 Construction companies around the world are complaining about a shortage of people, and in particular a shortage of skilled people. The war for talent: How contractors battle for workers. In fact contractors blame poor quality, late completion, low productivity, increasing costs, and poor project performance on a lack of skills. Is this true? If it is, how can contractors improve the situation? The construction skills shortage seems to be worsening. Construction is perceived as a dirty and unsafe industry, where people are expected to work long hours for sometimes low wages. Indeed construction has a poor reputation which deters new entrants. Making the problem worse is the transitory nature of construction. Many construction companies dump their workers when a project is completed, with little reward for hard work or loyalty. Countless workers have no job security and know that once their project is complete they must start looking for another job. After a few cycles of this it’s no wonder that good skilled people leave the industry and move on. Older skilled workers are retiring while the younger generation doesn’t appear interested in a career in construction. Yet despite this outcry of a lack of skills some construction companies are doing little to retain the skilled people they have. They are certainly doing little to improve the image of the construction industry, and few contractors seem willing to upskill their workforce, or employ newly qualified people and train and mentor them. Nor do contractors think innovatively for new sources of people. It all seems too hard for the average contractor, who seems content rather to use the lack of resources as an excuse for poor construction project outcomes. After all, if there’s not a suitable experienced and qualified person waiting on the street corner for a job it must mean that there is a shortage of workers in construction! So how can construction companies improve the skills shortage? Well here are a few suggestions #constructionmanagement #constructionskillsshortage Tips to overcoming the construction skills shortage Staff retention It’s pointless employing new people to fill gaps when they don’t stay long, and others in the organisation leave, creating more gaps. Some contractors are in a perpetual cycle of filling voids left by people leaving the company. A cycle that can’t be won unless you take proactive steps to retain people. Now retaining people is a topic on its own which I’ve previously covered in several articles: How do we retain skilled employees in construction? and High Employee turnover? The sooner you know the better. So, start by retaining good people in your company and project. #staffretention Is your company a good place to work? Linked to the above is the question, ‘is your company a good place to work?’ If it isn’t then you are going to find it harder to attract people to your company and project. And when several contractors are fighting to employ the same person, if your company isn’t the employer of choice then the limited talent will go elsewhere. So honestly ask yourself, ‘is your company a good place to work?’ But not in your position, a role where you may enjoy particular perks and advantages, but rather in the position you are recruiting for. So if it’s a carpenter, supervisor, foreman, or whatever, how would a carpenter, supervisor, foreman, view your company, your project, compared to other contractors, and even other industries? Is the position and role your company is offering better than elsewhere? Learn to see your company as others see it. Ask prospective employees what they’re looking for in an employer and you’ll probably find that it’s not only about the best salary. People are generally looking for a company that values and respects them, they want some job security, of course they want a safe place to work, and a fair wage. People want to work for good managers and successful companies. Again this is a topic on its own, and I’ve written several articles on this including Is There Bullying on Your Construction Projects and Respect in construction - why it's important Ensure your company is a great place to work, where people want to work. Look within the company for people to fill the role Some contractors overlook people already working within the company. Is there someone within the organisation that can fill the position? Maybe they just need to be offered the role, and perhaps some extra training? Sure they may leave a vacancy where they are currently working – but maybe it will be easier to fill their position? In promoting someone within the company you’ll be rewarding the person, for which they’ll be grateful, and others within the organisation will see that there are prospects within the company to advance, grow, and take on new responsibilities and roles. When I became the general manager of a new division/branch of our company, in 5 years we grew the division by 8 fold, also increasing profits 8 fold, and this was almost done entirely without employing new management. We were able to find and promote people from within our organisation to fill the additional roles of foremen, project managers, and directors. Ask your project managers, supervisors, foremen, managers, is there someone they know working for them who can fill the position that’s needed. Sometimes managers have to be coaxed to put forward good people working for them, knowing that they are going to have a hole in their team, so it’s important for managers to realise that it’s for the benefit of the company, as well as the person they are releasing. So start your search amongst those already working for the company, before spreading your search wider. You may be surprised at the talent hiding in plain sight within your company. Who knows who You’re looking for people – have you asked your employees if they know someone who wants to work for the company – a friend or relative? I’ve sometimes had success this way. If friends and relatives of employees want to work for your company it usually means that your company is an attractive place to work, because your employees are willing to recommend to their friends and relatives to come and work where they are employed. Even ask your subcontractors, clients, suppliers, and the professional team. Spread the word that you're looking for people. If your client, project team, or subcontractors think that your company is a professional outfit with good managers they'll recommend your company as a good place to work. A contractor that is looking to employ people now. Do your employees know you are searching for people?  You cannot afford to discriminate Unfortunately many of us have biases towards people, which may be conscious or even unconscious. So we are apt to put people in boxes and exclude them from certain jobs without even knowing their skills or experience. People are simply excluded from a job based on their race, colour, sex, even on how they dress or look, perhaps even excluding an overweight person on the premise that they must be lazy. Some automatically allocate people of a certain nationality to a particular job, assuming all Irish, or New Zealanders, or Mexicans, are only good at a particular task, and disregarding them for an alternative position. What nonsense! Construction is desperate for good people, who cares what they look like or where they come from, as long as they are willing to work and have the right skills employ the person and don’t hold them back for any reason other than they can’t do the job. Again this is a topic that I’ve previously written about Discrimination in construction – is it holding your company back? Are you excluding a large portion of the population from your search because of your biases? Drop the excuses There are some perennial excuses that companies use not to employ someone looking for work. Let’s consider how stupid some of these are!
Are your excuses for not employing someone valid, or are you simply regurgitating time worn excuses? Do you even know why you don’t employ some candidates? To be continuedIn my next article I discuss how you can cast your search wider, and how construction needs an image makeover to attract the next generation of construction workers. #constructioncareers #contractors #constructionindustry © 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully
Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.
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 In my previous article 10 tips to successfully pricing your next construction project I discussed how some contractors take the shotgun approach to pricing and quoting construction projects. Literally submitting hundreds of prices in the hope that they will win a few projects. This leads to overwork of the estimators, and in some cases owners or project managers involved in pricing projects. It results in wasted effort, but more seriously it could lead to mistakes and winning projects with a price below what it’s going to cost the contractor to build the project. Unfortunately the shotgun approach could also mean that the contractor misses out on good projects which the contractor could have won if they had put more effort into their quotation and price submission. In this article I’ll discuss another 10 more tips to successfully pricing and winning projects. #pricingconstructionprojects #constructionbids #constructiontenders  More tips for pricing construction projects 1. Understand the quality requirements. Are they standard, and can you deliver the requirements? 2. Price the project from first principles. This means:
5. Check the project cashflow. Even a profitable construction project can destroy a company if the contractor can’t manage the cashflow. Negative cash flow – the death for many construction companies. So does your company have the finance available to pay for things while waiting for payment from the client. Most construction projects are cashflow negative until the end of the project. Larger construction projects usually require more cash, as do projects which require expensive materials, and projects that require a large amount of work in a short time frame. 6. Check:
9. Prepare your price submission so that it looks professional.
Finally make sure your price is delivered to the required person on time. The next stage of the project price submission process  But even when the project price is submitted it doesn’t mean the process is completed.
