Get off to a ‘Flying Start’ in Construction Professional Studies –

Level 3

Welcome to Flying Start with Exeter College.

Below, you’ll find questions to consider, tasks to complete and some background research you might want to

undertake before enrolment.

This is the first of two batches of Flying Start activity sheets we’ll be sending you. The second will be launched around

the May half term. Please read the instructions below and have a go at the activities.

If you get stuck at any point, please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) section at the bottom for help.

To get you started…

(Hover over the job roles to see specific information from the National Careers Service)

• Architect

Architects design new buildings and the spaces around them, and work on the restoration and conservation of existing buildings.

• Architectural technician

Building technologist

Architectural technologists manage all stages of the technical design and planning process of building projects.

• Building control officer

Building control surveyor

Building control officers make sure building regulations are followed.

• Building site inspector

Clerk of works, building site supervisor

Building site inspectors check the quality and safety of construction work.

• Building surveyor

Building surveyors advise clients about the design, construction, maintenance and repair of buildings.

• Building technician

Building technicians support engineers, surveyors and architects on construction projects.

• Civil engineer

Engineering consultant

Civil engineers design and manage construction projects, from bridges and buildings to transport links and sports stadiums.

• Civil engineering technician

Civil engineering technicians give technical support to engineers on construction projects.

• Construction contracts manager

Construction contracts managers manage building contracts and construction costs.

• Construction manager

Site manager

Construction managers organise the work on building projects, making sure it's completed safely, within budget and on time.

• Construction site supervisor

Building site manager, site inspector, clerk of works

Construction site supervisors manage staff and subcontractors on building sites.

• Drone pilot

Unmanned aerial vehicle pilot, UAV pilot

Drone pilots remotely operate aircraft used in work like surveying, filmmaking and aerial photography.

• Estimator

Cost engineer

Estimators work out how much it will cost for a company to supply products and services to its clients.

• General practice surveyor

General practice surveyors are involved in the management, valuation, buying, selling and development of land and property.

• Land and property valuer and auctioneer

Valuers and auctioneers advise individuals and businesses that buy, sell and rent land and property.

• Land surveyor

Geographic information systems (GIS) surveyor, geomatics surveyor

Land surveyors measure the shape of the land and gather data for civil engineering and construction projects.

• Planning and development surveyor

Planning and development surveyors assess, design and manage development projects in towns, cities and rural areas.

• Quantity surveyor

Quantity surveyors oversee construction projects, managing risks and controlling costs.

• Structural engineer

Structural engineers help to design and build large structures and buildings, like hospitals, sports stadiums and bridges.

• Technical surveyor

Surveying technician

Technical surveyors carry out tasks to support chartered surveyors, architects and engineers.

• Town planner

Spatial planner, planner, urban designer, planning officer

Town planners help shape the way towns and cities develop and balance the demands on land with the needs of the community.

• Town planning assistant

Town planning technician

Town planning assistants process applications, give advice about regulations and carry out design work and office administration.

College Entry Requirements You’ll need:

• 6 GCSE’s at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, Maths and Science.

University Entry Requirements You’ll need:

• 6 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science

• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree Skills and Knowledge required to work within the Professional Sector of the Construction Industry Some of skills and knowledge you’ll need:

• design skills and knowledge

• knowledge of building and construction

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail

• thinking and reasoning skills

• customer service skills

• excellent verbal communication skills

• analytical thinking skills

• the ability to use your initiative

• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

• maths knowledge

• knowledge of engineering science and technology

• to be thorough and pay attention to detail

• knowledge of building and construction

• the ability to work well with others

• the ability to use your initiative

• to be flexible and open to change

The Gatsby Benchmarks are:

Gatsby believes that every young person needs high quality career guidance to make an informed decision about their future, and this is even more important with reforms to technical education on the horizon in 2020. Career guidance is also a vehicle for social justice: those young people without social capital or career support at home suffer most from poor career guidance.

They are:

(Hover over each one to find out more about it) 1. A stable careers programme 2. Learning from career and labour market information 3. Addressing the needs of each pupil 4. Linking curriculum learning to careers 5. Encounters with employers and employees 6. Experiences of workplaces 7. Encounters with further and higher education 8. Personal guidance Stressed? Here’s what to do…

Stress is your body’s response to things getting too much. Everyone feels it at one time or another. We can’t stop it happening, but we can understand it and know what to do about it.

