Construction managers play a pivotal role in the industry. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of activities – from project planning and coordination to ensuring safety and quality standards.

In fulfilling these duties, construction managers must adhere to rigorous standards that incorporate ethical principles, professional conduct, and a commitment to excellence. Learn more about the standard of care construction professionals should follow in their daily decision-making process.

What Is the Standard of Care Construction Professionals Need to Know?

Construction managers have a duty to protect the interests of all parties involved in or affected by construction projects.

The American Insitute of Constructors (AIC) encourages constructors to adhere to ethical principles and follow a standard of care. As an organization, AIC continues to highlight the importance of maintaining these standards in the construction industry.

1. Integrity and Honesty

At the core of the standard of care, construction managers should uphold integrity and honesty. These principles are fundamental to building trust and maintaining credibility with clients, subcontractors, other general contractors, and additional stakeholders.

Construction managers must ensure that all communications and dealings are transparent and truthful. This effort should include:

• Following fair bidding practices
• Providing accurate estimates
• Reporting project progress honestly
• Understanding contract documents and adhering to contract requirements
• Executing the project according to its intended purpose
• Addressing any issues or delays promptly and openly

Maintaining integrity also involves avoiding conflicts of interest and ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the project and the client. For example, construction managers should not accept gifts or favors from suppliers that could influence their decision-making.

By prioritizing integrity and honesty, construction managers contribute to a culture of trust and accountability in the construction industry.

2. Professional Competence

The standard of care construction managers should uphold also involves maintaining a high level of professional competence. This principle included staying informed about the latest developments in construction methods, materials, and advanced technologies.

For example, continuing education and professional development are essential for construction managers to ensure they can effectively oversee complex projects and implement best practices.

Professional competence also requires construction managers to understand and comply with relevant laws, regulations, and building codes. This knowledge ensures that projects are completed safely, legally, and to the highest quality standards.

By demonstrating professional competence, construction managers can deliver successful projects that meet or exceed client expectations.

3. Commitment to Safety

Safety is a paramount concern in the construction industry, and construction managers must ensure that projects are conducted safely. The ideal standard of care includes a commitment to creating and maintaining a safe work environment for all workers. This effort includes:

• Implementing comprehensive safety plans that match industry standards
• Conducting regular safety inspections
• Providing adequate training for all personnel
• Determining the best methods to communicate safety to crew members
• Measuring, reporting, and improving on safety metrics

Construction managers must also ensure that all safety regulations and standards are strictly followed. This includes encouraging workers to use proper personal protective equipment (PPE), maintaining safe work practices, and promptly addressing any safety concerns.

By building a healthy safety culture, construction managers protect the well-being of workers and contribute to the overall success of the project.

4. Environmental Responsibility

Environmental responsibility is an increasingly important aspect of today’s construction climate. This principle is centered around the idea of minimizing the environmental impact of construction activities through sustainable practices and responsible resource management. 

For example, construction managers should strive to use environmentally friendly materials, reduce waste, and implement energy-efficient practices.

Additionally, construction managers should be aware of and comply with environmental regulations and standards. This includes managing construction waste properly, preventing pollution, and protecting natural habitats.

By embracing environmental responsibility, construction managers contribute to the sustainability of the industry and the well-being of the communities affected by construction sites.

5. Ethical Decision-Making

Construction projects often present complex challenges that require careful consideration of ethical principles. Construction managers must be prepared to make decisions that are legally compliant and morally sound.

In practice, constructors should treat all stakeholders with respect and fairness, ensure that labor practices are ethical, and address any unethical behavior promptly and effectively. 

Construction managers should also be advocates for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, promoting a culture where all individuals are valued and respected. By prioritizing ethical decision-making, construction managers uphold the integrity of the profession and foster a positive work environment.

6. Accountability and Responsibility

Construction managers are responsible for the overall success of a project, and they must be willing to take ownership of their actions and decisions. What does this look like? It’s being accountable for project outcomes, addressing issues proactively, and learning from mistakes.

Construction managers should also ensure that all team members are held accountable for their roles and responsibilities. Managers should set clear expectations, provide constructive feedback, and recognize and reward good performance.

By fostering a culture of accountability, construction managers can drive project success and maintain high standards of quality and performance.

Join An Ethical Community of Constructors

As an organization, AIC strives to uphold ethical principles and increase knowledge about best practices. We hold our members to high standards to ensure they provide the proper degree of care during each project.

Our members are committed to creating a better world and enhancing the field through their decisions, ideas, and actions. This reality is carried out through our Code of Ethics and Construction Creed. By keeping the conversation focused on how we can improve ourselves and the future of construction, AIC helps everyone succeed.

Interested in learning more about real-world applications of the standard of care construction professionals should use? Consider becoming a member of AIC today. Join a community that thrives on doing the right thing and contributing to a brighter future.