Winning the right construction projects at the right price In our 2 articles on pricing construction projects we discussed how important it is to have good market intelligence – what construction projects are coming out to price, and what your competitors or other contractors are up to. It’s important to understand all aspects of the construction project – the client, the contract document, and the project site conditions. Then develop an accurate price – based on an accurate construction schedule and the local market conditions, using the best construction methods suited to the project and the available resources. Finally submit a professional quotation that includes all the documentation requested, and importantly which sells your company’s abilities and why you are the right contractor for the construction project. Pick the right construction project to price, a construction project you want and one you can win from your competitors, then put all effort into winning the project. Finally don’t lose the project or make a stupid mistake in the negotiation phase. #constructionprojects #contractors #constructionmanagement Other useful articles What do you do when your construction project is LOSING money? Financial checks and controls on construction projects Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully
Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Pricing (estimating) a construction project has been described as a science, an art, part luck, and for some just a guess. Getting your price right means you have to win the project with a price that is higher than your final project costs will be, meaning you’ll make a profit. But just because you have the right price (for your company) doesn’t mean that your competitor won’t have a lower price that will be profitable for them. Having a lower price than your competitors also doesn’t mean that you’ll be awarded the project since clients often look for other requirements, and they need to be convinced that you are the right contractor for their project. Unfortunately there are many contractors who submit flawed prices which have little chance of success, or worse, which can lead to the downfall of the company when the price is lower than their final project costs. But there are also many other risks that contractors don’t consider when pricing their projects, these include non-payment, inability to deliver the project to the required standards, lengthy legal disputes, health risk to employees, reputational risks, cashflow problems, and even the risk of losing out on favourable future work. #pricingconstructionprojects #constructionbids #constructiontenders Tips to successfully pricing your construction project 1. Understand your client. You don’t want to work for some clients, particularly those who don’t, or can’t pay. Check whether your client:
 2. Understand the project documentation.
3. Know the market and what other projects are coming out for pricing. Good market intelligence is essential. You don’t want to be stuck with a difficult project at a low price while you miss out on other more lucrative and easy projects that are likely to be available in the next few months. Read: Should contractors price every project? 4. Physically check the project site conditions.
5. Understand the opposition (competitors). It may not be worth pricing projects against competitors who are known to be favoured by the client, ones that have a reputation for stupidly low prices, or competitors that are in a position to deliver a cheaper project because they are working in the area or have the right equipment for the project. You may be wasting your time pricing a project which you don’t stand a chance of winning! 6. Understand the project. What is your company responsible to deliver? What will the client supply?  Despite the obvious warning signs some contractors dive straight into risky projects. 7. Identify and quantify the risks. Prepare a risk schedule. Understand how you can manage and reduce the risks. Be prepared to walk away from projects that are too risky and where the quantum of the risk event could sink the company. Read How to deal with construction risks 8. Know your company’s capabilities. Will you have the people and equipment to do the work? Do you have people with the right experience? 9. Check the available resources. Are materials, people, and equipment available? Will they be available when they are required? 10. Consider the construction methodology. Develop the best methodology taking account of your company’s capabilities, the available resources, the project site conditions, the project schedule requirements, price, safety and the client’s requirements and design. Consider alternative construction methods and products. Conclusion Some contractors take the shot gun approach to pricing projects. Aiming in the general direction of the target and hoping they snag a project. Submitting as many prices as possible, hoping that one will get them a project. Their estimators often work long hours churning out price after price, just hoping that they will have success with one submission. Unfortunately this often leads to mistakes. High prices mean it's another effort in vain. Low prices may land the company a project at a price they cannot do the work for. Rather contractors should pick the right project, then spend time and effort preparing a winning price submission. In my next article I discuss more tips for winning construction bids 10 more tips for pricing construction projects#constructionprojects #contractors #constructionmanagement Other useful articles Negative cash flow – the death for many construction companies some Reasons why projects lose money Top Tips to Cut Costs on Today's Construction Site Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully
Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  How can Technology help ConstructionCan technology help the construction industry? Productivity has not improved in construction over the last few decades, contrary to most other industries. Why is building so slow and expensive? Contractors have been slow to embrace technology. How can technology help the industry? The future of construction. The use of BIM is becoming more common. Technology is useful to eliminate paperwork and increase productivity. Like these quality checklists. In this blog I share some interesting articles on technology. #constructiontechnology  Image courtesy of nokhoog_buchachon at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Using Robots in ConstructionHere's a company incorporating technology on their projects. They are even trialling a robot dog as a superintendent. Maybe there are some ideas you can use on your next project? You can use robots to help set out structures. Here's more on robot construction. Robots can be used for drywalling. What about autonomous equipment. Here's an autonomous excavator. #constructionrobots Drones in Construction Image by Thomas Ehrhardt from Pixabay Is there a place for drones on our construction projects? Drones can be used aerial mapping and surveying in hard to reach places, like on roofs and on bridges. They can be used to check quality. Is there place for them to do work in dangerous areas, perhaps even painting bridges? #dronesconstruction 3D PrintingMuch has been said about 3D printing. How will 3D printing change how we construct buildings and structures? Technology Improving Construction SafetySafety is another place where technology can help. You can use remotely operated machines to work in dangerous places. They can do work in extreme temperatures and in difficult conditions. Here's a company using wearable technology to prevent injuries. But technology is also useful in safety training using VR. #constructionsafety #constructionsafetytechnology  Image courtesy of renjith krishnan at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Overcoming the Risks of Using Technology in ConstructionCan technology make construction safer, more productive, and producing better quality? Can it provide clients with a good end product? Will contractors be more profitable? And will the introduction of new technology attract the next generation of workers to the industry - a generation that has literally been born with a smart phone in hand, who's lives are intertwined with the latest technology? Can technology help your construction project? What are the risks of depending on technology? Indeed contractors must use the appropriate technology and implement it properly. Here are some questions contractors should ask. Cybercrime is on the rise. Contractors must be vigilant to protect against cybercrime. It's important to build trust between workers and robots and autonomous machines. ConclusionConstruction must use technology. Contractors can achieve enormous benefits from new technology. However technology cannot make a bad contractor good. Technology cannot make a poor construction project manager good. Technology can make good contractors better. Technology used correctly can make good construction project managers better and more productive. Contractors must adapt new ways of doing things better. But they must choose the right technology and ensure their teams use the technology correctly. It's time for construction to move into the 21st century. #constructionmanagement
Other useful articles Time management Why is there poor productivity on your construction project? Busted: 12 Construction Myths Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Most construction projects will change and vary from the works that were originally priced. There will be unexpected construction delays and problems. Variations and changes occur for many different reasons, and not all of them entitle the Contractor to a claim. Contractors that don’t claim variations or change orders they are entitled to claim will incur costs that they did not allow for in their price. Contractors that do not claim delays they are entitled to claim could finish the project late and be penalised by the Client. Regrettably some construction projects end in long, expensive, and bitter disputes over the validity of variation claims and change orders. But, it does not have to be this way. I have been involved with over 120 construction projects. I submitted variation claims or change orders on almost all of these projects. Some projects nearly doubled in value and some projects increased in time by up to 80%. I settled all change orders amicably with the Client, except two projects. One had a dispute adjudication board on the project and this was used to resolve the issue. One project we employed a lawyer and declared a dispute because the Client did not respond to our claims. I got most of the time and money I claimed. And, importantly we did further projects with most Clients, so our reputation was not tarnished with these change orders. It is possible to submit and agree variation claims and change orders amicably without upsetting Clients. Preparing, submitting, and negotiating variation claims and change orders is something that contractors often do badly. It's a topic close to my heart, and something I've written several articles about, which I reference below. I've also written an easy to read guide for contractors: Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors. Below are 15 simple rules to help you successfully deal with variations and changes on your construction project. #constructiondisputes #changeorders  15 Rules for dealing with construction variations and delays