What we feel when we’re stressed is primal, cave-man stuff – that fight, flight or freeze feeling, when we can’t handle a situation, or our brain perceives we’re in danger or under threat. We feel it when there is an actual danger or threat, but also when there’s just too much to do, or we don’t feel able to do something. In this state, our bodies produce adrenaline and cortisol to help us get through the situation. And when this happens, the parts of our brain that help us think, shut down, so we can focus on survival. That’s why it’s impossible to concentrate, or think clearly, or learn, when we’re stressed.

If we experience too much stress, or we are in a constant state of underlying stress, it can cause further problems, like not being able to sleep, eating too much or too little, not being able to focus or feeling anxious all the time.

So, what can we do about it?

• Know the triggers: what kind of thing makes you stressed? Is there a pattern? Is there any way to avoid it, or approach it differently? Is there someone that could help you with it?

• Be realistic about what you can do: often stress is a result of feeling overwhelmed and this can be because we’ve over-committed or taken on a task that we don’t feel able to do. We can’t do anything well when we’re stressed, so it’s best to be realistic and ask for help or say no to things we can’t manage.

• Look after yourself: sometimes, all we need to do is get more sleep and/or eat better. Stress can make us eat more, or not eat enough. It can also make us crave the wrong kind of foods, like those high in sugar and fat, which end up making us feel worse. The healthier we are the better we are able to cope with stress.

• Get into your body, not your head! Endorphins, released by our bodies when we exercise, improve the quality of our sleep and reduce stress. We can even produce endorphins by breathing deeply, which is why relaxation and meditation can help too.

Your wellbeing 5-a-day Our wellbeing – our state-of-mind and our feelings – are vital to our overall health and to our learning. We know we should eat five portions of fruit and vegetables every day. But what can we do for our wellbeing? There are a few simple things that we can fit easily into every day, whatever we’re doing and whoever we are, that will make a big difference to how we feel about ourselves, our relationships and the rest of the world! Here they are:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yF7Ou43Vj6c Connect: a problem shared is a problem halved! Talking to a friend often makes the problem seem less daunting. Be active: as well as keeping us physically healthy, exercise helps us concentrate, feel and look better, and sleep better. Give: helping others is proven to activate the reward centre of the brain, reduce stress levels and even help us live longer! Keep Learning: learning something new can change our perspective and build confidence. Take Notice: slowing down and noticing what’s around us makes us feel more relaxed and puts things into perspective. What could you try today?

Go Construct is an industry-wide initiative that aims to attract, inform and retain a talented workforce for the Construction & Built Environment sector. Go Construct’s “Ultimate Quiz” Take our quiz to find out which construction personality type you are. It's awesome. https://www.goconstruct.org/learn-about-construction/find-the-role-for-you/ultimate-quiz/ Personality Types Each role listed in our Careers A - Z falls under one of ten construction personality types. These personality types all involve similar training, skills and knowledge. Take Go Construct's Ultimate Quiz to find out which personality type you are.

https://www.goconstruct.org/learn-about-construction/find-the-role-for-you/personality-types/ Interactive Carers Map In our four interactive animations you can explore the different areas of construction to see the huge range of roles available - from building houses and public buildings to roads and railways. https://www.goconstruct.org/learn-about-construction/find-the-role-for-you/roles-in-construction/ Career Explorer Find the roles most suited to you based on your interests, skills and qualifications. https://www.goconstruct.org/learn-about-construction/find-the-role-for-you/career-explorer/qu A Day in the Life What's it really like to have a construction job? Take a look at these stories from people working in construction jobs across the UK. Find out how they got into the industry, what they do, and tips on working in their fields. https://www.goconstruct.org/learn-about-construction/day-in-the-life/ Fun Facts: Size Did you know? https://www.goconstruct.org/learn-about-construction/size-fun-facts/ Fun Facts: Size and Length Did you Know? https://www.goconstruct.org/learn-about-construction/size-and-length-fun-facts/ Joining the Construction Industry The UK building industry is growing. Unemployment has fallen to its lowest level in a decade, and earnings are up. https://www.goconstruct.org/construction-today/diversity-in-construction/joining-the-uk-construction-industry/ Major Projects Throughout the UK, major construction projects are taking place that will improve millions of lives and create tens of thousands of construction jobs. https://www.goconstruct.org/construction-today/whats-new-in-construction/major-projects/ New and Emerging Skills Construction is big business and continues to grow. In the next five years we expect 232,000 jobs to be created within the industry. https://www.goconstruct.org/construction-today/whats-new-in-construction/new-emerging-skills/

Industry Placement – What is it? Industry Placement lets you find out about the different jobs in the construction and built environment sector. You could be helping out with office work or shadowing experienced tradespeople like carpenters or plumbers, depending on what you're interested in. https://www.goconstruct.org/routes-into-construction/experience-construction/work-experience/

Getting a Job Finding a job can sometimes feel like a job in itself! So, we've created a go-to guide for all the information that you need to land your career in construction. https://www.goconstruct.org/routes-into-construction/getting-a-job/ Help with Applying for a Job

Applying for jobs in the construction industry or training opportunities can be tricky and

sometimes feels like a full-time job in itself.

