By implementing these best practices, construction companies can minimise disruption, improve public relations, and ensure a smoother project lifecycle.
The
Considerate Constructors Scheme has been a major driving force behind construction companies becoming more self-aware on how to limit their social and environmental impact while on site. To support this, we've shared some best practice advice on being a considerate constructor.
Proactive Communication
Early and Open Dialogue: Before commencing work, reach out to neighbours, informing them about the project's scope, duration, and potential impact. Consider hosting a community meeting to address concerns and answer questions.
Designated Contact Person: Provide a dedicated point of contact for neighbours to voice their concerns or seek information.
Regular Updates: Keep neighbours informed of progress, any significant schedule changes, or planned disruptive activities. Use newsletters, email updates, or even a dedicated website for transparency.
Mitigate Noise Pollution
Schedule Considerations: Restrict noisy activities to agreed working hours (typically weekdays between 8 am – 6 pm) and be mindful of vulnerable residents, such as young children and elderly individuals.
Equipment Maintenance: Ensure all machinery and equipment are regularly maintained to minimise noise generation.
Control Dust and Air Pollution
Water Management: Use water trucks, sprinklers, and dust suppressants to keep dust levels down, especially during dry weather.
Enclosed Stockpiles: Cover stockpiles of materials that generate dust, such as soil and aggregates.
Air Quality Monitoring: Use air quality monitors to ensure that dust and emissions are within acceptable limits.
Manage Traffic and Parking
Traffic Management Plan: Work with local authorities in developing and implementing a comprehensive traffic management plan that minimises congestion and disruption, including scheduling deliveries during off-peak hours.
Designated Parking Areas: Provide designated parking areas for workers and delivery vehicles to avoid encroaching on residential parking spaces.
Maintain Site CleanLiness and Safety
Regular Clean-Up: Keep the construction site tidy and free of debris to prevent accidents and minimise visual impact.
Wheel Washing Stations: Implement wheel washing stations for vehicles leaving the site to prevent them from tracking mud and dust onto public roads.
Safety fencing and signage: Protect the public by ensuring adequate fencing to prevent unauthorised access and clear safety signage to warn of potential hazards.
Proper Waste Management: Implement a robust waste management system to prevent litter and environmental contamination.
ENSURE CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT AND MONITOR PROGRESS
Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits of your construction practices to identify areas for improvement.
Feedback Mechanism: Maintain a system for receiving and addressing feedback from neighbours.
Employee Training: Train all workers on the importance of being considerate construction neighbours and best practices for minimising disruption.