Construction Manpower Safety 6.

Work Organization Hazards – Workplace stress (due to

excessive workload, lack of control, or poor management).
What is Safety?
Safety is the state of being “safe” (from French sauf), Types of Risks
the condition of being protected from harm or other 1. Cuts – From sharp tools or improper handling of materials.
non-desirable outcomes. 2. Burns – Due to exposure to heat, chemicals, or electrical
Safety can also refer to the control of recognized faults.
hazards in order to achieve an acceptable level of risk. 3. Injuries – Such as fractures or muscle strains from improper
lifting.
What is Manpower Safety? 4. Fatalities – Accidents that result in loss of life.
Is committed to providing a safe and healthy working 5. Casualties – Serious injuries that require medical attention.
environment for its temporary and permanent employees. We 6. Explosions – Due to mishandling of combustible materials.
are committed to preventing occupational illness and injury
inthe workplace. Concern for our employees’; health and Employers’ Responsibilities
well-being is a top priority at all levels. 1. Provide a safe working environment.
●​ Basic Rules for Safety 2. Conduct regular safety training.
a) Tidy up construction site 3. Supply proper PPE and equipment.
b) Keep passages clear all the time. 4. Enforce safety policies and procedures.
c) Sort out materials and pile them up safely. The stacks
should not be too high. Employees’ Responsibilities
d) Beware of floor openings and ensure that they are 1. Follow safety rules and instructions.
fenced or covered. 2. Use PPE properly.
e) Remove refuse as soon as possible. 3. Report hazards or unsafe practices.
●​ Safety Measure 4. Participate in safety training sessions.
a) Before you operate a machine, ensure that the
dangerous part of the machine has been installed with a guard. Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to protective
b) Avoid going to any area with insufficient lighting as clothing, helmets, goggles, or other garments or equipment
there may be some dangerous places which have not been designed to protect the wearer's body from injury or
provided with fencing. infection. The hazards addressed by protective equipment
c) Keep vigilant all the time and watch out for moving include physical, electrical, heat, chemicals, biohazards, and
cranes, hooks or other lifting equipment. airborne particulate matter.
d) Before you use any electrical installation or tool, Personal protective equipment and clothing can include:
check the condition of its electric cables. - Overalls and protective aprons.
e) Avoid dragging electric cables on the ground or - Protective headgear - safety helmets, wide brimmed
allowing the cables to come into contact with water. hats to protect against the sun.
f) Use electrical tools installed with an earth leakage - Safety boots or shoes.
circuit breaker. - Safety glasses or goggles.
g) Use and handle chemicals with care. - Gloves.
●​ Personal Safety - Respirators and masks.
a) Wear protective equipment. - Earmuffs and earpieces.
b) Do not drink or take drugs while working.
c) Pay attention to personal hygiene. Types of the PPE
d) Do not play in the workplace. 1. Head protection - Employees working in areas where there
e) Report to your supervisor immediately if you notice is a possible danger of head injury from impact, or from falling
any unsafe condition. or flying objects, or from electrical shock and burns, shall be
protected by helmets.
Types of Workplace Hazards. 2. Eye and Face Protection - Employees shall be provided with
1. Safety Hazards – Unsafe working conditions (e.g., falls, eye and face protection equipment when machines or operations
exposed wires, improper machine use). present potential eye or face injury from physical, chemical, or
2. Biological Hazards – Exposure to bacteria, viruses, or radiation agents.
diseases (common in hospitals, laboratories, and schools). - Safety glasses are used to protect the eyes from flying
3. Physical Hazards – Harm from environmental factors (like objects (no face protection)
noise, radiation, and extreme temperatures). - Chemical splash goggles protect against fluids by
4. Ergonomic Hazards – Injuries caused by poor posture, sealing tightly against the face
repetitive tasks, or improper lifting techniques (that could lead - Face shields provide highest level of protection
to musculoskeletal injuries and disorders). 3. Hearing Protection - All hearing protection devices should
5. Chemical Hazards – Exposure to toxic substances (like have a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) equal to the number of
fumes, gases, or corrosive materials). decibels they will reduce noise levels.
Types of Hearing Protection Managing Safety & Health Conditions in Construction
- Ear Plugs - less expensive, disposable, good ones Sites
have fairly high NRRs – ●​ Appointing Safety Officers
sometimes difficult to tell if employees are wearing them ●​ Conducting toolbox meetings
- Ear Muffs - more expensive, more durable, typically ●​ Proper signage and site fencing
higher NRRs than plugs, ●​ Providing first aid stations
more obvious ●​ Ensuring clean and organized worksite
●​ Mandatory orientation for workers
4. Respiratory Protection - Protects users by removing harmful
materials that may enter the body via the lungs. Safety Policies:
Types of Respirators ●​ Employers with 50+ workers must have a written safety
- Air Purifying Respirators (APR) and health policy
- Half-face The policy should include:
- Full Face - Management commitment
- Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPR) - Responsibilities of personnel
- Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) - Training plans
5. Arm and Hand Protection – Gloves is the most common - Emergency preparedness
hand protection in a construction works. Planning and Risk Assessment:
Typical uses of Gloves Planning before construction:
- Chemical protection - Identify underground utilities
- Biohazard protection - Assess terrain and surrounding environment
- Abrasion protection Risk Assessment:
- Friction protection - Evaluate tasks for potential hazards
- Protection from extremes of heat and cold - Control measures must be in place
6. Foot and leg protection – Steel toed shoes and Rubber boots - Continuous review and improvement
are the examples of common protective footwear.
