Levels of a Project Schedule

 Dear Readers,

The project's success relies on various activities, with effective scheduling being crucial. A project schedule refers to a tool used to communicate the timeline of a project, including its tasks, dependencies, assigned resources, and milestones. It serves as a roadmap for the project.

Key components of a project schedule are Project Milestones, Timeline, Tasks, Dependencies, and resources. Schedules are typically developed from the top down, like a pyramid. Starts from Level-1 (L1), Level-2 (L2), and will go up to Level-5 (L5).

L-1 Schedule = (Level 1) Management/Milestone Level Schedule 

L-2 Schedule = (Level 2) Master Schedule 

L-3 Schedule = (Level 3) Project Level Schedule 

L-4 Schedule = (Level 4) Control Level Schedule 

L-5 Schedule = (Level 5) Detail Level Schedule or Look-ahead Schedule

L1 may be a short table of milestones corresponding to "Top Management Summary." 

L2 is a Master Schedule. It provides an integral plan of the Project activities for Project management. It is a "Project Management Summary." 

L3 is a Project Level Schedule. It is a summary of activities from the level 4 schedule 

L4 is a Control Level Schedule. It covers the whole project and doesn't go into the task-level detail, but should provide enough of a breakdown for clients to see what is happening at every step.

L5 is a Detail Level Schedule. It shows the lowest level of detail necessary to complete the Task. These schedules are temporary documents based on the 'Look-ahead' schedule and used to coordinate work in an area. 

The schedules above help communicate the project plan and timeline to all stakeholders. They guide the project team through the sequence of activities and deadlines during execution, while also serving as a baseline to track progress, spot delays, and make adjustments as needed.

Common formats used to prepare and monitor the project schedules are Gantt chart, WBS & CPM

Gantt chart: A popular visual representation that uses a horizontal bar chart to show the timeline of tasks and their dependencies. 

Work Breakdown Structure (WBS): It is a hierarchical chart that breaks down a project into smaller, more manageable tasks, helping to map dependencies. 

Critical Path Method (CPM): A technique to identify the longest sequence of tasks that determines the minimum project duration. Any delay to a task on the critical path delays the entire project. 

Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found it beneficial and helpful as a beginner in the construction industry. If you found this article useful, please don't forget to share it with your friends and colleagues.

Welding Terms Part-8 (P)

This is a continuation of Part 7. Welding is a highly technical field that relies on specialized acronyms and abbreviations to ensure effective communication and execution of tasks. The following terms are commonly used in welding work.

Paralleling – Running multiple power generators to form a large capacity power source with redundancy. Often used for mission-critical operations such as oilfield and emergency backup power. 

Parent Metal – Also called "base metal", this is the metal or steel that you are actually welding on.

Pass – A single progression of a welding or surfacing operation along a joint, weld deposit, or substrate. The result of a pass is a weld bead, layer, or spray deposit.

Peel test – A destructive method of inspection that mechanically separates a lap joint by peeling.

Peening – The mechanical working of metals using impact blows.

Penetration – Is the fusion or depth into the parent metal from its surface, or the amount of fusion through an open-faced joint.

Penetrant Inspection – A non-destructive testing method that detects surface flaws using either fluorescent or dye penetrants. Fluorescent penetrants glow under black light, while dye penetrants produce bright red indications when drawn to the surface by a developer. The process involves cleaning the surface, applying the penetrant, waiting for it to be absorbed, removing excess penetrant, and applying the developer to reveal any defects.

Percussive Welding – A resistance welding process in which a discharge of electrical energy and the application of high pressure occur simultaneously, or with the electrical discharge occurring slightly before the application of pressure.

Perlite – Perlite is the lamellar aggregate of ferrite and iron carbide resulting from the direct transformation of austenite at the lower critical point.

Pilot Arc – A low-current continuous arc between the electrode and the constricting nozzle of a plasma torch that ionizes the gas and facilitates the start of the welding arc.

Pitch – Center-to-center spacing of welds.

Plasma – A gas that has been heated to at least partially ionized conditions, enabling it to conduct an electric current.

Plasma Arc Cutting (PAC) – An arc cutting process using a constricted arc to remove the molten metal with a high-velocity jet of ionized gas from the constricting orifice.

