Module 7 Flashcards
It is an assemblage that is firmly attached to the ground and that provides total or nearly total shelter for machines, processing equipment, the performance of human activities, storage of human possessions, or any combination of these.
Building
It is an environment that is created by a man with or without the help of the natural environment.
building environment
For the built environment, some considerations should be followed.
Environmental Considerations:
1. Planning requirements.
2. Building Regulations.
3. Land restrictions by vendor or lessor.
4. Availability of services.
5. Local amenities including transport
6. Subsoil conditions
7. Levels and topography of land
8. Adjoining buildings or land
9. Use of Building
10. Daylight and view aspects
Physical Considerations:
1.Natural contours of the land.
2. Natural vegetation and trees.
3. Size of land and/or proposed building
4 Shape of land and/or proposed building. ,
5. Approach and access roads and footpaths. land or activities.
6. Services available.
7. Natural waterways, lakes, and ponds
8. Restrictions such as rights of way; tree preservation and ancient buildings
9. Climatic conditions created by surrounding properties, land or activities.
10. Proposed future developments
It is the process of providing all information necessary for construction of a building that will meet its owner’s requirements and also satisfy public health, welfare, and safety requirements.
Building design
It is the art and science of building design. .
Architecture
It is in the process of assembling materials to form a building.
Building Construction
Building construction is generally performed by laborers and crafts people engaged for the purpose by an individual or organization, called a _________.
contractor
In the design of a building, architects should be guided by the following principles:
- The building should be constructed to serve purposes specified by the client.
- The design should be constructable by known techniques and with available labor and equipment, within an acceptable time.
- The building should be capable of withstanding the elements and normal usage for a period of time specified by the client.
- Both inside and outside, the building should be visually pleasing.
- No part of the building should pose a hazard to the safety or health of its occupants under normal usage, and the building should provide for safe evacuation or refuge in emergencies.
- The building should provide the degree of shelter from the elements and of control of the interior environment—air, temperature, humidity, light, and acoustics—specified by the client and not less than the minimums required for safety and health of the occupants.
- The building should be constructed to minimize adverse impact on the environment.
- Operation of the building should consume a minimum of energy while permitting the structure to serve its
purposes. - The sum of costs of construction, operation, maintenance, repair, and anticipated future alterations should be kept within the limit specified by the client.
True or False. The ultimate objective of design is to provide all the information necessary for the construction of a building.
True
True or False. Designers also should observe the construction of the building while it is in process.
True
It is used to locate sites, and buildings, define site levels, indicate services to buildings, identify parts of the site such as roads, footpaths, and boundaries and give setting-out dimensions for the site and buildings as a whole. Suitable scale, not less than 1:2500
Location Drawings
It is used to identify and set out parts of the building such as rooms, corridors, doors, windows, etc. Suitable scale, not less than 1:100
Floor Plans
It is used to show the external appearance of all faces and to identify doors and windows. Suitable scale, not less than 1:100
Elevations
It is used to provide vertical views through the building to show a method of construction. Suitable scale, not less than 1:50.
Sections
It is used to identify and supply data for components to be supplied by a manufacturer or for components not completely covered by assembly drawings. Suitable scale range 1:100 to 1:1
Component Drawings
It is used to show how items fit together or are assembled to form elements. Suitable scale range 1:20 to 1:5.
Assembly Drawings
This can be defined as a draft or rough outline of an idea; it can be a means of depicting a threedimensional form in a two-dimensional guise.
Sketch
True or False. Sketches can be produced free-hand or using rules and set squares to give basic guidelines.
True
True or False. All sketches should be clear, show all the necessary detail and above all be in the correct proportions.
True
Prior to purchasing a building site, it is essential to conduct ____________.
site analysis
Prior to purchasing a building site, it is essential to conduct site analysis, and a thorough survey to ascertain whether the site characteristics suit the development concept. The following guidance forms a basic checklist:
- Refer to Ordnance Survey maps to determine adjacent features, locations, roads, facilities, footpaths, and rights of way.
- Conduct a measurement survey to establish site dimensions and levels.
- Observe surface characteristics, i.e. trees, steep slopes, existing buildings, rock outcrops, wells.
- Inquire of local authority whether preservation orders affect the site and if it forms part of a conservation area.
- Investigate subsoil. Use trial holes and borings to determine soil quality and water table level.
- Consider flood potential, possibilities for drainage of water table, capping of springs, filling of ponds, and diversion of streams and rivers.
- Consult local utility providers for underground and overhead services, proximity to the site, and whether they cross the site.
- Note suspicious factors such as filled ground, cracks in the ground, subsidence due to mining, and any cracks in existing buildings.
- Regard neighborhood scale and character of buildings with respect to proposed new development.
- Decide on the best location for building (if space permits) with regard to fill’, land slope, exposure to sun and prevailing conditions, practical use, and access.