Winning Construction Change OrdersIt is possible to amicably agree change orders with Clients by following these 15 rules. Contractors are entitled to claim for legitimate changes and delays which they could not reasonably have foreseen or allowed for. Change orders should not end in disputes. #constructionclaims #constructioncontracts #constructionlaw Other useful articles Don’t start construction projects without a proper contract. Can I Claim for Additional Time on My Construction Project?  Information in this article is from the author's book ‘Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors’. © 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon. The warehouse is the heart of any business, and it's crucial to get the storage right. A warehouse can be tailored to suit your needs in a number of ways; for example, you might need specific shelving or racks depending on what you're storing. We'll take a look into some of the basics that go into constructing a warehouse, so you know exactly what you're getting when building one. We also recommend checking out this blog post about The Top 5 Software for Construction Project Planning & Management.  Photo by Pickawood on Unsplash What Is A Warehouse?A warehouse is the storage facility for a company's inventory and serves as its point of distribution to consumers. It can either be spread over an entire area or part of one, depending on how much you need to store! A standard warehouse consists primarily of shelves where merchandise is stored pending shipment out. However, there are different construction types that can be used to suit different needs. We'll take a look into some of the basics that go into constructing a warehouse, so you know exactly what you're getting when building one! According to Statista, The number of warehouses is expected to reach just under 180,000 by 2025. The boom in e-commerce has led retailers and manufacturers alike for space that can store goods without transportation costs as well as provide easy access at any time necessary; this has caused an upsurge throughout North America where 25% more warehousing facilities are being built every year on average than anywhere else around the world! Types Of WarehousesThere are three types of warehouses to consider for your storage needs. These include full-service (i.e.: including manufacturing and distribution), general service (storage only), or cross-docking (where the shipment is received, processed, and shipped out again). It's important to consider this when choosing your warehouse type. Warehouses are vital for most businesses; make sure you get the one that suits your needs best! Considerations For Warehouse ConstructionThere are a number of factors to consider when constructing your warehouse. These include the type and size, but also important elements such as ventilation, noise control, lighting, and more! Make sure you get it right from the beginning so that no aspect is left unfinished or overlooked. Building Material When it comes to warehouse construction materials, steel is the most common. The framework of a typical building uses this material for its support and durability in holding heavy loads without getting damaged easily over time as other types can do. Designers also prefer using metals due to their strength when combined with fiberglass roofs that allow natural light inside while making them easy enough repairs if anything ever needed to be replaced on-site during use too! As expected wood has always been an important resource used not only within buildings themselves but also shelves/storage space all around them; they're perfect places where goods will stay safely until needed again at some point down the line. Construction costs account for about 80% of the overall cost of a warehouse, which emphasizes the importance of ensuring high quality. We're all looking for a little inspiration, so why not check out this blog post about the Most Popular Commercial Roofs and Roofing Materials. Structure and Location To keep up with the demand for next-day delivery, warehouses are being built closer to customers. However, this requires an adequate location and good connections for logistics in order to reduce inventory wait times which is why most new development takes place on industrial estates near major cities, where land prices allow them access into those areas without having too much traffic congestion around their facilities as there was once before due primarily because people living close by needed things delivered quickly. Importance of Size When choosing a warehouse space, size matters. According to WarehouseSpace, the typical 1 km long and over 500 thousand container-sized buildings can cost hundreds or thousands more depending on which type you choose: smaller ones are cheaper but they offer less storage capacity for inventory while requiring similar running costs as larger facilities (costs per square meter). Safety A warehouse is a great place to store things, but it also comes with risks. All structures must be fireproof and the roof cannot exceed 40 feet tall if you want an easy way out in case of emergencies like fires or other accidents that happen on site. In addition to this precautionary measure for safety purposes, there are some key steps taken before construction begins such as obtaining planning permission which can only occur after meeting all necessary requirements via inspection from local authorities overseeing building codes. These precautions protect both inventories stored within these facilities (warehouse stock) plus those who work inside them by reducing risk factors caused by injuries resulting from falls among others. As a warehouse employer, you also have a legal responsibility to protect workers and others from risk to their health and safety. According to the warehouse experts at Todoos, to keep a safe and operational warehouse, ensure you have a thorough cleaning schedule, garbage receptacles placed in priority areas, and information to promote hand-washing and general hygiene.  Photo by CPG. IO on Unsplash ConclusionYour warehouse is your most valuable asset. It’s the backbone of your business and must be designed with safety in mind always. Considerations should be made about what materials will work best in your situation and where the location may have an impact on how much it would cost to construct a new one. How big does your company need? What safety features do they require? These questions can all help with determining whether or not constructing a new facility is worth it! After considering all these factors, you should have a good idea about how to build or renovate an effective warehouse for your company's needs. Remember that no two warehouses are built alike so it’s important to take into account what will work best for you and yours before getting started on any project! We hope this article has been helpful in understanding more about warehouses and why knowledge in this area may benefit you as well as others who read it! Other useful articles How can clients ensure their projects meet their expectations? The 10 Biggest Risks Clients and Owners Face On Construction Projects Collaboration in construction AuthorFrom Murray Bilby, Crowd Control Expert at Todoos. Todos specializes in everything that warehouse managers may require for seamless functioning of their facility – from queuing systems to waste receptacles, cigarette receptacles, signage, and even barriers for restricting access to areas where only a selected few are allowed. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Sometimes Contractors don’t claim the costs they are entitled to claim. Who works for free? (An introduction to construction variation claims for construction project managers - part 1 - why you should submit claims) It's often difficult for Contractors to make a profit. Margins are tight. Yet, some contractors do work for free. They neglect to claim for legitimate changes and delays caused by the client or due to reasons they could not have foreseen. So what should contractors look out for? When can they claim additional costs? #changeorders  Additional Costs Contractors Can ClaimThe Contractor can claim additional costs when:
#constructionvariations  Claiming additional costsThe Contractor must be able to demonstrate that these events impacted them and prove the resulting costs. Include supporting documentation. (Documents That Will Make Your Construction Variation Claim Successful). Don't work for free. Understand your contract and claim the legitimate costs that you are entitled to claim. #constructionclaims #constructioncontracts #constructionlaw Other useful articles Don’t you hate it when clients ignore your change orders? Negotiating a construction variation claim – read this first to improve your success 10 Tips To Submit Winning Variation Claims  This article is an extract from the author's book ‘Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors’. © 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Often disputes and Claims arise on construction projects because of misunderstandings. (Avoiding disputes on your construction project.) Why are there misunderstandings? Well usually because of poor communication. This may be because information isn't provided, or the information is incomplete, or there is conflicting information. Sometimes the Contractor in their haste to construct the project has not taken the time to fully interpret the information provided, or perhaps search for missing information. The problem could even be within the Contractor's team where information has not been passed to those doing the work. (the importance of good communication on projects) Whatever the case, misunderstanding the information provided, or interpreting the information incorrectly, or making the wrong assumptions when there is conflicting or incomplete information, could be very costly for the Contractor, resulting in delays and work being redone. #constructionprojectmanagement #constructiondisputes Asking Questions May Avoid Mistakes Often Contractors assume something incorrectly, leading them to make mistakes that a simple question could have avoided.
 Lack of Clarity When Pricing Construction ProjectsSometimes Contractors make errors when they price construction projects. They incorrectly assumed something resulting in them pricing a project too low, or submitting a construction schedule which isn't achievable. Unfortunately sometimes information provided by the Client for pricing the project is incomplete, or unclear. Some critical project information could even be missing. The contractor should not assume anything when pricing a construction project.
Wrong Assumptions Lead to Expensive Construction Errors Never assume anything. Query things which you are unsure of, or which don't look right. No question is stupid, but mistakes are stupid and cost money. Take a little extra time to check what you are doing is correct. Contractor's have a duty to ask questions. #constructionmanagementtips Other useful articles Conflict Resolution and Prevention on Construction Projects Avoiding the unexpected in construction Did you make a difference on your construction project today?
