There are many options in the construction industry and it offers various challenging opportunities. Factories, apartments, offices, schools and infrastructure are a few of the samples of this vast industry. This industry also includes working on new structures, alterations as well as repairs to the on hand ones. Construction industry is mainly divided into three main segments, heavy construction contracts, general building contracts and special trade contracts. Heavy construction contractors construct sewers, highways, roads, bridges and other major projects. General building contractors build industrial, commercial, residential and similar buildings. Special trade contractors generally handle specialized activities like plumbing, painting and electrical work.

Construction firms are well coordinated and managed by specialized general contractors who handle construction job, either commercial or residential building. They are in charge of the entire construction job apart from some specified portions that are not mentioned in the general contract. Though the general contractors do only some portion of the job, they subcontract the job that they are unable to handle or which does not fall into their contract. They frequently delegate such work to special trade contractors.

Special trade contractors handle not more than one trade, which involves carpentry, painting or electric work or any two that are closely related like for example heating and plumbing. They receive orders from the general contractors, property owners or architects and then they follow instructions. Patch up work is usually completed on direct orders placed by the owner, tenants or architects.

Working environment

Employees of this trade generally work full time or more than 40 hours a week and there is no time constraint in this industry. In 2005, around 1 out of every 4 construction workers worked for more than 45 hours in a week and a large portion of self employed specialized workers worked 45 hours a week during emergencies or holidays to finish the work. These kind of industrial workers need extra physical stamina because the work involves strenuous activities like stooping, bending and working in congested atmospheres.

They may also have to lift heavy objects and usually the construction workers work with potentially dangerous instruments amidst a muddle of building material. Employers increasing emphasize on safe working environment and work environment that reduces the risk of accidents. To avoid accidents, nowadays workers are given helmets and gloves and special devices to protect their eyes while wielding.

Employment

Construction industry is considered as one of the largest industries in the world and more than 3 out of every 5-construction workers work as special trade contractors who primarily handle electrical, plumbing and masonry contracts. The rest are road and heavy construction contractors and services in this field are distributed evenly.

Occupations

Career in construction industry offers various opportunities and most of the workers are skilled apprentices who help the senior workers and they are classified as finishing, structural or mechanical workers. Many people enter the construction industry through apprenticeship programs and these programs generally offer on the job training under supervision. Depending on choice, the apprentices can learn various skills ranging from laying bricks to putting steel beams together.