Construction

Construction is the process of building buildings, roads, bridges, waterworks, and other infrastructure. It involves planning (design), site preparation, materials, labor, and machinery. Construction differs from manufacturing because work typically takes place at a specific location that cannot be moved, and each project has its own unique conditions.

The construction sector is a major part of the economy in many countries, providing many jobs and requiring diverse skills: engineering, architectural design, project management, and manual labor including masonry, carpentry, steel work, electrical work, and plumbing.

Project Phases

A construction project typically goes through stages. First comes the decision and assessment of need, followed by design and cost calculation. A government permit (building license) is obtained where required by law. A contractor is then selected, usually through competitive bidding. Site work follows: foundation, structural work, roofing, and interior finishing. Finally comes quality inspection and handover.

Materials and Technology

Common materials include concrete and steel, iron, wood, stone, lime, reinforced steel, glass, and insulation materials. Reinforced concrete is one of the basic technologies in large building construction, because concrete carries compression while steel carries tension. In recent decades, the use of prefabricated components has grown, reducing on-site work time.

Workplace Safety

Construction sites contain hazards including falls from heights, falling objects, heavy machinery, electricity, and fire. For this reason, many countries have specific regulations concerning personal protective equipment, training, and site supervision. Accident rates in the construction sector are generally higher than in other industries.

Environment and Resources

Construction uses large amounts of materials and resources, and produces waste and emissions. The production of concrete and steel in particular has significant carbon impacts. This has led to the development of practices called sustainable construction: the use of recycled materials, energy-efficient design, and rating systems that classify buildings by their environmental performance.