Skip to content

Introduction to Environmental Work on Construction Sites

Description 

NRTG’s MicroCourses offer a flexible and practical training pathway designed to build real-world skills efficiently. This MicroCourse provides a clear, applied introduction to what environmental work on construction sites looks like in the field. It is designed for environmental students, new technicians, junior consultants, and anyone preparing to enter a construction site for the first time. 

The course helps learners understand why environmental professionals are involved in construction projects and how they contribute to day-to-day site activities. Participants are introduced to common construction operations such as land clearing, excavation, and heavy equipment use, with a focus on how these activities can create environmental impacts. 

Key topics include fundamental environmental risks such as sediment runoff, chemical spills, and potential effects on surrounding habitats. Learners will also gain an understanding of essential site expectations, including safety considerations, personal protective equipment (PPE), and professional etiquette when working alongside construction crews. 

Designed to build confidence and preparedness, this course focuses on practical awareness rather than technical specialization. Participants will leave with a clear understanding of how environmental professionals fit into construction projects and what to expect during a typical site visit. 

This course has no formal prerequisites and is ideal for beginners interested in environmental fieldwork, construction site exposure, or entry-level roles in environmental consulting. 

Program Outcomes 

Upon successful completion, participants will be able to: 

  1. Understand the role of environmental professionals on construction projects and how they integrate into site operations. 
  2. Recognize common construction activities and their potential environmental impacts. 
  3. Identify basic environmental risks, including sediment runoff, chemical spills, and habitat disturbance. 
  4. Apply essential site safety requirements, including PPE and safe work practices. 
  5. Demonstrate professional communication and appropriate etiquette when working with construction crews. 
  6. Prepare for and confidently participate in a construction site visit, with an emphasis on expectations and environmental awareness. 

Course will be 4 hours long.

Instructor Profile

Leeann Muggeridge, R.T. Bio

Environmental Specialist

LeeAnn Muggeridge is an environmental professional with over 10 years of field-based experience supporting construction and resource development projects across western and eastern Canada. Her work has focused on environmental monitoring, water quality assessment, habitat evaluation, and fisheries studies in both freshwater and marine environments. She has worked on a wide range of projects including infrastructure developments, pipeline projects, and renewable energy initiatives such as wind energy, gaining extensive experience in active construction environments. 

LeeAnn has supported environmental compliance on construction sites by conducting inspections, identifying potential environmental risks, and helping implement practical mitigation measures. Her work has required close collaboration with construction crews, contractors, and regulators to ensure environmental requirements are understood and applied in fast-paced, real-world conditions. 

Throughout her career, LeeAnn has developed a strong understanding of how environmental considerations are integrated into common construction activities such as land clearing, excavation, and in-stream work. She also brings experience in technical reporting, environmental assessments, and acting as an environmental liaison to support Indigenous engagement and regulatory processes. 

Related Training