Abstract:

Objective: To examine the role of the site engineer operating in the construction industry in Ireland.

Background: The small and medium sized contractor in Ireland is required to use the new methods of technology in surveying practices. Where errors occur in setting out, the financial cost of mistakes can be large and completely out of proportion to the perceived value of the task. Setting out and dimensional control of a construction project spans the whole project from inception to final construction and beyond to as built surveys. Precise and competent setting out is essential if any construction project is to meet the contractual targets imposed upon it by current market practices.

Methodology: The research examines the technology involved in the role and how this technology has advanced in recent years. A case study was put forward to support the findings previously investigated in the research. The case study was structured by requesting the Site Engineering staff to work to a common method statement. The method statement included the use of new technologies such as a data logger and a hand held computer.

Results: This paper proposes a model for training site engineers and details the importance of continuous professional development within the role of the site engineer. It also identifies where training is essential if the setting and dimensional control is to be improved and identifies the possible methods of delivering such training.

Impact: An increased awareness that for successful completion of projects is now dependent on the ability of the site engineer to operate within a management system for dimensional control and setting out on construction projects, will lead to a greater emphasis on targeted CPD for Site Engineers.

Keywords:

construction training, construction management, autocad, continuous.