True or False. Regular plan surface areas are typical of many building sites, with odd-shaped boundaries and directional changes.
False (regular - irregular)
True or False. Methods for measurement uses modern instruments and computational techniques, including photogrammetry, can provide accurate calculation of site areas.
True
True or False. Fieldwork measurements and simple calculations are an adequate and economical means for obtaining reasonable area estimates for most modest-size sites.
True
Lot area for lots with irregularly shaped boundaries is usually computed using two methods:
Simpson’s Rule and Trapezoidal Rule.
He is a British mathematician who derived interpolation and numerical methods of integration for the calculation of areas under curves.
Thomas Simpson (1710 - 1761)
True or False. The Trapezoidal Rule is more accurate than Simpson’s rule as it assumes a curved boundary, but it is inadequate in most situations for providing a reasonable estimate of site area.
False (The Trapezoidal Rule is a little less accurate than Simpson’s rule as it does not assume a curved boundary, but it is adequate in most situations for providing a reasonable estimate of site area.)
True or False. As with Simpson’s rule, the site plan area is divided into several parallel strips of equal width (w).
True
True or False. The basic objective of site investigation is to collect systematically and record all the necessary data which will be needed or will help in the design and construction processes of the proposed work.
True
Site investigation is composed of three procedures:
Desk Study, Field Study or Walkover Survey, and Laboratory Analysis.
A desk study is a collection of known data, it includes the following:
- Ordinance Survey maps like historical and modern, note grid reference.
- Geological maps like subsoil types, radon risk.
- Site history like green-field/brown-field.
- Previous planning applications/approvals
- Current planning applications in the area.
- Development restrictions like conservation orders.
- Utilities like location of services on and near the site.
- Aerial photographs.
- Ecology factors, protected wildlife.
- Local knowledge: anecdotal information/rights of way,
- Proximity of local land-fill sites like methane risk
Field Study is for intrusive visual and physical activity to:
- Establish site characteristics from the desk study.
- Assess potential hazards to health and safety.
- Appraise surface conditions:
3.1 Trees for preservation orders.
3.2 Topography and geomorphological mapping. - Appraise ground conditions:
4.1 Water table.
4.2 Flood potential: local water courses and springs.
4.3 Soil types.
4.4 Contamination: vegetation die-back.
4.5 Engineering risks: ground subsidence, mining, old fuel tanks.
4.6 Financial risks: potential for the unforeseen. - Take subsoil samples and conduct in-situ tests.
- Consider the need for subsoil exploration, trial pits and boreholes.
- Appraise existing structures:
7.1 Potential for reuse/refurbishment
7.2 Archaeological value/preservation orders.
7.3 Demolition: costs, health issues (e.g. asbestos).
It is a collection of known data.
Desk Study
It is for intrusive visual and physical activity.
Field Study
These are different set of tests done for identifying and classifying soils with regard to moisture content, liquid limit, plastic limit, particle size distribution and bulk density.
Laboratory Analysis
Some soil investigation and soil sample collection procedures include:
- Trial Pits
- Hand Auger Holes
- Mechanical Auger
- Sampling Shells
- Wash Boring
- Mud-rotary Drilling
- Core Drilling
True or False. Before any specific considerations and decisions can be made regarding site layout a general appreciation should be obtained by conducting a thorough site investigation at the pre-tender stage and examining in detail the drawings, specifications, and Bill of Quantities to formulate proposals of how the contract will be carried out if the tender is successful.
True
True or False. This must be considered for both on- and offsite access.
Access Considerations
True or False. Routes to and from the site must be checked as to the suitability for transporting all the requirements for the proposed works.
True
True or False. Access on-site for deliveries and general circulation must not be carefully considered.
False (remove not)
These are the amount and types of material to be stored.
Storage Considerations
These are the number and type of site staff anticipated.
Accommodation Considerations
What, when and where are they required? Possibility of having permanent services installed at an early stage and making temporary connections for site use during the construction period. Coordination with the various service undertakings is essential.
Temporary Services Considerations
What plant, when and where is it required? Static or mobile plant? If static, select the most appropriate position and provide any necessary hardstanding. If mobile check on circulation routes for optimum efficiency and suitability. Provision of space and hardstanding for on-site plant maintenance if required.
Plant Considerations
What is mandatory and what is desirable? Local vandalism record, type or types of fence and/or hoarding required, possibility of using fencing which is part of the contract by erecting this at an early stage in the contract.
Fencing and Hoarding Considerations
Check to ensure that outcome of the above considerations comply with the minimum requirements set out in the various Construction Regulations and in the Health and Safety at Work Act.
Safety and Health Considerations
The primary objectives of site security are:
- Security against theft.
- Security from vandals.
- Protection from innocent trespassers.
True or False. The need for any type of security required will vary from site to site according to the neighborhood, local vandalism record, and the value of goods stored on site.
