From time to time contractors have to demolish existing structures, either completely or partially, to enable new structures to be built. This work is inherently dangerous, and if it’s not done correctly could result in the remaining structures or surrounding property being damaged, and even people getting injured or killed. Usually, large demolition work must be done by licensed contractors, but often projects involve smaller demolition works which are tackled by less experienced people. In fact, sometimes contractors have to demolish newly completed work because the work was substandard of poor quality and didn’t meet the project specifications because the client changed their mind, or the designer made a mistake. Some of these demolitions are done with little forethought and planning, sometimes with inappropriate equipment, often done hurriedly so that impacts to the construction schedule are minimised. Precautions to be implemented when demolishing structuresTo prevent accidents it’s important that certain precautions and steps are implemented before any demolition work begins. These include:
Partially demolishing structures requires extra careOften existing structures have to be partly demolished and openings cut in them. In addition to the checks above it’s also necessary to:
Demolition work is dangerousAlways take care when demolishing structures, no matter how minor the work is. Accidents happen easily. All demolition work is potentially dangerous. Demolition work must be properly supervised at all times. Have you had demolition work go wrong? What happened? This article was first published on the ClockShark website.
Please share this post To read more about the author’s books and find out where you can purchase them visit the pages on this website by clicking the links below: 'Successful Construction Project Management: The Practical Guide' 'Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide' 'Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors' 'Construction Project Management: Tips and Insights' 'Construction Management: From Project Concept to Completion' 'Construction Book reviews' To read more about the author visit the page 'Paul Netscher' Want to contact Paul Netscher please enter your details on 'Contacts' Find out how Paul Netscher can help you
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"Millions of dollars, euros, and pounds are lost every year on construction projects due to fraud and corruption." A study by PwC of public contracts in 8 countries in the European Union in 2010 identified that the direct public loss encountered due to corruption in public contracts accounted for 18% of the overall project budgets concerned, of which 13% can be attributed to corruption and 5% due to mismanagement. Imagine, for every dollar spent 18 cents disappeared. A $1 million project will cost an on average $200,000 extra. In the US the FBI places public corruption as one of their number one priorities, even though the US is considered to be the 18th least corrupt country in the world. Unfortunately, corrupt practices occur throughout the various construction project phases and can be perpetrated by any of the project stakeholders. This corruption is due to direct and deliberate corrupt practices as well as mismanagement. Mismanagement of construction projects occurs far too frequently. I’m sure we can all relate stories of theft, corruption, fraud, and mismanagement that occurred on a project. I’ve previously related a story of how half a million dollars of cement was stolen from one of my projects. Whether you are a project owner, an investor, project manager or a contractor it pays to be vigilant to avoid corruption on your construction project. Not only does corruption result in someone realising less value, but it can also impact reputation, and even result in fines and prison time. Being vigilant together we can prevent corruption and fraud. How construction project owners are corruptClients or project owners are not immune from defrauding one or more of the project stakeholders, such as:
"Will you know, or care, if your client is corrupt? Maybe you should always be vigilant." The role of project managers and principle agents in corruptionThere are many ways that the client appointed managers can be corrupt. They could defraud both the client and the contractor and even enrich themselves. This fraud could take many forms including:
Corrupt practices of project designersUnfortunately even some designers can be corrupt. This could include:
"Always look out for corruption, theft and fraud on your construction projects - you cannot afford to relax." Fraudulent contractorsThere are many ways that contractors can be dishonest so it pays to be vigilant. Some dishonest practices include:
c. Testing authorities to manipulate test results so that failed tests are made to pass. d. Various authorities to ‘smooth’ processes. 2. Accept bribes from subcontractors and suppliers to award them work, or to accept substandard work. 3. Submit bogus, or inflated, variation claims and invoices. 4. Deliver substandard work. 5. Deliberately omit items from the project. This could include omitting reinforcing from structures or constructing concrete structures of smaller profile than specified. 6. Knowingly incorporate substandard materials and equipment into the project. 7. Falsify test results. 8. Don’t pay subcontractors and suppliers for work and items that have been supplied in accordance with the contract, or pay them late, or withhold monies for spurious reasons. Fraudulent subcontractors and suppliersUnfortunately there are many dishonest subcontractors and suppliers on the look out for contractors that don't have proper supervision and controls in place. In deed I have uncovered many such cases, unfortunately a few after we lost money and it was too late to recover the stolen goods or get compensation. Here are a few things to look out for:
"Are you getting what you are paying for?" Other forms of theft and corruption in constructionFraud and theft on construction can take many forms, from common theft to computer hacking. Things to be aware of include:
