questions on competencies Flashcards

1
Q

why is it inappropriate to go to a social event?

A

COI- might create a perception of bias in your professional decisions. The RICS Code of Ethics emphasizes integrity, Engaging in social events with could be seen as compromising these standards.

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2
Q

What is Morgan Sindall’s bribery policy?

A

Morgan Sindall has a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery. Employees should raise any issues with there line manager. This includes gift giving which should be recorded “gifty”. can get fined or 10yrs imprisonment if guity

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3
Q

bribery act 2010 what is this? PBFC

A

4 main bribery offence-
-bribing another person/being bribed/bribing a foreign official/failure of commercial org to prevent bribery.

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4
Q

6 PRINCIPLES of the bribery act PTRDCM

A

proportionality-action taken should be proportionate to size of org/top level commitment–senior management best place to ensure bribery doesn’t occur/risk assessment-will show extent of exposure to bribery/due diligence/communication-communicate policies and training/monitoring &review- make improvements where necessary

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5
Q

who does the bribery act apply to?

A

applies to British citizens who commit bribery anywhere in the world/organisations committing bribery in UK or carried work in UK.

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6
Q

what is your position with bribery act 2010

A

my company has an anti bribery & corruption policy which applies to me as an employee. I would report any act of bribery to the national crime agency.

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7
Q

consequences of not adhering to bribery act 2010

A

conviction to unlimited fines/individual recieve jail time to 10 years. org can be convicted of failing to prevent bribery so they can get unlimited fines

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8
Q

how to prevent bribery?

A

Org to have zero tolerance policy, conduct regular audits- continous training.

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9
Q

As a qs how have you adhered to rules of conduct

A

During procurement a sc bidder reached out to receive information before feedback was issued so they could revise their bid. I advised this was unfair and inappropriate to the other bidders i declined.

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10
Q

what is the change control?

A

is a methodology used to manage change requests that impact baseline of project. Includes evaluating request then approving/rejecting.

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11
Q

key stages of change control? 5 PIDCC

A

propose change-describe change and how it would benefit project
impact summary-PM to conduct due diligence and give rec
make decision-pm present findings to client
make change- any change that has been accepted moves onto the planning stage to develop plan of action//sc
closure- signed off and instruction to be issued.

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12
Q

what is MS’s client experience plan?

A

This involves regular communication and collaboration to ensure all project requirements are clearly defined and met. Also have perfect delivery- we use customer feedback to shape the experience we offer on our subsequent projects.

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13
Q

why is client care crucial?

A

to retain existing clients and secure repeat business/reduce likelihood of conflict/maintain strong reputation within the industry to attract new clients.

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14
Q

what is MS complaints handling procedure?

A

2 types of complaints i.e. site is too noisy/logistical issues- these are submitted on the MS website which goes to kent house our HQ. then goes to the managing director of the region, which they allocate someone to deal with it. OR you have PI complaints which goes to managing directors which they liase with internal legal team who supports the insurers.

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15
Q

how to mitigate likelihood of similar complaints arising?

A

addressing the root causes of complaints i.e. noise and askign sc to liaise, enhancing communication, training employees, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

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16
Q

what is a delay notice? what does it contain?how do you issue it?

A

Its a formal document issued in construction projects to informSC about delays affecting programme. it will say how many weeks they are behind on what activity and also if they can submit a recovery programme to mitigate loss.

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17
Q

what did fire safety in construction cover?

A

Identify potential fire hazards, evaluate the risks, and determine the necessary precautions. Install fire alarms and smoke detectors throughout the site to provide early warning in case of a fire. ensure toolbox talks to let individuals know of fire safety plan.

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18
Q

whats a hot works?

A

A hot works permit, documented authorization required before performing any task that generates heat, sparks, or open flames, which could potentially ignite nearby flammable materials. This includes activities such as welding, cutting, grinding.

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19
Q

what’s on a hot works permit

A

date/time of scheduled works/description of the time of works being carried out/safety measures ppe.

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20
Q

How do you incorporate hse with logistics

A

Use clear, visible signage to indicate potential hazards and safety instructions. Establish a system for reporting and investigating accidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions.Develop and communicate clear emergency response plans for various scenarios (e.g., fire, chemical spills, accidents).

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21
Q

what is a balance sheet?

A

its a “snapshot” of a company’s financial position at a given point in time. Shows companies net worth by recording assets liability

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22
Q

diff between assets vs liability

A

assets- what company owns land/buildings/equipment
liability- loan or debt

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23
Q

diff between current and fixed assets

A

current is a short term asset that company expects to convert into cash. fixed is resources purchased for long term use in business and not likely to be sold for cash within 12 months but they generate cash for the business.