Plasma Arc Welding (PAW) – An arc welding process that uses a constricted arc between a non-consumable electrode and the weld pool (transferred arc) or between the electrode and the constricting nozzle (non-transferred arc). Shielding is obtained from the ionized gas issuing from the torch.

Plasma Spraying (PSP) – A thermal spraying process in which a non-transferred arc is used to create an arc plasma for melting and propelling the surfacing material to the substrate.

Plug Weld – A circular weld made through a hole in one member of a lap or T joint.

Poke Welding – A spot welding process in which pressure is applied manually to one electrode. The other electrode is clamped to any part of the metal in much the same manner that arc welding is grounded.

Polarity – When you turn on a welding machine, an electrical circuit is formed. The circuit has either a positive or negative pole, and this property is referred to as polarity. In straight polarity or normal polarity, the workpiece is positive and the tool is negative. When the workpiece is negative and the tool is positive, this type of polarity is commonly known as reversed polarity.

Porosity – A hole-like discontinuity formed by gas entrapment during solidification.

Ports – In a MIG gun, there are small orifices (holes) that allow the flow of shielding gas. The nozzle then directs the gas out over the weld puddle.

Positions of Welding – All welding is accomplished in one of four positions: flat, horizontal, overhead, and vertical. The limiting angles of the various positions depend somewhat on whether the weld is a fillet or groove weld.

Positioner (Rotating Table / Work center) – These are usually found in the bigger, more prestigious fab shops. They can turn, tilt, rotate, revolve, and that allows you to make most of the welds in the flat or horizontal welding positions.

Post-Heating – The application of heat to an assembly after welding, brazing, soldering, thermal spraying, or cutting operation.

Post-weld Heat Treatment (PWHT) – Any heat treatment after welding.

Post-weld Interval – In resistance welding, the heat time between the end of weld time, or weld interval, and the start of hold time. During this interval, the weld is subjected to mechanical and heat treatment.

Power Efficiency – How well an electrical machine uses the incoming electrical power.

Preform – The initial press of a powder metal that forms a compact.

Preheating – The application of heat to the base metal immediately before welding, brazing, soldering, thermal spraying, or cutting.

Preheat Temperature – The temperature of the base metal immediately before welding is started.

Pressure Controlled Welding – The making of many spot or projection welds in which several electrodes function progressively under the control of a pressure sequencing device.

Pressure Welding – a welding process where pressure is used to make a weld.

Pre-weld Interval – In spot, projection, and upset welding, the time between the end of squeeze time and the start of weld time or weld interval during which the material is preheated. In flash welding, it is the time during which the material is preheated.

Primary Power – Often referred to as the input line voltage and amperage available to the welding machine from the shop's main power line.

Procedure – The detailed elements (with prescribed values or ranges of values) of a process or method used to produce a specific result.

Procedure Qualification – Demonstration that a fabricating process, such as welding, made by a specific procedure can meet given standards.

Projection Welding – A resistance welding process between two or more surfaces or between the ends of one member and the surface of another. The welds are localized at predetermined points or projections.

Protective atmosphere – A gas envelope surrounding the part to be brazed, welded, or thermal sprayed, with the gas composition controlled with respect to chemical composition, dew point, pressure, flow rate, etc. Examples are inert gases, combusted fuel gases, hydrogen, and vacuum.

Puddle – The puddle is the same as the weld pool. It is the molten filler metal that is combining with the parent metal.

Pull Gun Technique – Same as backhand welding.

Pulse – A current of controlled duration through a welding circuit.

Pulsed Power Welding – Any arc welding method in which the power is cyclically programmed to pulse so that the effective but short-duration values of a parameter can be utilized. Such short-duration values are significantly different from the average value of the parameter. Equivalent terms are pulsed voltage or pulsed current welding.

Pulsed Spray Welding – An arc welding process variation in which the current is pulsed to achieve spray metal transfer at average currents equal to or less than the globular to spray transition current.

Pulsing – Sequencing and controlling the amount of current, the frequency, and the duration of the welding arc.

Push Angle – The travel angle at which the electrode is pointing in the direction of travel.

Push Welding – A technique in welding where the welding gun is pushed forward in the direction of the weld, resulting in better visibility and control over the weld. This technique is commonly used in Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and is preferred for creating clean, spatter-free welds.

