Specification is the specific description of project which describe the nature and class of work, material to be used.

Importance of specification:

• Serves as guide for site engineers.
• Helps to clear misunderstanding and mistake of project.
• For accurate cost estimation and budgeting.
• Help to verify and check strength of material.
• Helps to meet final outcomes of project.

Purpose of specification:

• To specify nature of work.
• To estimate quantity and cost.
• To identify quantity of material.
• To identify material proportion.
• To identify type of workmanship.

Writing specification:

1. Description of material

• Provide clear description of material.
• Includes brand name and model name.

2. Workmanship

• Describe level of workmanship.

3. Tools

• Describe tools and equipment used.
• Provide rental and purchase requirement.

4. Work protection

• Instruction to protect project.

5. Expression

• Use clear and concise language.

6. Clauses of specification

• Include condition to meet work.
• Describe warranties or guarantees of work.

1.2 Specification of RCC

1. Specification material:

a. Cement:

• OPC cement is used i.e. 43 grade & IS 269:2015.

b. Coarse aggregate:

• Should hard dense and durable material like granite, basalt or limestone.
• Maximum size should exceed ¼ ^th of minimum thickness of member.

c. Fine aggregate:

• Should be clean free from dust, clay and organic material.
• Fineness modulus should not be more than 3.1 and less than 2.3.

d. Water:

• Clean water free from harmful impurities like oil, acid etc.

2. Combination of material:

• Should be M20 grade concrete.
• Mix proportion of cement, fine aggregate, coarse aggregate and water should be 1:1.5:3: 0.5 by weight.
• Concrete should mix mechanically using batch mixture.

3. Steel Reinforcement using IS code:

a. According IS 1786:2008, steel bar should have minimum yield strength of 415 N/mm².

b. Steel bar should be free from rust, oil and any deleterious material.

c. As per IS 456:2000, cover should be measured from outer surface of reinforcement to surface of concrete.

d. Reinforcement should be placed as per drawing.

1.3 Specification of brick masonry

1. Specification of material:

a. Brick:

• Use 1^st class brick.
• Should be in uniform shape and size.

b. Mortar:

• Should be good quality and free from lumps.
• Ratio should be (C:S:W = 1:4:0.5).

2. Combination of material:

a. Brick masonry:

• Should be laid in English bond.

b. Reinforced brick masonry:

• Should be laid in Flemish bond.

3. Steel reinforced using IS code:

• As per IS 432:1982
  • Minimum diameter of steel bar = 6 mm
  • Minimum cover of steel reinforcement = 15 mm
• Placed in alternative course.
• Spacing should not be more than 300 mm in horizontal and 450 mm in vertical direction.

1.4 Specification of PCC

1. Material specification:

a. Cement:

• As per IS 8112, use OPC of grade 43.

b. Coarse aggregate:

• As per IS 383, nominal size 20 mm.

c. Fine aggregate:

• Should be free from dust and organic matter.

2. Combination of material:

• W/C ratio = 0.5
• (Cement: Sand: Aggregate) =  (1:1.5: 3)

3. Steel reinforcement:

• As per IS 1786
  • Grade of steel should be Fe500 or Fe415
  • Diameter not more than 16 mm.
• Spacing not more than 150 mm and not less than 75 mm.
• Should be free from rust and impurities.

References:

• Dutta, B.N. – Estimating and Costing in Civil Engineering, UBS Publishers, New Delhi.
• CPWD (Central Public Works Department), India – Standard Schedule of Rates and Analysis of Rates.
• IS 1200 – Indian Standard for Method of Measurement of Building and Civil Engineering Works, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
• Punmia, B.C. – Estimating and Costing, Laxmi Publications.
• Building Estimation and Costing Notes – Department of Civil Engineering, Pokhara University.
• MoUD Nepal – Standard Norms and Guidelines for Public Infrastructure Development Projects.

The post Specification in Civil Engineering appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

Valuation is the technique of estimating or determining the fair price or value of a property such as building, factory, other engineering structure of various types of land etc.

1.2 Purpose of valuation

• Buying or selling of property.
• For mortgage as security of loan.
• For determination of rent.
• For tax fixation or assessment of taxes.
• For compulsory acquisition.
• For fixation of insurance premium.
• To determine speculation i.e. more than fair price in selling.
• To determine betterment charges i.e. more than fair price in buying.

1.3 Terms used in valuation

1. Value and cost

• Value is the present market value of any property which may be higher or lower than cost of construction.
• Cost means actual cost of construction.

2. Book value

• It is original investment shown in account book of a company on its asset including properties and machinates.
• Book value is applicable on building and movable properties but not on land.
• Book value = Original cost – Total depreciation upto previous year

3. Assessed value

• Value of any property recorded in record of local authority which is used for the purpose of determining the various taxes to be collected from owner of the property.

4. Distressed value or forced sale value

• When a property is sold at a lower price than the market value of that time it is called distress value.

5. Replacement value

• Value of property or its services calculated on the prevailing market rate to replace the same.

6. Retable value

• Net annual letting value property which is obtained after deducting the amount of yearly repairs from gross income. Municipal and other taxes are charged on the rotable value of property.

7. Potential value

• Some property like land has an inherent value which may go on increasing due to passage of time or can fetch more return if used for some alternative purpose. This inherent value is known as potential value.

8. Annuity

• Annual periodic payment for repayment of the capital amount invested in a property or in some other form of investment by a party.

9. Perpetual annuity

• If the payment of annuity continues for indefinite period, it is known as perpetual annuity.

10. Different annuity

• If the payment if annuity begins at some future data after a number of years this is known as different annuity.

11. Scrap value

• Dismantled material value of property at the end of its utility period.
• 10% of cost of construction in case of building.

12. Salvage value

• Value of any property at the end of utility period without being dismantled.

13. Gross income

• Total income from all sources without deducting the outgoing necessary for operation, taxes, maintenance, replacements etc.

