managed directly by Employer Centralized, formal Engineer role required Risk Allocation Clear but less prescriptive Detailed, modern risk allocation Practical Insights for Users FIDIC Annual Report 2021/2022 - Issuu
Understanding the FIDIC Green Book 2017: A Comprehensive Guide
The Fédération Internationale Des Ingénieurs-Conseils (FIDIC), also known as the International Federation of Consulting Engineers, is a global organization that represents consulting engineering firms. FIDIC has been a leading voice in the engineering and construction industry for over 80 years, providing guidance and standards for best practices. One of the key publications by FIDIC is the "Green Book," officially titled "Conditions of Contract for Construction," which was updated and released in 2017. This article aims to provide an in-depth look at the FIDIC Green Book 2017, particularly focusing on its significance, structure, and the changes introduced in the 2017 edition. FIDIC Green Book 2017 is technically a misnomer,
Clause 1.7 provides that disputes are resolved by arbitration (default) or court litigation as chosen in Contract Data.
No DAB, no amicable settlement step (unlike Red/Yellow).
Arbitration rules must be specified (e.g., ICC, LCIA, UNCITRAL, local arbitration center).
If not specified, FIDIC suggests (but does not mandate) UNCITRAL or ICC.
For small contracts, arbitration is often too expensive – consider replacing with:
| ✅ Good for | ❌ Not suitable for | |-------------|---------------------| | Small civil works | Large infrastructure | | Building maintenance | Complex M&E or process plants | | Routine dredging or road repairs | Design-build (use Yellow Book) | | Projects with a single Contractor | Major subcontracting chains |
You have three legitimate options:
Option 1: Buy from the FIDIC Bookshop (Recommended)
Option 2: Purchase via National FIDIC Member Associations
Option 3: Licensed Legal Platforms
Pro Tip: Do not risk your project. A €250 PDF is cheap compared to a €500,000 dispute caused by a corrupted or outdated version of the contract. Adjudication (statutory in UK under Housing Grants Act)