During the design and construction stages of the building process, architects and builders often have one intended purpose in mind for the structure, such as a manufacturing facility, an office, or a sporting and recreational center. However, changes in building ownership or an urgent need for emergency service capabilities might require an existing building to be repurposed for new uses. Civil engineers ensure that these facilities are prepared to meet their new roles by regulating several features.

3 Ways a Civil Engineer Helps Repurpose a Building or Facility

1. Layout & Design

Repurposing a building demands a reevaluation of what that building can be. A civil engineer is an integral part of the layout and design processes necessary for restructuring.

These processes might include emergency response mobilization, utility coordination, traffic control planning, and risk analysis testing. A civil engineer is also tasked with identifying the safest and most effective locations for utilities and other essential resources the building will need to accommodate its new function.

2. Quality Control

A civil engineer performs quality control oversight on the various workers and industries that come together to repurpose a facility. They monitor the work of contractors, service providers, and vendors to confirm that quality is maintained, that specs are adhered to, and that all laws and regulations are being followed.

Quality control is not just a one-time event. It will continue to happen throughout the course of a facility repurposing, from renovation and construction to operations and mobilizations/demobilizations.

3. Permit Acquisition

A facility repurposing will likely involve some amount of construction work, and there may be environmental precautions that need to be followed once the refinished structure is operational. Civil engineers acquire all the necessary permits from local, state, and federal authorities so the work can be completed. These permits also assure the new facility will be ready to go once the doors open.

A civil engineer also knows how to prioritize permit acquisition and streamline all the associated red tape. Their expert navigational skills can be especially helpful in emergency response situations where facilities need immediate repurposing.

If you need the support of a civil engineer in Cincinnati, OH, or the surrounding tri-state area, contact Abercrombie & Associates, Inc. Since 1976, they have provided a variety of engineering services, including residential and commercial development, property zoning, and land surveying. They are expert managers and problem-solvers and deliver timely and dependable results to help you achieve your goals. Call (513) 385-5757, or visit them online to request an estimate.