14. Outgoing

• These are the expenses incurred to maintain the property by undertaking periodic repairs.
• Also, includes government tax, sinking fund, management or collection charge other miscellaneous charges.

15. Net income

• Amount left after deducting all outgoing, operational and collection expenses from gross income. i.e. Net income = Gross income – Outgoings

16. Capitalized value

• Amount of money whose interest at the highest prevailing rate of interest will be equal to the net income from the property in perpetuity. i.e. CV = Net income * Year purchase (Y.P)

17. Years Purchase (Y.P)

• Capitalized value required to be invested in order to receive an annuity of Rs. 1 at the prevailing rate of interest. i.e. Year’s purchase = 100 / Rate of interest

18. Sinking funds

• It is a fund which is built up for sole purpose of replacement or reconstruction of a property when it loses its utility either at the end of its life span.
• S = (S_n * R)/(1+R)^n-1

Where,

S = Year installment of sinking fund

S_n = Sinking fund to be accumulated in n years

R = Rate of interest

n = Utility period / Life of property

19. Depreciation

• The gradual decrease or loss in value of a property because of constant structural deterioration, use, wear and tear, decay etc.

1.4 Method of Determining value of property

1. Rental Method

• In this method the rental income is calculated after deducting all outgoing from the gross rent, years purchase is calculated after adopting the current bank interest and then capitalized value of the property is worked out.

2. Profit based Method

• Similar to rental method.
• In this method the net profit is worked out after deducting all possible outgoing and years purchase calculated after adopting current bank interest rate and multiplied by YP to get capitalized value of property.

3. Cost based Method

• In this method the actual cost incurred in constructing the building or in processing the property is taken as basis to determine the value of property.

4. Development based Method

• This method of valuation is used for properties which are in the development stage or party developed stage.

5. Depreciation Method

• Depreciated value of building is directly calculated with the help of formula

i.e. D = P [(100 – r_d)/(100)]ⁿ

Where,

D = Depreciated value

P = Cost of building

r_d = Rate of depreciation

n = No. of years

6. Plinth area Method

• In this method the resent plinth area rate of similar building in the same locality with the same specification is worked out, multiplied with the plinth area of building whose valuation is to be done and suitable depreciation is allowed.

7. Capital value comparison Method

• In this method, capitalized value of the property is worked out by direct comparisons with other capitalized value of similar property in the same locality, whose sale records are available.

1.5 Methods of valuation

• After doing all the valuation works the valuation report is prepared for submitting in the concerned department.
• The valuation report is divided into three parts:
  • Part I: Detail about property
  • Part II: Valuation calculation
  • Part III: Valuation declaration

Report format:

• Cover page
• Table of content
• Valuation certificate
• Description of the property
• Appendix:
  • Introductory details
  • Technical details
  • Area calculation
  • Land value
  • Land ownership certificate
  • Citizenship certificate
  • Drawings
  • Photographs

References:

• Dutta, B.N. – Estimating and Costing in Civil Engineering, UBS Publishers, New Delhi.
• CPWD (Central Public Works Department), India – Standard Schedule of Rates and Analysis of Rates.
• IS 1200 – Indian Standard for Method of Measurement of Building and Civil Engineering Works, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
• Punmia, B.C. – Estimating and Costing, Laxmi Publications.
• Building Estimation and Costing Notes – Department of Civil Engineering, Pokhara University.
• MoUD Nepal – Standard Norms and Guidelines for Public Infrastructure Development Projects.

The post Valuation in Civil Engineering appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

• Method of determining the rate per unit of particular item of work considering the cost and quantities of material, cost of labor, hire of tools, contractor profit etc. is known as rate analysis.
• The rate of materials and labor vary from place to place and therefore the rate of different item of work also varies from place to place.

1.2 Purpose of Rate Analysis

• To determine the actual cost per unit of item.
• To determine the economical use of material.
• To determine the cost of extra item which are not provided in contract document.
• To examine the viability of rates offered by contractor.
• To calculate the quantity of material and labor strength required for project planning.

1.3 Importance of Rate Analysis

• It gives clear picture of the various types of labor and material required for completing the particular work.
• Used to settle dispute between contractor and client.
• Used for compensation by insurance.

1.4 Requirement of Rate Analysis

• Correct information of the market rates of material.
• Correct information of the rates of various categories of labor.
• Output of labor.
• Knowledge, rate of out turn of various types plants to be used in the construction work.
• Upto date knowledge of construction work.

1.5 Factors affecting Rate Analysis

• Quality of material.
• Proportion of mortar.
• Location of site.
• Facilities available for transportation of labor and material to work site .
• Overhead charge.
• Availability of water connection.
• Possibility of theft of losses.
• Miscellaneous expenditure.

References:

• Dutta, B.N. – Estimating and Costing in Civil Engineering, UBS Publishers, New Delhi.
• CPWD (Central Public Works Department), India – Standard Schedule of Rates and Analysis of Rates.
• IS 1200 – Indian Standard for Method of Measurement of Building and Civil Engineering Works, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
• Punmia, B.C. – Estimating and Costing, Laxmi Publications.
• Building Estimation and Costing Notes – Department of Civil Engineering, Pokhara University.
• MoUD Nepal – Standard Norms and Guidelines for Public Infrastructure Development Projects.

The post Rate Analysis in Civil Engineering appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

• Done to find out approximate cost in short time.
• This estimate is prepared after preliminary surveying.
• This estimate is prepared from practical knowledge and cost of similar works.