- Steel-toed footwear, preferably with metatarsal
guards, is used to protect feet from crushing injuries caused by INTRODUCTION TO CONSTRUCTION REPORTS
heavy objects All projects use reporting to monitor progress and
- Rubber boots are often used to protect feet from performance, but in construction, reporting is especially
exposure to liquids important for effective project management and communication.
- Chaps or leggings are used in certain applications (i.e., Each report serves a specific purpose which is to ensure that all
using a chainsaw) aspects of the project are monitored and managed.
7. Protective Clothing Regular and detailed reporting practices are essential
- Used to protect street clothes from hazards in the for project success and stakeholder satisfaction. Construction
workplace reporting software can improve progress, cost, and quality
- Often hazard specific reports for all involved. It makes the reports more efficient,
- To be considered effective, protective clothing must accurate, and valuable. This benefits everyone participating in
prevent the contaminant from reaching the clothing or skin of the process.
the wearer
CONSTRUCTION REPORTS AND REPORTING
What is Occupational Safety and Health (OSH)? Construction reports are super helpful for keeping tabs
- OSH refers to the laws, standards, and programs aimed at on progress, costs, quality, safety, and risks. Construction
protecting workers reporting is the process of documenting project data in an
from workplace hazards. interactive format to support decision-making. It boosts
- Based on: Republic Act No. 11058 (OSH Law) collaboration and informs all stakeholders about important
events and processes for enhanced efficiency and transparency.
Common Risks: Construction reports are documents that summarise information
- Scaffolding falls about the status of a project. They include details such as the
- Excavation hazards different stages of the project, important
- Welding/fire risks events, and the processes involved in the project.
- Electrical hazards
- Poor housekeeping (5S program) ROLE OF REPORTING FOR DIFFERENT CONSTRUCTION
Common Violations: STAKEHOLDERS
- No PPE The key to a successful construction reporting system is
- No safety barriers collaboration. Each project stakeholder plays an essential role in
- Improper tool handling the process and will find different values in the reports. We will
- Exposed live wires discuss the different types of reports later in the post. Now, let’s
talk a little about each stakeholder’s role.
 • Project owner: Owners have the greatest vested protection. It is used to identify and record potential hazards in
interest in construction reports as they are the primary source of the workplace that require immediate attention and evaluate the
information on how things are moving. They use them as key integrity of any structures on site. It also inspects and evaluates
tools to stay updated about key project milestones, budget the integrity of any equipment on the site.
status, and any delays or issues that might have happened. 4.​ WORK-IN-PROGRESS REPORTS
• Project Manager (PM): As one of the most relevant A work-in-progress (WIP) report is like a project status report. It
decision-makers in a project, the PM uses reports to monitor the shows whether the project is on budget and how it looks in
progress of different activities, budget utilization, and resource comparison to the scheduled project timeline. That’s the basic
allocation. They also help them identify potential risks and idea, but the execution is more complicated depending on the
assess the impact of changes in schedule and budget, ensuring complexity of the project. A progress report in construction
every decision is backed by data. summarizes a project’s development and status, including
• Contractors/Subcontractors: From an operational completion percentage, remaining profit, costs incurrent, and
perspective, contractors are responsible for aggregating all the paid revenue, etc. It is often regularly compiled to help
data from the different subcontractors and providing valuable contractors understand precisely where they are according to the
reports about material usage, labor, and progress. These reports schedule.
track performance, monitor timelines, identify bottlenecks, and 5.​ PUNCH LIST REPORTS
manage resources efficiently to ensure they can carry out their Defective/incomplete work. A punch list report is another
contractual obligations with the highest efficiency. unique construction report that captures the work that still needs
• Designers/Engineers: These professionals rely on reports to to be completed on the construction project. It’s work that
understand the project in detail and ensure their designs are requires immediate attention or work that was done but not to
being applied following the specifications and regulations. contract specifications and therefore needs to be redone. The
Reports also serve as invaluable tools to keep interdisciplinary punch list report can include specifications on damages to
teams connected and collaborating. materials or items that happened throughout the project
• Regulatory Authorities: Compliance is a fundamental aspect and new demand repair.
of construction. Regulatory authorities require reports to ensure 6.​ COST MANAGEMENT REPORTS
the project complies with relevant building codes, A cost report provides detailed financial data about a project.