We’ve put together some top tips to make the process run smoothly and help you make

sure your application is successful.

You can also explore all the different construction careers available with our Roles In

Construction Animation https://www.goconstruct.org/routes-into-construction/getting-a-job/help-with-applying/ Employability Skills

Standing out from the crowd: how your everyday skills can impress employers

When you're applying for construction jobs or a place on a course, it helps to stand out.

Construction qualifications like NVQs/SVQs and work experience are important but general

skills picked up in your own time can also give you an edge when it comes to applications

and interviews. These are called employability skills. https://www.goconstruct.org/routes-into-construction/getting-a-job/employability-skills/ Building your Skills It's important to keep your skills up-to-date in any job. Things are always changing in construction and if you're not learning new skills it can be harder to build your career or move into a new job. https://www.goconstruct.org/routes-into-construction/getting-a-job/upskillingcrossskilling-information/

Construction

To undertake the activities contained within this section of your Flying Start, please use this link to launch the accompanying presentation.

https://construction.jisc.ac.uk/resources/assess-plan-and-monitor-project-methods-and-progress-in-construction-activity/

Interactive (SCORM) content

Assess, plan and monitor project methods

Learning outcomes Hello, nice to meet you! By the end of this module you should be able to:

• Assess and identify work methods

• Understand how to assess and identify work methods

• Develop project programming and resourcing

• Understand how to develop project programming and resourcing

• Monitor project progress against agreed programmes

• Understand how to monitor project progress against agreed programmes

Home This is your homepage. From here you can access all your learning activities. You can return to this page by selecting the Home icon at any time. You may receive notifications during the module. This is not essential learning but is further reading or information that you may find helpful.

Essentials The successful management of a construction project is fundamentally linked to successful planning. All projects differ in their direction, design and construction, and the constraints that affect them. The client’s requirements are paramount, and the design of the project should therefore meet the client’s brief, and the needs of the eventual end users. Effective planning will allow for the successful coordination of all aspects of the project and will deliver a project that meets contract and budget requirements.

Specifying the project The project data is the basis for the contract and includes:

• The initial tender

• Construction phase drawings

• The specification

• The bill of quantities (BoQ)

• The health and safety plan

• Schedules

• Performance criteria specifications

Standard forms of contract have been developed for construction and building services. The most commonly used are those produced by the Joint Contracts Tribunal (JCT).

Specifying the project (cont.) Contractors can incur penalties if a project overruns the completion date. Contract clauses related to time can be used by clients to insure against financial losses, e.g. lost lease agreements or rentals. Online tendering and project management are now commonplace.

Drawings are the primary method of informing the contractor of the final design that has to be built. These can also be issued electronically, allowing instant access to the latest versions for all interested parties. Drawings are normally issued by the architect or designer through the use of a drawing register. The drawing register details the distribution list and the latest revision numbers for each drawing.

Specifying the project (cont.) Business Information Modelling (BIM) uses 3D technologies from computer-aided design (CAD) to provide a multi-dimensional experience. This allows designers, building services engineers and structural engineers to explore a building before it is constructed, and investigate and analyse potential construction problems before they become a physical issue.

BIM allows investigation of:

• Integration of a building’s services into the designed structure

• Potential conflicts between services

• Estimates or budgets for a project

• Scheduling of project materials and components

Contract documents The contract documents form the basis of an agreement between the client and the contractor undertaking the work, and usually include:

• Schedules – these list any work (such as doors, windows and ironmongery, fixtures and fittings)

• Contract drawings so the construction phase can commence

• Insurance documents for the contractor’s liability while the building is being constructed

• Project conditions (e.g. no deliveries allowed before 10 a.m.)

• Specifications – detailed requirements for quality of products (e.g. relevant British Standards or nominated supplier), quality of workmanship (e.g. code of practice) and instructions for the contractor

Contract documents (cont.) The RICS publish the New Rules of Measurement (NRM) which closely follows RIBA’s Plan of Work. The NRM provide a worldwide standard for the measurement and procurement of contract works and are divided into three volumes: NRM 1: Order of cost estimating and planning for capital building works

NRM 2: Detailed measurement for building works

NRM 3: Order of cost estimating and planning for building maintenance works

A bill of quantities follows the sections laid out within the NRM (Elemental, Work section and Work package).