c. In some cases computer files are deliberately damaged in a malicious computer hack, often resulting in delays to the project. d. Hacking into newly installed technology and systems in the finished facility. This could be to create havoc, gain access to the facility, cause embarrassment and bad publicity for the owner, or for more sinister reasons. e. Competitors gaining access to other contractors’ pricing documentation which could give them an advantage and inside knowledge so that they can submit a lower price. Computer security Stopping fraud and corruption in constructionCorruption, fraud and theft must be stamped out at all levels of the project delivery process. Everyone involved in the project processes should be vigilant and act against corruption. Measures must be in place to deter and prevent corruption, fraud and theft. Ethics in Construction. What are unethical behaviours? Why should we care? Have you had a project impacted by corruption, fraud or theft? Do you have adequate safeguards in place to protect your project from corruption, theft and fraud? "More valuable tips and insights for contractors." This article was first published on the ClockShark website. Please share this post To read more about the author’s books and find out where you can purchase them visit the pages on this website by clicking the links below: 'Successful Construction Project Management: The Practical Guide' 'Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide' 'Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors' 'Construction Project Management: Tips and Insights' 'Construction Management: From Project Concept to Completion' 'Construction Book reviews' To read more about the author visit the page 'Paul Netscher' Want to contact Paul Netscher please enter your details on 'Contacts' Find out how Paul Netscher can help you "I highly recommend this book be read by all newly qualified construction project managers as well as those more experienced." "Barricades and fencing on construction projects keep the public out, and prevent the construction project extending outside the site boundary." The quality, level and type of fencing and security on a construction project are dictated by numerous factors, including the client’s requirements, the location of the construction project, existing security and fencing around the project and the level of security risk, as well as the likelihood of a member of the public having unrestricted access to the project. In addition, local councils often have bylaws which stipulate the type of fencing or hoardings. These barriers may be simple fences, through to solid barriers of timber, tin, steel or even concrete. Why barricades and fencing are important on construction projectsMany construction projects are constructed in operational facilities, close to neighboring properties or in busy public places. It’s necessary to erect barriers which may be needed to:
"Good barricades are essential on most construction projects." Basic rules for construction barricades and fencingWhen erecting hoardings and barricades it’s important to ensure that:
Sometimes it’s necessary for hoardings, or temporary roof structures, to be built over public walkways and other areas. Again these must be properly designed, and in particular so that they can withstand any falling objects and the loads of workmen and materials that may be required to work from these structures. Special care should be taken so that they are not overloaded and so that they can cope with severe weather events, such as; winds, heavy rain and snow. "Proper protections must be installed to protect the public from the construction works." In some cases hoardings may be used for advertising, either for the project, the facility, or it certain cases the space could be sold for commercial advertising which could raise extra funds. These advertisements should all be done professionally, so that they are tasteful and do not detract from the project, the contractor, or from the existing facility. Hoardings and barricades should be regularly checked to ensure that they are still secure, haven’t been damaged, they are of a good standard and that construction materials haven’t been stacked against them which could cause them to become unstable and fall over. Particularly after storms the hoardings should be checked to ensure they are safe and undamaged. "Poor fencing around construction projects creates a bad image (like the contractor does not care) and it means that the public (especially children) could enter the project and get hurt." Good fencing and barricades are important on construction projectsHoardings and barricades play an important part in keeping people out of the construction working areas and to protect structures and the public. Tatty, poorly constructed barricades are not only unsafe, but they convey a poor image of both the project and the contractor. Unfortunately sometimes contractors spend little time, energy and money on what is an important aspect of every construction project. Before starting your next construction project ask these questions This article was first published on the ClockShark website. Please share this post "For more practical tips and insights get these books." To read more about the author’s books and find out where you can purchase them visit the pages on this website by clicking the links below:
