Construction projects are complex and involve various stakeholders, equipment, materials, schedules, and tasks that require effective coordination. Supervision of works is crucial for the successful delivery of a project within budget, in a timely manner and within safety and construction standards. Proper supervision and inspection of the MEP disciplines ensure all the deliverables are met effectively and here’s why it’s vital for all projects during construction and occupation of the building:
1. Quality control
Regular inspection ensures that the construction work complies with the design and specifications. This is carried out by independent parties such as consultants or appointed site inspectors on behalf of the client. It helps in identifying and rectifying any deviations or defects, thus ensuring that the final product meets the quality standards set for the project. Samples, mockups, and tests can also be witnessed for approval before installation.
There is a need to have separate inspectors for individual works such as MEP, architectural and structural works for larger projects.
2. Site Progress
Inspections are also carried out for regular valuation to assess the progress of works and to issue interim payments for works done by the contractors. This also helps with managing costs, allocation, and consumption to avoid overruns and adjusting to prevent budgetary issues. Progress inspection covers all the project milestones such as testing, commissioning, practical completion, handover, defects liability period, schedule of defects and rectification of the defects during the DLP.
3. Safety
Construction sites are high-risk areas where personnel can be exposed to various hazards. Regular inspection ensures compliance and enforcement of safety measures in place to mitigate accidents and protect the well-being of workers and the public at large. This can be carried out internally by the contractor, appointed health and safety team or external assessors from authorities. All workers should have the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) and adhere to safe work procedures.
Some of the safety checks carried out are:
- Safe storage of hazardous materials
- Lone work procedures
- Working at height
- Condition of PPEs
- Condition of plant, equipment, and vehicles
- Site markings
- Provision of washrooms and cleaning facilities
- Workplace conditions
Effective inspection and supervision are crucial for ensuring compliance with understanding construction site safety regulations. Regular checks can identify potential hazards and ensure that safety protocols are being followed. By closely monitoring activities and implementing necessary measures, inspectors and supervisors help maintain a safe working environment on construction sites.
4. Adherence to Regulations and compliance
Projects are subject to various local permits, regulations, and codes. Supervision ensures that the project remains compliant with all legal requirements to avoid litigation, delays, and shutdowns. These can be carried out by the local authority or an approved inspector.
5. Communication and coordination
Regular supervision is carried out through meetings set by the project manager for stakeholders to attend. Architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, clients and contractors utilize the meetings for coordination of their work and ensuring that everyone is in the same boat and working towards the objectives of the project.
In the context of Kenyan construction projects, effective supervision is essential to ensure successful project completion. It is crucial in terms of improving quality, safety, compliance, cost control, and overall project management. Construction in Kenya faces increased risks of delays, cost overruns, quality concerns, and safety events, all of which might threaten their successful delivery.
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