True
It is usually required at an early stage in the contract to provide light and power to the units of accommodation.
Supply of electricity
True or False. The supply of electricity to a building site is the subject of a contract between the contractor and the local area electricity company who will want to know the date when supply is required; site address together with a block plan of the site; final load demand of proposed building and an estimate of the maximum load demand in kilowatts for the construction period.
True
The latter can be estimated by allowing ______of the total floor area of the proposed building plus an allowance for high load equipment such as cranes
IOW/m2
True or False. The installation should be undertaken by an incompetent electrical contractor to ensure that it complies with all the statutory rules and regulations for the supply of electricity to building sites.
False (incompetent - competent)
True or False. The units must be weak, durable, and resistant to rain penetration with adequate weather seals to all access panels and doors.
False (weak - strong)
All plug and socket outlets should be colour coded:
400V is red; 230V is blue; 1 IOV is yellow
This can be used effectively to enable work to continue during periods of inadequate daylight.
Site Lighting
It can also be used as a deterrent to would-be trespassers.
Site Lighting
It can be employed externally to illuminate the storage and circulation areas and internally for general movement and for specific work tasks.
Site lighting
True or False. The types of lamps available range from simple tungsten filament lamps to tungsten halogen and discharge lamps. The arrangement of site lighting can be static where the lamps are fixed to support poles or mounted on items of fixed plant such as scaffolding and tower cranes.
True
True or False. The lamps can be sited locally where the work is in progress by being mounted on immovable support or handheld with a trailing lead.
False (immovable - immovable)
Whenever the position of site lighting is such that it can be manhandled it should be run on a reduced voltage of ______ single phase as opposed to the mains voltage of _______.
1 IOV and 230V
To plan an adequate system of site lighting the types of activity must be defined and given an illumination target value which is quoted in ______
lux (lx)
To illuminate the general circulation routes ___________________ lighting could be used either on a standard mains voltage of 230V or on a reduced voltage of 1 1 OV.
bulkhead and/or festoon
True or False. The arrangements for office accommodation to be provided on-site are a matter of choice for each construction worker.
False ( construction worker - contractor)
True or False. Generally, separate offices would be provided for site agent, clerk of works, administrative staff, site surveyors and sales staff.
True
The minimum requirements of such accommodation are governed by the ________________________________.
Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act 1963
The minimum requirements of such accommodation are governed by the Offices, Shops and Railway Premises Act 1963 unless they are:
- Mobile units in use for not more than six months.
- Fixed units in use for not more than six weeks.
- Any type of unit in use for not more than 21 hours per week.
- Office for the exclusive use of a self-employed person.
- Office used by family-only staff
Items of builder’s plant ranging from small handheld power tools to larger pieces of plant such as mechanical excavators and tower cranes can be considered for use for one or more of the following reasons:
- Increased production.
- Reduction in overall construction costs.
- Carry out activities that cannot be carried out by the traditional manual methods in the context of economics.
- Eliminate heavy manual work, thus reducing fatigue and as a consequence increasing productivity.
- Replacing labor where there is a shortage of personnel with the necessary skills.
- Maintain the high standards required, particularly in the context of structural engineering works.
True or False. The introduction of plants always result in economic savings since extra temporary site works such as road-works, hardstandings, foundations and anchorages may have to be provided at a cost which is in excess of the savings made by using the plant.
False (does not always)
True or False. To be economic plant must be fully utilized and not left standing idle, since plant, whether hired or owned, will have to be paid for even if it is non-productive.
True
Full utilization of plant is usually considered to be in the region of _____ of on-site time, thus making an allowance for routine, daily and planned maintenance which needs to be carried out to avoid as far as practicable plant breakdowns which could disrupt the construction programme.
85%
True or False. Many pieces of plant work in conjunction with other items of plant such as excavators and their attendant haulage vehicles; therefore, a correct balance of such plant items must be obtained to achieve an environmental result.
False (environmental - economical)
True or False. On large contracts where a number of plant items are to be used it may be disadvantageous to employ a skilled mechanic to be on site to carry out all the necessary daily, preventive and planned maintenance tasks together with any running repairs which could be carried out on site.
False (disadvantageous - advantageous)
True or False. With the exception of small pieces of plant, which are usually purchased, items of plant can be bought or hired or where there are a number of similar items a combination of buying and hiring could be considered.
True
Advantages of Hirinq Plant:
- Plant can be hired for short periods.
- Repairs and replacements are usually the responsibility of the hire company.
- Plant is returned to the hire company after use, thus relieving the building contractor of the problem of disposal or finding more work for the plant to justify its purchase or retention.
- Plant can be hired with the operator, fuel and oil included in the hire rate.
Advantages of Buying Plant:
- Plant availability is totally within the control of the contractor.
- Hourly cost of plant is generally less than hired plant.
- Owner has choice of costing method used.
