Construction Management Plans are very necessary when it comes to erecting buildings/structures, during demolitions and undertaking excavation woks during road construction amongst other construction activities. Such plans are necessary because of disruptions such constructions cause.
It is through the plans that the disruptions are effectively managed. Under Australian construction legislations enforced by the national agency and individual agencies in different regions, all contractors are required to prepare management plans before commencing any construction work. The same must be submitted to the local regional agency for approval.
Although there are standard Construction Management Plans (CMPs) that constructors can use, the varied nature of construction sites makes it necessary for contractors to prepare unique plans that address specific sites. Under Australian construction legislations, it is upon contractors to identify specific requirements for a site and prepare a plan that makes it possible for construction work to be undertaken in a safe manner.
CMPs contain varied sections that address specific issues. The first element is that to do with public safety. Constructors are required to prepare CMPs with safety of the public in mind. Their construction work should not present safety risks to members of the public. Any identified safety issues must be properly addressed by putting in place necessary measures to curb the same. In doing so, contractors are required to stick to appropriate operating hours and arrest put in place noise and vibration control measures.
Other CMP elements include those that address such issues as air and dust, which contractors need to control so as not affect the public and immediate residents. Construction Management Plans also address issues relating to the overall environment and contractors are required to put in place adequate measures to manage stormwater and how to control sediments. Waste management is usually a very important element of all CMPs. Contractors are required to not only indicate in their plans how such will be handled but also put in place necessary measures of handling the same. In this regard, recycling is advocated for. Additionally, contractors are required to address the issue of traffic management in their CMPs. This is to ensure that movement of the public is not restricted or not adversely affected.
Both Australia’s national and regional authorities require contractors to prepare and complete Construction Management Plans while planning for construction works. Such plans are usually required after plans for construction have been approved by the relevant authorities. Apart from getting their plans approved, contractors are obligated to obtain specific permits depending on the nature of their planned construction works. Such include permits for road closure, to use mobile cranes, for temporary structures, for working beyond stipulated hours and for excavation amongst others.
