The Engineering Choices Behind Safer Construction

Pietro Da Sacco, Regional Engineering Manager West, Doka USA

The Role of Formwork in Project Safety

Safety and efficiency on complex construction projects are primary drivers of all engineering design efforts. These remain constants on every project, large or small. Safety is embedded in all Doka systems, and any design deviating from standard solutions is thoroughly vetted by our Engineering and Professional Engineering teams to ensure full compliance with applicable safety codes and regulations.

Efficiency falls into two categories: efficiency in design and efficiency in field operations—both working hand in hand. Within the design process, BIM software such as Revit and/or Tekla is utilized for project layout, providing built-in efficiencies that enable consistent design development, reduced detailing and maximized 3D layout support. The process is further enhanced through integrated use of proprietary DokaCAD software.

Field efficiency is realized once design and bill of materials are executed in collaboration with customers and Operations team. As a result, projects are designed for effective layout, equipment cycling, and ease of use, while also optimizing plan interpretation through drawings or 3D layouts. This approach reduces labor time associated with formwork assembly prior to concrete placement and supports safer, more efficient execution in the field.

Decisions That Shape Temporary Works Performance

Numerous technical decisions arise on every project where formwork and shoring solutions deliver maximum field impact. These include meeting design and equipment delivery milestones, maintaining schedules for each concrete casting phase, and building strong customer relationships by meeting—or exceeding—planned construction timelines.

Key decisions focus on selecting formwork or shoring systems best suited to field conditions, enabling efficient execution without compromising safety. Thorough planning in collaboration with clients begins with structured kick-off meetings to align on starting points, critical focus areas, and sequencing of structures, allowing assignment of appropriate teams and work packages to meet demanding schedules. As project conditions, scopes, and change orders evolve, technical decisions are continually reviewed by our Engineering teams and presented as coordinated solutions that support successful project execution.

Leading Across Disciplines in Engineering

Good leadership in formwork and shoring construction requires technical knowledge, clear communication, and a strong focus on safety. Leaders need to understand formwork, shoring, and construction steps to guide teams and ensure designs are safe and efficient. They explain complex technical ideas in ways that design and field teams can follow, while keeping clients and stakeholders informed.

Being able to anticipate problems, consider different options, and guide teams toward practical solutions is important, as is organizing schedules, resources, and work sequences to keep projects on track. Strong leaders also encourage team learning, build skills, and help develop future leaders.

Building System-Level Thinking in Engineers

Our engineering team, with my focus on the West Region (AK, AZ, CA, CO, HI, ID, MT, NM, OR, UT, WA, WY), is composed of highly talented, motivated individuals with extensive backgrounds in structural, architectural, civil, and infrastructure engineering. I mentor the team daily, providing professional guidance and necessary resources, including training in systems, personal development, construction management, and software.

This support enables team members to handle projects of any size in a process-driven, efficient manner that aligns with our national formwork and shoring strategies, adapts to current market conditions, and applies relevant training directly to projects, allowing full use of learned knowledge.

The Experiences That Changed Everything

Over 25 years in formwork and shoring have provided countless lessons, and opportunities to develop creative solutions with colleagues and customers, have shaped my approach to engineering leadership and accountability. Acting decisively and finding solutions in the fast-paced construction environment is always a challenge, but negotiating with teams and maintaining accountability in a professional, respectful manner helps ensure positive outcomes.

These principles apply across engineering and management, both within organizations and with external partners. Accepting and learning from mistakes, seeking better solutions, and maintaining honest, consistent communication with teams have been central to my approach and career growth.