environmental regulations, and safety standards. Cost reports are important in comparing
• Suppliers/Vendors: Suppliers and vendors use construction allowable budgets with actual expenditures. It is essential to
reports to get a complete overview of material requirements, carefully monitor and compare construction
delivery schedules, and any issues that might arise that can cost estimation and budget to ensure the project stays on track.
cause delays. This level of insight allows them to plan 7.​ ACCIDENT/SAFETY REPORTS IN
accordingly to ensure every material or equipment is delivered CONSTRUCTION
at the agreed time. Incident records. If so, the project manager must generate
construction accident reports to identify the causes and quickly
TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION REPORTS address them to prevent any other incidents. No matter how big
There are various kinds of construction reports covering or small the incident is, this kind of overview needs to be
different project activities. Most construction reports can be generated for mitigation and legal purposes. The purpose of an
grouped into multiple categories, as shown below. incident report is to ensure that the construction site is safe and
1.​ DAILY REPORTS that problems are quickly addressed.
It documents the project’s daily activities, lists the details of the 8.​ HANDOVER AND CONSTRUCTION
site and the job and provides a record for subcontractors and CLOSE-OUT REPORTS
stakeholders. Detailed construction daily reports provide a clear These reports document the handover stage of a project. They
narrative of what happens during a project, how it is shaping up, compile all relevant data, including final inspections by trade or
and what challenges may arise daily, including weather project stage, the operation and maintenance manual, test &
conditions, workforce attendance, etc. commissioning reports for each equipment installed, and
2.​ MATERIALS REPORT certificates of compliance, among many other things. They
A materials report summarizes the quantity and quality of involve
materials used during a project. This may include information transferring the completed project to the client or end-user,
about the types of materials used, their prices, and their sources. ensuring that all contractual obligations are fulfilled, and
They help keep track of the actual materials used compared to resolving any outstanding issues or defects.
the take-off and estimation. They aim at minimizing waste and
overspending. They also ensure that projects do not incur a ➢ WHAT TO INCLUDE IN A CONSTRUCTION REPORT
situation where there is a lack of materials, which would cause ●​ Construction Daily Reports
delays. ○​ Job overview
3.​ CONSTRUCTION SITE INSPECTION REPORT ○​ Work
It summarizes the findings and the recommendations by a site ○​ Crew
supervisor or consultant after their site visit. The purpose of this ○​ Equipment
report is to point out any hazards on the site and then offer ○​ Materials
suggestions on how to fix them or provide some sort of ○​ Delivered
 ○​ Delays ●​ Cost Management Report
○​ Meetings ○​ General Information
○​ Safety Inspection ○​ Project Task
●​ Material Report ○​ Labor and Materials
○​ Type and quantity of materials delivered ○​ Budgeted and Actual Cost
○​ Supplier details ○​ Balance (Under/Over)
○​ Delivery date and time ●​ Handover and Construction Close-Out Report
○​ Condition of materials upon arrival ○​ General Information
○​ Storage location on site ○​ Project Summary
○​ Material usage updates ○​ Contract Data
○​ Shortages or overages ○​ Project Schedule
●​ Inspection Report ○​ Final Project Costs
○​ General Information ○​ Project Funding Sources
○​ Property Address ○​ Project DBE Utilization
○​ Building Age ○​ Attached Documents
○​ Building Type ○​ Final Deliverables
○​ Client's Name and Contact Information ○​ Project Acceptance
○​ Inspector’s Name and Contact Information ●​ Accident/Safety Report
○​ Inspection Summary ○​ Health and Safety Report
○​ Key Observations and Findings ○​ General Information
○​ Suggested Actions and Recommendations ○​ Personal Protective Equipment
○​ Building Inspection Report Breakdown ○​ Work Area - General
○​ Electrical Work ○​ Electrical Safety
○​ HVAC ○​ Lifting
○​ Roofing ○​ Stacking
○​ Foundation & Basement ○​ Scaffolding
○​ Plumbing ○​ Hazardous Materials Used
○​ Walls ○​ Ladders
○​ Sewer Lines ○​ Hot Work
○​ Exterior ○​ Worker Training and Performance
○​ Pest Control ○​ Supervisors
○​ Fire Detectors & Other Related Equipment ○​ Comments
○​ Security Systems ○​ Accident Report
●​ Work-in-Progress Report ○​ General Information
○​ Project Name ○​ Details of Person Completing the Form
○​ Contract Value ○​ Details of Injured Person
○​ Estimated Job Cost ○​ Accident/Incident Details
○​ Estimated Profit
○​ Cost to Date THE IMPORTANCE OF A CONSTRUCTION REPORT
○​ Percentage of Completion 1.​ Accurate planning
○​ Profit to Date A professional construction report is valuable not only during
○​ Amount Earned project completion but also proves helpful for accurate planning.