True or False. All items of plant have minimum output and cycle times which can be used as a basis for estimating anticipated productivity taking into account the task involved, task efficiency of the machine, operator’s efficiency and in the case of excavators the type of soil.
False (minimum - optimum)
True or False. Data for the factors to be taken into consideration can be obtained from timed observations, feedback information or published tables contained in manufacturer’s literature or reliable textbooks.
True
These machines consist of a track or wheel mounted power unit with a mould blade at the front which is controlled by hydraulic rams.
Bulldozers
Many ________ have the capacity to adjust the mould blade to form an angledozer and the capacity to tilt the mould blade about a central swivel point.
bulldozers
True or False. Some bulldozers cannot be fitted with rear attachments such as rollers and scarifiers.
False (cannot - can)
The main functions of a bulldozer are:
- Shallow excavations up to 300 m deep either on level ground or sidehill cutting.
- Clearance of shrubs and small trees.
- Clearance of trees by using raised mould blade as a pusher arm.
- Acting as a towing tractor.
- Acting as a pusher to scraper machines.
True or False. Bulldozers push earth in front of the mould blade with some side spillage whereas angledozers push and cast the spoil to one side of the mould blade
True
True or False. Protective cab/roll bar to be fitted after use.
False (after - before)
These machines consist of a scraper bowl which is lowered to cut and collect soil where site stripping and levelling operations are required involving large volume of earth.
Scraper
True or False. When the scraper bowl is full the apron at the cutting edge is opened to retain the earth and the bowl is raised for travelling to the disposal area,
False (opened - closed)
Scrapers are available in three basic formats:
- Towed Scrapers:
These consist of a four-wheeled scraper bowl which is towed behind a power unit such as a crawler tractor, They tend to be slower than other forms of scraper but are useful for small capacities with haul distances up to 300.00. - Two Axle Scrapers:
These have a two-wheeled scraper bowl with an attached two-wheeled power unit. They are very maneuverable with low rolling resistance and very good traction. - Three Axle Scrapers:
These consist of a two-wheeled scraper bowl which may have a rear engine to assist the four-wheeled traction engine which makes up the complement. Generally, these machines have a greater capacity potential than their counterparts, are easier to control, and have a faster cycle time.
These consist of a four-wheeled scraper bowl which is towed behind a power unit such as a crawler tractor, They tend to be slower than other forms of scraper but are useful for small capacities with haul distances up to 300.00.
Towed Scrapers
These have a two-wheeled scraper bowl with an attached two-wheeled power unit. They are very maneuverable with a low rolling resistance and very good traction.
Two Axle Scrapers
These consist of a two-wheeled scraper bowl which may have a rear engine to assist the four-wheeled traction engine which makes up the complement. Generally, these machines have a greater capacity potential than their counterparts, are easier to control, and have a faster cycle time.
Three Axle Scrapers
True or False. To obtain maximum efficiency scrapers should operate uphill if possible.
False (uphill - downhill)
These machines are similar in concept to bulldozers in that they have a long, slender, adjustable mould blade, which is usually slung under the centre of the machine.
Graders
Its main function is to finish or grade the upper surface of a large area usually as a follow up operation to scraping or bulldozing.
Graders
They can produce a fine and accurate finish but do not have the power of a bulldozer; therefore, they are not suitable for over-site excavation work.
Graders
The mould blade can be adjusted in both the horizontal and vertical planes through an angle of _______ the latter enabling it to be used for grading sloping banks.
300 degrees
Two basic formats of grader are available:
- Four-Wheeled:
all wheels are driven and steered which gives the machine the ability to offset and crab along its direction of travel. - Six-Wheeled:
this machine has four wheels in tandem drive at the rear and two front-tilting idler wheels, giving it the ability to counteract side thrust.
All wheels are driven and steered which gives the machine the ability to offset and crab along its direction of travel.
Four-wheeled graders
This machine has four wheels in tandem drive at the rear and two front-tilting idler wheels, giving it the ability to counteract side thrust.
Six-wheeled graders
These are one of the major items of builders plant and are used primarily to excavate and load most types of soil.
Excavating Machines
Excavating machines come in a wide variety of designs and sizes but all of them can be placed within one of three categories:
- Universal Excavators:
This category covers most forms of excavators all of which have a common factor: the power unit. The universal power unit is a tracked based machine with a slewing capacity of 360and by altering the boom arrangement and bucket type different excavating functions can be obtained. These machines are selected for high output requirements and are rope controlled. - Purpose-Designed Excavators:
These are machines which have been designed specifically to carry out one mode of excavation and they usually have smaller bucket capacities than universal excavators; they are hydraulically controlled with a shorter cycle time. - Multi-purpose Excavators:
These machines can perform several excavating functions having both front and rear attachments. They are designed to carry out small excavation operations of low output quickly and efficiently. Multi-purpose excavators can be obtained with a wheeled or tracked base and are ideally suited for a small building firm with low excavation plant utilization requirements.
