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The construction industry is a complex dance of meticulous planning, precise execution, and steadfast dedication to quality and safety. Orchestrating this intricate ballet is a vital figure often overlooked.

Justin Otwao is an engineering surveyor with Civtec Africa, who says engineering surveyors are the silent guardians of accuracy, the unsung heroes ensuring every brick that sits squarely and every beam finds its perfect perch.

Justin Otwao an engineering surveyor with Civtec Africa. (Courtesy photo)

Design interpreters and translators

According to Otwao, engineering surveyors are not just number crunchers, but are also translators - deciphering architect and engineers’ blueprints and transforming them into tangible realities on the ground. “Their keen eye ensures that every curve, angle and dimension is flawlessly translated, laying the foundation for a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing structure,” he says.

Alignment architects

Beyond interpretation, engineering surveyors are the architects of the construction site’s very layout. They accurately establish precise alignments, setting out points that guide the construction process, ensuring every element finds its rightful place within the grand design.

Guardians of precision

Accuracy is the engineering surveyors’ middle name. Otwao says they meticulously manage and maintain all survey equipment, ensuring every measurement is a testament to their unwavering dedication to precision. This meticulousness is the bedrock upon which quality construction rests.

Data whisperers

Engineering surveyors speak the language of data. According to Otwao data is not just numbers, its living narrative, they collect, analyse, and interpret complex information, transforming it into actionable insights. From satellite imagery to laser scans, every datum tells a story, shaping the projects trajectory. Storytellers with steel and stone, they weave data into the very fabric of the construction site. Every measurement and calculation contribute to the grand narrative of the project, ensuring accuracy and efficiency at every stage.

Liaisons and communicators

He says from architects to contractors, clients to inspectors, the engineering surveyor acts as the bridge between diverse stakeholders. Their clear and concise communication ensures everyone is on the same page, preventing costly misunderstanding and delays.

Methods makers and work packagers

Otwao also says that engineering surveyors are not just passive observers, they are proactive choreographers of the construction process. They prepare detailed method statements and work packs, outlining step-by-step procedures to ensure every stage is executed efficiently and safety.

Beyond interpretation, engineering surveyors are the architects of the construction site’s very layout. They accurately establish precise alignments, setting out points that guide the construction process. (Courtesy photo)

Quality control champions

From establishing and verifying control points on fresh sites, design data collection to structure alignment verification engineering surveyors are the quality control champions of the construction site.

Progress reporters and schedule keepers

Otwao says engineering surveyors are the keepers of time and progress, tracking the project’s development by generating daily, weekly to monthly reports that keep stakeholders informed and ensures the project stays on schedule, preventing costly delays and overruns.

Measurement masters and claims facilitators

Accurate measurement is the language of construction, and engineering surveyors are its fluent speakers. They meticulously measure every element, ensuring fair compensation for contractors and accurate cost estimation for clients.

Field inspectors and checklist champions

He says engineering surveyors are the eyes and ears on the ground, ensuring every stage of construction adheres to safety regulations and project specifications. They complete and sign field inspection checklists, maintaining a transparent record of progress and ensuring accountability throughout the process.