Abbreviations Used in Construction Industry - Part 6 (T to Z)

Dear Readers, 

This is the continuation of Part 5 and the final segment of construction industry acronyms. Construction management is a highly specialized field that necessitates the use of specific acronyms and abbreviations to facilitate clear communication and efficient management of complex projects. Construction estimating abbreviations play a vital role in calculating the costs of materials, labor, and equipment required to successfully complete a project.

In the realm of construction project management, acronyms play a crucial role streamlining communication and enhancing efficiency among project managers, contractors, and other stakeholders.

351) TA – Technical Advisor.

352) TB – Tie Beam.

353) TBC – To be Confirmed.

354) TCP – Traffic Control Plan – It is a crucial document utilized in the construction industry to ensure the safe and efficient management of traffic in and construction sites. It comprises a comprehensive set of drawings and specifications detailing how traffic will be controlled during various phases, employing signage, signals, pavement markings, and barricades.

355) TIG – Tungsten Inert Gas and is technically called gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW).

356) Thk. – Thick.

357) TLT – Toilet.

358) TOB – Top of Beam.

359) TOC – Top of Concrete.

360) TOS – Top of Slab / Steel.

361) TOW – Top of Wall.

362) TPI – Third Party Inspection / Inspector.

363) TQM – Total Quality Management.

364) TST – Total Station Theodolite. 

365) TYP. – Typical. In plans and drawings, the term “TYP.” indicates that a particular characteristic or detail applies to the same elements on the same page, view, or drawing. The term is analogous to “ditto.”

366) UB – Universal Beam.

367) UC – Universal Column.

368) UL – Upper Level.

369) UNO – Unless Noted Otherwise.

370) UOM – Unit of Measurement.

371) UPS – Un-interrupted Power Supply.

372) U/S – Underside.

373) UT – Ultrasonic Test.

374) UTS – Ultimate Tensile Strength. The maximum stress a material subjected to a stretching load can withstand without tearing.

375) UV – Ultra Violet.

376) VAT – Value Added Tax. 

377) VE (Value Engineering) – A process for improving the value of a construction project while reducing costs.

378) VI – Visual Inspection.

379) VO – Variation Order.

380) VOC – Volatile Organic Compound – This is an organic chemical with a high vapor pressure at room temperature. VOCs are usually responsible for the Odor of scents, perfumes, and pollutants. Some VOCs are harmful to humans and the environment. In the context of indoor air quality, these compounds may not be acutely toxic but can have long-term impacts on health.

381) VR (Virtual Reality) – The Use of Technology to Create an Immersive, Computer-Generated Experience.

382) Water Management – The Management and Control of Water in a Construction Project, Including Drainage and Runoff.

383) WBS (Work Breakdown Structure) – A Hierarchical Breakdown of a Project into Smaller, More Manageable Components.

384) W&C – Wrapping & Coating.

385) WIP – Work in Progress.

386) Wldr. – Welder.

387) WLL – Working Load Limit.

388) WMF – Wire Mesh Fence.

389) WO – Work Order.

390) Workforce Management – The Process of Managing and Coordinating the Construction Workforce.

391) WP’s / WI’s – Work Procedures / Method Statements / Work Instructions. It is used to prepare before commencement of execution / works.

392) WPQR – Welding Procedure Qualification Record

393) WPS – Welding Procedure Specification.

394) WQT – Welder Qualification Test.

395) WRM – Weekly Review Meeting.

396) WTP – Water Treatment Plant. 

397) WWF – Welded Wire Fabric – Sometimes called welded wire mesh, this is a grid of uniformly placed wires that provides flexural strength in concrete slabs, similar to rebar.

398) XRD – X-Ray Diffraction.

399) Yield Strength – it is the measurement of the amount of force that can be exerted on a material before it permanently deforms. Another name of yield strength is “Elastic Limit”.

400) ZOI – Zone of Influence.

Overtime (OT) for Construction Works

Dear Readers,

Construction Industry is the major employment creator for the (manpower) workforce. It is directly linked with country growth and infrastructures development. To meet the project schedule, extended working hours are the integral part of construction activities. 

