Part 2 - How can Construction Productivity be Improved:

For more than 30 years I have been a Senior Project Manager, Construction Director & Chief Estimator involved with 100’s of mid-sized & large EPC Oil / Gas, Power, Industrial & Pharmaceutical Projects around the world. A topic that interests me and one that I frequently get asked my opinion on is: How can “Construction Productivity be improved”, the following are my observations comments on this important subject.

16.      Inclement Weather: Snow, cold temperatures, rain, extreme heat, will impact field productivity, the workforce should be provided waterproof overalls, gloves and adequate work boots. Roads should be plowed for snow, fans should be used in hot work areas.

17.      Management of Construction Tools: In order to maintain and control large amounts of hand tools, tool rooms should be used to repair, store and control non-permanently used tools, these tool rooms should be strategically located at key locations around the site to assist in maximizing the construction work effort.   

18.      Utilizing the correct Construction Equipment / Optimizing Construction Equipment: Field productivity can be enhanced by using the appropriate piece of construction equipment and having trained / knowledgeable operators.

19.      Offsite / Onsite Warehousing Storage Areas: Careful management and inventory control of this item can assist in optimizing field productivity, having storage areas strategically placed around the construction can save time.  

20.      Field Labor: Enhance worker production, by better material logistics / storage areas, adequate temporary toilets, change rooms, lunch tents, provide water at specific locations around the site, optimize project / site access clock on clock off locations for construction workers, provide adequate parking areas and utilize buses to allow construction workers to get to their specific work areas ASAP, ensure trash and waste is taken care of on a daily basis.

21.      Well-defined scopes of work: contracting programs and unambiguous contracts, that define the construction work packages, with smallest amount of unnecessary verbiage.

22.      Project Control: Inadequate estimating, planning, progress monitoring and project control procedures, which can pin point and rectify problem issues.

23.      Minimize Field Labor Turnover: Endeavor to minimize construction staff and worker giving notice, by providing competitive wage / hourly rates, per diems were applicable and travel expenses.

24.      Worker Training: Absence of construction staff and worker in being trained latest construction equipment, tools and safety practices.

25.  Temporary Worker Camps: If a temporary worker camp is required, position camp buildings / facilities at location that will optimize field construction activities.

26.  Material Logistics: Utilize a material / logistics / construction equipment / freight transportation site based planning team for optimization of major equipment, bulk materials, construction equipment and heavy lift crane utilization.

27.  Working in Operating Facilities: Difficulties of major CAPEX expansions in existing operating facilities can be problematic, careful planning in obtaining work permits for shut downs, demolition, hot taps, welding etc. is vital to mitigate labor down time. 

28.  Constructability Reviews: Key members of the construction management team should be part of the FEED team study, to advise on optimized construction methods, construction sequencing, identify potential risks and perform constructability reviews.

29.  Material Marshalling Yard: Careful planning and location of laydown areas, use of bar coding / tagged production equipment, temporary off-loading areas and warehouses can significantly assist the field labor effort.

30.  Construction Staff / Worker Feedback: Seek ideas / suggestions from the construction field force on how construction related work could be improved.

I invite your comments and other issues that could possibly assist in improving construction productivity.

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Contact: John G. McConville CCP – Operations Director – Compass International

Telephone in USA: (609) 577 4505