Construction Surveying

Surveying is process which measures the dimensionsurveying will ensure that there will not be major
of an object that generally present on the surface ofdeviations from the planned construction based on the
the Earth. The equipment which are used frequentlyestablished reference points and markers. For
for surveying includes levels and theodolites. These areexample, the reference points or markers are
used for precise or accurate measurement of angles,established according to an arbitrary coordinates
horizontal, vertical and slope distances. With thesystem. The continuous monitoring based on the
improvement of computer based technology such asreference points and base lines, the construction
electronic distance measurement (EDM), total stations,surveyor verify the location of structures while
Geographic Positioning Systems (GPS) the traditionalconstruction and do the necessary correction if
optical instruments have been replaced. Although, Landneeded.o Preparation of As-Built Plans to ensure that
Surveying is common to all types of surveying, therethe construction project or the building project was
are noticeable differences between land surveying anddone according to the approved local authority
construction surveying.drawings, specifications and regulations.
Land Surveying Vs Construction SurveyingThe Construction Surveying needs coordinate System.
In many countries, Land Surveying is considered to beFor example,
a distinguishable profession. For example, LandArbitrary Coordinates based on Geodesic Coordinates
Surveyors have their own professional associationsDuring construction surveying it is common to use
and licensing criteria. The licensed land surveyorarbitrary construction coordinate system. The arbitrary
performs boundary surveys and subdivision plans.coordinate system is derived from the geodesic
Whereas construction surveying is generallycoordinates.
performed by specialized well trained technicians.In the case of linear measurements (of roads, buildings)
When compared with the land surveyors, the plansoften a chainage or distance will be established from
prepared by the construction surveyors do not havefixed based line such as the center line of the road.
legal status.During construction, the building or other structures will
Main features or task under construction surveying arebe located with respect to chainage, offset, elevations,
as follows:o Surveying of existing ground conditions ofetc.
new construction site. This will cover, topography ofBuilding Axes are also have to be established in the
site, measuring and recording the condition of existingcase of construction of buildings. These axes are
buildings and infrastructure. Similarly measuring invertoften fixed along the building column or foundation grids
levels and dimensions of sewers and manholes thator major load bearing walls.
comes underground infrastructure.o Setting-out orReference Lines
layout of proposed building site, and building location.In construction or building projects an arbitrary
Fixing of datums or reference or control points that willreference lines may be established either north-south
guide the construction of new structures such building,or east-west directions. It may not necessarily be
roads, canals and sewers, etc. Also, the constructionbased on true coordinates.