○​ Amount Billed 2.​ Better strategic and operational decisions
○​ Cost to Complete Construction reports aren’t only used to represent progress on a
○​ Over/Under Billing job site. They are also key documents to improve the
●​ Punch List Report decision-making process.
○​ Project Information 3.​ Boosts project quality and accountability
○​ Punch Number Reporting ensures that workers know every job that needs to be
○​ Description done and its status.
○​ Location 4.​ Enhanced transparency
○​ Type The 360-degree view provided by modern reports significantly
○​ Owner enhances transparency between all stakeholders.
○​ Priority 5.​ Enhanced collaboration
○​ Date Observed Digital construction reports provide the perfect environment to
○​ Date Expected to be Complete keep every stakeholder connected and working based on the
○​ Date Approved same data.
○​ Date Completed
○​ Status HOW TO MAKE REPORTING EASIER
○​ Notes
 Although creating high-quality construction reports can how to use apps and forms. Familiarity reduces errors and
be challenging at times, it is simple to do so. Considering that resistance.
every project is different, there is some flexibility in ▪ Clarify reporting expectations: explain the schedule
construction reporting. You can use the tips listed below to (when reports are due) and review process so everyone knows
simplify your construction reporting. their responsibilities. Answer questions and collect suggestions
1.​ STANDARDIZE REPORTING FORMATS to improve the
▪ Use uniform templates for all report types (daily logs, system.
progress, safety, etc.) so everyone follows the same structure. 9.​ SECURE DATA AND ACCESS CONTROL
▪ Include fixed fields (date, weather, crew, tasks) in ▪ Implement role-based access: only authorized team
each form to reduce confusion and speed members should create or edit reports. This prevents accidental
preparation. changes and protects sensitive information.
2.​ SHIFT TO DIGITAL TOOLS AND ▪ Use security measures like encryption, passwords and
AUTOMATION backups for your reporting system. Regularly back up data so
▪ Adopt mobile reporting apps or cloud platforms for reports aren’t lost and audit trails are preserved.
real-time data entry and sharing. Allow crews to submit
progress notes, photos, and measurements on-site via SUMMARY
smartphone. Construction reports are essential for consistently documenting
▪ Automate data collection (drop-down fields, project information to keep all stakeholders — including
auto-calculations) to minimize manual entry. Digital forms can owners, managers, contractors, and regulatory bodies —
sync instantly to the office, giving managers up-to-date informed and aligned. They come in various types, such as daily
information. reports, materials summaries, inspection findings,
3.​ COMMUNICATE AND COLLABORATE work-in-progress updates, punch lists for incomplete tasks, cost
▪ Maintain open, regular communication: share report management overviews, safety and accident records, and
updates at fixed intervals (daily, weekly, monthly) and hold brief close-out or handover documentation. Each report serves a
review meetings. unique purpose and includes key details like job summaries, site
▪ Involve the whole team in the reporting process. conditions, financial data, safety notes, and progress tracking.
Gather input from field crews and office managers on report Accurate and timely reporting is vital for effective planning,
contents and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) so the reports smarter decision-making, accountability, and risk reduction on
meet real needs construction projects. Best practices encourage the use of digital
4.​ BE TRANSPARENT AND ACCURATE tools, clear communication, precise data handling, visual aids,
▪ Transparency promotes improved decision-making by defined objectives, systematic change tracking, team training,
building trust and aiding in the early identification of risks. and strong data security. Practical examples, like the standard
▪ Use validated digital forms (required fields, DPWH project logbook, help ensure that reporting is structured
drop-downs, auto-checks) to catch errors before reports are and reliable across various projects.
submitted. This reduces mistakes from manual entry.
▪ Have supervisors or automated rules cross-check key
figures (hours, quantities) against project schedules. Accurate TOPIC 9: CONSTRUCTION FIELDWORK
data builds trust and enables quick decisions.
5.​ USE VISUALS Construction Fieldwork - actual construction of the project.
▪ Incorporate visuals (charts, graphs, photos) in reports
to illustrate progress, budget status, and issues. Visuals help Common Construction Fieldwork
stakeholders grasp information quickly. Surveying - Civil engineering land surveying typically involves
6.​ DEFINE KEY METRICS AND OBJECTIVES the horizontal and vertical distances and angles between these
▪ Highlight the most important metrics for your points, and measurement of certain elevation. Aside from
audience (e.g. actual vs. planned budget, % complete, safety gathering these data, it is also needed to define the nature of the
incidents) so key data stands out. land, if it is rocky, forested, grassy, and many more.
