Introduction to Construction

This course aims to provide an overview of how construction activities are planned, organised and undertaken and the various resources, equipment and materials involved.

This one-day course has been created for those working as an Ecological Clerk of Works (ECoW) during construction and ecological contracting. A key requirement of an ECoW role is that they understand the wider construction context in which they carry out ecological works.

The course will cover:

• The common organisations, roles and personnel typically found on construction sites.
• The planning, organisation and documentation found in common construction and related contracting operations.
• The common types and uses of material and equipment employed in construction.
• The typical working areas and types of contracting activities encountered on site during various phases of construction.

The training is aimed particularly at those that work in a site-based role on construction sites or on ecological contracting projects.

Familiarity with work as an Ecological Clerk of Works is desirable but not essential.

Some experience of working on construction sites and/or on ecological contracting projects is desirable.

• Describe the key elements of the construction process and all of its constituent parts and procedures.
• Describe the roles and responsibilities of various construction organisations and personnel on site.
• Describe the various forms of commonly used construction documents.
• Identify a of common construction mechanisms and procedures and their implications for ecological work on site.
• Identify the various common types, purpose and uses of plant, equipment and materials employed in construction.
• Describe the characteristics and purpose of various working areas on site.
• Describe the typical activities and operations found during various phases of construction.