Before work starts, site managers coordinate access, programme, resources and site controls; engineers and designers provide or clarify the authorised technical information; and trade gangs confirm the workfront, method, competence and practical sequence. The project should name who resolves each type of issue and who can release hold points.

Align the information

Use a current drawing and specification register, record open queries and identify the details needed for the first workfront. Everyone should know where controlled updates are issued.

Align the physical work

Confirm access, setting out, preceding work, materials, plant, temporary works, exclusion zones, lighting and waste arrangements. Walk the workfront where the sequence or interfaces are complex.

Align decisions and records

Name the people authorised to instruct work, approve technical changes, inspect quality and accept commercial variation. Record the pre-start actions and close them before mobilisation or the relevant hold point.

Quick project checklist

  • Current information
  • Ready workfront
  • Resources and interfaces
  • Named decision owners
  • Hold points and action close-out

Questions people ask

Who owns the full coordination process?

The project appointments and construction management arrangements define the duties. Contractors still need to plan, manage and monitor their own work.

Is a pre-start meeting always required?

The format should match the risk and complexity, but the necessary information and responsibilities still need to be communicated.

Official sources

General UK construction information only. Project drawings, specifications, appointments, contracts, competent advice and site controls take precedence.