Contract documents (cont.) CAD drawings are usually supplied by the designer and give different amounts of detail for different parts of the job.

The types of drawings used in construction are varied, and include:

• Site and location plans – to show the site of the project, usually referencing Ordnance Survey maps

• Concept drawings and sketches – freehand drawings used to demonstrate initial ideas

• Floor plans

• Elevations

• Section drawings

Health and safety Everyone involved in a construction project has legal duties under the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015, including:

• Clients

• Designers

• Principal Contractors and Contractors

• Workers The main contractor has duties as an employer under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the CDM Regulations.

Health and safety (cont.) Risk assessment is about implementing control measures to keep the workplace safe. It is a process to help you decide whether you have taken sufficient precautions to prevent accidents or incidents occurring. Risk assessment is a procedure designed to identify hazards, who is at risk from those hazards and how to reduce or eliminate the exposure to the hazard or risk. Method statements analyse the appropriate method to use in a work activity, and the associated risks and control measures.

All activities on a construction project should be covered by a method statement (and a risk assessment), not just specific activities. However, for some activities a method statement is a legal requirement, for example, licensed asbestos removal. Method statements should include the sequence of works, what equipment should be used and the associated risks and control measures.

Programmes Programmes are produced as part of the agreement between the client and the main contractor and are the main tool used to monitor progress on site.

Programmes identify the sequence of the activities needed to complete the project on time, and the relationships between these activities. The work programme may be planned using either a Gantt chart or a critical path analysis (CPA).

Programmes (cont.) Gantt charts are commonly used to depict work programmes. Each row in the chart shows the details of the work operations and activities to be completed. The columns represent the duration of each activity, and the timeline for the overall project.

Gantt charts:

• Allow for two tasks to happen simultaneously, whilst integrating dependencies into tasks (i.e. prioritising specific tasks within each activity)

• Can be used to assess the impact of any delays that may occur

• Allows resources to be allocated for each activity shown, for example the amount of labour required

•

Programmes (cont.) Critical path analysis (CPA) is a technique used to plan all the activities that must be completed as part of a construction project.

It provides a visual representation of the project in the form of a flow chart, showing the activities, the sequence and the timings involved. CPA predicts the time needed to complete the project, and defines which activities are critical to maintain the schedule and which are not.

The activities and events in a project are modelled as a network. Activities are shown as nodes on the network, and events that signify the beginning or ending of activities are shown as arcs or lines between the nodes.

Resource planning The project resources on any construction project include:

• Temporary infrastructure on site (e.g site fencing, scaffolding, traffic management, temporary facilities, temporary power supplies)

• Labour (inc. management) – having the right people with the right skills on site at the right time is key to a successful project

• Plant and equipment (e.g. cranes and mobile platforms) and machinery (e.g. escalators and lift installations)

• Materials – these should be carefully controlled on site, with delivery schedules and storage taken into consideration

• Subcontractors – to undertake specialist packages of work

Resource planning (cont.) The way that materials and resources are procured will depend on the size and type of organisation.

In smaller construction and building services companies, it is likely that the same person will carry out the work, identify which materials are needed and what quantities, and be responsible for procuring them.

In larger organisations and on larger projects, there is likely to be a purchaser or purchasing team who are responsible for procurement. The project management team and purchaser must also ensure that all materials and equipment comply with the requirements of the contract. On larger projects, the materials that are required will be confirmed by assessing the bill of quantities, the specification and the project drawings.

Project control and monitoring

Effective control methods are key to ensuring that projects run according to plan, and that risks and issues are identified so project managers can take action. Controlling a project requires consideration of:

• What needs to be controlled?

• Who is responsible for controlling it?

• What procedures currently exist for control?

• What problems might occur and how might they be overcome? Construction sites are complicated, often with multiple tasks taking place and hundreds of employees working all at the same time. Effective site management needs effective communication between all parties involved.

Project control and monitoring (cont.) Cost management is essential to ensuring the profitability and viability of a project. Keeping a control of cash flow ensures that there is enough money to pay for goods and services, as well as contributing to the overall profitability of a business.

Site activities that impact on the environment also need to be monitored, including noise, pollution and waste management.

The principle contractor is responsible for organising, procuring, coordinating and controlling materials. A delivery schedule should consider availability of storage space, the rate of work and the distance materials have to travel. Good organisation can reduce the amount of waste (and therefore save money) by planning delivery dates and quantities which link to the construction programme.

