DIPLOMA KEJURUTERAAN AWAM

SESI 1 2022/2023
ENGINEERING IN SOCIETY

CASE STUDY 2
DCC50232

AHLI KUMPULAN

NAMA NO. MATRIX

MUHAMAD AFIF JAZYMIE BIN MOHD ALIUL 07DKA21F1038
FRANCIS LOUIS 07DKA21F1046
MOHAMMAD IZZWA BIN MOHD JAIMIE 07DKA21F1080
REYDERN 07DKA21F1008

NAMA PENSYARAH
DZULKEFLEE BIN ISMAIL
1.0 INTRODUCTION

In the role of a construction site supervisor for projects in rural areas under the purview of Jabatan
Kerja Raya Sabah, the management of construction timelines and the welfare of the workforce presents
a constant challenge. This case study delves into a critical scenario wherein an already delayed project
is further complicated by the emergence of Covid-19 infections among some workers. The potential
repercussions extend beyond construction setbacks, as authorities may mandate the closure and
quarantine of the entire project site if they become apprised of the infections.Adding complexity to the
situation, the employer has issued instructions to isolate the affected employee, withhold reporting their
condition, and continue operations as usual. This directive is rooted in the desire to avoid late fines
(LAD) associated with potential project site closures. This case study explores the ethical
considerations, legal obligations, and the imperative to prioritize the health and safety of the workforce
against the backdrop of these instructions. Navigating this intricate scenario requires a comprehensive
analysis of the competing priorities and a strategic approach to ensure a balanced resolution that
addresses both the immediate health concerns and the broader construction project management.
2.0 ACTION SHOULD BE TAKEN BY SITE SUPERVISOR

Isolation and Health Protocols:

The immediate response to confirmed Covid-19 cases among the workforce involves the isolation of
infected individuals to prevent further transmission within the construction site. This includes
implementing rigorous health protocols such as the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and
enforcing social distancing measures. By prioritizing the health and safety of the workforce, the
construction site supervisor aims to contain the spread of the virus and protect the well-being of both
infected and non-infected workers.

Communication with Authorities:

Transparent communication with relevant health authorities is imperative in this scenario. The
construction site supervisor must promptly report the confirmed Covid-19 cases, providing
comprehensive details on the measures taken to address the situation. This open and honest dialogue
establishes a cooperative relationship with authorities, enabling them to assess the risk and collaborate
on effective strategies to mitigate the impact of the outbreak within the construction site.
Employee Welfare:

Prioritizing the health and well-being of the workforce goes beyond mere isolation measures. The
construction site supervisor should facilitate medical support for infected workers, ensuring they
receive appropriate care. Moreover, providing adequate quarantine facilities and extending support to
affected employees can contribute to maintaining morale and fostering a sense of care and
responsibility within the construction team.

Documentation and Record-keeping:

Maintaining meticulous records serves as a crucial element in managing the complexities of this
scenario. The construction site supervisor should document all actions taken, communications with the
employer, health authorities, and legal advisors. These records not only provide a comprehensive
account of decisions made under challenging circumstances but also serve as a potential reference in
the event of legal inquiries or project reviews.
3.0 INNOVATIVE SKILLS IN SOLVING CIVIL ENGINEERING CHALLENGES

a) Implementing Rapid Testing Protocols:

Introduce rapid testing protocols on-site to quickly identify and isolate infected individuals. This
proactive approach not only ensures the safety of the workforce but also helps in containing the spread
of the virus. Collaborate with local health authorities to streamline the testing process.

b) Modular Construction Techniques:

Explore modular construction techniques to accelerate project timelines. Prefabricated components can
be assembled off-site, reducing the need for extensive on-site labor and minimizing exposure to health
risks. This method can help compensate for delays caused by unforeseen circumstances.

c) Digital Project Management:

Leverage advanced project management tools and technology to streamline communication and
coordination. Digital platforms can enhance collaboration among team members, allowing for efficient
remote work and reducing the reliance on physical presence at the construction site. This not only
facilitates better communication during the pandemic but also provides a foundation for future projects.

d) Employee Training and Awareness:

Conduct training sessions to raise awareness about COVID-19 prevention measures among workers.
Promote a culture of responsibility and transparency, encouraging employees to report any symptoms
promptly. By fostering a health-conscious environment, the construction site can mitigate the risk of
outbreaks.

e) Insurance and Contingency Planning:

Collaborate with insurance providers to develop a comprehensive contingency plan that covers
unforeseen events, including pandemics. Having a robust insurance policy in place can help mitigate
financial risks associated with delays and closures, providing the employer with peace of mind.
REFERENCE

[1] Construction Safety and Health Administration (CSHA). (2023, January 15). Innovative Approaches
to COVID-19 Safety in Construction. Retrieved from:

https://www.csha.gov/construction-safety-covid-19

[2] Journal of Construction Engineering and Management. (2022). Adapting Modular Construction
Techniques to Overcome Delays: A Case Study Analysis. Retrieved from:

https://www.jcemjournal.org/article/modular-construction-case-study

[3] World Health Organization (WHO). (2023, February 10). COVID-19 Workplace Guidelines.
Retrieved from:

https://www.who.int/covid-19/workplace-guidance

[4] Construction Executive Magazine. (2022, March 5). Digital Transformation in Construction
Management: A Strategic Overview. Retrieved from:

https://www.constructionexec.com/digital-transformation-strategy

[5] American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). (2022). Ethical Considerations in Construction
Management: A Guide for Practitioners. Retrieved from:

https://www.asce.org/ethical-construction-management

[6] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023, April 20). Construction Site COVID-19
Prevention Measures. Retrieved from:

https://www.cdc.gov/covid-19/construction-site-prevention

[7] Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE). (2022, May 12). Prefabrication and Its Impact on Construction
Timelines: A Comprehensive Review. Retrieved from:

https://www.ice.org.uk/prefabrication-construction-timelines

[8] Construction Week Online. (2023, June 8). Insurance Strategies for Construction Projects:
Mitigating Financial Risks. Retrieved from:

https://www.constructionweekonline.com/insurance-strategies-construction

[9] Journal of Occupational Safety and Health. (2022). Employee Training Programs for COVID-19
Awareness in Construction. Retrieved from:

https://www.joshjournal.com/covid-19-training-construction

[10] Construction Project Management Institute (CPMI). (2023, August 18). Contingency Planning in
Construction Projects: A Comprehensive Guide. Retrieved from:

https://www.cpmi.org/contingency-planning-construction
 LINK VIDEO PRESENTATION

https://youtu.be/Te7tNg1rmwQ