▪ Tailor report content to each role’s needs: owners may Clearing and Layout- Clearing prepares the land for
focus on costs and schedule, site managers on daily output and construction of the desired project. Layout of the building
issues. This ensures each stakeholder gets the right info. specifies the location of the structure below and above it
7.​ TRACK CHANGES AND UPDATES Earthworks - Earthwork operation is the process whereby the
▪ Archive all reports in a central, secure location (e.g. surface of the earth is excavated and transported to and
shared cloud folder or project software) for easy retrieval. A compacted to another location.
historical record helps with audits and learning. Formworks and Scaffolding - In concrete construction,
▪ Use version control: label each report with date and formwork is a mold used to form concrete into structural
revision, and log all change orders or updates. Tracking members such as beams, columns, slabs, wall and stairs.
revisions prevents confusion over which is the latest report. Scaffolding it temporarily constructed for workers and are made
8.​ TRAIN AND SUPPORT YOUR TEAM very close to the wall for the workers to work around the
▪ Provide hands-on training on new reporting tools and building when the height of the building exceeds about 1.5m
templates. Make sure field crews and office staff understand
Concrete Works - These are the steps in concrete construction. Roofing Works - Roof work encompasses all activities related
The concrete mix is prepared by mixing the three basic to roofs, including installation, repair, maintenance, and removal
components which are water, aggregate (rock, sand, or gravel), of roofing materials
and Portland cement. Electrical Works
Steel Reinforcement Work - The importance of steel - Electrical work involves the installation, maintenance, and
reinforcement is it gives a concrete structure the stability it repair of electrical systems that provide power, lighting,
needs. It’s designed in the principle that steel and concrete act communication, and control to buildings and other structures.
together to produce a stronger structure that can withstand Piping Works - Piping work involves the installation of coolers,
induced forces. air conditioners, water supplies, hygiene facilities, and facilities
Masonry Work - Masonry is the building of structures from for transport of water, oil, gas, and steam using metal pipes.
individual units, which are often laid in and bound together by Tile Works - Tile work is the process of installing tiles on
mortar floors, walls, or other surfaces using adhesive and grout to
create a durable and decorative finish.
CONSTRUCTION FIELDWORK IN LIGHT Glass Works - Glass work in construction refers to the cutting,
CONSTRUCTION fitting, installation, and repair of glass used in buildings,
Light Construction - refers to construction projects that are including windows, doors, partitions, and facades.
typically smaller and less complex than heavy construction. Painting Works - Paint work refers to the application of paint
These are smaller-scale business construction such or other finishes on building surfaces like walls, ceilings, doors,
projects such as offices, free-standing retail, small medical metal, or wood to protect them and improve their appearance
facilities, banks,
etc. most under four stories and less than 25000 square feet. COMMON TYPES OF LIGHT CONSTRUCTION
WOOD FRAME CONSTRUCTION - A building method that
KEY CHARACTERISTICS uses timber or engineered wood products for the framing
lightweight materials structure.
fast construction time STEEL FRAME CONSTRUCTION - A building method
cost effective which Steel is used for framing instead of wood, offering a more
prefabrication and modularity durable option while still being lightweight.
MATERIALS USED MODULAR OR PRE FABRICATED CONSTRUCTION -
Wood A building method that Involves the off-site fabrication of
dry wall panels building sections (modules), which are then transported and
light gauge steel assembled on-site.
structural insulated panels DRY CONSTRUCTION - a building method where materials
In light construction, the construction fieldworks are: are assembled without using water-based processes like
Carpentry plastering or concrete mixing.
Plaster works
Scaffolding CONSTRUCTION FIELDWORK IN HEAVY
Form Works CONSTRUCTION
Masonry Works Heavy construction refers to large-scale construction
Steel Reinforcement Works projects that involve significant infrastructure development and
Concrete Works require extensive resources, specialized equipment, and skilled
Roofing Works labor. These projects are often funded by government entities or
Electrical Works large corporations and are designed to support public services,
Piping Works transportation, and industrial needs.
Tile Works
Glass Works HOW DOES HEAVY CONSTRUCTION DIFFER FROM
Painting Works LIGHT CONSTRUCTION?
Heavy construction and light construction are two main
Carpentry - Construction of works by processing or applying categories of construction work. They are quite different in
wooden materials or application of wooden structures to work. nature of the projects they handle, the equipment and machinery
It involves the cutting, shaping and installation of wood (timber) they use, and the overall scale of the work involved.
for buildings and other structure.
Plaster Work - Plastering work also provides a finished surface Project Type and Scale
over the masonry that is firm and smooth hence it enhances the - Heavy construction usually deals with large, complex
appearance of the building. The purpose of plastering is to projects that need significant resources, heavy machinery, and a
protect the surface from atmospheric influences, to cover large workforce. Common examples include highways, bridges,
defective workmanship in masonry and to provide a suitable for tunnels, dams, airports, and major commercial buildings.
painting. - In contrast, light construction involves smaller, less
complicated projects. This includes residential buildings, small
commercial structures, renovations, remodeling, landscaping,
and other tasks that typically don’t require large equipment or the structural integrity of foundations and heavy load buildings
advanced engineering. of platforms.