Types:

a. Unit rate estimate:

• In this method all cost of a unit quantity such as per km for a highway, per meter for span of bridge, per bed for hospital etc. are considered first and the estimate is prepared by multiplying the cost per corresponding unit by the number of unit of the structure.
• Buildings:
  • Per student for school/college
  • Per bed for hospital
  • Per seat for cinema hall
• Road work:
  • Per Km
• Bridge culvert:
  • Per meter length
• Irrigation work:
  • Per Km of canal
  • Per hector of command area

b. Plinth area estimate:

• In this method, plinth area rate of building is adopted from the cost of similar building having similar specification, height and construction in same locality.
• Plinth area = Carpet area + Circulation area + Kitchen/Toilet + Wall

c. Cubic rate estimate:

• This estimate is worked out on the basis of cubical content of the proposed building and then multiplying with rate per cubic content.
• Estimate = Plinth area * height * cubical content rate

1.2 Detailed Estimate

• It is an accurate estimate which contains very detailed data about project variable such as cost/quantity and price.
• The dimension of each item are taken out correctly from drawing and quantities of each item are calculated, abstracted and billed.
• 5-10% of estimated cost for unforeseen item and 2% of work charge establishment should be added.
• This estimate is accompanied by:
  • Detailed report.
  • Detail specification for the execution of work.
  • Detailed drawing (plans, site plan, elevation etc.)
  • Calculation and design of various item such as beams, slabs etc.
  • Schedule of rates followed and premium if allowed.

Factors to be considered for preparation of detail estimate:

• Quantity of materials.
• Availability of materials.
• Transportation of materials.
• Location of site.
• Availability of labor.

1.3 Revised Estimate

• It is also a detailed estimate and is prepared when the original sanctioned detail exceeds by 5%.
• Revised estimate is prepared:
  • When a sanctioned estimate is likely to exceed by more than 5%.
  • When the expenditure of work exceeds or is likely to exceeds by more than 10% of the administrative approval.
  • When there is material rate deviation from original proposal.
  • When sanction estimate is more than actual requirement.

1.4 Supplementary Estimate

It is also a detailed estimate and is prepared when additional work is required to supplement the original work.

1.5 Annual repair and maintenance estimate

In order to keep the structure in proper condition annual repair and maintenance are carried out. The estimate prepared for this purpose is known as annual repair and maintenance estimate.

1.6 Extension and improvement estimate

When some changes and extension are required to be made in the old work, a detailed estimate of extension and improvement work is carried out which is called as extension and improvement estimate.

1.7 Complete Estimate

• In complete estimate following should be included:
  • Cost of land.
  • Cost of preliminary work.
  • Cost of preliminary design, drawing and estimate.
  • Cost of detailed design, estimate, specification and contract documents.
  • Cost of electricity, water supply and sanitary work.
  • Cost of design and supervision charges
  • Cost of external service.
  • Cost of repair and maintenance.

1.8 Split up of cost and building work

a. General split up:

• Labor cost = 30-35% of total cost
• Material cost = 65-70% of total cost

b. Stage wise breakup:

• Construction below plinth level = 10-15% of total cost
• Construction above plinth level = 85-90% of total cost

c. Activity wise breakup:

• Foundation work = 17-18%
• Brickwork/block work = 20%
• Concreting and reinforcement steel = 15%
• Door, windows and ventilation = 12%
• Roof water proofing & finishing = 5%
• Plastering = 5-6%
• Flooring = 5%
• Painting = 2-3%
• Water supply and sanitation = 12-13%
• Other work = 4-5%

References:

• Dutta, B.N. – Estimating and Costing in Civil Engineering, UBS Publishers, New Delhi.
• CPWD (Central Public Works Department), India – Standard Schedule of Rates and Analysis of Rates.
• IS 1200 – Indian Standard for Method of Measurement of Building and Civil Engineering Works, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
• Punmia, B.C. – Estimating and Costing, Laxmi Publications.
• Building Estimation and Costing Notes – Department of Civil Engineering, Pokhara University.
• MoUD Nepal – Standard Norms and Guidelines for Public Infrastructure Development Projects.

The post Types of Estimates in Civil Engineering appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

• Estimation is the process of predetermining of cost and size of any works. Also, in other words it is the process of calculating the quantity and cost of various item required in proposed work.

Importance of Estimation:

• To fix budget for the proposed project.
• To calculate required quantities of materials and number of labors for proposed projects.
• To draw up a work schedule for proposed project.
• To prepare tender document for the project.
• To prepare valuation of land and building.
• To fix up a completion period of the proposed project.

1.2 System of Unit

• In general, the units of different item of work are based on following principle.
• Mass, voluminous and thick work: L*B*H = m³
• Shallow, thin and surface work (thickness < 75 mm): L*B = m²
• Linear work/ long and thin works: L = Running meter
• Pierce works/ job works: Number

1.3 Units of Measurement and Payment for items of work and Materials

1.4 Requirement of Estimating

1. Drawings:

• Drawings are required for the calculation of the quantities of the materials.
• It shows plans, elevation, different section and other relevant detail with clear and complete dimensions.

2. Specification:

• Specification describes the nature and class of the work, material to be used, workmanship and is very important for execution of work.

Types of specification:

a. General specification:

• This gives a general idea about the nature, quality, class and material in general terms to be used invarious types of work.

b. Detailed specification:

• This gives the detailed description of the various items of work laying down the quantities and qualities of material, their proportions, method of preparation, workmanship and execution of work.

3. Rates:

• Rates are essential for the computation of estimate by multiplying quantities of materials with unit rates.
• Rates include of various material to be used in the construction, cost of transport materials, wages of labor.

4. Method of measurement:

• Updated mode of measurement for standard deduction or additions are also necessary to determine the correct quantities of work.

1.5 Methods of measurement of building and civil engineering works

1. Earthwork

• Measurement in m³.
• Includes throwing of excavated earth at least one meter clear of the edge of excavation.
• Dressing or trimming, levelling or grading, ramming and consolidation thickness of each layer can be describe and include in the item of earthwork.
• No separate measurement is taken for setting out works or site clearance.

2. Concrete work

• Measurement in m³.
• No deduction is done for opening upto 0.1 m² (1 sq.ft).
• No deduction shall be made for volume occupied by reinforcement.

