The high cost of overlooking quality assurance in construction

Any organization can’t afford to overlook quality assurance if it is determined to remain relevant and thriving in the industry it is in. This is especially true in the construction sector where finished projects are used by the public. A single misstep can prove costly and, in rare cases, even lethal.

Image source: bimlearningcenter.com

There are various ways to ensure quality in the construction process. Firstly, customer and building requirements, as well as local laws should be discussed in the initial phase of the project. This is to provide a measurable way of checking whether the construction is meeting the standards or not.

The quality of the materials should also be examined and scrutinized objectively, making sure that they pass safety requirements. Onsite workers also have to be trained in quality assurance to mitigate risk and determine potential areas of poor quality.

Some of the possible consequences of neglecting these quality measures are the following: 

• Additional costs: For contractors, repair or redoing of work can incur additional costs and usually delays the completion of the project. For clients, defects discovered later can cause repair or increased maintenance costs. 

•  Poor reputation: Construction companies bank on their reputation to gain new clients and retain old ones. Failure to meet customer standards can result in loss of business opportunities. 

•  Injury or death: Failing structures due to poor quality can be harmful to people and have expensive consequences and legal repercussions. 

Image source: cgconstructiontt.com

Reddy Kancharla is former engineer who has more than two decades of experience in civil construction, geotechnical consultation, and construction QA/QC. For more discussion on these topics, follow this Twitter page.

A Look at Four of New York’s Most Interesting Skyscrapers

New York is one of the world's most renowned urban centers. Through the years, the city's landscape has changed especially with the addition of new buildings to house businesses and residences. With hundreds of buildings in the city, there are a number of structures that stand out. Here's a look at four of New York's most interesting skyscrapers.

Image source: Time.com

One World Trade Center
One can easily spot this architectural and engineering wonder at the Manhattan skyline. At 1,776 ft., it's impossible to miss this skyscraper. The glass tower, which took the place of the original World Trade Center, fully operates on renewable sources of energy.
Comcast Building
Also known as "30 Rock," this is an art-deco style building that has been financed by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1939. Architecture fans will marvel at the slender and timeless exterior of the structure. Though most tourists visit the building for a studio tour, people can also check out the intricate and artistic interiors that have been maintained through the years. This building has long been the HQ of the TV network NBC that broadcasts shows like "30 Rock", "Saturday Night Live," and "Late Night."
Chrysler Building
Before the Empire State Building became the tallest skyscraper in 1930, the Chrysler Building was the holder of the title. Aside from being one of the earliest skyscrapers, the structure was known for its art deco-style just like other New York landmarks built in the ‘30s. However, in the eyes of many, it may not be the tallest skyscraper, but it remains to be an elegant and historical sight that enriches the view of New York.
Empire State Building
For 41 years, the building held the title of being the tallest in the world. Many structures have surpassed the Empire State, but it remains to be one of the most popular skyscrapers in the world. But just like its contemporaries, it followed an art deco-style that it maintained up to this day. In a crowded skyline, the classic sight completes the NYC view. It is a familiar sight in movies and other forms of pop culture. When it comes to noteworthy landmarks in New York, this building will never be missed.
In the coming years, new skyscrapers will rise in New York. Though these buildings have admirable features that will surely contribute to the beauty of the city, these four timeless buildings have played a huge part in the history of New York City.

Image source: Wikimedia.org

Reddy Kancharla has extensive knowledge of engineering theories and principles, practical solutions to engineering problems related to civil engineering and construction industry, and developing quality systems in the construction industry per various codes and standards. For more civil engineering-related posts, follow this Twitter page.