This category covers most forms of excavators all of which have a common factor: the power unit. A universal power unit is a tracked-based machine with a slewing capacity of 360 and by altering the boom arrangement and bucket type different excavating functions can be obtained. These machines are selected for high output requirements and are rope controlled.
Universal Excavators
These are machines which have been designed specifically to carry out one mode of excavation and they usually have smaller bucket capacities than universal excavators; they are hydraulically controlled with a shorter cycle time.
Purpose-designed excavators
These machines can perform several excavating functions having both front and rear attachments. They are designed to carry out small excavation operations of low output quickly and efficiently.
Multi-purpose excavators
They can be obtained with a wheeled or tracked base and are ideally suited for a small building firm with low excavation plant utilization requirements.
Multi-purpose excavators
These can be defined as vehicles whose primary function is to convey passengers and/or materials between and around building sites. The types available range from the conventional saloon car to the large low-loader lorries designed to transport other items of builder’s plant between construction sites and the plant yard or depot.
Transport Vehicles
These transport vehicles range from the small two-person plus a limited amount of materials to the large vans with purpose designed bodies such as those built to carry large sheets of glass.
vans
They are usually fitted with a petrol engine and are based on the manufacturer’s standard car range whereas the larger vans are purpose designed with either petrol or diesel engines.
Vans
These can range from a simple framed cabin which can be placed in the container of a small lorry or ‘pick-up’ truck to a conventional bus or coach.
Passenger Vehicles
They can also be designed to carry a limited number of seated passengers by having fixed or removable seating together with windows fitted in the van sides, thus giving the vehicle a dual function.
Vans
True or False. The number of passengers carried can be limited so that the driver does not have to hold a PSV (public service vehicle) license.
True
These are sometimes referred to as haul vehicles and are available as road- or site-only vehicles.
Lorries
They have to comply with all the requirements of the Road Traffic Acts which among other requirements limit size and axle loads.
Road haulage vehicles
True or False. The off highway or site-only lorries are not so restricted and can be designed to carry two to three times the axle load allowed on the public highway.
True
They are usually specially designed to traverse and withstand the rough terrain encountered on many construction sites.
Site-only lorries
They are available as non-tipping, tipping and special-purpose carriers such as those with removable skips and those equipped with self-loading and unloading devices.
Lorries
________specifically designed for the transportation of large items of plant are called low-loaders and are usually fitted with integral or removable ramps to facilitate loading and some have a winching system to haul the plant onto the carrier platform.
Lorries
These are used for the horizontal transportation of materials on and off construction sites generally by means of an integral tipping skip.
Dumpers
They are of a similar but larger design and can be used to carry materials such as excavated spoil along the roads.
Highway dumpers
True or False. A wide range of dumpers are available of various carrying capacities and options for gravity or hydraulic discharge control with front tipping, side tipping or elevated tipping facilities.
True
It rigs to carry materials skips and rigs for concrete skips for crane hoisting are also obtainable.
Special format dumpers fitted with flat platforms
These are used for the horizontal and limited vertical transportation of materials positioned on pallets or banded together such as brick packs. They are generally suitable for construction sites where the building height does not exceed three storeys. Although designed to negotiate rough terrain site fork lift trucks have a higher productivity on firm and level soils.
Fork Lift Trucks
Three basic fork lift truck formats are available, namely:
- straight mast
- overhead
- telescopic boom
These are designed for the vertical transportation of materials, passengers, or materials and passengers.
Hoist
These are designed for one specific use (i.e. the vertical transportation of materials) and under no circumstances should they be used to transport passengers.
Material hoist
True or False. Most material hoists are of a mobile format which can be dismantled, folded onto the chassis, and moved to another position or site under their own power or towed by a haulage vehicle.
True
True or False. When in use forklift trucks need to be stabilized and/or tied to the structure and enclosed with a protective screen.
False (forklift trucks - material hoist)
These are designed to carry passengers, although most are capable of transporting a combined load of materials and passengers within the lifting capacity of the hoist.
Passenger Hoist
True or False. A wide selection of hoists are available ranging from a single cage with rope suspension to twin cages with rack and pinion operation mounted on two sides of a static tower.
True
These apply to contracts involving demolition, repair, maintenance and refurbishment. The simple concept of connecting several perforated dustbins is reputed to have been conceived by an ingenious site operative for the expedient and safe conveyance of materials.
Rubble Chutes and Skips
True or False. In a purpose-designed format, the tapered cones are produced from reinforced rubber with chain linkage for continuity.
False (cones - cylinders)
Overall unit lengths are generally _______, providing an effective length of ____.
1100 mm and 1 m
True or False. Hoppers and side entry units are made for special applications.
True
These are lifting devices designed to raise materials by means of rope operation and move the load horizontally within the limitations of any particular machine.
