17 December 2020
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog

Do you intend to conduct some civil works? Could be you want to build a road, bridge or dam. Below are a few tips to help you with your civil works project. 

Work With Professionals

As a rule, you should work with construction professionals. Civil, geotechnical, and structural engineers will assess your projects to determine their viability. Further, the engineers will assist with the design aspects of your project and conduct regular inspections to ensure that your contractor abides by the construction blueprints. 

Do not fall into the trap of hiring a contractor based on his or her pricing. Instead, conduct thorough background research to determine the contractor's experience, terms, and reputation. It will help you decide whether the contractor can handle the project. 

Check the Laws

Your project must comply with local laws. For instance, the building code could compel you to use specific building materials. Besides, they will restrict construction works on riparian land. You will need to seek local council permits before you begin construction works. More often than not, you will be required to hire a certifier to ensure the project meets the required standards. 

Inspect the Site

Inspect the site to identify the following: 

• What is the soil structure? You will need to excavate clay and peat soils. Alternatively, you could reinforce the structure using piles.
• Check the drainage system. It will be challenging to manage a flooded construction site.
• If you will conduct excavation works, check whether the area contains underground hazards such as toxic fumes.
• Is the site accessible? Remember, you will have a wide range of earthmovers at the site. 

Site Safety

You must observe safety at the construction site. For instance, you must use the right equipment. When hiring cranes, check their weight limits and how long they can grow. Use earthmovers with tracks when working in muddy conditions. Your site employees must wear personal protective clothing while at the site. Besides, they must be disciplined. For example, they should not overload lifting equipment and scaffolds. 

Construction Management

Your contractor should divide the project into phases and create a timeline detailing the activities that he or she will undertake during each stage. Further, he or she should make a budget of how much the works will cost. Visit the site to check the contractor's progress. Besides, you will need to meet with the design team to determine how you will overcome the various construction challenges. 

When conducting civil works, work with professionals, understand local laws, conduct a site inspection and observe the recommended safety and construction management tips.