A builder or construction manager’s functions typically include project management planning, cost management, quality management, contract administration, safety, and waste management. Construction managers are responsible for planning and implementing these various operations.
The different functions of a construction manager adhere to a myriad of legal and regulatory requirements and standards that everyone in the company must observe. The state/territory where the project will take place and its type, nature, and scale determine the rules, conditions, and measures the project must follow.
When managing materials procurement to minimise waste for construction, evaluate construction materials to identify high quality and more durable materials, that will extend the structure's life and simplify its future extension and refurbishment. You should also consider recycled materials where appropriate, that meet regulatory and standards' restrictions, and incorporate these waste minimisation strategies.
When managing the building process, you are responsible for adopting demolition practices that increase the recovery of materials for recycling and reuse. You will be required to determine and use excavation practices to minimise waste and incorporate these waste minimisation strategies. Minimising site excavations and other disposed materials can drastically impact the waste management strategy and are of utmost importance to remaining economical, efficient and compliant.
Finally, litter resulting from construction activities must be handled in a way that limit the harm to the environment. Therefore, the waste management strategy must incorporate an appropriate litter abatement strategy.
- Numerous case studies exist for innovative practices in managing demolition waste. Check out Construction and Demolition Waste Guide - Recycling and Re-Use across the Supply Chain for more information.
- Some construction work types (such as operating certain types of cranes or carrying out scaffolding work) require a high-risk work licence. Check out SafeWork - Licenses for more information.
- For more information on the safe removal of asbestos, check out SafeWork - How to safely remove asbestos.
- General business advice regarding the Safe Work Act 2008 and model WHS laws can be obtained from the national Safe Work website found at SafeWork Australia.