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24
Q

what is companies house and what does it tell us?

A

its an official register of companies. Used to verify the legitimacy and financial health of a company.It registers company details such as the name, address, and directors.

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25
Q

why is strategic business planning crucial?

A

is crucial for a construction companys longterm growth and success. equips companies with tools to monitor progress

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26
Q

what is meant by business strategy? why is it important?

A

is an outline of the actions and decisions a company plans to take to reach its business goals and objectives. the strategy defines what the business needs to do to reach its goals which aids the decision making process for resource allocation.

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27
Q

what is meant by strategic planning?

A

managerial process of developing and maintaining a strategic fit between organisations objectives and market opportunities

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28
Q

diff between bus strategy and bus planning

A

strategy- concerned with the entire org such as what it produces and how it allocates resources. Planning-detailed implementation after the big choices have been made.

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29
Q

whats in a business plan?

A

-doc that summarises operational and financial objectives of a business. how the objectives will be implemented. Includes swot analysis/executive summary/marketing/vision & mission statements

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30
Q

what is a business model?

A

is a plan implemented by a company to generate revenue and make a profit from operations.

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31
Q

how can a business plan help a company in the current economic climate?

A

to help secure additional funding from banks or external investors. gain new clients and commissions. helps budgeting.

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32
Q

what gdpr? who enforces it?

A

general data protection regulation.regulation in eu law on data protection and privacy in the european union. addresses transfer of personal data outside the eu.fines and repuational damage for those in breach. information commissioners office enforces it.

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33
Q

whats the data protection act 2018

A

controls how personal information is used by organisations/gov. this is the implmentation of gdpr.

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34
Q

who are the key persons outlined in gdpr? CPSO

A

data controller- person who decides how and why to collect data
data processor- seperate person who processes data on behalf of controller
data subject - individual whom personal data is about
data protection officer- guarantor of compliance with the data protection regulations

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35
Q

7 principles of gdpr? LPDASCA

A

lawfulness/purpose limitation/data minimisation/aaccuracy/storage limitation/confidentiality/accountability

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36
Q

8 INDIVIDUAL rights of gdpr

A

to be: informed/access/to rectification/to erasure/restrict processing/data portability/to object/ automated decision making and profiling

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37
Q

how does construction impact climate change?

A

construction results in hazardous waste and the improper disposal of such waste can result in pollution that affects not just the environment but also health of people living in that area.

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38
Q

what tools do you use to reduce carbon footprint?

A

we use carbonica to monitor carbon levels for each project to help achieve net zero by 2050.

39
Q

what is climate change act

A

sets legally binding targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. effectively aiming for net zero emissions by 2050.

40
Q

building regulations part L

A

this document applies to sustainability- conservation of fuel and power

41
Q

ads of breeam

A

demonstrates level of achievement. compliance can lower environmental impact/reduces operating costs. improves marketability for the client should they wish to sell.

42
Q

subcontractor payment timeline

A

Interim Valuation Dates: Pre-agreed dates for valuation of completed work.
Application for Payment: Submitted by the Subcontractor on or before each Interim Valuation Date.
Payment Notice: Issued by the Contractor within 5 days of each Interim Valuation Date.
Payment Due Date: 14 days after the Interim Valuation Date.
Pay Less Notice: Must be issued by the Contractor no later than 5 days before the Final Date for Payment.
Final Date for Payment: 14 days after the Payment Due Date.

43
Q

what is a profit and loss account?

A

shows a companys revenue and expenses over a particular period, typically one month or over a few. figures show whether a profit or loss has been made.

44
Q

diff between profit and loss account vs balance sheet

A

balance sheet is a financial snapshot at one given time showing the financial possition of company. P&L shows profit or loss over a determined period.

45
Q

change sequence of brickwork to what?

A

Implementied a progressive scaffold striking method where scaffolding is removed floor by floor as brickwork is completed. with extra labour for the brickwork this accelerated the pace.

46
Q

outcome of not extending the crane

A

this meant we didn’t need the xtra variaition of the crane. the works were completed within the time frame so once the crane was gone sc didn’t need to use it.

47
Q

what are third party rights?

A

act allows 3rd parties to enforce terms of contracts that they are not party to but that benefit in some way.

48
Q

example of 3rd party rights

A

A bank provides financing for a construction project. The construction contract includes a clause that explicitly grants the bank third party rights. This clause allows the bank to enforce the terms of the contract if the contractor fails to perform their obligations, protecting the bank’s financial interest in the project.

49
Q

how do you measure take offs

A

using new rules of measurement nrm.

50
Q

what happens if order isn’t placed?

A

meaning subcontractor can charge there own rates and not abiding by our payment terms.

