Combating the construction foreign language


The title is a joke – for the most part. But with any job, or even company, comes a whole host of language learning curves.

Commercial construction, like any industry, has its own set of acronyms that are commonly used. Here are some of the most common acronyms you may encounter:

  1. ADA – Americans with Disabilities Act
  1. AIA – American Institute of Architects
  1. BIM – Building Information Modeling
  1. CPM – Critical Path Method
  1. CSI – Construction Specifications Institute
  1. D/B – Design-Build
  1. HVAC – Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
  1. LEED – Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design
  1. MEP – Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing
  1. OSHA – Occupational Safety and Health Administration
  1. PPE – Personal Protective Equipment
  1. RFI – Request for Information
  1. RFQ – Request for Quote
  1. RFP – Request for Proposal
  1. SOW – Scope of Work
  1. SWPPP – Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan

By familiarizing yourself with these acronyms, you can better understand the language and processes of commercial construction and communicate more effectively with other professionals in the industry.

BOL (best of luck)

Nate Regina