A behind the scenes look at how to prevent confrontation onsite

Times have changed. Construction sites are different places to when I first started.

The New Engineering Contract (NEC) and its definition of roles has lessened confrontation onsite.

Collaboration is now key – it's about getting answers and achieving solutions as a team.

I’m an NEC supervisor, and alongside the client, contractor and project manager, the four roles that make up the NEC scheme, we ensure smooth running onsite.

By working cooperatively, we pre-empt many of the problems that can arise in projects.

While the result is a more mutually respectful environment than we might’ve seen in the past, it helps to create the impression that this smooth running just happens.

What is an NEC supervisor?

At site level, the supervisor has an input on nearly everything.

We ensure the contractor complies with the project scope, and assist the client, contractor and project manager in interpreting and understanding a contract. We help them work collaboratively.

Supervisors keep a regular check on issues such as build sequence, quality and health and safety.

What skills do you need?

The role requires good communication skills, extensive professional knowledge and a high level of diplomacy.

However, there are times when I also need to be direct and assertive, especially when I’m not getting responses to queries.

After all I am there as a team member to assist all vested stakeholders.

But in a lot of cases, issues can be sorted out amicably and seamlessly.

For example, I might not have had responses to correspondences for several weeks or months. But if I’ve had a meeting or conversation onsite and I know a solution is being worked on, then that’s an answer.

If paperwork needs to be served, I’m able to inform contractors that it’s on its way.

That helps to defuse matters, remove conflict and be cost effective.

What experience do you need?

The experience required of a supervisor is gained by working across multiple projects.

I worked in an office for nine years, but the opportunity to go into a site-based role has helped me see how designs are constructed in the real world.

You learn what works and what doesn’t and identify early on when problems start to arise.

For those interested in becoming a supervisor that are unsure if they have the right qualifications, I’d say don’t panic.

Provided their CV demonstrates the right experience and ability to build relationships, I wouldn’t be too concerned.

My path

Earlier in my career, I followed the Incorporated Engineer (IEng) route, having passed through further education.

I gained BTEC qualifications and then my civil engineering degree at university.

I didn’t think I was ready for chartership but the year after becoming an IEng, I was encouraged to go for it.

I came out of my Professional Review convinced I’d failed. I was delighted to learn otherwise.

The value of professional qualifications

It’s widely accepted that professional qualifications have a key role in providing visibility of an individual’s skills and experience.

However, they also give the individual a better understanding of who they are, what they’ve achieved, and what they are capable of.

It’s important to realise there are many routes to get to where you want to be and also, the importance of growth.

It’s why I’m looking to become a Fellow soon – I feel I’ve gained the necessary experience and it’s the next step up.

Increasing visibility

I enjoy my role as supervisor, especially the interaction with the younger generation.

But I’m concerned we’re not doing enough to encourage more people to take site-based roles.

Therefore, one of my professional ambitions is to raise the profile of what I do.

Ironically, good supervisors contribute to a certain amount of invisibility and uncertainty over our role.

Let’s talk about it

Still, the importance of the supervisor role is becoming more recognised.

In my current role at Arup, I’m the interim UKIMEA (UK, India, Middle East and Africa) construction skills leader.

That gives me the opportunity to encourage people to go to site, gain NEC knowledge and formal training, interact and learn more about what a supervisor does.

Talking about our role helps others understand what it entails.

I look forward to more supervisors sharing their experiences!