What is a construction plan?
Construction and planning go hand-in-hand. To have a successful project, you must first have an effective plan to ensure things go smoothly. A construction plan outlines the steps needed for a project, including the different tasks, how many people are required, and the construction schedule for effectively coordinating the work.
A well-written plan ensures stable communication between workers, ensuring the project is done correctly and delivered on time and within budget. It assesses how you will tackle a project before starting, streamlining the process to ensure it is done most efficiently.
Importance of a construction management plan
Construction planning is the most crucial stage for a successful project. You need a proper plan to help prevent delays and budget overruns and ensure the site is secured. Planning also ensures resources, such as materials, labour, and equipment, such as temporary security fencing, are used effectively.
A plan also helps as a communication tool to ensure the contractors, suppliers, and clients are always on the same page. This keeps everything organised, expectations set, and the project stays on schedule.
How to make a construction plan
The primary objective of construction planning is to create a comprehensive plan that outlines the project’s scope, timeline, budget, and resources. This plan serves as a roadmap for the project team, ensuring everyone is working towards the same goals and objectives.
The planning phase of your construction business plan may be daunting to start, but it helps to break it down into simple, achievable steps:
1. Define project scope and objectives
Start by clearly identifying what needs to be built. Outline the project’s end goal to establish a clear direction. Begin with a broad overview of the construction project’s purpose before refining the details of how to achieve it. This approach ensures effective planning and execution by assessing the overall plan before focusing on the specific processes.
2. Create a work breakdown structure
Here, the project will be broken down into different phases and tasks. Assign responsibilities for construction activities and tasks to contractors, suppliers, and team members to ensure smooth operations. Accurately outlining project tasks is essential for effective resource allocation and timely completion.
3. Develop a project timeline and construction schedule
Set milestones and deadlines for each phase to ensure the project stays on schedule. It helps to have a visual timeline for the project. You can use helpful project management software or Gantt charts, such as MS Project, to help streamline this process.
4. Estimate costs and set budget
List all expenses, including materials, labour, permits, indirect costs, and contingencies. Be sure to account for unexpected expenses with a buffer (usually 10-20%).
5. Plan resource allocation
Determine the resources required and workforce needs, including tradespeople, engineers, and site supervisors. Look at how much you need for each project resource and schedule the necessary materials and equipment delivery.
6. Conduct a risk assessment and draw a safety plan
Identify potential hazards and high risk construction work (fall risks, electrical hazards, possible weather delays). Implement safety measures, PPE (personal protective equipment) requirements, and emergency procedures.
7. Create a site logistics plan
Use this time to plan site access, storage areas, traffic management and movement of workers and equipment. Include temporary fencing to secure the perimeter and restrict unauthorised entry.
8. Ensure compliance with the National Construction Code
Check the local building regulations, zoning laws, and environmental requirements. Ensure you comply with the National Construction Code and secure the necessary permits before breaking ground.
9. Develop a communication plan
A communication plan is essential to keep stakeholders, clients, contractors, and suppliers updated to ensure everyone is on the same page. Use regular meetings, project management, and site inspections for project progress reporting.
10. Monitor and adjust the plan as needed
Track your project’s progress against the plan and adjust for delays or issues to ensure you stay on top of the project plan and everything runs smoothly. Be flexible and proactive in managing changes and account for setbacks with buffer room in your initial plan.
Key features to include in a construction plan
Construction plans typically include an outline of each of the following:
- Project overview, scope, and objectives: Defines what will be built and the desired outcomes.
- Quality assurance: Outlines how you are going about the end goal and the project activities.
- Timeline and milestones: Breaks construction projects into phases with deadlines.
- Budget and cost control: Details of associated costs, resource requirements and contingencies.
- Materials and equipment list: Specifies what’s needed for construction projects and when.
- Labour and workforce planning: Outlines required trades and workforce schedules.
- Workplace health and safety: Risk assessments identify potential hazards and measures to combat these.
- Site logistics and layout: Organises the space for equipment, materials, and access points.
The uses of temporary fencing
TTFS’ temporary fencing is crucial in maintaining safety and organisation on construction sites. Beyond being a protective barrier for workers and the public, it helps define work zones, storage areas, and access points, ensuring a well-structured site.
It also acts as a security measure, preventing unauthorised access and reducing the risk of theft or vandalism. Additionally, temporary fencing helps contain dust, debris, and construction waste, creating a cleaner and more controlled environment.
Temporary fencing for construction projects
Our temporary fencing and barriers offer simple yet effective solutions for keeping your construction site secure, organised, and compliant with safety regulations. Whether managing a large-scale build or smaller construction projects, having the right fencing helps protect workers, safeguard equipment, and create a more efficient worksite.
With durable, high-quality fencing designed for Australian conditions, TTFS makes it easy to set up, adjust, and remove barriers as your project evolves. Investing in reliable temporary fencing isn’t just about meeting requirements; it’s about ensuring a smoother, safer construction process from start to finish.