The Construction Industry…
The construction industry is one that has many opportunities for persons who are interested in creating and seeing the fruits of their labour materialize into something tangible. Some of the perks include the point that job opportunities are expected to be excellent for experienced workers, particularly for certain occupations, workers have relatively high earnings, about sixty-five percent (65%) of establishments employ fewer than five (5) people and construction includes a very large number of self-employed workers.
Houses, apartments, factories, offices, schools, roads and bridges are only some of the products of the construction industry. This industry’s activities include the building of new structures, including site preparation, as well as additions and modifications to existing ones. Added to this are maintenance, repair and improvements in these structures. This industry is divided into three (3) major segments: The Construction of Building segment, Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction Contractors and Specialty Trade Contractors. The Construction of Building segment includes contractors, usually called general contractors, who build residential, industrial, commercial, and other buildings. Heavy and civil engineering construction contractors build sewers, roads, highways, bridges, tunnels, and other projects. Specialty Trade Contractors perform specialized activities related to construction such as carpentry, painting, plumbing, and electrical work.
Construction usually is done or coordinated by general contractors, who specialize in one type of construction such as residential or commercial building. They take full responsibility for the complete job, except for specified portions of the work that may be omitted from the general contract. Although general contractors may do a portion of the work with their own crews, they often subcontract most of the work to heavy construction or specialty trade contractors.
Specialty Trade Contractors usually do the work of only one trade, such as painting, carpentry, or electrical work, or of two or more closely related trades, such as plumbing and heating. Beyond fitting their work to that of the other trades, specialty trade contractors have no responsibility for the structure as a whole. They obtain orders for their work from general contractors, architects, or property owners. Repair work is almost always done on direct order from owners, occupants, architects, or rental agents.
Workers in this industry need physical stamina because the work frequently requires prolonged standing, bending, stooping, and working in cramped quarters. They also may be required to lift and carry heavy objects. Exposure to weather is common because much of the work is done outside or in partially enclosed structures. Construction workers often work with potentially dangerous tools and equipment amidst a clutter of building materials; some work on temporary scaffolding or at great heights and in bad weather. Consequently, they are more prone to injuries than are workers in other jobs. To avoid injury, employees wear safety clothing, such as gloves and hardhats, and devices to protect their eyes, mouth, or hearing, as needed.
It should give construction workers a sense of pride to walk by buildings that they have helped to create. This sense of pride also fosters anticipation of future challenges to be even more creative and to work harder as the landscape awaits further development. Yes, the construction industry is not for the weak or the lazy but for those who aspire to greatness and are willing to work hard to see the lines drawn on paper become erected pillars of strength.