Inside The Build: How We Work In Live Environments

Inside The Build: How We Work in Live Environments

Working within a live environment requires more than construction expertise, it demands precise planning, proactive communication and an adaptable mindset. Whether we’re upgrading or building new facilities in an active school, university, or operational workplace, the McCollSmith team is experienced in delivering high-quality outcomes while keeping disruption to an absolute minimum.

‍Understanding The Environment

Before any works begin, our team invests time in understanding each client’s needs and the specific environment we’ll be working in. Every project brings its own challenges and opportunities to plan smarter.

We outline project requirements and potential impacts early, ensuring stakeholders have a clear picture of what to expect. This sets the foundation for a transparent and collaborative delivery process.

Tailored Resourcing & Planning

Every live project is different. We resource and design each program to suit the unique constraints and demands of the site - whether it’s a functioning school or university campus, or a busy commercial precinct.

Strong program management and forward planning are central to our approach. We maintain flexibility throughout construction - adjusting and modifying our schedule as needed to accommodate our clients’ daily operations. Our focus is always on solutions.

Communication & Collaboration

Open, timely communication is at the core of how we work. Prior to construction, we engage with our subcontractors to ensure they understand the expectations of working in a live environment - from safety onsite to presentation and conduct.

We also work closely with clients and stakeholders to manage key considerations such as:

·      Noise and scheduling of high impact works

·      Access and logistics

·      Visual and safety barriers

·      Temporary pathways and wayfinding signage

·      Lighting and dust suppression

·      Materials storage and waste management

·      Regular milestone presentations and detailed weekly reporting keep all parties informed and aligned, supported by robust project administration tools.

‍Experience In Complex Environments

Our experience spans a range of live and operational projects where safety, sensitivity, and efficiency are paramount. Recent project examples include:

·      La Trobe University, Bundoora

·      Callaway Golf

·      East Bentleigh Ambulance Station (connected to Monash Hospital Car Park)

·      Lavalla College

‍The McCollSmith Difference

Our team’s proven ability to plan, adapt quickly and communicate openly ensures we can deliver complex projects to the highest standard, with minimal disruption - this is what makes the McCollSmith difference!

Our team execute a high level of respect for our client’s operations, for the people who continue to occupy the space, and for the broader community around the project.

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