Cranes
True or False. The range of cranes available is very wide and therefore choice must be based on the loads to be lifted, height and horizontal distance to be covered, time period(s) of lifting operations, utilization factors, and degree of mobility required.
True
Crane types can range from a simple rope and pulley or gin wheel to a complex tower crane but most can be placed within one of three groups, namely:
mobile, static, and tower cranes
From the bidding for a project to the actual execution, ________________ is at the center of concern of construction management
financial management
It is the critical process by which potential contractors compete to earn the contract from the owner of the project.
Bidding
It is done at the beginning of a potential project and updated throughout the project.
Cost estimating
During the project period, it is needed to keep the project going.
cash flow management
True or False. Successful contractors often have sufficient cash reserve or credit to ride through tough periods of low-income cash flow and high outward cash payments.
True
It is usually a dominant design concern
Construction cost of a building
True or False. If construction cost exceeds the owner’s budget, the owner cannot cancel the project.
False (cannot - may)
True or False. Property taxes and insurance, that occur after completion of the building often are proportional to the initial cost.
True
True or False. After the construction of a building starts, the owner generally has to make a sizable investment in the project.
False (after - before)
The major portion of the construction cost is the sum of the payments to the general contractor and prime contractors. Remaining construction costs usually consist of interest on the following:
- Construction Loan
- Permit Fees,
- Costs of Materials,
- Equipment, and
- Labor not covered by the construction contracts.
It is the sum of preconstruction, construction, and occupancy costs.
initial cost to the owner
True or False. After the building is occupied, the owner incurs costs for operation and maintenance of the buildings.
True
True or False. Often, preconstruction costs are permitted to be low so that initial costs can be kept high.
False (inverse)
It is the process of determining the expected quantities and costs of the materials, labor, and equipment for a construction project.
Estimating
True or False. The goal of the estimating process is to project as accurately as possible, the estimated costs for a construction project, as well as the required amount of materials, labor, and equipment necessary to complete the work.
True
It plays a key role in the operation of construction companies.
Estimating
These are needed for a company to be successful in the bidding process while maintaining a reasonable profit margin.
Accurate estimates
True or False. If the estimates are too low, the company may starve to death because of the lack of work
False (low - high)
True or False. If the estimates are too low, the company may lose money and go bankrupt.
True
He/she is constantly walking a fine line between bidding too low and too high.
Estimator
It is the person responsible for preparing the cost estimates.
Estimator
It is often charged with preparing all of the company’s estimates. In smaller companies, the project managers or the company’s owner may be responsible for preparing the estimates.
Estimating department
True or False. Regardless of their job title, employees who are responsible for preparing estimates are estimators.
True
It is responsible for seeing that the estimate accurately determines the number of materials, labor, and equipment and incorporates the costs to complete the required scope of work along with a reasonable profit while remaining competitive with other firms in the market.
Estimator
To be a good estimator a person must possess the following skills:
- An estimator must have a sound understanding of the construction methods, materials, and the capacities of skilled labor. Because of the great variety of work, it is impossible for an estimator to be versed in all forms of construction. Therefore, an estimator must specialize in one or more areas of construction.
- An estimator may specialize in a subcontractor trade such as electrical, mechanical, or excavation.
- An estimator may also specialize in an area of construction such as residential, tenant finish, or highway construction, Because the methods of construction, the preferred materials of construction, and the skill of labor vary from market to market, estimators must also specialize in a specific market area, such as a state or region.
- An estimator must possess the basic skills needed to determine the quantities of materials, labor, and equipment necessary to complete a project. This requires the estimator to read blueprints, understand the design that the architect or engineer has specified, and determine the quantities needed to complete the project.
- Because much of an estimator’s time is spent working with quantities, estimators must have strong mathematical skills.
- An estimator must be a good communicator, both verbally and in written form. Part of an estimator’s job is to obtain pricing from vendors and subcontractors. To do this, the estimator must convince vendors and subcontractors to bid on projects, communicate what pricing is needed, and—when the company has won the job—communicate the responsibilities of the vendors and subcontractors in the form of purchase orders and subcontracts provided to the vendor, subcontractor, superintendent, and so forth.
- Estimators may also be required to present estimates to owners—which requires good presentation skills— or prepare proposals—which requires good writing skills.
- An estimator must possess strong computer skills. Much of today’s estimating is performed using computer software packages, such as Excel, takeoff packages such as On-Screen Takeoff, and estimating software packages.
- Estimators also need to be able to prepare contracts, proposals, and other documents using a word processing program.
- An estimator must be detail-oriented. Estimators must carefully and accurately determine the costs and quantities needed to complete the project. Simple mistakes— such as forgetting that the drawings are halfscale or not reading the specifications carefully enough to realize that an unusual concrete mix has been specified—can quickly turn a successful project into an unprofitable job and, in extreme cases, bankrupt a company.