Cofferdams - Cofferdam is a temporary structure designed and
Equipment Used constructed to support ground and keep groundwater or water
- Because of the large scale and complexity of heavy above ground level away from an excavation. Cofferdams
construction projects, they require various types of heavy completed construction until the structure is ready for contact
machinery and specialized equipment. This includes machines with the water
like excavators, bulldozers, cranes, pavers, and concrete mixers. Caisson - Caisson is a watertight structure used for retaining
- In comparison, light construction projects typically water in order to work on the foundation for bridges, piers and
use smaller, more portable tools and equipment. Examples are other structures. In installation, it is into the mud until it
hand tools such as hammers, saws, and drills, as well as reaches clay or solid foundation. The water is then pumped to
compact machines like mini-excavators and skid-steer loaders. completely dry work
environment.
Workforce and Expertise Construction Dewatering - Construction dewatering is done to
- Heavy construction projects require a skilled and prevent hazards like mudslides, unstable foundations and
specialized workforce, including engineers, project managers, equipment failure when construction is starting. It also ensures,
heavy equipment operators, and other professionals with that the site is ready for excavation, foundation preparation and
expertise in specific construction fields. Given the complexity of cement footing pours
these projects, multiple professionals are usually involved
throughout different stages of the construction process. ASSIGNED PERSONNEL IN CONSTRUCTION
- In contrast, light construction projects often involve FIELDWORKS
smaller teams, with many tasks managed by general contractors 1.​ Construction Carpenter
or even homeowners. Although certain specialized skills may A construction carpenter is a skilled worker who builds
still be necessary, the overall level of expertise required is and repairs parts of buildings, like walls, floors, roofs, and
typically lower than that of heavy construction. stairs. They work with wood and other materials, often using
tools to cut, shape, and put everything together based on
Time frame and Cost building plans.
- Heavy construction projects generally involve longer 2.​ Construction Electrician
timelines and higher costs because of their large scale and A construction electrician is a tradesperson who installs
complexity. These projects often require extensive planning, and maintains the electrical systems in buildings that are being
permitting, and execution, which can take several years and built or renovated. This includes wiring, outlets, lights, and
demand substantial financial resources. circuit breakers.
- On the other hand, light construction projects typically 3.​ Mason
have shorter durations and lower costs. Projects like residential A mason is a skilled worker who builds and repairs
renovations or small commercial builds can often be completed structures using materials like bricks, concrete blocks, and
within weeks or months, making them more feasible for stone. They work on things like walls, sidewalks, fireplaces, and
individuals and small businesses. buildings.
4.​ Plumber
In HEAVY CONSTRUCTION, the construction fieldworks are; A plumber is a tradesperson who installs and fixes
Rock Excavation/Blasting pipes, fixtures, and systems that carry water, gas, and waste in
Paving homes and buildings. They work on things like sinks, toilets,
Pile Driving showers, and water heaters.
Cofferdams 5.​ Heavy Equipment Operator
Caisson A heavy equipment operator is someone who runs large
Construction Dewatering machines used in construction, like bulldozers, excavators,
cranes, and loaders. They use these machines to move dirt, lift
Rock Excavation/Blasting - Rock excavation means removal heavy materials, dig holes, and prepare land for building
of solid rock in place, or boulders and chunks of old concrete 6.​ Laborer
and stone masonry sized which require drilling and blasting to A laborer is a worker who helps with basic tasks on a
allow removal by conventional earth moving equipment construction site, like carrying materials, digging, cleaning up,
and assisting skilled tradespeople. They don’t need special
Paving - Excavation and area grading to the desired grade and training but must be physically strong and able to follow
drainage. It is also the covering of asphalt mix to finish the instructions.
surface. The importance of paving is it provides a smooth and 7.​ Plasterer
durable all weather traveling surface that benefits vehicles. A plasterer is a worker who applies plaster (a type of
Pile Driving - Pile driving is the process of installing a pile of smooth, hard coating) to walls, ceilings, and other surfaces in
braced, structural column into the ground without first buildings. They mix the plaster, spread it over surfaces, and then
excavating the area. These piles are driven, pushed or otherwise smooth it out to create a clean, even finish.
installed into the ground. Pile driving is designed to ensure 8.​ Steel Man (Ironworker/Steelworker)
 A steel man handles the steel beams, columns, and SCHEDULE DISPUTE
reinforcement bars (rebar) used to build strong structures like arises when the construction schedule suffers delays or
buildings, bridges, and skyscrapers. They measure, cut, and disruptions, due to bad weather, unforeseen site conditions, and
weld steel pieces together, making sure everything is secure and labor shortage
stable. These can have a domino effect on project completion
and costs.

TOPIC 10: CONSTRUCTION DISPUTE DESIGN DISPUTES

happens when the project owner and contractor
What is a Dispute? disagree over the project’s design or specifications.
A dispute is a disagreement or argument between two or more Contractors may claim that design issues caused delays
parties about a specific issue. or extra costs, while owners may argue that the contractor failed
to follow specifications.
What is a Construction Dispute? arises because of the unclear or incomplete design
It refers to disagreements, conflicts, or legal issues that arise documents, errors or omissions in architectural or engineering
during the planning, execution, or completion of construction plans and how to interpret design intent.
projects.