Project control and monitoring (cont.) Work progress should be tracked to ensure that materials, plant and equipment are available when needed. The work programme should be updated frequently and shared with the project management team. Any slippages in the level of production achieved on site versus the planned programme activity should be identified and managed. Failure to do so may result in the project falling behind schedule, leading to contractual penalties.

The quality of the output should also be monitored and controlled. Quality assurance is designed to minimise the risk of defects, errors and accidents, and reduce the requirement for remedial action or re-work. The quality of the materials or work need to be consistent and meet the client’s expectations.

Activities

Case Study Now you have an understanding of the fundamental aspects of assessing, planning and monitoring construction projects, it’s time to explore some common practical situations.

Case Study One Angela is the site manager for a supermarket construction project in a small town. Bad weather has put the project two weeks behind schedule. Consider the following questions.

• What might be the consequences of the delay to the parties involved?

• What options does Angela have available to her?

Feedback The consequences of a delay can be considerable for a project:

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Case Study Two Kayne has been contacted by a client who has bought a brownfield site on the outskirts of town. They have gained permission to build 500 houses on the site but are worried about the poor reputation the construction industry has for not completing projects on time or budget. Consider the following question and write your answers in the box below.

What advice could Kayne offer the client to help identify cost savings in plant, labour and materials?

Feedback Kayne could make the following cost saving suggestions:

• Plant –

• Labour –

• Materials –

Reflection We’ve seen that projects can differ greatly in their direction, design and construction. It’s important to understand the client requirements and project constraints, and adjust plans accordingly to ensure a successful outcome. You may have personal experience of some of the practical problems that can arise from ineffective planning.

Reflection One Formal communication occurs regularly on construction sites, in order to discuss the programme, any information required, variations, and any health and safety issues.

What type of formal communication could managers use to convey this information?

Feedback Formal communication could take the form of site progress meetings, which would include comparing progress reports to the project programme.

They would highlight and discuss any issues or risks, delays to the project, and any changes to the design or build, which may require a variation to be requested.

These meetings are in essence, external checks on the main contractor’s progress on site.

Part Two Think about a site progress meeting you may have attended in your work placement setting.

• Who would be present?

• How would the information be recorded?

Feedback Individuals involved in a site progress meeting may include:

1.

2.

3.

4. Depending on the size of the project, subcontractors may also be involved. Progress will be formally recorded within the minutes of the progress meeting against each activity on the programme which is currently being worked on.

Reflection Two

The construction company you work for has asked you to identify the resources required for a small housing development, so the buying/planning department can schedule the work into the plan.

What resources would you suggest to them?

Feedback The primary resources required on site can be classified as follows:

Labour – the general operatives, craftspeople, supervisors, managers and professional staff who will organise and run the construction site safely and sustainably. Labour subcontractors – work will be carried out by staff working for the main contractor on site; however, the main contractor may require help from labour subcontractors. Subcontractors may carry out more specialist work on site or fulfil a specific task as part of the overall project.

Feedback (cont.)

Plant – the equipment that will be required to move, cut, mix, lay, lift and position resources on the construction project.

Materials – the different supplies that will be delivered, unpacked, used and installed within the project.

Activity Successful project management involves preparing method statements, programmes and schedules, calculating resource requirements, monitoring progress and dealing with deviations from plans.

Activity One: Project Documentation Can you match the documents with the correct description?

Documents:

• Bill of quantities

• Schedules

• Contract specification

Descriptions:

• Prepared for the material elements of the build e.g. room specifications, internal

and external finishes and fittings

• Provides detailed requirements for the project, incorporating the quality, materials

and instructions for the contractor

• Contains details of every item that is included within a project, together with a unit and total price for each item

Answer Schedules –

Contract specification – Bill of quantities –

Activity Two: Health and Safety Which of the following are duties of the main contractor under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM Regulations)? The options are:

• To plan and manage the construction phase of the contract

• To ensure that the people involved in construction activities are competent

• To ensure that the site is secure

• To have a written plan for health and safety, and site rules

• To ensure project delays are communicated to the client

Answer

The main contractor’s duties include: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Activity Three: Critical Path Analysis What does a critical path analysis show? The answer options are:

• Who is responsible for completing each activity

• The earliest start date and latest finish date of each activity

• The order in which the activities must be completed

• The expected amount of time required to complete each activity

• Which activities are critical to maintain the schedule

Answer

A critical path analysis shows: 1. 2. 3. 4.