- An estimator must have the confidence to quickly prepare takeoffs and make decisions under pressure. Bid days are hectic. Many vendors and subcontractors wait until the last hour to submit their bids. As the bid closing approaches, the estimator must compare and incorporate new pricing as it is received and fill in missing pricing with limited time and information at his or her disposal. Making a bad decision or failing to make a decision under pressure can cause the company to lose the bid or take an unprofitable job.
- An estimator must have a desire for constant improvement. Much of a company’s success or failure rides on the abilities of the estimator to obtain profitable work.
True or False. An estimator must have a sound understanding of the construction methods, materials, and the capacities of skilled labor. Because of the great variety of work, it is impossible for an estimator to be versed in all forms of construction. Therefore, an estimator must specialize in one area of construction.
False (one area - one or more areas)
An estimator may specialize in a subcontractor trade such as:
electrical, mechanical, or excavation
True or False. An estimator may also specialize in an area of construction such as residential, tenant finish, or highway construction, Because the methods of construction, the preferred materials of construction, and the skill of labor vary from market to market, estimators must also specialize in a specific market area, such as a state or region.
True
It is one in which the contractor’s principal obligation is to carry out works of civil engineering construction.
civil engineering construction contract
It may also oblige the contractor to carry out ancillary obligations, such as the maintenance or operation of the works.
contract
These are also legal documents that the contractor must follow throughout the project.
Specifications
These are often based on well-developed construction practices but sometimes may include special requirements added by the owner.
Specifications
It is simply an agreement which obliges the parties to do specified things.
Contract
Contracts have a number of different functions. In the case of a construction contract, they include:
- Specifying the work to be done by the contractor (or sub-contractor etc.), including the required quality and time for completion of various parts of the work.
- Defining what amount is to be paid, how any additional or reduced payments are to be computed, and when payments are to be made.
- Defining which party is responsible for events occurring outside the parties’ direct control which affect the work; such events may include bad weather, access difficulties, local authority restrictions, changes in the law, unexpectedly poor ground, etc.
- Defining who has responsibility for undertaking the various administrative or dispute resolution functions which may be required, including obtaining consents, giving instructions, making decisions about claims, appointing adjudicators, arbitrators, etc,
In the formation of a contract, it is important to determine:
- whether or not there is a contract
- if so, when it was formed, and
- what terms it contains
The fact that parties are proceeding with the works does not necessarily mean that a contract has come into existence. In principle, a contract comes into existence when the following requirements are met:
a. the parties have reached an agreement
b. the parties intend their agreement to be legally enforceable.
It enforces regulations and laws pertaining to construction. Knowledge of these regulations and strict adherence to the regulations are the responsibilities of the construction engineers or managers.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) of the Department of Labor
Under these regulations, employers are required to provide and maintain health and safety signs.
- Prohibition - red
- Hazard/Warning - yellow
- Mandatory - blue
- Safe Condition - green
In addition, employers’ obligations include the need to provide:
- Risk Assessment:
provide and maintain safety signs where there is a risk to health and safety, e.g. obstacles. Train staff to comprehend safety signs. - Pictorial Symbols:
pictograms alone are acceptable but supplementary text, e.g. FIRE EXIT, is recommended. - Fire/Emergency Escape Signs:
A green square or rectangular symbol. - Positioning of signs:
primarily for the location of fire exits, fire equipment, alarms, assembly points, etc. Not to be located where they could be obscured. - Marking of Hazardous Areas:
to identify designated areas for storing dangerous substances: Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990. Yellow triangular symbol. - Pipeline Identification:
pipes conveying dangerous substances to be labelled with a pictogram on a coloured background conforming to BS 1710: Specification for identity of pipelines and services and BS 4800: Schedule of paint colours for building purposes. Non-dangerous substances should also be labelled for easy identification
Provide and maintain safety signs where there is a risk to health and safety, e.g. obstacles. Train staff to comprehend safety signs.
Risk Assessment
Pictograms alone are acceptable but supplementary text, e.g. FIRE EXIT, is recommended.
Pictorial Symbols
A green square or rectangular symbol.
Fire/Emergency Escape Signs
Primarily for location of fire exits, fire equipment, alarms, assembly points, etc. Not to be located where they could be obscured
positioning of signs
To identify designated areas for storing dangerous substances: Dangerous Substances (Notification and Marking of Sites) Regulations 1990. Yellow triangular symbol.
Marking of Hazardous Areas
Pipes conveying dangerous substances to be labelled with a pictogram on a coloured background conforming to BS 1710: Specification for identity of pipelines and services and BS 4800: Schedule of paint colours for building purposes. Non-dangerous substances should also be labelled for easy identification.
Pipeline Identification
For first aid, the following should be considered:
- box readily accessible and distinctly marked.
