Construction sites are inherently busy places, so to make sure a project is completed on time and budget, planning and good management is an important factor.
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A construction site manager has to juggle many different aspects of a project, so multi-tasking skills are essential for the role, but there is more to managing a successful construction site!
Not only do you have to multitask to the best of your ability, but also take into account the logistical planning, and you must also be in tune with the workforce.
Our handy guide gives you the know-how to manage your next construction project successfully.
Planning
Before beginning any project, you must take the time to put together a master plan. It needs to cover all aspects of a project, such as work schedules, what materials you need, order dates and costs and should be in an easy-to-read document.
Doing so means that all significant managers and workforce all have the same expectations and goals, making it much easier to work together, solve problems and achieve results without hold-ups.
As a project progresses, the requirements might change, and this is when a flexible plan comes into its own.
An efficient manager will be able to see what parts of the plan are no longer working and advise or work on solutions to move things on in a better way.
Safety
On construction sites, there is often the use of machinery and tools, so health and safety are paramount.
There are rules and regulations which need following exactly, such as wearing the right personal protective equipment for the job. Other health and safety aspects include all personnel knowing the fire and emergency procedures.
One way to make sure all employees’ on site are aware of the health and safety rules is to have a policy prominently displayed.
An induction for all new workers is also recommended, where they can learn the site rules is a classroom-based setting before beginning work.
Reliable Power
Without a reliable source of power, progress on a project can be affected and even stop entirely. If some areas of the site do not have mains power connected, then a diesel generator should be installed for the job.
The Cummins diesel generators are available in a range of sizes, are ideal for a range of industrial applications and allow continuous progress to be made on a project that relies on a good supply of power.
People Skills
For a construction manager to get the best work out of a team, good communication skills are a must.
A manager should be able to get instructions across clearly so there is no confusion, deal with people conflict as different trades may want to work in the same areas, and also be personable and well-liked.
If employees’ like a site manager, they are more willing to go the extra mile to keep things running smoothly, and this has a positive effect on the outcome of a project.
Construction sites both large and small take a great deal of organization and communication, and the best managers have a selection of skills they can apply to the job.
There will always be set-back and conflicts that arise, but this is where a good manager makes the difference.