QUALITY DISPUTES
Parties Involved in Construction Dispute: arises when the project owners and contractors disagree
●​ Workers: May have disputes over wages, working on the overall quality of the work completed.
conditions, or safety issues. are about whether the work meets the required
●​ Suppliers: Can have conflicts about payment or standards, specifications, or regulations.
delivery of materials. Ex. Defective work, Incomplete work, and Inability to
●​ Subcontractors: Often dispute payment or scope of meet the required standards and regulations.
their work with contractors.
●​ Contractors: May have disagreements with owners SAFETY DISPUTES
about schedule, payment, or quality. occur when there are disagreements over compliance
●​ Owners: Can dispute delays, costs, or quality of work with safety standards on site. If a contractor fails to follow
with contractors. required safety protocols, it can lead to work stoppages,
●​ Engineers: May be involved in disputes over design penalties, or legal action.
errors or changes. IMPACTS OF CONSTRUCTION DISPUTES
●​ Architects: Can face conflicts about design clarity or ●​ PROJECT DELAY
specification issues. ●​ COST OVERRUN
●​ Government agencies, led by the Construction Industry ●​ RELATIONSHIP DAMAGE
Arbitration Commission (CIAC), are central to ●​ REPUTATIONAL DAMAGE
resolving construction disputes in the Philippines by ●​ QUALITY AND SAFETY CONCERNS
providing a specialized, efficient arbitration and ●​ PROJECT ABANDONMENT OR
mediation forum. TERMINATION

COMMON TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION DISPUTES FACTORS AFFECTING CONSTRUCTION DISPUTES

AND WHY IT HAPPENS ➢​ Incomplete or Poorly Drafted Contracts
Errors, omissions, ambiguities, or
PAYMENT DISPUTES contradictions in contract documents are consistently
one of the most common disputes in the construction cited as leading causes of disputes. When contracts are
industry. unclear or fail to address certain scenarios, parties may
may arise due to the value of work completed , delays interpret obligations differently, leading to conflict
in payment, or even overpayments due to billing errors or ➢​ Failure to Understand or Comply with Contractual
fraudulent claims. Obligations
Disputes often arise when one or more parties
SCOPE DISPUTES do not fully understand or fail to fulfill their contractual
occur when there’s disagreement about what work is duties, sometimes due to the contract's complexity or
included in the contract. lack of clarity
often happens if the contract is vague, if the owner ➢​ Payment Delays or Non-Payment
requests additional work not clearly documented, or if there are Disputes frequently occur over late payments,
changes during the project that are not formalized. withheld payments, or disagreements about the amount
due for completed work
➢​ Material Cost Fluctuations

​
 Unexpected increases in material costs can lead Guided by a neutral third party (mediator)
to disputes if contracts do not clearly allocate the risk of Helps preserve relationships
price changes Can result in creative, mutually acceptable solutions
➢​ Substandard Workmanship or Defective Materials Less costly than litigation or arbitration
Disputes can arise when the quality of work or CONS:
materials does not meet the agreed standards or Non-binding unless parties sign an agreement
expectations, sometimes due to poor quality control or Can prolong resolution if parties remain unwilling
unrealistic owner expectations No enforcement power if no legal settlement is signed
➢​ Delays 3.​ ARBITRATION
Project delays, whether caused by weather, In this method, one or more arbitrators—neutral
supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, or slow decision-makers agreed upon by the parties—hear evidence,
decision-making, are a common source of disputes. review submissions, and ultimately render a binding decision.
Assigning responsibility for delays is often contentious PROS:
➢​ Poor Communication Legally binding and enforceable (if agreed upon)
Ineffective communication among stakeholders Faster and more private than court litigation
can lead to misunderstandings, missed deadlines, and Less formal and more flexible than court
disputes over project progress or requirements Arbitrator with technical construction knowledge can
➢​ Behavioral Problems be selected
Conflicts may arise due to differences in CONS:
attitudes, expectations, or working styles among Can be expensive, especially with multiple arbitrators
stakeholders Limited appeal rights
➢​ Cultural Differences May favor one party depending on how arbitration
In international projects, differences in clauses are written
language, business practices, and cultural norms can Not always quicker if the case is complex
contribute to misunderstandings and disputes 4.​ ADJUDICATION
is a structured process wherein a neutral adjudicator is
appointed to assess the facts, arguments, and evidence presented
METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION DISPUTE by both parties and deliver a decision.