© 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Conflict in ConstructionEvery construction project has conflict. There’s conflict within construction teams, conflict between supervisors, conflict within the contractor’s management team, conflict with suppliers and subcontractors and conflict between the client’s team and the contractor’s team. A construction project is a melting pot of egos, personalities and cultures. It’s a stressed environment with everyone trying to do the best for themselves and their company, while getting the job completed as quickly as possible, often in difficult circumstances. Sometimes you can’t avoid conflict, you have to stand up to the client when they’re being unfair to your company and demanding things which aren’t in the contract document. You have to take a stand when people in your crew aren’t obeying company or project rules. You have to be tough on suppliers and subcontractors who aren’t delivering. But, this must be done without yelling and swearing (regrettably I was often guilty of this). It’s important to explain why you’re unhappy and what’s unacceptable. Successful construction demands good communication #conflictresolution  Not the way to resolve conflict (Image courtesy of franky242 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net) Contain your frustrations Of course, there will always be some that make you really angry. People make mistakes. Supervisors will put their area of work ahead of other work on the project. They will see their work as coming first and not look at the greater project. They may block access to other parts of the project, maybe use materials needed elsewhere, unfairly hog equipment, like cranes, so that other work areas are kept waiting. It’s good to be so passionate about your work that you care when others are impeding you. But, don’t fly into a rage. Understand that others are also passionate about getting their work done, and often their actions aren't deliberate - they're just focussed on their work, without considering the consequence of their actions on the rest of the project. Everyone on a construction project is also stressed. Often they aren’t even aware of the impact their actions are having on other work. Explain logically what the problem is, and more importantly how the problem should be resolved. Sure you can show your displeasure and explain that the issue should be avoided in the future. Everyone needs to understand that completing the project is a team effort and the project isn’t complete until all sections are complete. Unquestionably, there will always be some incompetent people in construction, there will be some arse holes on the project, some managers and client’s representatives will be irritating with poor knowledge and little experience, construction is like that, there are many who shouldn’t hold the position that they have, but learn to work around them. If need be help them, tripping them up is seldom going to benefit you other than the short term satisfaction it may provide. There will be subcontractors and suppliers that let you down. Why did they let the project down? Was there something you could have done better to prevent the issue? How can the situation be rectified? How can it be prevented from recurring? Shouting and cursing is not going to help! Sure you are passionate and it is only right to show your displeasure, but it's more important that the problem is fixed quickly. Obviously, never be so assured in your knowledge and self-esteem that you’re not prepared to listen to the other person. None of us are so perfect that we can’t learn something new, or a new method of doing things. Sometimes even young and inexperienced managers may see things differently and come up with an innovative solution you hadn’t considered before.  Resolving issues together (Image by Michal Jarmoluk from Pixabay) There will be times when others will be unhappy with you – rightly or wrongly. They may yell and swear at you. Of course you won’t like that, but that’s not reason to yell and cuss back. Rather stay calm. If you did something wrong admit it and apologise – that will soon diffuse the situation and it most cases the other person will forget that anything happened and move on. Arguing something where you’re wrong will invariably escalate the situation making it worse. Certainly if the other person is wrong then tell them why they’re wrong. Be prepared to argue your case in a clear logical manner without becoming emotional or personal about it – even if the other person is throwing personal insults. Sometimes arguments are over stupid small things. Consider if it’s really worth your time and effort to argue some silly point or misdemeanour. Some arguments are best walked away from. Sometimes though problems can’t be rationally resolved, the other person is never going to understand your point of view. In these cases it may be necessary to involve a third party to settle the dispute. #disputeresolution Conflict within construction teamsOn occasion, there may be some in your crew fighting and arguing. This is disruptive and can jeopardise safety and productivity. It’s important to have a harmonious team and to step-in and resolve the dispute. Listen to each person’s arguments and then logically explain who is right and who is wrong. Sometimes both might be wrong. Unfortunately, from time to time we get trouble makers in our team, or maybe just somebody that’s obnoxious and gets people’s backs up. If the person is unable to change their behaviour they may have to be moved elsewhere, possibly have their employment terminated. There will also sometimes be clashes of personality, someone does not see eye to eye with another. It’s important to understand why there’s a problem. If it’s because of racial, ethnic or any form of discrimination it’s important to stamp it out immediately, and the person being discriminatory should be warned to discontinue the behaviour or disciplinary action will be taken. If it’s simply a clash of personalities and neither party is prepared to back down then one of the workers may have to be transferred to another crew. But always try and talk through the problem with the two people. Talk to others in the crew to check that there isn’t another underlying cause that you’ve missed, a matter that could perhaps arise later in another form. Discrimination in construction – is it holding your company back? Sure, sometimes it might seem like you’re a policeman, a psychologist, a judge, jury, and even sometimes like a parent, but unfortunately a construction manager or supervisor is all of these and more. Conflict resolutionConflict resolution and prevention is an important aspect of a construction manager's duty, and potential conflict situations should be quickly dealt with in a fair and impartial manner, otherwise even trivial matters can quickly escalate in to major issues, or fester unresolved in the background impacting morale and productivity. You cannot always avoid conflict in construction. You cannot walk away from many issues. Rather it's the way that you resolve issues. Getting people to work together for the best project outcomes. Successful construction projects are built by harmonious teams working together for the best project outcomes. Solving problems together. #constructionmanagement #constructionprojectmanagement #construction Other useful articles What qualities does a good construction project manager require? using the strengths of your employees to build a successful company 12 Proven Time Management Tips For Construction Project Managers
© 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Cranes are a valuable items of equipment on many construction projects. They are used to lift heavy material and equipment. Offloading items from delivery trucks, then placing them in position, sometimes up on towering buildings. Cranes allow for prefabricated and modular sections to be positioned in place - often speeding up construction. Many projects would not be possible without using cranes, or would certainly require lots more effort and time to complete. Unfortunately there are many accidents each year involving cranes. Most of these could be avoided if those using the cranes took better care. Below are a few pertinent and important points to consider when employing cranes on your construction project. #craneaccidents There is other lifting equipment such as forklifts, telehandlers, etc, which are also commonly used to lift and transport material around construction projects. These can also prove deadly when they over topple, or when loads are not properly secured.  Crane accidentsCrane accidents result in:
Safety tips for cranesThe incorrect use of cranes and lifting equipment is often the cause of serious accidents. Lifting equipment must always have the outriggers fully deployed and the outriggers must be on firm ground and not near the edges of excavations. The outriggers should be on sturdy boards or beams to distribute the load. Cranes should never lift loads that are heavier, or at a greater reach, than their rated capacity. Always know the weight of heavy loads and ensure these are within the capabilities of the crane. The crane operator should not be overruled or forced to lift a load that they’re uncomfortable of lifting (if in doubt check with an expert). Cranes should never be used in gusty or windy conditions, nor should they be deployed when there’s lightning. Loads should never be lifted over people. Many a time loads have broken free and come crashing down to the ground. Anyone below could be fatally injured if this happens. (Read crane company charged over crane collapse)  #constructionsafety Always take extreme care when cranes are working in close proximity to structures or other cranes. (Read: Buildings evacuated as crane smashes into office tower) Cranes should never work near overhead live electrical cables. Coming in contact, or indeed even within a couple of metres, of live high voltage cables could result in a fatal accident, damage to the crane and a power outage. (Read fatal accident when crane touches powerlines) Items being lifted by the crane must always be properly secured. Loads should be balanced so they can’t topple over. Large loads and loads being manoeuvred in tight spaces should have tag lines attached so they can be safely guided into position by workers, who should never stand directly under the load. Workers holding tag lines must take care that swinging loads don’t pull them off buildings or into excavations. (Read: 6 workers injured when crane drops reinforcing bars and Death under load of scaffold)  Failure of a sling will result in the load being dropped, where it could cause serious damage to equipment and structures below and fatally injure people. (Read Pressure washer plunges 29 floors) In addition the loss of a heavy load has often resulted in the crane boom swinging back so rapidly that it’s caused the boom to break and even the crane to topple over.  