- Choose someone who has the time to do the job when you need it done. This may sound obvious, but you don’t want to be engaging someone to carry out a contract, only to find that they make a rush job of it, or haven’t sufficient time, enthusiasm or inclination to provide a professional service.
- In view of the first point however, they also need to be flexible. Sites and contracts progress at differing rates, so there may need to be a certain flexibility as to when the work is carried out. Being accommodating is one of the key aspects of providing an efficient and effective setting out service and flexibility is a big part of this.
- Great site engineers know how to organise drawing revisions, read the design and layout of the site and check co-ordinates for errors, doing a large chunk of their work in the office prior to arrival.
- A key attribute is ensuring that the same engineer will be sent out to site on each visit. This consistency is important, a bit like seeing a doctor from one appointment to the next, in terms of continuity. A setting out engineer will know the circumstances of the project and what is required, in terms of the situation of the site, access, progress etc.
- In addition to the local awareness built up by attending site visit upon visit, professional expertise and knowledge are key desirable attributes too. Look at what professional certifications a company or your site engineer has. These are both a guarantee of quality, but also a sign of commitment to ongoing excellence, of ensuring technicians are trained and informed to the highest – and most up-to-date – industry standards.
- Continuity in a project – the same person visiting on site – will also ensure that regular dimension checks are carried out from the same non-moving feature. This way of checking and double-checking dimensions on site will ensure accuracy across the project’s lifespan and won’t allow discrepancies to creep into the data.
- The best setting out partner will also provide a project overview of progress and snapshots of the state of play at any given time. In this way, they can provide real-time changes while on site or remotely.
- In terms of working conditions, an ideal setting out company will have a true commitment to a real living wage, and training and development. This commitment is another assurance of professionalism and high standards within the profession, demonstrating commitment to fairness and values.
- Errors in setting out are one of the costliest in the construction sector, so the stakes are high. By carrying out background research and vetting prospective companies prior to employing them, you can save yourself a great deal of time and money in the long term.
- Having a good presence online can also generate fruitful connections and working relationships. Platforms such as LinkedIn and associations such as The Survey Association are worth consulting for recommendations. Word of mouth is another way of connecting with industry professionals and if you have a good reputation, then clients will naturally gravitate towards you.
Finally, as an extra consideration, remember:
- Locality to the project is also useful, but not essential – though a little local knowledge can go a long way. Using trusted local names with proven track records in the industry is a reliable indicator of quality, value and excellence.
Bearing these tips in mind, Powers can assure you that we have the attributes to become your partner of choice. If you have a project that requires a setting out engineer, then get in touch today:
T: 01928 734473
W. powersuk.com
