Английский язык для студентов строительных специальностей. UNIT3. JOBS IN CONSTRUCTION I 67

UNIT 3. JOBS IN CONSTRUCTION I 67

 

constructors, construction superintendents, project engineers, construction supervisors, or general contractors.

These managers coordinate and supervise the construction process from the conceptual development stage through final construction, making sure that the project gets completed on time and within the budget. They often work with engineers, architects, and others who are involved in the process. Given the designs for buildings, roads, bridges, or other projects, construction managers supervise the planning, scheduling, and implementation of those designs.

Large construction projects, such as an office building or an industrial complex, are often too complicated for one person to manage. Accordingly, these projects are divided into various segments: site preparation, including clearing and excavation of the land, installing sewage systems, and landscaping and road construction; building construction, including laying foundations and erecting the structural framework, floors, walls, and roofs; and building systems, including protecting against fire and installing electrical, plumbing, and air-conditioning systems. Construction managers may be in charge of one or several of these activities.

Construction managers determine the best way to get materials to the site and the most cost-effective plan for completing the project. They divide all required construction site activities into logical steps, estimating and budgeting the time required to meet established deadlines. Doing this may require sophisticated scheduling and cost-estimating techniques using computers with specialized software.

Construction managers also manage the selection of general contractors and trade contractors to complete specific phases of the project which could include everything from structural metalworking and plumbing to painting, installing electricity and carpeting.

Construction managers determine the labour requirements of the project and, in some cases, supervise the hiring and dismissal of workers. They oversee the performance of all trade contractors

and are responsible for ensuring that all work is completed on schedule.

Construction managers direct and monitor the progress of construction activities through construction supervisors or other construction managers. They are responsible for obtaining all necessary licenses and, depending upon the contractual arrangements, for directing or monitoring in compliance with building and safety codes, other regulations, and requirements set by the project insurers. They also oversee the delivery and use of materials, tools, and equipment, workers'safety and productivity, and the quality of the construction.

Working out of a main office or out of a field office at the construction site, construction managers monitor the overall construction project. Decisions regarding daily construction activities are generally made at the jobsite.

Managers might travel considerably when the construction site is not close to their main office or when they are responsible for activities at two or more sites. Management of overseas construction projects usually entails temporary residence in the country in which the project is being carried out.

20. Find in Text 3B the information about construction
managers' duties and responsibilities in the following areas and
describe them:

a) design process coordination;

b) supervision of a project;

c) contractural arrangements;

d) personnel's selection and overseeing;

e) construction site activities.

21. Say whether you agree or disagree with the views expressed
in Text 3B. Prove your points of view.

3*