Why we need engineers to deliver temporary works

Here we take a closer look at the value that engineers bring to temporary works

Engineers make a valuable and necessary contribution to all types of major construction projects, including temporary works - the structures or systems installed to support the construction process that are not part of the final permanent structure. So, what value do engineers bring to temporary works? 

What do engineers do? How do engineers differ from architects?

Engineering is the use of science and mathematics to design or make things, or to solve technical problems. 

In the construction industry, architects design the spatial functionality and aesthetics of a development, with a strong focus on the artistry, look, feel and functionality. Engineers concentrate on the structural elements of the design, making certain that the structure can endure both normal and extreme conditions. 

When and why do you need an engineer for temporary works?

Whether you are supporting demolition works or the excavation and construction of a new development – all major projects need engineers. Engineers are typically involved before, during and following the completion of temporary works to:

• Ensure the feasibility of project designs and achieve planning approvals
• Design temporary works solutions that create safe and efficient construction environments
• Provide job site certification and certify installation once work is complete

According to Rafi Tchoupourian, General Manager for Coates Engineering Solutions, de-risking is another critical design factor in the temporary works environment, and a major benefit of working with in-house engineers. 

“Engineers play an important role in reducing and managing project risk,” Rafi explains. “They draw on their qualifications and past experience to find new solutions, and bring credibility to our customers’ designs.”

What skills do you need to be an engineer?

In Australia all engineers are degree qualified. Some members of the Coates engineering team are also chartered with Engineers Australia. Other common skills and attributes include: 

• Strength in mathematics
• Attention to detail
• Excellent problem solving ability
• Pragmatic, process driven and methodical
• Being innovative in their approach.

“When you’re looking to work with an engineer you also want someone who is calm and that won’t get flustered too easily” explains Rafi. “Because when the stakes are high, even small mistakes can be a big deal.”

What value do engineers bring to temporary works?

With a team of engineers spanning structural, civil, mechanical, electrical, geotechnical, chemical and hydraulic disciplines, Coates understands better than most the value that engineers bring to all stages of temporary works design and installation. 

Perhaps the most valuable contribution of in-house engineers is the peace of mind they offer to customers.

“Our customers want to know that their designs are being drawn up and specified by qualified engineers; that they will meet all relevant code and standards; be issued for approval; issued for construction; and achieve job site certification once installation is complete,” says Rafi. 

“Not only do we involve our engineers in the design, scoping and constructability of temporary works, but engineers also oversee the installation and assist with job site certification,” Rafi continues. “We make sure that all of our on site team leaders are qualified engineers, so when we turn up on site our customers know that we have professional engineers running the job.”

Having delivered similar jobs with similar challenges, Coates can also share their experience with customers and communicate how we can resolve their issues. “Having engineers involved gives customers the confidence that they can deliver on their project requirements, knowing that Coates will take their pain away,” says Rafi.

Another benefit of working with a total solutions provider is the peace of mind that issues will always be quickly resolved.

“We don’t need to hand issues over to other contractors because we have the experience to be held accountable, to take responsibility and resolve these issues for our customers,” says Rafi. “And if work falls outside of the original scope – for example if ground water needs to be treated or removed – we can resolve these issues too, all under the one purchase order.”

For all your temporary works and water management needs contact Coates today