Importance of creating a build methodology

In one of my initial roles as an assistant site manager, my project manager tasked me with developing a methodology for the internal build sequence. Although reading isn't my strong suit, I ended up writing a document over 3000 words long. By the time I finished, I couldn't recall what I'd written at the beginning. I tend to be quite verbose. I've included the document below. I left the company before completing it, so it's somewhat disorganized, but you can still see the level of detail.

Internal Building Methodology for High Rise RC Frame.pdf

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A build methodology refers to the structured approach, techniques, and processes used in construction to plan, design, and execute a project. It defines how a building or infrastructure is constructed, from foundation to finish, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance with regulations. I wrote my document above when I was an assistant and I did not include any of the below.

Key Elements of a Build Methodology:

1. Planning & Design – Architectural drawings, structural calculations, material selection, and compliance with regulations.

2. Procurement & Pre-Construction – Sourcing materials, hiring contractors, and site preparation.

3. Construction Process – The step-by-step method of assembling the structure (e.g., traditional brick-and-mortar, modular, or prefabricated systems).

4. Quality Control & Compliance – Inspections, testing, and ensuring adherence to building codes and safety standards.

5. Handover & Maintenance – Final checks, client handover, and long-term maintenance planning.

Examples of Build Methodologies:

• Traditional – Brick/block construction with on-site labor.

• Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) – Prefabrication, modular buildings, or panelized systems.

• Design & Build – Contractor-led approach integrating design and construction.

• Lean Construction – Reducing waste and improving efficiency.

• Sustainable/Green Building – Eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs.

I will soon be discussing Risk Assessments and Method Statements (RAMS) LINK INCOMING, and I recently read on the HSE website that they advise conducting your risk assessment first. Throughout my career, I never truly appreciated the significance of building methodologies until I started contemplating my extension or considering how we could have constructed the Fox Den more efficiently. I’m uncertain if anyone would want to work for me due to my focus on health and safety, but that’s their issue, not mine. I am the one assuming the risk and insuring them; if they don’t want to adhere to the safety rules, then they shouldn’t work for me, plain and simple.

If I were to discuss the construction process for my extension, the key stages are outlined below.

1. Hire skips - Project Manager

2. Erect scaffold - Scaffolder

3. Remove roof - Labourer

4. Load out blocks 3rd lift - Labourer

5. 3rd lift internal (third lift because I’m already building onto an existing bungalow) block work and insulation - Bricklayer

6. Internal Joists and flooring - Carpenter

7. Waterproof of first floor joists (material to be confirmed) - Labourer

8. Scaffold alterations and birdcage - Scaffolder

9. 4th lift load blocks - Labourer

10. 4th lift blockwork - Bricklayer

11. Install joists for loft space - Carpenter

12. Waterproof joist - Labourer

13. Scaffold alterations remove birdcage

14. Carpentry for roof - Carpenter

15. Windows - Carpenter

16. Felt - Roofer

17. Batten - Roofer

18. Tiling - Roofer

19. Facias soffits - Carpenter

20. Guttering - Roofer

The list above isn't comprehensive, but you understand my point. Now, I have a sequence to identify the tasks involved. I can then break these tasks down into risks and other checks.

1. Check for waste carriers licenses

2. Working at height

3. Competency checks

4. Insurance

5. Manual handling

6. COSHH Assessments

7. Tools and equipment (each one will have a different risk, depending on tool)

8. Material storage

The list above isn't exhaustive; the risk assessment is the legal component when completing RAMS. However, I can't understand how to create a risk assessment without a method statement for each stage of construction.

When I first observed joists being installed in a house, it seemed wrong. My immediate action was to consult the RAMS to determine the safest method recommended by the company. The worst part was discovering that their RAMS lacked a method statement for the installation process. At that point in my career, I had never installed them before and had no idea how to proceed. My next steps were to halt the job and address the RAMS issue! How did this impact my productivity? My managers were displeased, and I wasn't given any extra time to resolve the delay. The bigger question was why I was the first manager to notice this information gap in the carpenter's RAMS.

I'm fortunate enough to save costs on my extension because I was a site manager. I will have a build methodology accompanied by numerous method statements LINK INCOMING. I will conduct risk and COSHH assessments for all trades and provide them with the CORRECT PPE. This extension will be the first project I manage for myself. Once I find the right people to work for me, I can confidently say I can do it again, just need to do it once.