Managing Construction Logistics

"I believe that constructors ignore this book at their peril. These techniques will soon be core to every construction business. The only question for industry decision-makers is to decide whether they want to get ahead of the curve by changing now, or wait until a streamlined and competitive industry forces them to adapt just to remain viable. As a client, I know what I'd recommend." Peter Rogers, CBE, Chairman of the Green Building CouncilPoor logistics is costing the construction industry at least 3 billion a year. Additional costs arise as a result of operatives waiting for materials, and skilled craftsmen being used for unskilled jobs. Inadequate management of logistics also has an adverse effect on quality, causes delays to projects, and adds to the health and safety risks on site.Every major industry except construction uses logistics to improve its bottom line.This practical, clear and accessible book highlights the benefits of good logistics in construction as well explaining the use of consolidation centres for projects. It shows how reduction in transport movements, less money tied up in stock, less waste, and the more efficient use of skilled craftsmen will reduce the cost of projects, reduce construction time, improve quality, reduce risks to health and safety, improve environmental performance and generally improve the image of the industry.The authors - industry-recognized logistics experts - offer tried-and-tested ways of achieving these benefits through integrated project teams and supply chains, and the increased adoption of information technology.Managing Construction Logistics includes a wide range of lively and detailed case studies from Terminal 5 to the Tate Gallery showing how good logistics tackles the 'hot potato' issues within the construction industry: efficient use of labour; sustainability; waste and supply chain management.

Gary Sullivan is co-founder of Wilson James Ltd, which provides a range of support services to industry, commerce and government; planning and delivering logistics and security solutions for large or complex projects, consolidation centres and strategic infrastructure installations. Stephen Barthorpe is the Corporate Responsibility Manager for MITIE Group Plc, a major strategic outsourcing and asset management company. He is responsible for implementing the Group's Corporate Responsibility strategy throughout the UK. Stephen Robbins works at Laing O'Rourke Plc as Off-Site Production Manager, where he utilises his knowledge in the development and implementation of logistics strategies for a number of challenging projects, both at tender and at contract stage.