'Successful Construction Project Management: The Practical Guide' 'Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide' 'Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors' 'Construction Project Management: Tips and Insights' 'Construction Management: From Project Concept to Completion' 'Construction Book reviews' To read more about the author visit the page 'Paul Netscher' Want to contact Paul Netscher please enter your details on 'Contacts' Find out how Paul Netscher can help you "Construction photographs provide a valuable record of progress and can be used to advertise the contractor's expertise." Taking photographs on a construction project is very useful for a number of reasons. Photographs of the construction project taken regularly, which includes the date and time, are beneficial in tracking progress. Photographs can also be used to document variation work and changes, such as; the depth of rock excavations, or the extent of demolition work. Photographs showing depths, levels or size may require an object, or tape measure, to show the scale, while in others it can be useful to include the particular machine, or piece of equipment, working on the variation. Photographs are important to record safety incidents. These should be taken immediately after the incident occurred, before the site has been disturbed too much, and should include the date and time. Photographs can be used to discuss potential design or quality problems on the construction project with designers who aren’t stationed on the project construction site. In addition, photographs can be used to record problems on the construction project, such as; lack of access, or the client’s operations or other contractors impeding the work, or damage done by others to completed work. Photographs of subcontractors’ poor quality work or lack of safety compliance provide a record which can be sent to their management. Managing your subcontractors. Ensuring your project is successful. It is becoming more common to include photographs with punch lists and quality inspections. Most specialized checklist software makes provision for the inclusion of photographs. Photographs record that the item was checked and meets the quality requirements (especially items that will become covered up) and they also record defects which allow those rectifying them to more easily find the fault. Photographs are an important aid to record the condition of structures when a pre-construction survey is prepared, or when an area or structure is handed to the following contractor. When hired equipment arrives on the project it’s good practice to photograph it to record the condition. These photographs should have a date. Photograph damaged items and the condition of tires and wearing parts. When construction equipment arrives on your project check these things. "Photographs are a valuable record of the condition of construction equipment arriving or leaving the project." Many suppliers photograph deliveries to record that they have been delivered to the designated address. Damaged materials should be photographed so there’s a record of the damages and these photographs should be immediately sent to the supplier. Depending on the project, photographs may be used for news stories, annual reports, and advertisements, and to show managers and stakeholders project progress. Care should be taken to check that these photographs don’t show unsafe work practices, an untidy workplace, poor quality or sensitive information since this could provide negative publicity. Sometimes photographs in company portfolios need to be changed or trashed. Frequently I see companies with pictures that are clearly out of date with old equipment. Ensure your company portfolio has pictures of your latest projects. Often it even pays to engage a professional photographer to take project photographs for company publicity, advertisements, and portfolios. Of course always ensuring that these show the best side of your project. Understanding what impacts your construction company’s reputation Many professional bodies and even construction magazines hold annual construction photographic competitions. Having one of your projects feature amongst the finalists can be prestigious and good advertising for your company. In our company, we even arranged an annual photographic competition with the 12 best photographs featuring in a company calendar which was distributed to projects and clients. The added benefit of this was that the company received excellent photographs of the latest projects which could feature in advertisements and the company portfolio. Consider adding some photos of similar projects to your next quotation or price submission (not too many, only a couple). Of course, make sure the photos are relevant. 12 Tactics to Win More Construction Projects at The Right Price Photographs of finished projects can even be useful to include in your personal résumé. "Photographs of damaged construction material can be invaluable when arguing compensation with a supplier." Advice for construction project photographsSome construction projects may be sensitive, or be using specialised equipment, which the owner might not want competitors to see. Sometimes projects are in military controlled areas, or in areas of high security. On these projects it may be necessary to restrict photography, and it is advisable to include provisions in all subcontract documentation to restrict the use of cameras. Of course this has become more difficult with most mobile phones containing cameras, as well as the miniaturisation of cameras. In any case, no party involved on the project should publish photographs, or release photographs to the media without the permission of the owner. It pays to keep all photographs from the construction project. Even the ‘dud’ photographs may prove useful later to prove a variation claim. An out of focus picture may still have enough information visible to use. Often we’ve wished that we had taken a photograph of something, or kept photographs that could have helped us prove a variation claim, or even disprove a variation claim lodged against us by a subcontractor. It’s important to file photographs by project and in folders where they can be easily found – it can be exasperating scrolling through hundreds of photos to find what you are looking for. 15 Rules for construction variation claims and change orders "For more valuable tips and insights read the author's construction management books. There is a book suitable for everyone involved with construction." Photographs can be a valuable resource on construction projectsAs they say a picture is worth a thousand words – or something like that. Certainly the right photograph could literally be worth a million dollars if it can prove a variation claim, or prove an item of equipment was delivered damaged to the project. How to Make your Construction Change Order Claims Successful This article was first published on the ClockShark website.