Summary Here are some important points we’ve covered in the module:

• The successful management of a construction project is fundamentally linked to successful planning – contractors can incur penalties if a project overruns the completion date

• Programmes are produced as part of the agreement between the client and the main contractor and are the main tool used to monitor progress on site – a programme may be planned using a Gantt chart or critical path analysis

• The main contractor has many health and safety responsibilities on site

• The project resources on any construction project include temporary infrastructure, labour, plant and equipment, materials and subcontractors

• Effective control methods are key to ensuring that projects run according to plan, and that risks and issues are identified so project managers can take action

Construction

To undertake the activities contained within this section of your Flying Start, please use this link to launch the accompanying presentation.

https://construction.jisc.ac.uk/resources/prepare-drawings-and-schedules-in-construction-activity/

Interactive (SCORM) content

Prepare drawings and schedules in construction

Learning outcomes

Hello, nice to meet you! By the end of this module you should be able to:

• Be able to prepare drawings and associated information

• Understand how to prepare drawings and associated information

• Be able to prepare schedules

• Understand how to prepare schedules

Home

This is your homepage. From here you can access all your learning activities. You can return to this page by selecting the Home icon at any time.

You may receive notifications during the module. This is not essential learning but is further reading or information that you may find helpful.

Essentials

A key part of communicating and coordinating information in construction is done through carefully designed construction drawings and schedules – sometimes called graphical detailing.

A designer will provide a graphic representation of different parts of the job and the overall project that is to be built.

It is vital that these are concise, accurate and well-coordinated to provide clarity and help avoid confusion.

Drawing types

There is a variety of drawing types used in construction, including:

• Concept drawings and sketches

• Site and location plans

• Floor plans

• Elevation drawings

• Section drawings

• Perspective drawings

When deciding upon which method to use, the main purpose of the drawing and the audience must be considered.

A drawing should provide sufficient information which is clear and unambiguous. Any references to individual details, documentation or other drawings must be clearly noted.

Drawing types (Contd.)

Concept drawings and sketches are often done freehand and are used by designers to note down and explore initial design ideas. Preliminary drawings help to capture the main principles of a design, and these may then form the basis of more formal drawings and building designs.

Drawing types (Contd.)

Location plans show the position of the site, and the areas surrounding it. The scale is usually 1:1250 or 1:2500. Floor plans show a more detailed layout of each floor of the building, including: The location Layout and construction of internal and external walls The use of each space within the building

Location of doors, windows and any fixtures, fittings or furniture The scale is usually 1:50, 1:100 or 1:200.

Drawing types (Contd.)

Elevation drawings are a 2-dimensional (2D) image of the building. They show:

• Height and position of the windows, doors, eaves and roofs (usually in relation to the

finished ground level)

• The design of windows and doors

• The required finishes on the walls and roofs

The scale is usually 1:50, 1:100 or 1:200.

Drawing types (Contd.)

Section drawings are cross-section diagrams, as if the building has been cut in half. These drawings show:

• The height and construction of foundations, walls, stairways, floors and roofs

The scale is usually 1:50, 1:100 or 1:200.

Drawing types (Contd.)

Perspective drawings give a realistic view of the building and can be a good way to show elevations and external views. These are also useful to give an idea of space and depth, especially with bigger or more complex buildings. Perspective drawings can be drawn to scale, but this can be quite complicated to draw and construct.

Manual drawing

Manual drawing involves creating drawings by hand and is commonly used to plan and communicate design ideas and information in construction. This technique provides a vast level of detail and clarity. For example, you can see all the details such as shapes, sizes and angles all on one sheet. They can take a long time to draft and draw up due to this level of detail, however. Manual drawing can also require a large amount of space to draft, view and store.

Manual drawing (Contd.)

Creating an accurate and detailed manual draft or drawing requires the use of a variety of equipment and media, such as:

• Parallel motion drawing boards

• Specialised pencils

• Technical drawing pens

• Various sizes of paper

• A scale rule/architects scale

• Set square

• A compass

• Drafting tape

Manual drawing (Contd.)

Drawing scales are widely used in manual drawing, and are a way of depicting large, real-life objects, i.e. buildings on a drawing. Scales use ratios to show how the size of the real-life object compares to the image that has been drawn of it. For example, if the wall of a room is 4m (4000mm) long, and this is shown on a drawing as 400mm long, then the ratio would be one to ten. This ratio is written as 1:10.

Manual drawing (Contd.)

A drawing or a model of an object can be produced using any scale required, however certain scales are used for particular drawing types, for example: Complicated details use scales such as 1:2, 1:5 or 1:10 Floor plans and elevations use scales such as 1:20, 1:50 or 1:100 Site plans use scales such as 1:200 and 1:500 Location plans use 1:1250 to 1:2500 A scale rule is used to assist in preparing scaled drawings, showing the most common scales.