Slings must always be properly secured to the crane hook and to the load in such a manner that they can’t accidently come loose. Crane hooks should be checked for cracks and deformation. Hooks have opened while lifting heavy loads, resulting in the load falling to the ground. Hooks should have working safety catches which prevent the lifting slings from accidently falling off. Slings (chains, straps and cables) are of different load ratings. Always ensure that slings are rated for the weight being lifted. Slings must be checked regularly for wear, damage and deformities. Damaged slings must be clearly marked as nonconforming and removed from the project site so they aren’t accidently used. Multi-leg slings must be fixed in such a way that the legs are as close to vertical as possible, and not at an angle greater than 30 degrees from the vertical – the more horizontal the leg the greater the stress created in the sling, which could mean that the stress exceeds what the sling can carry, causing it to break.  Slings must always be stored where they won’t be damaged by other equipment and where they won’t become muddy and dirty. Working with cranesCranes are an indispensable part of many construction projects. Cranes are expensive to hire so they should be effectively utilized to minimize time and cost. Regrettably, there are many crane accidents each year, which cause, injury, loss of life, and damage to structures and other equipment. With proper care cranes are valuable tools which can be safely used. #constructionmanagement #constructionprojectmanagement #constructionequipment Other useful articles Become Great at Hiring Equipment for Your Construction Project The Alarming Truth about Using Old Construction Equipment Construction Equipment Productivity  This article is an extract from the book 'The Successful Construction Supervisor and Foreman'. © 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Not all subcontractors' prices are equalIn our previous articles we discussed Selecting subcontractors for your construction project and What to include in Subcontractor pricing documentation So now you've received prices from a number of subcontractors. Which subcontractor do you choose? The one with the cheapest price? Are you sure this will result in the cheapest cost for your construction project? Checking subcontractor quotations It's important to carefully check and compare the prices and quotations you receive from the different subcontractors. It's important to check the following:
Adjudicating subcontractor prices fairlyThe adjudication of prices must be seen to be done in a fair manner. A full record of the adjudication process should be kept, in case there are queries later. Remember to add in your extra costs when evaluating the Subcontractor’s price against other prices so you’re comparing apples with apples. Hopefully the last few articles have been useful and you will pick the right subcontractor for your project, using an appropriate contract document. Other useful articles Subcontractor construction contract documents Don't save construction costs by doing this What’s expected of your subcontractors? Do they know? Click on picture to view books on Amazon Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
One reader said: "I felt impelled to message you as I purchased your book, and wanted to thank you for the content, it has been very helpful." Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Many projects go badly because the wrong subcontractor is selected. Often the subcontractor that submitted the lowest price is selected. But, it is not only about price. In our previous article Subcontractor scope of works we discussed how important is was to define the scope that you require your subcontractor to price to ensure that work was not accidently omitted, and also so work was not duplicated. In What to include in Subcontractor pricing documentation we looked at what documentation should be supplied to prospective subcontractors so they could accurately price the work. Finally in Subcontractor construction contract documents and Subcontractor contract documents part 2 we considered what should be included in your subcontractor's contract document. So now you have received prices for your project from a number of subcontractors. How do you decide who you will use? Will you take the subcontractor with the lowest price? Will you check that the subcontractor has the capabilities to do the work? Will you compare the prices from each subcontractor to check that the cheapest is really the cheapest, and that you won't incur extra costs by employing the subcontractor? Well that's what we are going to consider in this article and the one that follows. What to check when selecting a subcontractor You don't want this workmanship! It’s important to check the following:
 Registrations and licences Once the prices, or quotations, have been received they must be carefully adjudicated, ensuring that ‘apples are being compared with apples’, like with like. It’s important not to just look at the total price, but rather consider the whole price submission. Which is what we look at in our next article. Other useful articles some reasons why projects lose money Managing subcontractors on your construction project. What you should consider. What you need to know to close-out your construction project successfully Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
One reader said: "I felt impelled to message you as I purchased your book, and wanted to thank you for the content, it has been very helpful." Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Contract documents should set out the rights and obligations of all the contracting parties. A flawed construction contract document can lead to problems and disputes during construction. In my last article Subcontractor construction contract documents we discussed that the contract document was a legally binding contract. Also that the subontract document does not have to be lengthy and that the contract document should be appropriate to the work. So what should be included in your subcontract document?  Subcontract documents should includeThe subcontract contract document must include or make provision for:
 Much of the contract documentation should have formed part of the pricing documentation. Read What to include in Subcontractor pricing documentation You cannot add things into the document extra to what the Subcontractor priced. Other useful articles Is the cheapest really the cheapest? - adjudicating quotations How you can make your next construction project more successful. Managing subcontractors on your construction project. What you should consider. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
"I highly recommend this book be read by all newly qualified construction project managers as well as those more experienced." Reader review on Amazon Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon. What should be included in contract documents?  In our previous article we discussed What to include in Subcontractor pricing documentation. This followed a previous article Subcontractor scope of works where we looked at how important it was to get the scope of works right before asking subcontractors to price work. Subcontractors are critical to the success of most construction projects. Regrettably many problems arise with subcontractors. Many of these problems occur even before the subcontractor starts work. Often the wrong subcontractor is selected, or the subcontractor isn't given all the correct information to price the work. Then there are problems with the contract document which makes it difficult to administer the subcontractor, and flaws in the documents which even give rise to claims from the subcontractor. In this article we consider the actual contract document that you use with construction subcontractors. Are long contract documents necessary?
In our next article Subcontractor contract documents part 2 we consider what should be included in the subcontractor's contract document. Other useful articles Avoiding disputes on your construction project. Understanding the real cost of delays on your construction project Selecting The Right Contractors and Subcontractors for Your Construction Project Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
One reader said: "I felt impelled to message you as I purchased your book, and wanted to thank you for the content, it has been very helpful." Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  In our article Subcontractor scope of works we mentioned how important subcontractors were to the success of construction projects. We discussed how some construction projects failed because the wrong subcontractor was selected. Problems with subcontractors often begin during the pricing and selection process. We discussed how critical it was that subcontractors had an accurate scope of works to price. This ensures that every subcontractor prices the same thing so that it's easy to adjudicate and compare the various subcontractor's prices. An accurate scope of works also ensures that subcontractors price the work required, thus avoiding potential variation claims and change orders later. It means that the subcontractors doesn't price stuff that they aren't expected to do. In this article we consider what to include in the pricing documentation, or instruction to price, to ensure that the subcontractor understands the terms and conditions of the subcontract document, and that they cannot claim for project conditions they were unaware of.  Subcontractor pricing documentation
•retainage money, •surety requirements, •warranties, •insurances.
•working times, •interaction with others. •Particular rules, hazards, etc.