3. Brickwork

• Measurement in m³.
• Deduction for doors, windows and other opening including lintel.
• Different kinds and classes of brickwork shall be taken under separate item.

4. Plastering work

• Measurement in m².
• Plastering of all roofs ceiling, walls etc shall be measured under separate item.
• No deduction is done for joints, beam upto 0.5 sq.m or 5 sq.ft.

5. Painting work

• Measurement in m².
• Different types of surfaces such as steel, wood, concrete etc shall be taken under separate item.

1.6 Subheads of various item of work

• Earthwork
• Concrete work (a. PCC work b. RCC work)
• Masonry work (a. Brick work b. Stone work)
• Wood work
• Flooring work
• Finishing work (a. Cement plaster work b. Painting work c. Roofing work)

1.7 Various Methods of Taking Out Quantities

1. Centre Line Method:

• This method is suitable offsets are symmetrical and the building is more of less rectangular in shape.
• According to this method, total length of centerline of wall is calculated and this length is multiply by corresponding breadth and height of item of work to find its quantity.

2. Long Wall and Short Wall Method:

• According to this method, the long wall is consider first and the wall perpendicular to this wall is consider as short wall.
• The long wall is measured from out to out and the short wall is measured from in to in. After, finding the length of wall, this length is multiplied by corresponding breadth and height of item of work to find quantity of that item.
• Used for building having unsymmetrical layouts, wall for varying thickness, height etc.
• Upto plinth level from footing we can use this method to estimate the quantity.

3. Crossing Method:

• In this method, length and breadth of the masonry walls at plinth level are taken (internal dimension of room + thickness of wall) for calculating quantities.
• The center line length is obtain by calculating the overall perimeter of building and subtracting four times thickness of wall on it.

1.8 Abstracting Bills of Quantities

• A bill of quantities is a document used in tendering process which includes the materials, parts and labor with respect to their cost.
• It is also a detail term and condition of the construction or repair contract and itemizes all work to enable a contractor to price the work for which he/she is bidding.

References:

• Dutta, B.N. – Estimating and Costing in Civil Engineering, UBS Publishers, New Delhi.
• CPWD (Central Public Works Department), India – Standard Schedule of Rates and Analysis of Rates.
• IS 1200 – Indian Standard for Method of Measurement of Building and Civil Engineering Works, Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
• Punmia, B.C. – Estimating and Costing, Laxmi Publications.
• Building Estimation and Costing Notes – Department of Civil Engineering, Pokhara University.
• MoUD Nepal – Standard Norms and Guidelines for Public Infrastructure Development Projects.

The post Methods of Estimation in Construction appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

• EHS stands for Environmental, Health, Safety which aims to prevent accident, minimize health hazard and protect surrounding from construction impact.

Causes of accident in construction projects:

1. Physical cause

• Malfunctioning or poorly maintained equipment.
• Uneven terrain or unstable structure.
• Absence of proper safety equipment.
•  Lack of lighting.
• Improper lifting and moving of material.

2. Physiological cause

• Poor eyesight
• Poor health
• Over work
• Old age

3. Psychological cause

• Mental tension and stress.
• Lack of training.
• Overconfidence.
• Fear.

Minimizing the construction accident:

• Provide safety training.
• Equipment maintenance.
• Safety gear.
• Emergency plans.
• Health checkups.
• Keep workspace clean.
• Appropriate supervision.

1.2 Safety Planning

• Involves planning strategies and measure to ensure the well-being of workers and minimize risks at a construction site.

Steps in safety planning:

• Risk Assessment: Identify potential hazard.
• Safety policies: Develop clear safety guideline and protocols.
• Training: Provide safety training.
• Supervision: Assign responsible personnel to oversee safety measure.
• Regular inspection: Conduct routine checks to identify and rectify risks.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Gear that worker wear to stay safe from risk related jobs to protect from physical harm.

Training to improve safety standard at construction site:

• Induction: New workers learn site rules and safety basics.
• Tool box talk: Short meeting discuss daily, safety tips.
• Skill training: Workers learn to use equipment safety.

Role of safety engineer:

• Risk assessment: Identify potential hazard on site.
• Safety plans: Developing and implementing safety procedures.
• Training: Educating workers about safety protocols.
• Accident investigation: Analyzing incidents for prevention.
• Inspection: Regularly checking for safety compliance.

1.3 Maintenance

• Maintenance involves regular checks, repair and prevent deterioration.

Importance:

• Prevent accidents.
• Extends lifespan of asset.
• Cost saves.
• Increase efficiency.
• Value preservation.

Objective of maintenance management:

• Minimize expenses.
• Ensure safety.
• Extend machinery lifespan.
• Increase Performance of equipment
• Effective resource utilization.

Types of Maintenance:

1. Planned Maintenance:

• Preventive Maintenance: Schedule check to prevent failure.
• Corrective Maintenance: Repairing after failure occurs.
• Routine Maintenance: Regular, simple upkeep tasks.

2. Unplanned Maintenance:

• Emergency: Urgent repair to prevent hazard.

Maintenance Planning:

• Scheduling
• Resource allocation
• Task prioritization
• Documentation
• Budgeting
• Historical analysis.
• Coordination

Issue of project maintenance in Nepal:

• Limited resource
• Lack of awareness
• Political instability
• Insufficient funds
• Technology gap
• Difficult location
• Lack of sustainable project

1.4 Organization and Management

Definition:

Organization: A group of people which works under an executive leadership.

Management: Art of using available resource optimally to achieve the desired goals.

Principles of Management:

• Division of work: Breaking tasks into smaller, specialized parts for efficiency.
• Authority and Responsibility: Assigning tasks and holding individual accountable.
• Discipline: Following rules and guideline for orderly work.
• Unity of command: Each worker report to only one supervisor.
• Unity of direction: Aligning efforts towards common objective.
• Order: Organizing resource and task for smooth operation.
• Equity: Treating all employees fairly.