51
Q

who needs bonds?

A

while not all projects will require subcontractors to obtain bonds, they are a common requirement to ensure performance, payment, and compliance with laws and regulations.

52
Q

what is a vesting cert?

A

A vesting certificate that transfers ownership of materials, goods from a supplier or sc to the main contractor before those items are incorporated into the construction project.

53
Q

when have you used a vesting cert?

A

supplier had ordered specialised cycle racks for the flats. The supplier required pre-payment due to the high cost and customization of the racks. To mitigate the risk of pre-paying for materials that have not yet been delivered,we used a vesting cert.

54
Q

what is on a vesting cert?

A

its between employer/contractor/supplier. includes transfer of ownership to contractor after interim payment. spec of material including descriptions, quantities, and, often, the location where they are stored.

55
Q

milestones for payment what do you mean?

A

such as payment schedule issued within subcontract orders. so it will say payment application dates then 7 days after valuation date. valuation +19 days is due date for payment.

56
Q

jct design dev does not count as design change?what clause?

A

Clause 5.1 of the 2016 JCT Design Build Contract defines a “change” as a change to the employer’s requirements that modification of the design, quantity, or quality of the works.

57
Q

what is panelling and coping?

A

Coping provides an extra layer of protection against the elements. it’s usually curved or slanted to help the wall shed water that falls on it. Panelling hide the walls’ rough stone or brick-and-mortar for better aesthetics.

58
Q

give an example of when you fought a variation?

A

design development of the architects drawings resulted in sc issuing a variation of 70k. I fought this as the drawing was already included in there order but it was just design dev.

59
Q

benefits of offsite construction?

A

Offsite construction can significantly shorten the overall project timeline.
-Construction in a controlled factory environment is not subject to weather delays, which can speed up the process.
- consistent quality control, leading to higher quality products.
-Factories can better recycle waste materials, resulting in less waste compared to traditional on-site construction.

60
Q

constraints of off site construction

A

-Large modules can be difficult and expensive to transport from the factory to the construction site.
-Detailed planning and design are required upfront, which can increase initial costs.

61
Q

contractually what needs to be done when using prefab bathrooms

A

we use Bespoke Form of Residential Building Agreement- this covers amendments on our side i.e. covers product guarantees shown in spec (lights/sockets/switches) delivery dates/vesting agreements.

62
Q

what did you achieve by taking scope from kitchen to carp

A

We did this to escalate the programme as as it stood the kitchens design had not been approved so instead of waiting on there lead times we went ahead with carpentry as labour was already on site and would mean less interface.

63
Q

what was the decision? did you place kitchen with carps?

A

decision was to derisk the project by choosing carpentry to conduct works so the lead times could be reduced. As programme was a key client requirement.

64
Q

what is a canopy?

A

canopy is defined as a light roof-like structure, supported by the exterior wall of a building with the purpose of providing protection from sun and rain

65
Q

what different design options were there for the canopy?

A

one of the options was to add in extra steel support for the canopy however upon speaking to the structural engineer we didn’t need to do this because the brick support was a big aspect on this project so it was enough to support the beam.

66
Q

why did you remove the canopy from the metalwork to the internal buying team?

A

we did this because it the architect had specified a normal off the shelf canopy which was easily found with the internal buying team. Metalwork sc priced a lot higher to supply and install this so we kept it to just install with them.

67
Q

what are different procurement routes?4 TDMC

A

traditional/d&b/management contracting/construction management

68
Q

if client wishes to start on site asap which route?

A

cm or management contracting overlaps with design and construction

69
Q

if client wanted an early start but also cost certainty

A

d and b as design and construction can be overlapped. risk is trasnferred to mc

70
Q

how do you compare bids?

A

Ensure that all bids comply with the submission requirements and tender instructions. Disqualify any bids that fail to meet the basic criteria. Examine the detailed cost breakdowns. Look at any clarifications that have been excluded.

71
Q

How do you appraise value added options?

A

Evaluate how well each value-added option aligns with the overall project goals and the client’s strategic objectives. For example, if sustainability is a key goal, a bidder offering green construction materials may score higher. Take into account the client’s preferences and priorities. Some value-added options might be particularly important to the client based on their specific needs or values.

72
Q

examples of value added options

A

extended warranties/sustainable materials/additional saftey features

73
Q

whats on a tender report?

A

The report should conclude with a clear recommendation as to the best value for money offer and an explanation of any significant variations/changes. Reasons for rejecting unsuccessful bids. Comparison with the pre-tender estimate.

74
Q

what is an advanced proforma payment

A

refers to a payment made in advance based on a proforma invoice. primary purpose is to secure the transaction and often to provide the seller with funds to commence work or procure materials. Payment made before delivery goods.

