Builders in History (Part 4): Doing the Job Correctly

As we continue our study of construction work in biblical times, we see that even then builders understood that planning and safety are crucial.

Considering Expense

Jesus often taught in parables, using common, real-world examples to reveal greater spiritual truths. As a former carpenter Himself, it is no surprise that He used building analogies in His teachings. In the Book of Luke, Christ talks about the fact that you cannot complete a job if you don’t properly estimate the expenses. This is just as true today as it was then.

Cost estimation is so important that universities now teach it as part of their construction and engineering curriculums. Without the appropriate up-front money, a job could be left half-finished for a considerable amount of time. If the project falls too far into the red, it could be abandoned completely.

Estimators must consider far more than just the cost of materials, tools, workers, and other immediate expenses. In our modern era, there are environmental factors to take into account as well. Unresearched zoning could find you attempting to build in areas that uncover archeological finds or sacred burial grounds. The ecology of the area must be researched as well. Certain animal species must be relocated. If crews are surprised by unexpected soil or rock, removing it could add days or weeks to the project.

Creating a Proper Timeline

Cost and scheduling go hand-in-hand. The amount of time a project takes to complete influences the cost estimate, and vice versa. Proverbs 21:5 tells us, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Many proverbs and idioms, from the Bible and beyond, remind us that “haste makes waste.” In building terms, this haste applies to doing quick, shoddy work on the job, but it also applies to planning the job.

Management that rushes its scheduling can create disastrous, dangerous results. Without careful, meticulous planning, the end result can be sloppy, unsound work. This creates dangerous conditions for residents or businesses who plan to use the structure. The job site itself can become hazardous. Poorly planned sites can have workers and vehicles crisscrossing into one another’s space. Hastiness like this could lead to accidents, injuring workers and destroying property.

Ensuring Safety

Part of your planning schedule and cost analysis should always include safety precautions. As mentioned above, rushed work is unsafe work. Once again, the words of Jesus echo across time, teaching not only spiritual lessons, but also practical ones. In one of His sermons, Christ mentions a tragedy in Siloam, where 18 citizens were killed by a collapsing tower. He uses this example to illustrate that tragedy can strike the innocent and guilty alike.

This axiom rings true today as well. When safety precautions are ignored, anyone can be hurt, from a felon to a philanthropist. Safety and soundness should be the number-one priority of any building project. The safety of workers happens on the site, and the safety of the structure itself must endure when the job is done.

If you’ve been hurt on the job, workers’ compensation is there to protect you. Initial applications are often denied, requiring an appeal hearing. Consult a lawyer if you’ve been denied. They can help argue your appeal, demonstrating why you are entitled to your benefits.

For help with workers’ compensation or job-related injuries, reach out to us today. Initial consultations are free. Our number is (704) 376-1616, and you can reach us online.