- contents sufficient for the number of persons on site.
- person appointed with responsibility for first aid facilities and calls to emergency ambulance service (not necessarily a qualified first aider).
- information displayed confirming name of appointed person.
- person trained (first aider) in first aid at work holding an HSE Recognized FAW qualification or an emergency first aid at work (EFAW) qualification.
The minimum requirement is the number of site personnel is less than 5.
One appointed person preferably trained in first aid
The minimum requirement if the number of site personnel is 5-50.
One trained in EFAW or FAW depending on the assessment of possible injuries.
The minimum requirement if the number of site personnel is greater than 50.
One trained in FAW for every 50 persons or part thereof
True or False. Builder’s should also provide the necessary sanitary and washing facilities like toilets, separate male and female if possible, with lockable doors.
True
Requirements for washing facilities:
- next to toilets and changing areas.
- hot and cold water or mixed warm water (for other countries) soap, towels or hot air dryer. adequate ventilation and lighting.
- washbasins large enough to wash face, hands and forearms. showers for particularly dirty work.
Requirements for drinking water supply:
- wholesome supply direct from the mains.
- bottled water acceptable if mains supply unavailable.
- cups or other drinking vessels at outlets or a drinking fountain.
Accommodation for rest. shelter. changing and eating:
- separate provisions if men and women are on site.
- located close to washing facilities.
- heated place for shelter from inclement weather.
- space for changing with security for personal clothing, etc.
- lockers and/or place to hang clothes.
- place for wet clothing to be dried.
- rest facilities with tables and raised-back chairs. 8. ventilation and lighting.
- means for heating water and warming food unless a separate provision is made for providing meals.
All equipment (including clothing affording protection against the weather) which is intended to be worn or held by a person at work which protects them against one or more risks to their health and safety by Personal Protective Equipment Regulations.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
It should either be provided by an employer at no cost to employees or for self-employed to provide their own, unless in an employer-employee relationship.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Types of PPE generally required the following:
- For face and eyes:
1.1 disposable face masks.
1.2 respirators/breathing apparatus (special training required),
1.3 air-fed helmets (special training required).
1.4 safety glasses, similar to ordinary glasses, may have side shields.
1.5 shield, one-piece moulded lens worn over other glasses.
1.6 goggles, flexible plastic frame with elastic headband.
1.7 face guard, shield or visor to fully enclose the eyes from dust, etc. - For hearing:
2.1 Earmuffs, some helmet mounted are available.
2.2 earplugs and ear inserts (canal caps). - For leqs and feet:
3.1 safety boots/shoes, steel toe cap and slip-resistant sole.
3.2 Wellington boots, steel toe cap and studded soles available.
3.3 anti-static electricity insulated footwear.
3.4 knee pads, gaiters, leggings and spats. - For body:
4.1 high visibility waistcoats.
4.2 overalls, coveralls and boiler suits.
4.3 aprons, chain mail or leather.
4.4 life jackets.
4.5 safety harnesses.
4.6 insulated and waterproof clothing. - For hands:
5.1 gloves, waterproof and/or insulating.
5.2 gauntlets.
5.3 armlets and wristcuffs.
Any situation that has the potential to harm.
Hazard
Possibility of damage, injury or loss caused by a hazard.
Risk
All persons in and associated with the work place.
Responsibility
It is associated with all aspects of a project including the initial capital cost, the project schedule, the ongoing costs to operate the resulting assets, the profits or other benefits derived, etc.
Risk
It applies to every item that is forecasted or estimated.
Risk and contingency analysis
These are based on the consideration of both types of uncertainty and intended to close the gap between them.
Risk Funds (Contingencies)
Risk and Contingency Analysis is part of the overall Risk Management process which includes:
- Risk Assessment: Identification of risks or uncertainties which may impact a project.
- Risk Analysis: Quantification of the effect of all uncertainty (risks) on a project. Usually done by identifying risks and quantifying each risk’s probability of occurrence AND potential severity of impact. The impact may be expressed as a range of values, or with a confidence level, or as a probability distribution.
- Communicating the Risk Information: The transition between risk analysis and risk control is the communication of the risk information from the estimating function to the execution function.
- Risk Management Plan: A list of the action steps to:
1 Eliminate or reduce the probability of a threat occurring; and/or
2, Reduce the impact of the threat if it does occur, and/or - Assure or increase the probability of an opportunity occurring; and/or
- Increase the impact of an opportunity if it does occur.
Identification of risks or uncertainties which may impact a project.
Risk Assessment
Quantification of the effect of all uncertainty (risks) on a project. Usually done by identifying risks and quantifying each risk’s probability of occurrence AND potential severity of impact. The impact may be expressed as a range of values, or with a confidence level, or as a probability distribution
Risk Analysis
The transition between risk analysis and risk control is the communication of the risk information from the estimating function to the execution function.
Communicating the Risk Information
