When starting a new construction project, whether it’s a commercial building, a residential home, or an industrial facility, one question often arises: Do I need to hire an engineer?
The short answer is yes.
Hiring a professional engineer adds value by ensuring compliance with regulations, and provides peace of mind throughout the project.
The Value of Engineering in Construction Projects
Professional engineers play a pivotal role in construction projects by combining technical expertise, innovative solutions, and regulatory compliance. Their involvement is not just about calculations and drawings—it’s about ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of your project.
1. Safety and Structural Integrity
Engineers are trained to design structures that can withstand various stresses, such as weather, load, and environmental conditions. They ensure that your building or infrastructure is safe for its intended use and meets all safety requirements.
2. Cost Optimization
An experienced engineer can save you money by identifying cost-effective materials and methods without compromising quality. Their designs are often more efficient, reducing construction and operational costs.
3. Regulatory Compliance
Construction projects must adhere to a myriad of codes and standards. Engineers are experts at navigating these requirements, ensuring your project meets legal and environmental standards, and avoiding costly fines or delays.
4. Problem Solving and Innovation
Engineers tackle challenges that arise during construction with innovative solutions, minimizing disruptions to timelines and budgets.
Engineering and the 2024 Building Code Update
A timely example of the importance of hiring an engineer is displayed in the upcoming transition to the 2024 Ontario Building Code (OBC) from the 2012 Ontario Building Code. This takes effect on January 1, 2025. Building codes amended periodically to reflect advancements in safety standards, energy efficiency, sustainability targets, technology and materials.
For someone unfamiliar with these updates, the changes can seem daunting.
Professional engineers are equipped to conduct thorough code reviews and assess how these updates impact your project. For example:
– Structural Requirements: The new code adopts updated load requirements and seismic updates, and speaks to other areas of focus such as encapsulated mass timber construction (EMTC), enhanced accessibility standards, and mezzanine fire separation to align with the 2020 National Building Code (NBC). Engineers ensure that designs align with these updates, maintaining the structural integrity of the project.
– Energy Efficiency: The 2024 OBC has increased requirements to meet sustainability targets. The new requirements affect the different components of the building from the building envelope, and efficiency of mechanical and electrical systems. Energy models are a valuable tool that helps create more energy-efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable buildings. They help architects, engineers, and building owners to make informed decisions that positively impact the environment and their bottom line.
At LRL Engineering, we recently had a project where we reviewed a proposed site layout to adhere to fire department access routes under the incoming 2024 OBC. This assessment considered the minimum widths, vehicular maneuverability and turning radius requirement, as well as proximity to proposed building envelopes. Based on the building occupancy type, our team advised to alter the site layout to adhere to the 2024 OBC while also enhancing the site to offer more buildable area.
Failing to adhere to updated codes can result in delays, penalties, or even the need for costly retrofits. Engineers take responsibility for this compliance, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your project.
The Responsibility Engineers Shoulder
Engineering is not just about design; it’s about accountability. Engineers take on significant legal and ethical responsibility to ensure projects are safe, compliant, and durable. This includes providing stamped drawings and documentation that demonstrate adherence to all applicable codes and standards. Their professional liability is a testament to the trust you can place in their expertise.
Hiring an engineer for your construction project is not just a smart decision—it’s often a necessity. Their expertise ensures your project is safe, compliant, and optimized for long-term success. At LRL Engineering, we bring years of experience and a commitment to excellence to every project. Contact us today to learn how we can make your construction goals a reality.
LRL Engineering is a multidisciplinary engineering firm headquartered in Ottawa, offering services that support your needs for your next building, infrastructure, or land development project.
