Working with Construction Contractors

A government has a fundamental role in providing public infrastructures such as roads, airports, bridges, dams and sewer systems. Such structures require significant engineering, resources and time investment. The design, planning and development of such public projects fall under civil works. This post discusses the essential elements of civil construction. 

What is Civil Work? 

Civil work deals with the design, construction and maintenance of natural and built environments. In this case, the natural environment would include water reservoirs, while roads and railway systems are examples of the built environment. Notably, the role of managing civil construction projects falls under the purview of civil engineers and contractors.

Types of Civil Work Projects 

The following are examples of civil construction projects:

• Bridges
• Railroads and roadways
• Ports and airports
• Dams and water reservoirs
• Flood management earthwork
• Wastewater management systems 

The Role of Civil Works Contractors

Implementing Civil Engineering Guidelines 

All public construction projects follow strict rules and regulations created by the government and regulatory authorities. Such guidelines help in guaranteeing public rights and safety measures. For instance, civil works must involve public participation during planning. Then, the design and construction must ensure accessibility and manage any emerging risks. Therefore, the contractors ensure that guidelines are followed in civil construction projects for the public interest. 

Costing and Tendering for Projects

Civil work contractors help in costing civil engineering projects. Ordinarily, the client (government or governmental organisation) will develop a project concept and advertises the construction tender. The contactors assess the project scope, costs of the activities and generate a project quotation. Ordinarily, the client offers the construction tender to the lowest bidder with the capacity to accomplish the tasks. In some cases, the contractor may hire sub-contractors to complete specialised construction tasks.  

Developing and Implementing Construction Plans

The contractors assume the responsibility of designing and creating construction plans for civil work projects. This role begins with assessing the land and sites suitable for creating the public infrastructure. Then, the contractors develop a construction design that ensures minimal disruption, environmental integrity and sustainability. Afterward, the contractors play an essential role in ensuring that the construction plans get the necessary approval from regulatory authorities. Finally, the contractors supervise the construction work using the approved plan and guidelines.

Managing Relationships 

A civil construction project has diverse stakeholders. The interest groups include the client, government agencies, professional bodies, sub-contractors and the public. Fundamentally, civil work contractors help in relationship management for project stakeholders. This role includes ensuring seamless communication, convening consultative meetings and managing expectations. In this way, the contactor helps to reduce and manage project conflicts that cause delays.

Civil works play an integral role in the provision of public infrastructure. In civil construction projects, contractors help design, cost and execute plans in line with set guidelines while managing diverse interests.