RESOLUTION (PROS AND CONS) PROS:
Fast and efficient (often resolved within 28 days)
CONSTRUCTION DISPUTE RESOLUTION Temporarily binding, keeps the project moving
If construction dispute refers to disagreements, Especially useful for ongoing construction projects
conflicts, or legal issues that arise during the planning, Common in large contracts
execution, or completion of construction projects, Construction CONS:
Dispute Resolution on the other hand refers to the combination The decision may later be overturned by arbitration or
of methods and processes employed to address conflicts within litigation
the construction industry. Limited time for detailed review of complex issues
Not always final; can result in further proceedings
COMMON CONSTRUCTION DISPUTE RESOLUTION 5.​ LITIGATION
METHODS AND THEIR PROS AND CONS In this process, parties present their cases before a court
1.​ NEGOTIATION of law, where a judge or jury evaluates the evidence and issues a
is the most informal method of dispute resolution and legally binding decision.
involves direct communication between the parties involved in PROS:
the conflict. Legally binding and enforceable
PROS: Thorough and structured process
Quickest and least expensive method Allows for appeals and judicial oversight
Informal and flexible Useful in high-stakes or precedent-setting cases
Preserves business relationships CONS:
CONS: Time-consuming (can take years)
Depends entirely on both parties’ willingness Very expensive due to legal fees and delays
No third-party facilitator or decision-maker Public — not confidential
No binding resolution unless formalized Adversarial; may damage relationships permanently
May not work for complex or emotional disputes 6.​ SMALL CLAIMS COURT
2.​ MEDIATION This type of resolution is used for disputes of lesser
involves the engagement of a neutral third party, known monetary value, typically below a specified monetary threshold
as the mediator, who facilitates structured discussions between set by the jurisdiction.
the disputing parties. PROS:
PROS: Fast and low-cost process
Confidential and voluntary Simplified rules — parties can self-represent
 Ideal for minor claims with clear facts It is likewise critically important to measure actual delays and to
No need for lawyers identify ways to mitigate or recoup delays incurred.
CONS: A properly prepared schedule tells all project
Monetary limits apply (vary by jurisdiction) participants what others expect of them and what they can plan
Not suitable for complex technical disputes for and expect of other participants.
No jury ; it is decided solely by a judge 4. Develop and maintain an accurate cost control and
Limited appeal options monitoring system
7.​ EXPERT DETERMINATION It is essential that contractors establish realistic baseline
is a dispute resolution process wherein an independent budgets consistent with scheduled construction activities prior to
expert in the subject matter of the dispute is appointed by the commencing work on a project. As actual costs are being
parties to resolve the issue. incurred, it is equally important to have a formal and effective
PROS: process in place to track actual versus budgeted costs.
Highly specialized knowledge: Ideal for disputes 5. Empower and Train Project Management
needing technical expertise. Personnel
Faster than arbitration or litigation. Skilled project management personnel can identify
Cost-effective, especially for valuation or quality problems early and resolve them before they turn into
disputes. full-blown disputes. Identifying work activities that are falling
Private and confidential. behind schedule and/or running over budget in real time can
Final and binding, if agreed upon in the contract. help both the contractor and the owner avoid potentially
CONS: project-crippling disputes.
Limited appeal: The decision is usually final and not 6. Maintain open and effective communication
subject to review. throughout the project
Not suitable for disputes involving legal interpretations Good communication fosters collaboration and ensures
or complex contractual issues. that all parties are aligned on project goals. Miscommunication,
The outcome depends heavily on one expert, risk if the on the other hand, is a common cause of disputes.
expert is biased or makes an error. Strategies for Enhancing Communication
No cross-examination or formal hearing. ●​ Regular Meetings
●​ Transparent Information Sharing
MOVING FORWARD WITH CONFLICT-FREE ●​ Clear Reporting Lines
CONSTRUCTION 7. Consider New Technologies
Technologies such as Building Information Modeling
CONFLICT-FREE CONSTRUCTION- Conflict-free (BIM) have been an effective tool in reducing construction
construction, which is also known as conflict avoidance in disputes. Document control software can also reduce
construction, this aims to prevent disputes and disagreements construction disputes by enabling the creation of project
during the design and construction process. databases where drawings, specifications, submittals,
Focuses more on prevention rather than the resolution. photographs, and correspondence can be easily accessed by all
parties in a construction project. Implementing such software
FUTURE DISPUTES PREVENTING STEPS: can enhance communication and increase the amount of
1.​ Understand the Contract information available to project personnel for analysis.
Misinterpretations of contract clauses are one of the
leading causes of construction disputes. A legal review is still
recommended to identify any modified clauses or potential areas
of risk and sources of future disputes.
2.​ Draft clear and detailed contracts to avoid
misunderstandings
A well–drafted construction contract is the foundation
of a successful project. Ambiguities in contracts often lead to
disputes, so it is crucial to ensure that all terms are clearly
defined.
Key Elements of a Construction Contract:
a.​ Detailed Scope of Work
b.​ Payment Terms
c.​ Timelines and Deadlines
d.​ Dispute Resolution Clauses
e.​ Change Order Processes
3. Develop and maintain an accurate schedule
Delay claims are one of the most common types of
construction disputes. In construction, the schedule is a critical
management tool to plan and coordinate work and avoid delays.