Construction is a booming industry that’s growing with each passing year. It’s also one of the fastest-growing fields, bringing in many jobs for people all over the world.
While careers within this industry are physically demanding, they can also be rewarding and exciting if you know what you’re getting yourself into. Below we’ll cover some things new construction workers should know and give you tips on how to make sure you’re ready for the work ahead!
Job training isn’t always required.
There are various ways to get a job within the construction industry. Some companies will offer to train you, while others would prefer if you already had some hands-on experience.
To get started, it’s always a good idea to undertake a few different programs and courses. The more you know, the easier it will be for you to find a job in the long run.
Whether it be learning about bids, build techniques, safety, or even construction Request for Information (RFI) – you’ll be grateful for the additional knowledge.
Safety should be your number one priority.
Compared to traditional offices and other work environments, construction sites can be dangerous places, and workers need to know how to stay safe. Without taking the proper precautions, you could end up with a serious injury.
Some of the different hazards that you need to watch out for include:
- Fallen objects (e.g., scaffolding)
- Loose wires or cables
- Sharp edges on tools or equipment
- Chemical spills
When undergoing your training, you’ll learn exactly how to examine a site for risks, and how to protect yourself with the right equipment.
Communication is key.
Communication is key in any team, but especially so in the construction field. Without working together, costly and dangerous mistakes can be made. Effective communication is knowing how and when to talk about important things–and then listening carefully when others respond.
On a worksite, employees tend not to have the same kind of structure that other types of teams do (e.g., sales force vs executive staff). However, there are commonalities that can help make construction workers good communicators.
Always understand your rights.
Every employee has rights, so if you are planning to follow any career path, read up on the rules and regulations that apply to your line of work. For instance:
- As an employee, you have the right to work in a safe environment.
- You have the right to fair compensation, including benefits and overtime pay when necessary.
- You have the right to fair pay for the work that you do.
- If someone harasses or discriminates against you at work (for example by making offensive remarks), they could face disciplinary action or even be fired.
Final Words
A job in construction can be an incredibly rewarding and high-paying option for your career. However, always remember to do your research first. Once you’ve decided what role you wish to pursue, you can start gathering the right knowledge to help you land the job of your dreams.