Types of organization:

1. Line organization

• Clear hierarchy with direct reporting.
• Simple, quick decision making.
• Limited specialization.

2. Line and staff organization

• Dual authority structure.
• Access to expert advice.
• Potential conflict between staff.

3. Functional organization

• Grouping by specialized functions.
• Efficient use of specialized skill.
• Communication barrier between function.

4. Project organization

• Temporary teams for specific projects.
• Flexibility and innovation for project.
• Complexity in managing multiple project.

Leadership & Motivation:

Leadership

• Directing and inspiring a team towards goals.
• Guides teamwork, boosts morale and achieve success.

Motivation

• Encouraging interest and effort in tasks.
• Enhances performance, job satisfaction and result.

Project communication:

• Sharing information among team member for effective coordination and progress.
• Keeps team member informed.
• Involves all parties for project success.

Meaning and importance of HRM (Human Resource Management):

• Managing people within an organization for optimal performance.
• Hiring the right people for right roles.
• Enhancing skill and career growth.
• Creating a positive and motivated environment.

Recruitment, selection & training:

Recruitment: Attracting potential employees to apply for job position.

Selection: Choosing the most suitable candidates for the roles.

Training: Developing employee’s abilities.

Trade union in Nepal:

• Represent employees interest and right.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations.
• Addresses worker issues.

Reference:

• Harold Kerzner (2017). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling.
• PMI (2021). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) – 7th Edition.
• Nebosh, Nepal Engineering Council Syllabus (2024). Engineering Professional Practice Notes.
• Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (CESMM).
• Personal Class Notes & Presentations from Nepalese Engineering Institutions.

The post Environmental Health and Safety in Construction appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

1.2 Objective of QC/QA

• Compliance with standards: Ensure products meet established standard and specification.
• Defect prevention: Identify and rectify defects to improve products quality.
• Customer satisfaction: Deliver products meet customer expectation.
• Cost control: Minimize expenses.
• Risk mitigation: Reduce chances of project failure.

1.3 Factors affecting quality of construction

• Design
• Material selection
• Workmanship
• Weather condition
• Equipment condition
• Site management
• Regulations

1.4 Quality control technique

• Inspection: Detailed examination to identify defects.
• Testing: Evaluating products performance standards.
• Statical process control (SPC): Monitoring using data.
• Root cause analysis: Identifying underlying issues.
• Lean construction: Reducing waste to enhance quality.

1.5 Preparing QC plans

• Preparing QC plan: Developing plan to ensure quality standard are met.
• Approval of material source: Verifying supplies and source meet quality criteria.
• Material sampling: Collecting representative samples for testing.
• On-site laboratory testing: Testing material using an on site lab for immediate results.
• Off-site laboratory testing: Sending samples to external labs for in-depth analysis.

1.6 Material Management

• Material management involves planning, storing, distributing and controlling materials used in construction project to ensure efficient usage, minimize waste and meet project goal.

Importance:

• Minimize wastage
• Quality control
• Risk reduction
• Budget control
• Client satisfaction

Purchase management:

• Project of acquiring goods and services needed for a project.
• Ensure timely availability of required material.
• Establish relationship with reliable suppliers.

Inventory management:

• Involves tracking and controlling the stock of materials, components and product to ensure adequate supply while minimizing shortage.
• Prevent shortage.
• Maintain transparency.

Construction garbage:

• Waste generated during construction activities.
• Minimize environment impact through waste management.

Surplus material:

• Excess materials or left over after construction which may not be used for project.

Material management flow chart for mega project

Factors affecting construction site planning:

• Site condition: Terrain, soil type and environmental factors.
• Access: Availability of road and transportation.
• Utilities: Access of water, electricity.
• Safety: Measure of worker safety.
• Cost: Budget influence site design and layout.
• Project scope: Nature and size of construction project.
• Project schedule: Timeline and sequencing activities.

Sample of site layout plan:

Reference:

• Harold Kerzner (2017). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling.
• PMI (2021). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) – 7th Edition.
• Nebosh, Nepal Engineering Council Syllabus (2024). Engineering Professional Practice Notes.
• Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (CESMM).
• Personal Class Notes & Presentations from Nepalese Engineering Institutions.

The post Quality Control and Assurance in Construction appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

• Construction Tools:
  Small hand-held devices used to perform specific tasks (e.g., hammer, trowel, spade).
• Construction Machines:
  Powered devices that perform large-scale tasks efficiently (e.g., excavator, bulldozer).
• Construction Plants:
  Permanent or semi-permanent setups used for production (e.g., concrete batching plant, asphalt plant).
• Construction Equipment:
  A broad term covering both tools and machines used for construction works.
• Purpose:
  To improve work speed, accuracy, and safety in construction projects.
• Benefits:
  Reduces labor effort, increases productivity, and ensures quality.

1.2 Advantage of using construction equipment

• Equipment speed up tasks, saving time and effort.
• Wastage of material is less.
• Reduce manual labor and risk of injuries.
• Delivers high quality results.
• Reduce project duration.
• Large and complex work can be carried easily.
• Reduce labor cost.

1.3 Equipment for excavation, transportation and compaction

Equipment for excavation:

1. Dozer

• Used to move earth and debris.
• Equipment with large front blade for levelling and clearing.

2. Excavator

• Digs, lift and move soil and material.
• Use a bucket attached to a hydraulic arm to do task.

3. Scrappers

• Use to more or removal gravel.

4. Grader

• Loads material like soil, gravel and sand into tracks.
• Equipment with a front bucket for efficient loading.

5. Dragline

• Heavy duty excavator used in deep excavation.
• Utilizes a dragline for digging and hauling.

Equipment for Transportation:

1. Trucks

• Used for transporting construction material.
• Haul material and goods on road.

