Acronyms
What does HVAC stand for?
Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning
What does a Field Engineer do?
Direct subcontractors, perform daily logs of what progress and events happened in the field, site coordination, communicate issues on the field side to the office, assist in safety oversight
What does ADA stand for?
American's with Disabilities Act
The ADA establishes guidelines and standards to ensure that buildings and facilities are accessible to all individuals (ramps, contrast stripes, audible and visual fire alarms).
What is Precon?
Preconstruction. Planning, budgeting, design
Who wears a white hard hat on the job site?
Managers, foremen, engineers or supervisors
What does ASI stand for?
Architect Supplemental Instruction. It is made by the architect when something is unclear/is not able to be built. It specifies additional instructions and interpretations relating to a set of architectural plans.
What does a Foreman do?
Overseeing and assisting the day-to-day operations of the trades (subcontractors). Communicates work orders, instructions, and schedules to subs, liaison between workers and the super. Reports to the superintendent.
What is LEED?
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. A certification that your building meets certain "green" standards.
What is a Change Order?
A formal agreement between the owner and contractor to change the scope of work, cost, or project schedule.
What is a bid?
A formal proposal typically submitted by a general contractor to complete a project or provide materials and services at a specific price. The bid includes details about the scope of work, estimated costs, timeline, and other terms, and it is typically submitted in response to a Request for Proposal (RFP)
What does MEP stand for?
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing
What does a Subcontractor do?
A specialized contractor hired by the general contractor to perform a specific portion of the work on a construction project (i.e. carpenters, electricians, masons)
What building code do we use in the US?
International Building Code (IBC). (We use ASTM standards for quality control, and IBC standards are for design)
What is Closeout?
The final phase of a project, where all activities are completed to ensure the project is finished, delivered, and ready for occupancy or use. It is the process of wrapping up the project and ensuring that all contractual obligations, punch list items, documentation, and owner requirements are met.
What is the purpose of shoring?
Provides temporary structural support to stabilize a building, excavation site, or other structures during construction, renovation, or repair activities. Shoring ensures safety, prevents collapse, and allows work to proceed under controlled and secure conditions.
What does BIM stand for?
Building Information Modeling
What does a General Contractor (GC) do?
Responsible for overseeing and managing a construction project from start to finish. The primary point of contact between the client (owner) and all other parties involved in the project. Accountable for the successful completion of the project, ensuring it is finished on time, within budget, and according to the required quality standards.
What does a fire rating tell you?
The fire resistance of the materials the building is comprised of. A rating could be Class C Type III, which means the building is meant to not fail for one hour.
What is substantial completion?
A critical milestone in a construction project, signifying that the work is sufficiently complete for the owner to use or occupy the project for its intended purpose, even if some minor tasks remain unfinished.
What is the role of a glazer? (I'm not kidding, it's a job. They have a union)
A skilled tradesperson responsible for working with glass in various forms.
What does CCD stand for?
Construction Change Directive. It is a command to a contractor to change their work on the project. This can be a change to the scope, materials, schedule, methods, etc. It is used when there isn't enough time to make an agreement.
What is the IOR and what do they do?
Inspector On Record. Ensures construction projects comply with building codes, safety standards, and the approved plans and specifications. Typically hired by the GC.
What does OSHA stand for and who does it apply to?
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. It applies to EVERYONE (unless you are self employed or are the direct relative of a farmer).
What is a punch list?
A punch list is a document created near the end of a construction project that outlines the remaining tasks, repairs, or adjustments needed to meet the terms of the contract before final project completion.
What is Pre-Fab?
Pre-fabrication refers to the process of manufacturing building components or assemblies off-site in a controlled factory environment, and then transporting and assembling them at the construction site.