If you want to launch a construction project successfully, you need to get off to a strong start. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the essential steps I’ve consistently followed to set up projects for success.
One of the key things I’ve mastered over my career is how to start projects the right way. It’s been a significant part of my journey, and I absolutely love doing it. If you follow these steps, you’ll find the process goes smoothly every time.
Personally, I dislike fighting fires or dealing with emergencies on job sites. I prefer preparedness and structure. Unlike some superintendents who thrive on chaos, I find satisfaction in a project that runs smoothly from the start.
This blog is not about pre-construction or how to win a project. Instead, I’ll focus on what you need to do in the weeks or months leading up to breaking ground, ensuring you’re ready for success from the get-go.
1. Importance of a Pre-Construction Meeting with the Owner
Before starting, always have a pre-construction meeting with the owner. It might sound routine, but it’s crucial. This is the moment to discuss expectations, review requirements, and ensure that you understand what the owner truly wants. Construction is not just about building; it’s also about delivering customer value. Understanding the owner’s expectations upfront is key to aligning your project goals with theirs.
2. Keeping Track of Contractors Using a Buyout Log
A buyout log is vital for tracking your contractors. It should list all the scopes, when selections are made, when contracts are signed, insurance details, and other necessary compliance information. It’s not just about budgets—it’s about ensuring your contractors are fully ready to work from day one.
3. Importance of Civil Permits
Make sure you have all necessary civil permits in place before mobilizing. This includes any site-specific permits, such as dust or SWPPP permits, that allow you to begin work on the site without delays.
4. Order Signs and Safety Equipment
Before breaking ground, order the necessary signage, traffic control materials, and safety equipment. This includes fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and other essentials required by safety regulations. A well-prepared site is a safe site, and having these items from the start will prevent delays.
5. Scheduling Pre-Construction Meetings with Contractors
Before contractors arrive on-site, hold pre-construction meetings with key trades like electricians, plumbers, and civil contractors. Review plans, safety procedures, and scheduling to ensure they’re fully prepared. This is critical for maintaining quality and avoiding miscommunication down the line.
6. Holding a Safety Kickoff Meeting
Conduct a safety kickoff meeting with your corporate safety director and key personnel. Review emergency plans, coordinate with local emergency services, and ensure that everyone on-site is ready to maintain a safe working environment from the first day.
7. Sending Mobilization and Impact Notices
Notify the owner, nearby facilities, or neighbors about the upcoming mobilization. Let them know what to expect—fences, trailers, construction traffic, and any disruptions. This proactive communication can help you maintain positive relationships with the surrounding community.
8. Posting All Construction Permits
Ensure all required permits are posted at the job site before starting. This not only ensures compliance but also gives your site an organized and professional appearance right from the start.
9. Locating and Avoiding Underground Utilities
Before digging, confirm the locations of all underground utilities by using as-builts, utility locators, and potholing. Create a detailed utility map to prevent costly mistakes.
10. Ordering Essential Equipment
Ensure you have all the equipment you need, such as forklifts and radios for communication, well in advance. This will help the site run smoothly without interruptions caused by missing gear.
11. Establishing Clearing and Grubbing Activities
Begin clearing and grubbing activities while ensuring your site is properly prepared. Make sure everything is stabilized and ready for the next phase, setting the foundation for a well-organized project.
12. Temporary Utility Hookups
Ensure you have water, power, and communication utilities set up early. Temporary utilities are essential for keeping your site functional and safe from day one.
13. Wayfinding and Traffic Control
Install all wayfinding signage and traffic control measures. This helps workers and visitors navigate the site easily and ensures compliance with safety protocols.
14. Establishing Emergency Cutoff Procedures
Establish emergency cutoff procedures in case of accidents. Post emergency response plans visibly in the trailer and ensure everyone on-site knows how to react in case of utility issues or accidents.
15. Final Tasks Before Starting the Project
Before breaking ground, order your trailer, bathrooms, handwashing stations, and dumpsters. Set up parking areas, staging yards, and daily foreman huddles to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Conclusion
Starting a construction project is all about planning and preparation. By following these steps, you’ll set yourself up for success, minimize delays, and ensure a smooth project flow. Proper preparation allows you to focus on more complex phases of the project as it progresses.
If you want to learn more we have:
-Takt Virtual Training: (Click here)
-Check out our Youtube channel for more info: (Click here)
-Listen to the Elevate Construction podcast: (Click here)
-Check out our training programs and certifications: (Click here)
-The Takt Book: (Click here)
Discover Jason’s Expertise:
Meet Jason Schroeder, the driving force behind Elevate Construction IST. As the company’s owner and principal consultant, he’s dedicated to taking construction to new heights. With a wealth of industry experience, he’s crafted the Field Engineer Boot Camp and Superintendent Boot Camp – intensive training programs engineered to cultivate top-tier leaders capable of steering their teams towards success. Jason’s vision? To expand his training initiatives across the nation, empowering construction firms to soar to unprecedented levels of excellence.
On we go!