2. Mini Dumper

• Small vehicle for carrying loads on construction site.
• Suitable for moving materials in confined space.

3. Rail wagons

• Transport goods and material on railway track.
• Efficient for bulk movement over longer distance.

4. Belt conveyor

• Moves material continuously on a belt.
• Used for transporting material within a facility.

5. Ropeway

• Aerial transportation system using cable.
• Transport material across challenging terrain.

Equipment for Compaction:

1. Smooth wheel roller

• Make surface smooth and solid.
• Good for road pavement.

2. Sheep footed roller

• Stamp soil with feet for compactness.
• Works on sticky soil.

3. Vibrating roller

• Shakes to press soil and asphalt.
• Best for sand and asphalt.

4. Pneumatic tired roller

• Compressor with rubber tyre.
• Great for different soil.

5. Rammer

• Hand tool for pressing soil in small areas.
• Useful in tight space.

1.4 Aggregate handling equipment

1. Crushing plants

• A facility that breaks down large rocks into smaller sizes.
• Involves various machine like jaw crusher, cone crusher and impact crusher.

2. Screening plants

• Used to separate different sized material.
• Includes revolving screens and vibrating screens.

1.5 Concrete batching, mixing and compacting equipment

Equipment for concrete batching:

• Manual
• Semi-automatic
• Fully-automatic

Equipment for concrete mixing:

• Tilting type mixer: Suitable for small to medium batches.
• Pan mixer: Suitable for small batches.
• Non-tilting type mixer: Used in large batches.
• Transit mixer: Vehicle transport ready-mixed concrete.

Equipment for concrete compaction:

• Internal vibrator: Remove air bubbles from wet concrete.
• Plate vibrator: Compress soil and concrete.
• Vibrating screen: Separates aggregate in concrete.
• Form vibrator: Ensure even concrete distribution in formwork.
• Concrete roller: Compacts and finish concrete surface.

1.6 Pile foundation construction equipment

• Pile driver: Drives pile into the ground using impact or vibration.
• Drilling rigs: Creates boreholes.
• Auger: Removes soil during drilling for piles.
• Pile extractor: Remove piles from ground.
• Pile load tester: Tests load bearing capacity of piles.

1.7 Equipment for construction of caisson foundation

• Caisson rig: Drilling equipment used for creating caissons.
• Caisson grab: Used to remove soil.
• Caisson pump: Transfer concrete in caisson holes.
• Dewatering pump: Removes water.
• Caisson vibration: Ensure proper compaction.

1.8 Criteria for selection of equipment

• Purpose
• Capacity
• Efficiency
• Cost
• Availability
• Safety
• Operator skill
• Environmental impact
• Maintenance
• Compatibility

1.9 Equipment for lifting of materials and parts

• Crane: Lifts heavy materials and equipment.
• Hoist: Loads vertically using a pulley system.
• Forklift: Lift and moves material on pallets.
• Aerial lift: Lift workers and material up.
• Chain-block: Hand-operated device for lifting heavy load.

2.0 Tunneling Equipment

1. Tunnel boring machine (TBM): Excavates tunnel by drilling and removing soil.

2. Rock drills: Break through hard rock.

3. Ventilation system: Provides fresh air.

2.1 Equipment for hydraulic construction

• Excavator: Dig trench and channel.
• Dredger: Removes sediment.
• Hydraulic hammer: Breaks rock and concrete.
• Water pump: Manage water levels.
• Hydraulic crane: Lifts heavy material.

2.2 Equipment for highway pavement construction

• Paver: Spread asphalt and concrete.
• Roller: Compacts layer.
• Grader: Level the road bed.
• Asphalt distributor: Spray asphalt evenly.
• Road sweeper: Clean debris from road.

Reference:

• Harold Kerzner (2017). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling.
• PMI (2021). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) – 7th Edition.
• Nebosh, Nepal Engineering Council Syllabus (2024). Engineering Professional Practice Notes.
• Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (CESMM).
• Personal Class Notes & Presentations from Nepalese Engineering Institutions.

The post Construction Plant and Equipment in Engineering appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

• Refers to approach or strategy used to carry out tasks and activities in project.
• Method of work execution depends on project nature, resource and objective.

1. Sealed Bidding:

a. International competitive bidding (ICB): Global suppliers compete

b. National/Local competitive bidding (NCB/LCB): Local supplies compete.

2. Sealed Quotation: Supplies provide price for project goods or service.

3. Direct Procurement: Purchasing from a single supplier without competition.

4. Procurement under special circumstances: Non-competitive method for emergencies.

5. Force Account: Project owner’s team perform tasks.

6. Beneficiaries community: Local community involvement in project execution.

1.2 Contract-definition

• Contract is a formal agreement between parties that outlines obligation and rights.

Importance:

• Establish a shared understanding of what is expected from each party.
• Protect interest and right of all parties involved.
• Ensure financial security and business confidence.
• Minimize dispute.
• Provide legal protection.

1.3 Types of construction contract

1. Unit price contract:

• Contractor is paid based on quantities of work at predetermined unit price.

Advantages:

• Flexible for varying work amount.
• Easy to measure work progress.

Disadvantages:

• Final Cost uncertainties.
• Potential for disputes over quantities.

2. Lump sum contract:

• Contractor agrees to a fixed sum for completing the entire project.

Advantages:

• Clear cost and scope.
• Low owner risk.

Disadvantages:

• Limited flexibility for changes.
• Potential dispute over scope changes.

3. Cost plus contract:

• Contractor is paid for actual cost plus a free.

Advantages:

• Transparency in costs.
• Flexible for changes.

Disadvantages:

• Uncertain in final cost.
• Potential for higher expenses.

4. Design and Build Contract:

• Contractor handles both design and construction responsibilities.

Advantages:

• Faster delivery.
• Streamlined process.

Disadvantages:

• Limited owner design control.
• Potential conflict.

5. EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction) contract:

• Contractor handles engineering, procurement and construction.

Advantages:

• Single responsibility.
• Suitable for complex projects.

Disadvantage:

• Higher cost.
• Potential for dispute.

6. BOOT (Build Own Operate Transfer) contract:

• Contractor builds, operate and transfer ownership after a specified period.

Advantages:

• Private financing and operation.
• Risk transferred to contractor.

Disadvantages:

• Limited control for owner.
• Higher cost to end user.

1.4 Tender and tender documents

Tender:

• It is an offer or proposal submitted by a contractor or supplier in response to an invitation to bid for a project.
• Contractor or suppliers compete by providing their best price and terms to win the project contract.

Tender document: (Bidding document)

• It is the detailed instruction and information provided to potential contractors for submitting tenders.
• It includes:
  • Notice of invitation for bids
  • Letter for invitation for bids
  • Project description
  • Instruction to bidders
  • Bid submission requirement
  • Technical specification
  • Contract terms

1.5 Tender notice

• Public announcement issued by an organization or government agency to invite potential contractor suppliers to submit their bids or proposal for a specific project or service.
• Information in Tender notice:
  • Date, time and place of tender
  • Name of authorities inviting tender
  • Nature of work and its location
  • Tender deadline
  • Eligibility criteria
  • Contact details
  • Bid submission information

1.6 Preparation before inviting tender

• Project preparation: Define project need and requirement.
• Estimating quantities: Calculate required materials and resource.
• Cost estimate: Determine the projects overall cost.
• Approval of estimate: Get approval for the cost calculation.
• Resource planning: Plan and allocate necessary resource.
• Tender document preparation: Create detailed tender document with project information.

1.7 Consultant’s/Contractor’s prequalification

• Prequalification is a selection process where potential consultants or contractor are evaluated based on their qualification, experience and financial capacity before being invited to bid for a project.

Matters to be stated in prequalification documents:

• Company information: Name, address, contact and legal status of the consultant/contractor.
  • Experience and track record: Details of past project and relevant work completed.
  • Financial statement: Proof of financial stability and capacity to handle the project.
  • Technical capacities: Description of expertise and available resource.
  • Reference: Client feedback to verify past performance and reputation.

Advantages:

• Ensures qualified and experienced candidate.
• Saves time in evaluating irrelevant proposals.

Disadvantages:

• Reduce competition.
• Increases administrative workload.

1.8 Bid evaluation and selection of a consultant and contractor

Bid Evaluation:

• Process of selecting most suitable and qualified bidder for project based on predefined evaluation criteria.

Steps of Bid Evaluation:

• Opening of Bid: Publicly reveal and record submitted bids.
• Preliminary Examination: Review bids for clear information and meeting basic requirement.
• Prequalification Check: Verify bidder’s qualification and eligibility.
• Detail Evaluation: Evaluate technical and financial aspect of bids using predefined criteria.

1.9 Contract agreement

A written document that explains the terms and condition of an agreement between parties.

2.0 Condition of contract (PPMO and FIDIC)

• The terms and provision that governs the right, obligations and responsibilities of parties in a contractual agreement is called condition of contract.

PPMO (Public Procurement Management Office):

• PPMO is the governing body in Nepal responsible for managing public procurement and setting the contract for government project.
• Aims for transparency, efficiency and fairness in government projects.

FIDIC (International Federation of Consulting Engineers):

• FIDIC is an international organization that sets standard condition of contract for construction and engineering projects worldwide.
• Focuses on fair risk allocation and transparency.

2.1 Public Procurement Act and Public Procurement Regulation

Public Procurement Act (PPA):

• It is a legal framework that governs the procurement process for public projects and services.

Objective:

• To ensure transparency, fairness in public procurement.
• To promote completion among bidders.

Feature:

• Provide rules and guideline for public procurement.
• Defines procurement method.

Public Procurement Regulation (PPR):

• It provides detailed guideline and procedure to implement the public procurement act.

Objective:

• To standardized application of procurement practice.

Feature:

• Specifies procurement procedure.
• Bid evaluation.
• Contract management.

2.2 Duties and responsibilities of a site supervisor

Site Engineer:

• A professional engineer responsible for managing and supervising construction activities on site.
• Ensures that the project is executed accordingly to design, quality standard and safety regulation.

Responsibilities of a site supervisor:

1. Quality concerns

• Ensure construction work meets specified quality standards.
• Conduct inspection and check quality and fix any issues.
• Maintain accurate records of quality control measures and improvement.

2. Progress concerns

• Monitor and track daily progress of construction activities on site.
• Report progress to project manager.

3. Cost concerns

• Manage and optimize the use of materials and resource to control costs.
• Keep track of expenses and budget to avoid over spending.

2.3 Supervising work of a contractor

Works followed for supervision of works of a contractor:

1. Progress of work:

• Regular monitoring and supervision.
• Checking schedule periodically.

2. Testing:

• Works, material & equipment.
• Testing as per specification and contract.

3. Regular supervision of works:

• Field supervision.
• Environmental protection, safety of workers.

2.4 Site order book

• A record-keeping book used on construction sites to document various instruction, orders and changes issued by the site supervisor or engineer.
• Helps communicate and track on site decisions to contractor and workers.

2.5 Procedure to prepare bill

• Bills are the claims for payment of work performed.

Steps to make bill for payment in construction project management:

• Keep a record of completed work and resource used.
• Measure the quantities of material and labor.
• Find the cost for each unit of resource used (Rate analysis).
• Calculate individual costs by multiplying quantities with rates.
• Add up all costs for different components (add subtotal).
• Includes additional expenses like taxes or overhead.
• Apply any applicable discounts or taxes.
• Show final bill to client for payment.