If work time exceeds the fixed hours, employees be entitled to overtime payment rules for such hours or part of hour. This is paid at a higher rate than regular working hours. Also an Employee can work different work shifts according to their working hours, if available. But, the essential point is that employee need to be productive and complete their tasks then only overtime will be considered.

There are several laws in India which govern the maximum overtime hours allowed in India and also provide for an overtime calculation formula in India. Based on the industry one works for, the overtime payment rules vary. Some workplace may be governed by the central laws while the other might be a subject of state laws. Knowing employee rights may empower the working class.

In Construction Industry practice 11 hours daily work time inclusive of overtime and excluding lunch break. a person is entitled to be paid overtime wages twice his ordinary rate of wages in case he/ she is required to work for more than 9 hours a day or more than 48 hours in a week. The wages mentioned here is equivalent to the basic wages along with allowances, but does not include any bonus or other overtime wages. In case a worker is paid on a ‘piece rate’ basis, time rate will be calculated on the basis of previous month and the amount of overtime wages will be calculated accordingly. 

In any case, the overtime payment rules do not regard the gross salary. But if there is no statutory obligation and the employer wishes to reward the hard-working employees voluntarily, overtime payment rules in India do not restrict the same. In such a case, whether overtime is paid on basic or gross in India is the employer’s choice.

Welding Terms Part-7 (N&O)

Dear Readers,

This is a continuation of Part 6. This article will be a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge of the Welding Works.

Neutral Flame – An oxy-fuel gas flame that is neither oxidizing nor reducing.

Nick Break Test – A method for testing the soundness of welds by nicking each end of the weld, then giving the test specimen a sharp hammer blow to break the weld from nick to nick. Visual inspection will show any weld defects.

Non-Destructive Testing – NDT involves the testing of welds without destroying the welds or parts.

Non-ferrous – Does not come from iron ore. It is mined pretty much in its true form such as copper, aluminum, nickel, etc.

Normalizing – Heating iron-base alloys to approximately 100 ºF (38 ºC) above the critical temperature range followed by cooling to below that range in still air at ordinary temperature.

Nugget – The fused metal zone of a resistance weld.

Nozzle – A brass attachment that is about three inches long and shaped as an open cylinder.

O2 – Oxygen.

OFW – Abbreviation for Oxy-fuel welding. There are three processes in the Oxy group including oxyacetylene, oxyhydrogen and pressure gas welding.

Open-Circuit Voltage – The voltage between the output terminals of the welding machine when no current is flowing in the welding circuit.

Orifice Gas – In plasma arc welding and cutting, the gas is directed into the torch to surround the electrode. It becomes ionized in the arc to form the plasma and issues from the orifice in the torch nozzle as the plasma jet.

Oscillate – Hand (welding holder) movement while dragging (back hand) or pushing (forehand) the weld Puddle.

Ovens – Used to remove dampness from the welding electrodes as moisture in the electrode adversely.

Overfill – Excess deposition of weld metal. Overfill is a waste of time and material and can weaken the steel by placing too much heat on the joint. (Opposite of this is Underfill)

Overhead Position – The position in which welding is performed from the underside of a joint and the face of the weld is approximately horizontal.

Overlap – The protrusion of weld metal beyond the toe, face, or root of the weld.

Oxidizing Flame – An oxy-fuel gas flame having an oxidizing effect (excess oxygen).

Oxyacetylene Cutting – An Oxygen cutting process in which the necessary cutting temperature is maintained by flames obtained from the combustion of acetylene with oxygen.

Oxyacetylene Welding – A welding process in which the required temperature is attained by flames obtained from the combustion of acetylene with oxygen.

Oxy-Arc Cutting – An Oxygen cutting process in which the necessary cutting temperature is maintained through an arc between an electrode and the base metal.

Oxy-City Gas Cutting – An oxygen cutting process in which the necessary cutting temperature is maintained by flames obtained from the combustion of city gas with oxygen.

Oxygen Cutting – A process of cutting ferrous metals by means of the chemical action of oxygen on elements in the base metal at elevated temperatures.

Oxygen Gouging – An application of oxygen cutting in which a chamfer or groove is formed.

Oxy-Hydrogen Cutting – An oxygen cutting process in which the necessary cutting temperature is maintained by flames obtained from the combustion of city gas with oxygen.