 ConclusionRemember anything you require the Subcontractor to do which is not in these documents could give rise to a variation claim or change order later. So check the documentation and scope of works you ask subcontractors to price to ensure you've included everything you expect your subcontractors to execute, and the project conditions they must comply with. Forgetting something could be very expensive later. In our next article we discuss what to include in subcontractor documentation. Other useful articles choosing a subcontractor An introduction to construction variation claims for construction project managers Video 5 - Types of claims How can clients ensure their projects meet their expectations? Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
One reader said: "I felt impelled to message you as I purchased your book, and wanted to thank you for the content, it has been very helpful." Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Take a look at any construction site, anywhere in the world, and the chances are that you’ll see something familiar. Massive single-use pieces of equipment are a mainstay in any construction fleet, but for smaller businesses, a lack of both space and funding means that you need to look into multi-use alternatives. Backhoes, skid steer loaders, and compact track loaders are capable of utilizing a myriad of attachments, depending on the needs of the job. Here is a quick breakdown of construction equipment attachments and what you might use them for.  Augers Augers are heavy-duty high-torque drill bits designed to dig holes in the soil or rocky surfaces. These are ideal for everything from creating post holes to digging transplant holes for trees and other landscaping. Backhoes If you’re working with a skid steer loader or a compact track loader, a backhoe attachment can give you all of the functionality of a backhoe without having to invest in an extra piece of equipment. Buckets Buckets for backhoes come in a variety of different sizes and applications, so you’re sure to find something that works for you. General-purpose buckets can work for most applications, but if you’re working on a specific task like lifting heavy rocks or excavating soil, there are variations of the standard bucket that works for those as well.  Image by Dimitris Vetsikas from Pixabay Blades Blades are a valuable tool for site clearing and cutting applications. They do require frequent sharpening when cutting through dense materials but they’re more efficient than doing the same tasks by hand or with handheld tools. Brooms Why sweep your job site by hand when you can attach a broom to your backhoe or skid steer loader and use it to keep your site clean and safe. It is also a valuable tool for shifting materials like sand that might be difficult to lift or manipulate with larger equipment. Brush cutters If you find yourself needing to clear-cut a new lot before construction begins, brush cutters are the perfect attachment for the job. They come in widths ranging from 60 to 78 inches, making it easy to clear even large lots quickly and easily. Compactors Heavy-duty compactors might be more efficient for large stretches of land, but for small projects or those that have limited space, smaller backhoe or skid steer attachments are the best option.  Image by Siggy Nowak from Pixabay Hammers While these aren’t as common on construction sites, hammer attachments are valuable tools if you need to break up large rocks or concrete. They’re more common on quarries and on demolition sites. Pallet Forks These might not always be necessary, but if you find yourself needing to move palletized materials, a pallet fork attachment can make the job infinitely easier. These attachments usually come with adjustable fork widths so you can lift different size pallets with ease. Plows Snow, sleet and mud can throw a wrench into the best-laid plans. Instead of letting them delay your project or investing in a single-use snowplow, consider a plow attachment for your backhoe or skid steer loader. Rakes Whether you’re trying to smooth uneven terrain or remove rocks and other debris, a rake attachment makes the job move a lot faster than trying to complete the same task by hand. Rippers There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to work when the ground is frozen. Ripper attachments can easily cut through the frozen ground. They can also tear through concrete and asphalt if necessary. Saws Sometimes a table saw just won’t cut it — literally. Saw attachments can complete challenging cutting tasks with ease, without ever needing to break out the hand tools. Stump Grinders When pulling an entire tree out by the root isn’t an option, stump grinders can help take unsightly stumps down to nothing. These are necessary for site clearing operations, but you don’t need to bring in an extra piece of equipment to complete the job when you can do exactly that with Thumbs Sometimes you need an extra set of hands — or in this case, an extra set of thumbs. These help to lift heavy and often awkwardly shaped items and transport them throughout the construction site.  Image by ingjuanrodz from Pixabay Tillers If landscaping is part of the plan, a tiller can make the job easier by breaking up the soil and providing straight and even lines ready for planting. Trenchers If you need rows deeper than a tiller can provide, the trencher attachment is the next logical step. These attachments can dig trenches three to five feet deep, which is usually plenty for installing infrastructure and plants or trees that may require a deeper starting point. Comprehensive But Not Exhaustive Despite the sheer number of items on this list, it is not exhaustive by any means. There are nearly as many attachments for construction equipment as there are applications for them. Before you invest in a new piece of equipment for your construction fleet, look into attachments for your existing equipment. You might be surprised by what you find. Author Bio: Rose Morrison is a freelance writer who covers construction and building design topics. She is also the managing editor for Renovated. Other Useful Articles The impact of poor equipment productivity on construction projects Preventive Maintenance Checklist for Construction Equipment planning your construction project Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  With the development of computers and various software, more and more businesses manage their operations smoothly and efficiently. This software enables organizations to manage their workforce, keep track of the raw materials and production and follow a planned work schedule. All this eventually increases work productivity. It results in optimal utilization of resources and thus reduces the probability of error. Explicit software is available for various spheres of work, including construction. Today more and more construction companies are depending on construction management software to work efficiently and diligently. There are multiple benefits of using the software in the construction industry which we discuss below.  The Benefits Of Using Construction Management Software
 Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Conclusion The use of technology is inevitable, and it finds application across different construction works. The benefits are convincing, and technological intervention promises good results. Make sure that you understand your project requirements, and based on it, you choose the right software. Author Bio: My name is Layla Flinn. I am a writer by profession and love to share my written blogs and thoughts about Home Improvement, business, and various topics. This time I have written about Use Construction Management Software And Experience The Difference Other Useful Articles The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Construction Project Schedules 5 Questions for GCs to Ask Before Buying Construction Technology How to improve construction productivity Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  What started out with hand tools and long deadlines has evolved and changed over the centuries. A fleet of heavy equipment is the lifeblood of the construction industry, and without it, keeping up with the myriad projects that come across your desk every year would be nearly impossible. We all know and understand that maintenance is part of owning and operating a fleet, but waiting for things to break down before you repair them isn’t smart or cost-effective. Preventive maintenance is the best option, allowing you to get ahead of problems before they take your equipment offline. So what should be on your preventive maintenance checklist?  Image by graphiclinegroup from Pixabay Start with construction equipment paperworkBefore you start, the best place to begin is with paperwork and documentation. Each piece of equipment should have its own file of paperwork, detailing its usage and maintenance history. This should also tell you the last time this particular equipment got inspected and when it’s due for its next one. In addition to helping you keep track of preventive maintenance inspections, this paper trail also serves as a maintenance history if you ever decide to sell your equipment in preparation for an upgrade. If you at any point decide to incorporate AI and machine learning into your maintenance program, this detailed information will provide a baseline for the programs to work from. With a complete maintenance history, a machine learning program could even potentially predict when a piece of equipment needs to be taken offline for repairs or retired. A basic maintenance checklist for construction equipmentThe exact details of each vehicle’s maintenance schedule will vary depending on the make and model, how old it is, what type of equipment it is, and how often it gets used. However, this checklist can serve as a guide and foundation for nearly any item in your construction fleet.  Look for Any Visible Damage You won’t always find it, but sometimes problem indicators can present in ways that are easy to spot. A leaky gasket might show as a crack or a puddle of fluid beneath the vehicle, for example. Brakes This should include both standard and emergency brakes. Ensure the brakes are operational and the brake fluid is topped off. Have someone stand behind the equipment while you press the brakes to ensure the indicator lights work - well of course not directly behind where they could be in the path of the machine should it suddenly go backwards. Batteries Batteries tend to die at the most inopportune times. Inspect the battery and be on the lookout for problems such as corrosion or battery swelling. Batteries should be load tested regularly and replaced when their health starts to fail. Controls and Steering Put all the controls and steering operations through their paces to ensure everything is operational. Note any places where the steering feels sluggish or unresponsive. Fluids and Filters Check the fluid levels before each workday. For filters, make sure you’re replacing them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Most filters are difficult to inspect for functionality, but a quick once-over is always good to ensure they’re not leaking. Engines or Power Sources A piece of construction equipment becomes an elaborate paperweight if the engine doesn’t start. Inspect the machine or batteries for electric vehicles, and ensure they are in good working order. Lights Check headlights and other lighting features at the beginning of each shift to ensure they’re all operational. Note any burned-out bulbs or lenses that look dull or cloudy, as all of these need to be addressed. Safety Indicators No one likes to see a safety indicator light glowing on their dash, but they’re there for a reason. Check for any new safety indicator lights when you start the vehicle for the first time. If any are present, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for how to proceed. Operator Safety Features Seatbelts, mirrors, and other features designed to keep the operator safe come next. Ensure everything is working correctly, and don’t be afraid to take a vehicle out of rotation if something isn’t right. Tires or Treads The exact details of this checkpoint will vary depending on the equipment, but whether a vehicle has tires, treads, rollers, or some combination, they need to be inspected at the beginning of each shift. Any problems, from embedded nails to cracked treads, should be reported.  Pneumatic Systems This won’t apply to every piece of equipment, but for anything that uses pneumatic or hydraulic systems to raise, lower, and manipulate arms and buckets, daily inspections are essential. These systems are kept under high pressure, and it won’t take much for a small leak or a bit of damage to cascade into something devastating. Don’t skip inspecting your constuction equipmentInspecting your construction fleet each day may seem like a waste of time, but preventive maintenance is worth the investment. Don’t skip an inspection day — you may find yourself missing something small that takes the entire machine offline for lengthy and costly repairs. Author Bio: Rose Morrison is a freelance writer who covers construction and building design topics. She is also the managing editor for Renovated. Other Useful Articles The impact of poor equipment productivity on construction projects What Size Equipment Is Right for Your Construction Project? The Alarming Truth about Using Old Construction Equipment Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Subcontractors often play an important part on our projects. When they fail Project Managers are quick to point the finger of blame at their Subcontractor. But, perhaps the Subcontractor is not entirely to blame. Often problems with Subcontractors start long before the Subcontractor begins work.