2.6 Difference between Running Bill and Final Bill

2.7 Muster roll, Measurement books

Muster Roll:

• Used for keeping a complete record of attendance, payment made, unpaid wages and work done by daily labor.
• It has three parts:

Part I: Detailed information of labor engaged, attendance, rate

Part II: Record of unpaid wages.

Part III: Record of completed works.

Measurement Books:

• Used on construction sites to document the measurement of completed work and resource used.
• Feature:
  • Contains details of work and date.
  • All measurement is recorded in ink.
  • Quantity of work done is recorded.

2.8 Progress reporting

• Regular updates on the status of project tasks.
• Includes completed tasks, milestone reached and challenged encountered.
• Gives information for making adjustment and strategic decision.

Reference:

• Harold Kerzner (2017). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling.
• PMI (2021). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) – 7th Edition.
• Nebosh, Nepal Engineering Council Syllabus (2024). Engineering Professional Practice Notes.
• Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (CESMM).
• Personal Class Notes & Presentations from Nepalese Engineering Institutions.

The post Contract Administration in Construction: Methods, Contracts, Tendering, PPMO, FIDIC, and Site Supervision appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.

1.2 Characteristics of project and program

• Temporary: Project have a clear beginning and end.
• Unique: Each project is different and has specific goals.
• Defined scope: Project have clear boundaries and objective.
• Resources: Project requires people, material and tools.
• Goal oriented: Project aim to achieve specific outcomes.
• Cross-functional: Involves people from different area.
• Stakeholder: Involve people with an interest in project.
• Integration: Different task are coordinated together.
• Constraints: Project are limited by time, cost and quality.
• Uncertainty: Project may face risk and unknowns.

1.3 Project life cycle

1. Conceptualization/Formulation phase

• Ideas are brainstormed and evaluated to decide if the project is worth pursuing.
• Rough plans are sketch out to see if the project is feasible.
• Project objective, scope and initial plan are developed.

2. Design and development/Planning phase

• Detailed project plan is created.
• Tasks, timeline and resource are defined.
• Risk analysis and mitigation strategies are developed.
• Project team is assembled and roles are assigned.

3. Execution/Implementation phase

• Actual work on the project begins.
• Project team carries out the planned tasks and activities.
• Project progress is monitored and adjustment are made if needed.

4. Finish/Terminating phase

• Closing phase of project.
• Project is formally closed and resources are released.
• Lessons learned are documented for future improvements.

1.4 Introduction to planning, monitoring and control

• Project planning: Process of defining project goals, creating a detailed roadmap.
• Monitoring: Involves continuously tracking the progress of task and activities.
• Control: Corrective action to keep the project on track.

1.5 Introduction to project planning tools

1. Gantt chart (Bar Chart)

• It is a visual tool that shows the timeline of a projects tasks and activities.
• Use horizontal bars to represent each task and their start and end dates.
• Helps in scheduling, organizing and tracking project progress easily.

Use of Gantt chart for project planning and monitoring:

• Task scheduling: Helps to create a timeline of task.
• Dependencies: Shows which task need others to be done first (predecessor task).
• Resource management: Helps to allocate resource effectively.
• Critical path: Identifies the most critical tasks that could delay whole project.
• Track progress: Helps monitor task completion and overall progress.

Resource planning and leveling by using Gantt chart:

• Resource allocation: Helps to assign task to people and equipment.
• Avoid overloading: Prevent giving too much work to one person.
• Available resource: Show when resource is free to new tasks.
• Balancing workload: Distribute work evenly among team member.
• Resolve conflict: Resolves resource conflict between tasks.

2. Critical path method (CPM)

• Project planning tool used to identify the sequence of tasks that determines project overall duration.

Use of CPM network for project planning and monitoring:

• Identifying critical tasks: Helps to identify critical tasks that directly impacts project duration.
• Efficient schedule: Helps create an optimized and realistic project timeline.
• Early warning: Warns potential delay, allowing timely action.
• Progress tracking: Monitors task completion to keep the project on track.
• Project control: Helps manage and control the project progress effectively.

3. Milestone chart

• It highlights key project events or goals as milestones.
• Visual way to track progress.

4. Linked Bar chart

• Display task as bars linked sequence.
• Shows task duration and dependencies.

5. Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT)

• Uses network diagram to represent task and their interdependencies.
• Helps to identify risk in project.

6. Line of Balance

• Used in projects with repetitive task such as construction.
• Helps to plan and manage work by balancing resources.

1.6 Earned value analysis (EVA)

• EVA measures amount of work in terms of cost and time.
• Helps to predict future project performance based on current trends.
• Shows project performance insight.

1. BCWS (Budgeted cost of work scheduled)

• Planned cost for work scheduled to be completed.
• Shows budgeted value for work.

2. ACWP (Actual cost of work performed)

• Actual cost incurred in completing work to a specific date.
• Shows actual expenses spent on complete work.

3. BCWP (Budgeted cost of work performed)

• Value of the completed work as per the budget.
• Shows planned cost of work that has been successfully finished.

1.7 Time-cost trade off

It is project management strategy where we decide between completing a project faster or saving cost by extending its duration.

1.8 Introduction to cost-control and technique audit

Cost control:

• Process of managing and regulating project expenses.
• Main objective is to ensure project stays within budget and avoid spending.
• Methods involves:

a. Budget monitoring: Track expenses.

b. Variance analysis: Compare actual cost to planned cost.

Technical auditing:

• Examination of project activities and outcomes to ensure they meet quality and technical standard.
• Helps identify issue and improve project.

Reference:

• Harold Kerzner (2017). Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling, and Controlling.
• PMI (2021). A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) – 7th Edition.
• Nebosh, Nepal Engineering Council Syllabus (2024). Engineering Professional Practice Notes.
• Civil Engineering Standard Method of Measurement (CESMM).
• Personal Class Notes & Presentations from Nepalese Engineering Institutions.

The post Project and Program Management in Engineering appeared first on OnlineEngineeringNotes.