Operative
In construction, an ‘operative’ is a term usually used to describe a skilled or semi-skilled worker who has some function that includes either operating machinery (including computers) or having a role on a production line in a manufacturing facility.
Operatives may be involved in repetitive tasks or a series of repetitive tasks.
The operatives that may be encountered on a construction site might include:
- Truck drivers.
- Crane operators.
- Fork-lift truck drivers.
- Mechanical hoist operatives.
- Lift operatives.
- Mechanics.
- Cement mixer operatives.
- Barrier operatives.
However, in the UK, the term is not usually used to refer to manual labourers or skilled tradesmen such as bricklayers, carpenters, plumbers and electricians. It is never used to describe professionals such as architects, engineers, surveyors and so on.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems.
ECA calls on members to comment on draft 4th edition.
Bringing together expertise and creating cultural benefits.
CIOB celebrates positive Ofsted report.
The Building Safety Regulator announces a call for evidence.
Government approach could undermine delivery and regeneration.
World's first mass timber data centre.
The overlooked environmental aspect of data centre development.
Introduction to radon awareness
New technical information sheet published by CIOB.
Updated supplier guide can help electrical contractors engage with NHP.
CIAT confirm the winners of the 2026 architectural technology awards.
Government launches a one stop shop for flood preparedness.
Sir Edwin Lutyens: Britain's greatest architect? Book review.
CIOB publishes free template to help assess and manage risks.