The Structural Engineer and the Construction Process

January 25, 2019 | Eastern Engineering Group | Structural Engineering Blog | No Comments

The main role of a structural engineer during the construction process is to focus on the physical integrity of the building. Structures must meet building codes to ensure their safety and durability. As well as effectively communicating between all parties involved in a project. Structural Engineers follow specific guidelines for each element to be safe while maintaining the architects’ vision. While structural engineers must solve the complexity of the structural elements, architects focus on the design aspects of the outside perspective. The scope of the Structural Engineer varies depending on what the project needs. They work both in the office and outside on the field. The location may vary depending on the project itself. Structural Engineers have knowledge of physics and 3-D conceptual skills, and they must be proficient in problem-solving. Overall, they must meet certain required skills to provide a professional, sustainable and safe project.

The Structural Engineer is the key link for the Contractor during construction and throughout the process of the project.

Structural engineers calculate the loads and stresses of structures. They must figure out the amount of stress the structure can safely withstand without collapsing. Structural Engineers must have knowledge about different construction building materials to ensure a cost-effective, proficient design. If required, Structural Engineers can also serve as structural inspectors. They have the knowledge to testify and guarantee that certain structures are safe for the public. Additionally, they can provide their professional opinion on what buildings need to meet the legal safety standards. They have the capacity to inspect a site and determine the suitability of the location and the proposed structure. They have the ability to handle unforeseen conditions and find solutions for them.

A Structural Engineer must possess more than just the knowledge of his or her career.

They must also have communication and interpersonal skills to be professional within the industry. Communication plays an important role as they must coordinate and consult with all members involved in a project. Structural Engineers in a way act as the management identity of all projects. He or she takes on the responsibility to ensure that the project runs smoothly and that inspections are being performed properly and as required. Evidently, Structural Engineers have a high impact on the outcome of building construction. Because of this, they must keep up with continuing education and polish up on their strict standards. The engineering world is very competitive and dynamic. Furthermore, education and communication skills are important for them to network with other professionals in the field and receive the recognition of qualified professionals.

Let’s summarize the role of a Structural Engineer in the Construction Process.

The Engineer will first create a narrative that will cover the basics of the project. These include the materials the project will use and a broad overview of the final plan. The engineers will then start designing by laying out the actual structure; This means the engineer determines the coordinates of the building and identifies potential areas of complication in the design. Once the design development has been finalized, they must present a detailed project plan to be distributed to the construction crew. The general contractor in charge of the main construction operation will then be the main person involved with the engineer to address all of the Submittals, RFI’s (Request for Information), field questions and site visits. All of this is to ensure that the project’s progression is moving forward as per plans.

Engineers have to maintain efficient and cost effective designs that will have the quality and stability to provide many years of safety and endurance.

Engineers provide solutions by offering options to achieve the goals required to fully execute a project. The main goal of a project is knowing your capacity as an engineer. Moreover, it is important to know your client’s goals and concerns at the very beginning. Engineers determine project constraints such as budget, deadlines, environmental conditions, and the rigidity of design when it comes to construction. Additionally, when issues and questions arise, Structural Engineers are your go-to source to keep the project on task and minimize delays or avoid increases in the budget.

Keeping this in mind…

When you think about it, communication is one of the most important aspects of all projects. It involves the design team, facilities and the entire staff that works, contributes, or affects the structure both during and after construction. Being aware of this allows engineers to address all concerns that may arise throughout the project’s lifespan. This is helpful when it comes to dealing with difficult circumstances such as structures that are being designed around other already existing facilities. Structural Engineers contribute to projects in many different ways to ensure a smooth construction process, and they must ensure the structures they design offer longevity and require the least amount of future maintenance or modifications. ©️ 2022 Eastern Engineering Group wrote and published this article. All rights reserved.