Oxy-Hydrogen Welding – A gas welding process in which the required welding temperature is attained by flames obtained from the combustion of hydrogen with oxygen.

Oxy-Natural Gas Cutting – An Oxygen cutting process in which the necessary cutting temperature is maintained by flames obtained by the combustion of natural gas with oxygen.

Oxy-Propane Cutting – An Oxygen cutting process in which the necessary cutting temperature is maintained by flames obtained from the combustion of propane with oxygen.

 

Know Your GST Identification

Dear Readers,

Wish You a Happy May Day - 2025

The GST number, known as GSTIN, stands for Goods and Services Tax Identification Number. GST is a comprehensive indirect tax on Goods and Services in India. It is a 15-digit tax identification number issued by the government of India to registered taxpayers. Any individual, company, or partnership firm registering under GST is assigned this identification number.

GSTIN consists of 15 digits. These are 15 alphanumeric characters, each has a specific purpose. First 2 digits represent the state of registration. Next 10 characters represent the PAN number of the GSTIN holder. Next is a digit which shows the number of registration against a single PAN number in a state. Next is Z which is common for all. In the end it's either an alphabet or a number which is a check digit.

First 2 digits : State Code of India

3-12 alphanumeric characters : PAN of Person / Company/ Service 

13 digit : Number of registrations in a single state

14 alphabate : Z, common for all

15 alphabet or number: Check sum digit.

State Codes.

To Know more about PAN Card click Here

Rate Analysis for Construction Works (Part-2)

 Dear Readers,

This is continuation of my previous post. 

Basic Components of Rate Analysis is L+M+P and OHP shall be added further. 

        L = Labour

        M = Materials 

        P = Plant & Machinery

        OHP = Over Head & Profit

Let us discuss about calculation of Labour cost. Labour cost always denoted in the name of Man Day cost " MD Cost". Man Day Costs consists of ABW, Over time charges and Terminal Benefits. While calculating labour wages, we should always consider the terminal benefits. It is directly linked with basic wage.

        For Labour wages, it is always preferring to consider minimum wages declared by state government or central government, which is followed by the particular project.

        Generally, government declare / revise the minimum wages every six months. 

  Labour wages are categorized as follows

     High Skilled (Millwright Fitter, Fabricator, Foreman, IBR Welder etc.,)

     Skilled (Fitter, Carpenter, Mason, Grinder, Gas Cutter, Rigger etc.,)

      Semi-Skilled (Khalasi, Driller, Asst. Fitter etc.,)

      Un Skilled (Helper, Male Coolie etc.,)

        Generally, wage hike will be 3% subject to inflection and other government factors

Based on the above factors wages to be considered in rate analysis. (If the duration is more than six months, take the average wages consider the wage revision)

If the particular work duration is 20 months, then it may take two revisions

Consider 3% revision on basic wages every time and take the average of 3 rates.

If the privilege rates are higher than government minimum wages, then you may consider market rate and workout the average.

From the above example it is noticed that present rate of High skilled rate is Rs. 338.96, However, for rate analysis purpose we may consider Rs.349.23.

To determine the labor cost, it is essential to understand the Average Basic Wages (ABW) and Terminal Benefits

To know more about ABW Click Here.

To Know more about Terminal Benefits, Click Here

Abbreviations Used in Construction Industry - Part 5 (Q to S)

 Dear Readers, 

This is continuation of Part-4. Successful project delivery includes both written and oral communication is more important. For communication it is mandatory to understand the acronyms and terms used in construction industry. 

291) QA – Quality Assurance – Quality assurance is the overall process. It is the term used in both manufacturing and service industries to describe the systematic efforts taken to assure that the product delivered to customer meet with the contractual and other agreed upon performance, design, reliability, and maintainability expectations of that customer.

292) QC – Quality Control. It is part of the QA process. It's the actual testing and checking of the product. QC focuses on the product to find defects that remain after development.

293) Qlty. – Quality.

294) QMS – Quality Management System.

295) Qty. – Quantity. 

296) QS – Quantity Surveyor.

297) QSC – Quantity Survey Codes.

298) QSPC – Quick-Setting Portland Cement.

299) Quality Assurance – The Process of Verifying that a Construction Project Meets Quality Standards.