Please share this post To read more about the author’s books and find out where you can purchase them visit the pages on this website by clicking the links below: 'Successful Construction Project Management: The Practical Guide' 'Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide' 'Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors' 'Construction Project Management: Tips and Insights' 'Construction Management: From Project Concept to Completion' 'Construction Book reviews' To read more about the author visit the page 'Paul Netscher' Want to contact Paul Netscher please enter your details on 'Contacts' Find out how Paul Netscher can help you I do some work for a non-profit organization. Recently the national office decided to adopt a new accounting software package. This was done with little consultation with the branches, and in particular with the people who were actively involved with their finances. Each branch of the organization has its own requirements and way of doing things. Now it is important to standardize systems wherever possible so that every branch or division in the organization operates the same way, but for this to happen it is necessary to understand how each branch operates and their particular requirements. Then make sure that the new system can accommodate these requirements where possible. This may require the system to be adjusted slightly. It also might mean that the way some things are done at each branch or division has to change. It is however important that the new system won’t negatively impact the business unit. Things haven’t gone very smoothly with the transition to the new accounting system and the national office has succeeded in upsetting our branch treasurer and others. Thousands of words have been written in emails and much has been said about who is at fault and who is right. I’m sure all of us at some time have been part of an organization where new software, technology, and systems have been adopted, only to find that they didn’t deliver as expected, or that they weren’t used and eventually were discarded. Inevitably this has resulted in wasted costs and wasted time, even in some cases resulting in personnel who are annoyed, demoralised, or in some cases have left the organization. So why have these systems failed, and why is implementation often done so poorly? What should contractors consider when implementing new systems and technology?The implementation of new technology can often benefit construction companies, enabling them to be more efficient and productive. However:
There are many different systems available and their prices vary enormously. Therefore, before deciding on a system it’s important to adequately research the various options, decide what you require from the system, look at where the company will be in a few years’ time (size, location, and type of construction projects), and consider the pros and cons of each system and how they’ll best suit the needs of the company in the future. Decisions must not be made solely on price, rather they must be made considering the benefits of the system and the ease of use. ‘Clunky’ systems often take time to use, don’t always give the desired results and end up annoying users. Implementing new systems is time-consuming and often those implementing the system will have to work additional hours while learning new ways and to input existing data into the system. The implementation can also be disruptive to the overall running of the business. Invariably there will be ‘bugs’ and issues that have to be resolved. Often management underestimates the time and effort involved in converting to new systems and invariably unrealistic deadlines are set. Often these deadlines result in shortcuts being taken, existing data not being converted properly and ‘bugs’ not being properly solved. This can lead to long-term problems that can have negative impacts on the efficiencies of the system later. It is important to have deadlines otherwise some parts of the organization are slow to convert, but meeting a deadline should never impinge the long-term effectiveness of the system. Deadlines might have to be reassessed. Monitoring implementation is critical to ensure it’s done properly and is progressing according to schedule. Those in the organization needlessly delaying the implementation may have to be given a push in the right direction. It is important to have a ‘champion’ to drive the process who is continually talking to those involved to understand problems and progress. Issues need to be swiftly resolved before they become a reason for some not to implement the system, or reason for employees to become disgruntled. Management should show appreciation to that personnel who have been involved in converting to the new system and those that have had to put-up with the disruptions. Good communication is essential in construction "New technology used correctly can improve project outcomes." Why the adaption of new technology in construction often failsMany of the systems and technology implemented by contractors end in failure because:
"The author includes more valuable insights and tips for contractors in this book." Using new technology in construction can yield benefits if it is done properlyAlways look at new systems and technology with a critical eye and ensure that the company has considered all the pros and the cons, taking into account all the costs, the impact of implementing the changes, and more importantly look at existing systems and understand why they haven’t worked or how they could be improved to maximise their benefits. Once a new system or technology has been decided on it’s important that all users embrace its use. Those who are reluctant need to be helped, have the advantages explained to them and be provided with continuing support. Adapting to new technology and systems is often vital and it can deliver huge benefits – if it’s done properly. Can technology help your construction project? Construction Cost Reports - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly This article was first published on the ClockShark website. To visit this website and continue reading the article click on the link above.
Please share this post To read more about the author’s books and find out where you can purchase them visit the pages on this website by clicking the links below: 'Successful Construction Project Management: The Practical Guide' 'Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide' 'Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors' 'Construction Project Management: Tips and Insights' 'Construction Management: From Project Concept to Completion' 'Construction Book reviews' To read more about the author visit the page 'Paul Netscher' Want to contact Paul Netscher please enter your details on 'Contacts' Find out how Paul Netscher can help you |
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The opinions expressed in the attached articles are those of the writer. It should be noted that projects are varied and different laws and restrictions apply which depend on the location of the contractor and the project. It's important that the reader uses the supplied information taking cognisance of their particular circumstances. The writer assumes no responsibility or liability for any loss of any kind arising from the reader using the information or advice contained herein. "I have what I consider some of the best books on construction management."
Books are available from: Amazon.com Amazon.co.uk takealot.com kalahari.com Amazon.in Amazon.de Amazon.fr Amazon.it Amazon.com.au Powell's Fishpond uread bokus Amazon.ca Amazon.es Other retail stores Available in paperback or on Kindle "28 YEARS OF CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT EXPERIENCE, DEVELOPING SUCCESSFUL CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS AND BUILDING SUCCESSFUL CONSTRUCTION COMPANIES"
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