Computer aided design (CAD)

Computer-aided design is software-based, and generally requires an investment in hardware to run and host the system. Computer-aided design (CAD) has some advantages over more manual approaches, and is an essential part of the design process. Its advantages include:

• The time taken to produce high quality graphics is reduced

• Amending or re-issuing revised drawings is simpler, and less time-consuming

• A consistent approach can be maintained

• Drawings can be easily archived, and work can be tracked more efficiently

Computer aided design (CAD)

Whilst CAD supports collaboration across different disciplines, and speeds up the process from concept to build, many see Building Information Modelling (BIM) as the next step, and a natural evolution for CAD. British Standard BS 19650 – 1:2018 outlines the concepts and principles of BIM and provides recommendations on managing building information. To see more information on BIM and the British Standard BS 19650 – 1:2018, you can access a link in the Resources, or click the button on the right.

Standard approaches

Companies used to adopt their own drawing styles, or ‘house standards’. However, to avoid confusion, there have been numerous British Standards developed to create a more consistent approach. BS EN ISO 128-1:2003 Technical drawings – General principles of presentation and ISO 7519:1991 Construction drawings are most relevant to manual drafting. Title blocks are part of every drawing whether it’s been done manually or by a computer. They show important information on the drawing, including:

• Project title and address

• Drawing title

• Drawing number and Issue

• Date

• Scale

• Customer name and address

Standard approaches (Contd.)

Manual drawing generally involves using different line weights and styles to represent different items.

When cross-section diagrams are used, it is common to show cross-hatching or hatch patterns to demonstrate the material the element is to be made from.

Examples for brick, hardcore and particle board are included.

Standard approaches (Contd.)

There are various abbreviations used in drawings and schedules. Common examples:

Building - bldg Concrete – conc Joist - jst Plasterboard – pbd Satin chrome - SC Softwood – swd BS EN ISO 19650 lists the graphic conventions and symbols that should be used in drawings and schedules. Examples are given for sinks, doors and vent pipes.

Schedules and specifications

On small to medium projects, e.g. alterations or extensions, the main documents required are the schedule of work and the drawings.

Schedules of work are essentially instructional lists, without quantities, generally prepared by the designer. They allow the contractor to estimate and quote for the quantity of materials and work required.

The schedule of work and the drawings complement one another, and give an overall picture of the project, including the location, materials, dimensions of the elements and assembly details.

Schedules and specifications (Contd.)

On larger or more complex projects, a full specification is required, alongside materials, schedules and drawings. This is a separate document, providing detailed requirements for the project, incorporating the quality, materials and instructions for the contractor. Aspects generally specified are: Products – including the relevant British Standards and attributes, and may nominate suppliers Workmanship – for example to comply with manufacturer requirements, or to a code of practice or British Standards

Schedules and specifications (Contd.)

In the broadest sense, a schedule is a list – a way of presenting information when there are variations in size and specification for a certain element of construction, such as doors, windows, joinery, ironmongery and drainage. In this way, information can be collated in an easy-to-handle table, without unnecessary, additional drawing works. Schedules prepared for the material elements of the build are based on the agreed design.

The design team should consider the structure of information in the early stages of the design process, as this will vary from project to project.

Schedules and specifications (Contd.)

CAD and BIM software can be set to automatically generate schedule information. These schedules can be generated on a room-by-room basis, or for the full build.

The schedules can then be sent out to contractors as part of the tendering process so they can submit a quote for products and/or services.

It is therefore imperative that schedules are accurate and describe each item of work to which they relate. Failure to do so could result in a claim by the contractor later on in the project.

Activities

Case Studies

Now you have an understanding of preparing drawings and schedules, it’s important to be able to identify situations that you may come across where these skills will be required. The Case studies will help you to decide how you would approach each situation.

Case Study One: Ralph and Team

Ralph and his team are in the process of transferring some concept designs and sketches into more formal drawings. They want to ensure that the drawings are clear and as detailed as possible.

They can complete the drawings using manual methods or use CAD to create them – the team has experience of using both. The team has a long timescale to complete the drawings and would prefer not to have to invest a huge amount in the drawings due to the tight budget allocated to the project.

Consider the following question: Think about the advantages and disadvantages of both CAD and manual drawing. Type below which method you think Ralph and his team should choose, along with your reasons why.

Reasons for Ralph and his team to use CAD:

1 2 3 4

Reasons for Ralph and his team to use a manual approach:

1 2 3

Case Study Two: Maria

Maria is working on her first medium-sized project, preparing the building drawings and schedules for a village hall.