300) Quality Control – Ensuring A Construction Project Meets Quality Standards.

301) RCA – Root Cause Analysis. Also called as a Fishbone Analysis. 

302) RCC – Reinforced Cement Concrete.

303) R&D – Research & Development

304) RE – Resident Engineer – In construction, an RE is an engineer who supervises fieldwork on behalf of an owner, client, or design consultant.

305) REBAR (Reinforcing Bar) – This is the reinforcing steel (as opposed to structural steel) that is embedded in structural concrete to allow a member to resist tension, flexing, bending, and torsion.

306) Recon. – Reconciliation.

307) RFI (Request for Information) – A Document Used to Request Clarification or Additional Information from a Contractor or Supplier.

308) RFI (Request for Inspection) – It is Inspection call notice of the works/ Products.

309) RFP (Request for Proposal) – A Request for a Detailed Proposal from a Contractor or Supplier for a Specific Project or Product.

310) RFQ (Request for Quotation) – A Request for a Price Quote for Materials or Services in a Construction Project.

311) RH – Relative Humidity.

312) RHS – Right Hand Side. 

313) Risk Management – The Process of Identifying and Mitigating Potential Risks in a Construction Project.

314) RMC – Ready Mix Concrete, often abbreviated as RMC, is a type of concrete that is manufactured in a batch plant according to a set engineered mix design. This ready-mix concrete definition emphasizes that it is produced under controlled conditions and then delivered to a construction site in a ready-to-use state.

315) RND – Record Notes of Discussion.

316) ROO (Roof Overhang) – The part of a roof that extends beyond the exterior walls of a building.

317) Roofing – The Material and Components Cover the Roof of a Building.

318) RT – Radiography Test (X-ray test).

319) RTR – Reliability Test Run. 

320) Safety – The Measures Taken to Prevent Accidents and Injuries on a Construction Site.

321) SAW – Submerged Arc Welding.

322) SCBL – Sub-Contractor Bill.

323) SCC – Special Contract Clauses. It is always superseding the GCC.

324) Schedule – A Timeline for a Construction Project That Outlines Key Milestones and Deadlines.

325) Schedule Of Values – A Document that Outlines the Distribution of Construction Project Payments.

326) SCM – Supply Chain Management.

327) Site Logistics – The Planning and Coordination of Construction Site Activities to Ensure Efficiency and Safety.

328) Site Preparation – The Preparation of a Construction Site for the Start of Construction.

329) SLI – Safe Load Indicator, it is a device installed in mobile or portal crane to alert the operator if load exceeds the safety measure of crane.

330) Smart Building – A Building Equipped with Advanced Technology to Optimize Energy Efficiency and Comfort.

331) SMAW – Shielded metal arc welding. also known as manual metal arc welding (MMA or MMAW), flux shielded arc welding or informally as stick welding

332) SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) – A documented procedure for a routine task in construction.

333) SOR (Schedule of Rates) – A Document that Outlines unit rates and scope quantities.

334) SOW (Statement of Work) – A Document that Outlines the Scope, Deliverables, And Timeline of a Construction Project.

335) SPT – Standard Penetration Test.

336) SQ. CM – Square Centi meter.

337) SQ. FT – Square Feet.

338) SQ. IN – Square Inches.

339) SQM – Square Metre.

340) SS – Stainless Steel.

341) SSD (Site Specific Data) – Data specific to a construction site, such as soil conditions, topography, and utility locations.

342) Stakeholder Analysis – The Process of Identifying and Evaluating the Interests and Influence of Stakeholders in a Construction Project.

343) Stakeholder Management – The Process of Managing and Communicating with All Stakeholders Involved in a Construction Project.

344) Std. – Standard.

345) Stl – Steel.

346) Strl – Structural. 

347) Subcontractor (S/c)– A Company or Individual Who Performs Work for a Contractor on a Construction Project.

348) Submittal – Documentation or Materials Submitted for Review and Approval in a Construction Project.

349) Sustainability – The Practice of Designing and Constructing Buildings and Infrastructure in an Environmentally Responsible Manner.

350) SWL – Safe Working Load. It is defined as the maximum safe load that the lifting equipment can lift, move, suspend, and lower down to the ground without any problem of breaking.