75
Q

what benefits to the cashflow of choosing subcontract C

A

No advance payments needed, and also no additional fees of storage needed to be awarded to subcontract C allowing better cash flow management. ensures that cash is only spent on actual, verifiable work done. ensures that cash is only spent on actual, verifiable work done.

76
Q

what KPI’s did yo have?

A

Due to government funding requirements, ensuring value for money was essential. Ensuring functionality and durability for these two housing blocks was crucial, given their expected heavy use by the Somers Town community.- Completion of the main contracted works is targeted to be November 2024,

77
Q

what standard terms did they not agree with?

A

They didn’t agree with

78
Q

whats a cvr?

A

Cost Value Reconciliation (CVR) is the process of comparing the actual cost of construction with its estimated cost. CVR helps project managers determine whether the project is over or under-budget and identify any areas where adjustments need to be made.

79
Q

costs incurred vs accruals n construction

A

Costs incurred refer to the actual expenses that have been paid or are due for payment i.e. subcontractors payments. Accruals are expenses that have been incurred but not yet paid i.e. utility payments

80
Q

how to reduce risks and costs give me examples?

A

derisk a project by choosing other materials that do not have longer lead times. Identify any items or scope that hasn’t been used. Perform ve to maximise efficiency. conducting regular contract reviews to avoid paying for changes that are already included in scope.

81
Q

VE vs VM?

A

VE is more focused on cost reduction and functional improvement during the later stages of a project, while VM is a broader, more strategic approach applied at the beginning of the project to ensure alignment with stakeholder needs and overall value optimization.

82
Q

example of vm

A

In a hospital construction project, VM might involve engaging with doctors, nurses, and patients to understand their needs and preferences, ensuring the design and construction of the hospital meet these needs effectively, thus maximizing overall value.

83
Q

how do you measure brickwork walls under NRM

A

THE measurement rules for masonry are contained within section 14. Masonry walls are to be measured in m2 with them being itemised according to wall thickness, type of construction and method of formation. other items that need to be measured for this is: closing/forming cavities & brick reinforcement (provides strength to larger brick structures)

84
Q

daywork rates vs contract rates

A

Daywork is a method of pricing where the work is paid for based on the time spent and the materials used. It is usually employed when the scope of work is uncertain or difficult to quantify in advance.: A fixed contract rate is an agreed-upon price with a well-defined scope

85
Q

fixed price lump sum
cost plus
unit price contracts define

A

fixed price lump sum-an agreement where the contractor agrees to complete a project for a set price, regardless of the actual costs incurred during the project.
cost plus- client agrees to pay the contractor for all project costs incurred plus an additional fee or percentage for profit. cost uncertainty
unit price contracts- A unit price contract is an agreement where the contractor is paid a fixed price for each unit of work completed. The total project cost is determined by the quantity of units completed.

86
Q

what is role of employers agent

A

acts as the employer’s representative/ ensures that the project is delivered to the employer’s requirements. Including advising on contractual matters, administering the contract and certifying payments.

87
Q

what clause for LADS in main contract

A

liquidated ascertained damages. Employer will deduct LADs from the Contractor at the rate in the Contract Particulars, or any lesser rate stated in the notice (as set out in clause 2.29.2.2).

88
Q

what clause for LADS in subcontract

A

There is no equivalent LADs provision in the JCT Sub-Contract. However, in schedule of amendments will have an amount per week.

89
Q

what are various adr’s

A

Adjudication/mediation/arbitration/litigation

90
Q

what clause says adjudication first

A

under clause 9.2 whereby the nominated person will be in the contract particulars. if not worked arbitration but its not an appeal of adjudicator decision but a consideration of dispute as if no decision had been made by adjudicator.

91
Q

what is balcony soffit

A

This is the bottom side of the balconies they finish the balcony off and create a clean aged look rather than looking crude, important when it comes to drainage as they need to be permeable. Normally concrete slab and finished with waterproof membrane drainage outlet or overflow pipes.

92
Q

how do balcony soffits prevent fires

A

they reduce spread of fire, using class a aluminium soffits offer multiple benefits by catching any burning objects stopping rising embers from hitting the balcony above by limiting supply of oxygen to underside of decking.

93
Q

what is finish of balcony soffit

A

They are laser cut aluminium powder coated to desired finish. 400 millimetres wide ensures even distribution of water rather then a concentration of water to one outlet.

94
Q

why huge discrepancy

A

The difference was due to the finishes of the balcony soffit works being incomplete, however the variation item focused on the quants of the main soffits being installed and decoration was a further item. This was cleared up on meeting the pqs.