She has provided manual drawings and is now writing up a schedule of work for the project. What does Maria need to include in her schedule of work?

Feedback

Maria should include: 1 2 3 4 She should also check that her drawings and schedule of work complement one another and provide an overall picture of the project itself. Maria completes the schedule of work and submits it through to the contractors, so they can estimate and quote for the quantity of materials and work required for the job.

When the contractor receives the schedule, they request that Maria creates a full specification document as the work is more complex than first anticipated.

What additional information would Maria need to include in her specification that wouldn’t have been detailed in the schedule of work?

Feedback

Maria should include: 1 2 3 4

Reflection

You have seen some examples of situations where decisions must be made about drawings and schedules. It’s also vital to think about your own role, and circumstances you will encounter where you need to prepare drawings or schedules yourself. The reflective exercises and decide how you would approach each situation.

Reflection One

Think about and evaluate your current position and answer the following questions.

Consider the benefits of these surveys for your client.

What standard approaches must you apply to your own drawings to ensure consistency in your design?

Feedback

To adhere to regulation, and provide consistency across your designs, you should use the following standard approaches:

• Line drawing – use the correct line type dependent on their function and typical use

• Hatch patterns – use the correct cross-hatching to illustrate the material the element is

made from

• Abbreviations – these can make your design easier, but must be consistent and correctly

used across your drawings

• Symbols – these must be used in accordance with BS EN ISO 19650

Reflection Two

You are completing some drawings for a housing project that is scheduled for the following year.

The contractor needs information on:

• The site and location

• The height and position of the windows, doors, eaves and roofs

What types of manual drawing(s) would you provide to meet the contractors’ requirements?

Feedback

Site or location plans would be ideal to show the position of the site, as well as any areas surrounding it. The contractor also wants to see the height and position of windows, doors and eaves. An elevation drawing would provide all of this information, as well as allowing you to indicate the finishes on the walls and roofs, and the design of the windows and doors.

Activities

You’ve now learnt the essentials of how to prepare drawings and schedules in construction and seen how to deal with potential situations and challenges you might come across. work through the activities to cement your understanding of how to prepare drawings and schedules in construction.

Activities

Activity One: Drawing Scale

Match the plan type with the scale it can be drawn to. Survey options: • Complicated details

• Floor plans/elevations

• Location plans

Descriptions: • Scales from 1:1250 to 1:2500

• Scales such as 1:2, 1:5 or 1:10

• Scales such as 1:20, 1:50 or 1:100

Answer

1 2 3

Activity Two: Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

What advantages does computer-aided design have over traditional manual approaches?

Options:

• Time taken to produce high quality graphics is reduced

• Work can be tracked more efficiently

• Amending or reissuing revised drawings is simpler

• Drawings are easily archived

• A consistent approach can be maintained

Answer

1 2 3 4 5

Activity Three: Section Drawings

Which of the following are features and characteristics of a section drawing?

The options are: • The drawing is a cross- section diagram

• Gives a realistic view of the property

• The scale used is normally 1:50, 1:100 or 1:200

• It shows the height and construction of foundations and walls

• Provides a more detailed layout of each floor of the building

Answer

Section drawings have the following features and characteristics: 1 2 3

Summary

Here are some important points we’ve covered in the module:

• Drawings and schedules are a key part of communicating and coordinating information

in construction

• Drawings can be completed by hand, or by using computer-aided design (CAD)

• There are a number of standardised approaches to drawing and design that must be

considered when creating your details

• The types of drawings used in construction are varied, and a combination can be used to

give an overall illustration of the object or building

• It is imperative for all drawings and schedules to be accurate and to complement one

another, otherwise this can lead to confusion, loss of time and potential claims from

contractors

For those who want a bit more…

There will be additional tasks set later on to support your future studies on this programme.

FAQs Q: Do I have to do it? A: Flying Start isn’t compulsory, but many students find it useful for getting them used to thinking about subjects at the next level. Early classroom sessions will also reflect on some of the Flying Start activities. Q: Will this work be marked and when is it due? A: This work won’t be formally marked but will be discussed during your first classes with us in September. You should aim to bring along what you have completed with Flying Start along with you to your first timetabled sessions with us in September. Q: I am not sure if I have got the answers right, what should I do? A: Don’t worry, just have a go at getting something down and bring it along to the lesson where we can talk it through. There is no need to get anxious about the tasks, we are not expecting you to know everything before you arrive but are interested in your ideas and what you have found easy or difficult as it helps us support you right from the beginning