 Scope of works – what work must the Subcontractor perform
Case study On one project we appointed an Electrical Subcontractor to supply the lighting, which included external light masts. When it came to installing the light towers the Subcontractor wanted to know where the concrete foundations were. We assumed they were installing the foundations – but this was not in their contract. We had to engage an Engineer to design the foundations, and then we had to construct the light tower foundations. Extra costs we had not allowed for. And of course some delay. The same thing happened when the Air-conditioning Subcontractor came to install the external air-conditioning units. They wanted to know where the concrete footings were for their units. Footings we had to get designed and then construct  Failure to allocate work correctly or properly describe the Subcontract scopeFailure to allocate work correctly could result in:
 Preparing the Subcontractor scope of work
Ensure your Subcontractor has everything they require to price the workIt's important to get the Subcontractor's scope of works right and articulate this brief in their pricing documentation and contract document. Failure to prepare the scope of works correctly could result in items being missed and extra costs during construction. In our next article we consider what should be included in the Subcontractor pricing documentation so that they can price the works correctly. What to include in Subcontractor pricing documentation Other useful articles Is the cheapest really the cheapest? - adjudicating quotations Selecting The Right Contractors and Subcontractors for Your Construction Project What’s expected of your subcontractors? Do they know? Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
One reader said: "I felt impelled to message you as I purchased your book, and wanted to thank you for the content, it has been very helpful." Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Image courtesy of TAW4 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Unfortunately contractors lose money on construction projects. Sometimes this happens more frequently than it should, and it can lead to contractors becoming bankrupt, and clients being left with an incomplete project. Inevitably the contractor's management will be upset and blame the construction project manager for these losses. In previous articles What do you do when your construction project is LOSING money? and Is your construction project losing money? Do you want to find out why? we discussed how important it was for project managers to find the cause of the losses, and to take action to stop further losses and if possible recover the losses already incurred. We mentioned that there were often several reasons for losses and project managers needed to understand the underlying problem. Some reasons why projects lose money Unfortunately some project managers take the wrong actions and try and cut costs where they shouldn't. This often leads to further problems. How you shouldn’t save construction costs Image courtesy of pakorn at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Although there will always be pressure to cut costs, especially on a construction project that’s losing money, you should never be tempted to cut costs by taking shortcuts, by falsifying test results, by using inferior products or materials that are the wrong specification, by ignoring good safety practices, by omitting materials, or using materials that are smaller or thinner than stipulated. This could lead to accidents, or structural defects that have to be rectified later. Inevitably they will impact reputation when the client finds out, as they almost certainly will. These ‘cost saving’ measures may help your construction project in the short-term, but they could tarnish your reputation, and the reputation of your company, for a very long time. So, even if these measures are encouraged or sanctioned by your senior management, never be part of these actions. In addition, you should never try and make money from your subcontractors and suppliers by withholding money which is legitimately due to them. Nor should you impose back-charges on them for no valid reason. Your company will have other projects to construct, and subcontractors who have had to battle to be paid, or who feel they have been cheated of money, will be reluctant to work with your company again, or they will increase their prices to contend with these unfair practices. Ultimately your company will pay more. In fact when pricing new projects, if your company doesn’t get competitive quotes from subcontractors and suppliers then your company’s price will be uncompetitive, which will jeopardise your company’s chances of winning other projects. Subcontractors who are paid on time and are dealt with fairly will usually try and help the contractor out when they’re in trouble (help you get the project finished), they will want to work for your company again, and they almost certainly will give your company their best price. Conclusion Image courtesy of stockimages at FreeDigitalPhotos.net No matter how bad the project losses, never sacrifice safety or reputation to save money. If you cannot find the reason for the losses, or cannot do anything to prevent the loss, you must just buckle down and get the project finished as quickly as possible, and at least deliver a quality project to a happy client, which could lead to further construction projects, which will hopefully be profitable. At least salvage something from the loss! Of course knowing early that your project is losing money could help you take mitigating actions sooner to prevent the loss becoming worse. The CONSTRUCTION project MANAGER'S financial duties. Other useful articles Is the cheapest really the cheapest? - adjudicating quotations 12 Construction Project Cost Report Mistakes You Should Avoid Are you working for free on your construction project?  This article is an extract from the book 'The Successful Construction Supervisor and Foreman'. © 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Sometimes construction projects involve demolition of existing structures. On occasion clients change their minds after a structure has been built and they require the newly completed structure demolished, or a hole cut in it. Regrettably, on occasion contractors make mistakes, or work is of a poor quality, so a completed structure must be broken down. Demolition work is often dangerous and must be done with care. Some examples of demolition accidents https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-09-04/sydney-booty-parlour-gym-destroyed-by-mistake/11476874 https://www.constructionenquirer.com/2020/01/15/worker-killed-as-excavator-falls-through-concrete-slab/ https://www.amny.com/editorial/two-workers-seriously-injured-when-wall-collapse-drags-down-scaffolding-during-harlem-demolition/  Cutting and demolishing safely on your construction projectBefore demolitions starts, all hazardous materials must be identified and removed separately, where required demolition permits must be in place, electrical, gas and water supplies must be cut-off to the structures and the lines made safe, all salvageable material should be removed, safety steps must be in place to prevent injuries to workers and the public, exclusion zones must be clearly marked and enforced so that falling debris don’t injure people or damage property, steps must be implemented to minimise dust, areas to be demolished or removed must be clearly marked so that there’s no confusion or risk of the wrong structure being demolished, the right equipment must be used (equipment that’s too big may result in excessive vibrations or loads damaging other structures) and rubble should not be allowed to accumulate where it could block access or cause overloading to structures. But, even on a normal construction site, often contractors have to cut or drill holes through walls and concrete slabs to make way for pipes and utilities. Cutting a wall brace could make the whole structure unstable, and it could collapse when there’s a strong wind or an external load is imposed on the structure. It’s hard to think that cutting one brace (sometimes only a few inches thick) could cause a whole steel structure to collapse, but unfortunately it has happened. Similarly, care must be taken when cutting holes in a concrete floor slab. Cutting through vital reinforcing could weaken the slab causing it to sag and crack. Some concrete slabs have tensioned cables and cutting one or more of these can lead to a serious failure. Therefore, always take care when cutting structures, in fact check with the design engineer that the hole can safely be cut there. Always check first before cutting.  ConclusionCutting and demolishing structures can be dangerous. Always thoroughly understand the risks and make sure the team takes the appropriate safety measures. Where necessary have an engineer check the structure before cutting or demolition works start. Always check that you are cutting in the right place - you wouldn't want to cut an opening in the wrong place, or demolish the wrong structure. Other useful articles Expect the unexpected in construction Damaging existing services Managing subcontractors on your construction project. What you should consider.  This article is an extract from the book 'The Successful Construction Supervisor and Foreman'. © 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  As long as we’ve had houses and other structures, we’ve had people who specialized in building them. Until the last 100 years or so, though, the idea of safety in the construction industry just didn’t exist. How has construction industry safety improved over the years, and what advances are we still making to ensure workers are safe on the job? A Brief History of Construction Safety Nothing safe about this construction project. An accident waiting to happen! One hundred years ago, construction safety looked a lot different than it does today. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, there were no safety measures to prevent people from getting injured or even killed on the job. While employees had the option to sue their employer for damages, their chances of winning were slim to none because employers weren’t liable for these incidents. The U.S. government didn’t establish the National Safety Council until 1913, and it wasn’t until 1921 that a majority of the states had some sort of Workers’ Compensation laws on the books. OSHA, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration that we so often cite as the construction safety “bible,” didn’t make its appearance until 1971. Even with all the advances made over the past century, there were still 3.5 fatalities for every 100,000 workers in the sector in 2019. Safety on the Modern Construction Site Safe work access Construction site safety is something the industry is constantly trying to improve, with varying levels of success. Despite this, one out of every five workplace fatalities happens in the construction industry, the highest across every sector. What can companies do to improve safety on their work sites? A safe work site starts with comprehensive and continual safety training. Everyone should receive the same training, and that shouldn’t stop once a new hire has completed their onboarding. Visitors and anyone who doesn’t work for your company should either be barred from entering the job site, or should be accompanied by a trained employee at all times to prevent incidents. In addition to training, employees also need the tools and equipment to do their job safely. This should include, but not be limited to, personal protective equipment (PPE) like hard hats, safety goggles, ear protection, and gloves. All equipment and PPE needs to be maintained so it’s in good working order, and repaired or replaced as needed. Read 5 traits of the safest contractors. Keep in mind that you will need different sizes of PPE for your various crew members. This is one part of life where one-size-fits-all just won’t cut it. Looking ForwardConstruction safety has come a long way in the last 100 years, from a time when we had no safety rules whatsoever, to now, when we’ve got plenty of rules to keep us safe. It’s not a perfect system, but it’s been a series of strong steps in the right direction. Author Bio: Rose Morrison is a freelance writer who covers construction and building design topics. She is also the managing editor for Renovated. Other Useful Articles How poor safety costs your construction company money Who is responsible for safety on your construction project? Construction projects and high temperatures - do you know the risks? Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Frequently construction projects end over budget, are finished late, are of poor quality, cause injury or death to workers and even to those using the project after it's complete, contractors loose money on the project, or the project ends in protracted and expensive legal battles. How can we improve construction project outcomes for all parties - client or owner, contractor, subcontractors, and suppliers? Is it possible to have a project win-win for all parties? How can we improve the success of our construction projects? It is possible to improve the success of construction projects with better collaboration. How to improve collaboration on construction projectsSome say that collaboration can be improved by using technology. How will this happen? Can new forms of contract improve collaboration? Who is responsible for improving collaboration on construction projects? Join me with this presentation I gave as a CPD webinar as I share my thoughts and experience on how we can improve collaboration in the construction industry.
Other useful articles: Why construction projects go wrong before they even start – what should owners do? Why owners sometimes employ the wrong contractor Do You Have Good Communication On Your Construction Project? Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon.  Frequently construction projects end in long and acrimonious disputes which can be costly, consume large amounts of time and energy, and which sometimes drag on long after the project construction work is complete. These disputes may end inconclusively with no winners - except perhaps the lawyers. These disputes occur between clients/owners and contractors, between contractors and their subcontractors and suppliers. In my last article Avoiding Construction Disputes I mentioned that I had resolved hundreds, probably more than a thousand, variation claims (change orders) with my clients amicably and without declaring a dispute. Some recent examples of disputes https://www.santafenewmexican.com/news/local_news/eldorado-hotel-sues-designers-builders-of-rooftop-swimming-pool/article_fe18b412-90b8-11eb-aafb-33f9dd971cfc.html https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2020/09/02/forest-hills-says-subcontractor-has-grossly-exaggerated-money-due/5684289002/ https://therealdeal.com/miami/2020/09/09/miami-river-condo-association-alleges-10m-in-defects-lawsuit/ So how can we prevent disputes on our construction projects?  How contractors can avoid construction disputesContractors can avoid disputes if:
How clients and owners can avoid construction disputes Employers can avoid disputes by:
ConclusionCollaboration between contractors and the client or owner, collaboration between contractors and their subcontractors, a team effort can lead to a successful construction project for all. Good communication is essential to successful projects. Aiming for a project that is a win for everyone, rather than a winner take all approach. It is possible to avoid construction disputes. Other useful articles: Why owners sometimes employ the wrong contractor Are your subcontractors profitable? Should you care? what makes a good client? This article is from the webinar Avoiding Construction Disputes by the author and information included in author's book Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors. This easy to read book demystifies the claims (change order) processes ensuring entitlements are claimed. Learn when you can claim, how to make claims compelling, and the supporting documentation required to win. Your eyes will be opened to numerous events, costs and impacts. Knowing some of these tips could dramatically improve profits and avoid time consuming acrimonious disputes. Also included is advice for contractors to avoid and defend claims from employers and subcontractors. © 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
Visit to read more. The books are available in paper and ebook from most online stores including Amazon. Image courtesy of franky242 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Regrettably, some construction projects end in long and acrimonious disputes between the employer and contractor, or between the main contractor and subcontractors. These disputes appear to occur more often these days. Frequently the only real winners from these disputes seem to be lawyers.
"Submitting a variation claim (change order request) is not a dispute. A dispute arises when the contractor and the employer cannot agree that the variation claim (change order) is legitimate, or they cannot agree the quantum of the claim." Disputes also arise when one party does not fulfil their obligations in terms of the contract despite repeated requests from the other party to comply. For example; the employer does not pay the contractor, or the contractor fails to rectify faulty work which is due to their fault. Although disputes are often characterized by a formal dispute resolution process, many disputes simply result in a breakdown in communication between the parties, threats, unhappiness, and a prolonged social media and mainstream media slanging match, which can lead to damaged reputations and be a distraction. Many disputes are left unresolved and fester on, while sometimes the slanging match leads to a further dispute, or legal action. Examples of disputes gone wrong: https://floridapolitics.com/archives/316849-downtown-st-petersburgs-bliss-condo-owners-sue-developers-over-shoddy-construction https://therealdeal.com/miami/2020/08/03/codina-partners-affiliate-allegedly-owes-3-6m-for-downtown-doral-condo-construction-lawsuit/ https://www.chicagolawbulletin.com/nixon-peabody-get-3-6-million-attorney-fees-20200602 Is it possible to resolve variation claims amicably without declaring a dispute?  Image courtesy of Ambro at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Reasons for construction disputes  Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
In the next article we will discuss why construction disputes are bad for the parties, and how to avoid construction disputes. How to avoid construction disputes Other useful reading: Don’t start construction projects without a proper contract Is Your Construction Correspondence Losing You Variation Claims or Projects? When Contractors Can’t Claim a Delay From Their Client on Construction Projects This article is from the webinar Avoiding Construction Disputes by the author and information included in author's book Construction Claims: A Short Guide for Contractors. This easy to read book demystifies the claims (change order) processes ensuring entitlements are claimed. Learn when you can claim, how to make claims compelling, and the supporting documentation required to win. Your eyes will be opened to numerous events, costs and impacts. Knowing some of these tips could dramatically improve profits and avoid time consuming acrimonious disputes. Also included is advice for contractors to avoid and defend claims from employers and subcontractors. © 2021 This article is not to be reproduced for commercial purposes without written permission from the author. Do you want to learn how to manage construction projects successfully Click on picture to view books on Amazon Paul Netscher has written several easy to read books for owners, contractors, construction managers, construction supervisors and foremen. They cover all aspects of construction management and are filled with tips and insights.
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