COURSE TITLE: ADVANCED BUILDING CONSTRUCTION (ARC 313)
LEVEL: HND 1
COURSE LECTURER: ARC. OJELABI E. T.
Lecture 1: Construction Site Layout Planning
The first step on any construction site is not hammering nails or pouring concrete – it is
planning the layout. A well-organized layout is crucial for a smooth-running project. Just like
arranging the furniture in your room, a construction site layout establishes designated areas for
different activities and equipment. Below are the key factors to consider when planning a
construction site layout:
1. Site Access and Security:
A busy construction site with delivery trucks arriving and workers coming and going. Without
designated entry and exit points, there could be confusion and even accidents. Security fencing
ensures your building materials are not disappearing overnight.
Entry and Exit Points: Clearly designated entry and exit points for vehicles and pedestrians are
essential for safety and traffic flow.
Security Fencing: Securing the site perimeter with fencing helps prevent unauthorized access
and protects materials and equipment.
2. Site Facilities and Utilities:
The construction team needs a place to work, relax, and take care of basic needs. Having
dedicated site offices and welfare facilities keeps them happy and productive. And of course,
utilities like electricity and water are essential for powering tools and keeping the site
functioning.
Site Offices: These temporary structures house the project management team, offering space for
meetings, storage, and paperwork.
Welfare Facilities: Toilets, changing rooms, and rest areas are essential for worker comfort and
hygiene.
Utilities: Electricity, water, and sanitation facilities are needed to power equipment, provide
drinking water, and manage waste.
3. Material Storage and Laydown Areas:
Imagine a mountain of bricks scattered around the site, blocking access to other areas.
Designated laydown areas keep materials organized and readily available for construction
activities. Safe storage of hazardous materials prevents accidents and environmental hazards.
Designated areas: Stockpile areas for building materials like bricks, sand, and steel need to be
strategically placed for easy access by cranes or forklifts.
Safe storage: Flammable materials and hazardous chemicals must be stored in designated and
secure locations according to safety regulations.
4. Equipment Staging and Parking:
Imagine a massive crane parked right in the middle of the site would be a major obstacle.
Strategic placement of cranes and designated parking areas keep things organized and efficient.
Crane placement: Cranes need a stable, level surface with enough clearance for their full range
of motion.
Vehicle parking: Dedicated parking areas for workers' vehicles and delivery trucks prevent
congestion and ensure smooth movement of equipment.
5. Waste Management and Recycling:
Designated bins and skips: Separate bins for different waste types (e.g., wood, concrete, metal)
facilitate recycling and proper disposal.
Waste management plan: A plan for waste collection and transportation helps maintain a clean
and safe work environment.
Lecture 2: Factors Affecting Construction Site Material Layout and On-Site Facilities
Just like organizing your toolbox for easy access to the right tools, a well-thought-out layout for
these elements ensures a smooth workflow and maximizes efficiency on your construction site.
Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Project Requirements and Material Flow:
Materials needed first should be stored closest to the work area. You wouldn't store the finishing
plaster at the back of the site if you're starting with foundation work. Understanding the
construction sequence helps predict the flow of materials and position them accordingly for
easy access when needed.
Material types and quantities: The type and amount of materials used will influence storage
needs. For example, bulky items like steel beams require a different layout than bags of cement.
Construction sequence: The order of construction activities should guide material placement.
2. Site Conditions and Access:
A small, oddly shaped plot requires creative storage solutions. Similarly, soft ground will not
be suitable for a heavy stockpile of bricks. Keeping access routes clear allows for efficient
delivery and movement of materials and equipment around the site.
Site size and shape: The overall size and shape of the site will dictate where you can place
storage facilities and workshops without obstructing work areas.
Ground conditions: The stability of the ground is crucial for supporting heavy storage
containers or equipment.
Access routes: Ensure smooth movement of vehicles and equipment by keeping delivery routes
and walkways clear of stored materials.
3. Safety Considerations:
Safety first! Proper storage of hazardous materials prevents accidents. Likewise, planning for
the weight and size of materials during storage and transportation minimizes risk of injury and
ensures safe handling.
Safe storage: Flammable materials and hazardous chemicals must be stored in designated and
secure locations according to safety regulations.
Lifting and transportation: Consider the weight and size of materials when planning their
storage location. Heavy items may require special lifting equipment or closer proximity to the
work area.
4. Efficiency and Minimizing Waste:
Time is money! Strategic placement of materials reduces the time workers spend fetching them,
improving overall efficiency. Thinking vertically with shelves or stacked storage allows for
more materials to be stored on a smaller footprint.
Minimize travel distances: Store frequently used materials closest to the work area to reduce
worker travel time and effort.
Vertical space utilization: Consider using shelves or stacked storage containers to maximize
vertical space and minimize ground footprint.
5. Environmental Considerations:
Weather protection: Sensitive materials like wood or bagged cement may require covered
storage to protect them from rain or harsh sunlight.
Waste management: Locate waste disposal bins strategically throughout the site to encourage
proper waste disposal and minimize littering.
Lesson 3: Client, Architect, and Contractor Relationship
In the world of construction, a successful project hinges on the strong, collaborative relationship
between three key figures: the client, the architect, and the contractor. Each plays a distinct role.
The client, the dreamer and financier, lays out the vision and budget. The architect, the
translator and guardian of that vision, transforms the client's needs into a functional and
aesthetically pleasing design, ensuring it meets building codes. They also oversee construction
to guarantee the contractor adheres to the plans. Finally, the contractor, the builder and executor,
brings the design to life. They interpret the architect's plans, manage the workforce and
materials, and ensure the project is completed on time, within budget, and safely. A foundation
of trust, clear communication, and mutual respect between these three pillars is essential for a
smooth-running and successful construction project.
Architect’s Collaboration with other Professionals
The architect doesn't work alone! Several other professionals play important roles on a
construction site, and the architect acts as the conductor, ensuring everyone works together
harmoniously. Here are some key collaborations:
Structural Engineer: The structural engineer works with the architect to ensure the building
design is structurally sound and can safely support its own weight and any planned loads.
Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Engineers: MEP engineers design the building's
mechanical (heating, ventilation, air conditioning), electrical, and plumbing systems. They
collaborate with the architect to ensure these systems are integrated seamlessly into the overall
design.
Quantity Surveyor: The quantity surveyor helps estimate the project's cost by analyzing the
architect's plans and specifications. This information is crucial for the client and contractor
when budgeting and planning the project.
Interior Designer (optional): An interior designer may be involved, particularly for commercial
or residential projects, to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing interior space.
Lecture 4: Duties and Roles of a Resident/Site Architect
The Resident Architect acts as the architect's representative on the construction site, playing a
vital role in ensuring the project is built according to the design intent. She/He bridges the gap,
overseeing the day-to-day activities on-site and ensuring the design translates into reality.
So, what exactly does a Resident Architect (RA) do:
1. Review and Interpret Drawings and Specifications: The RA thoroughly reviews the
architect's construction drawings and specifications. They act as an interpreter, ensuring site
workers understand the design intent and construction requirements.
2. Site Inspections and Quality Control: The RA conducts regular site inspections to monitor
the quality of construction work. They compare the progress to the plans and specifications,
identifying any deviations that could affect the project's outcome.
3. Communication and Coordination: The RA acts as a communication hub, liaising between
the architect, contractor, subcontractors, and client. They keep everyone informed of
progress, address any concerns, and ensure all parties are working collaboratively.
4. Processing Variations and Changes: During construction, unforeseen circumstances may
necessitate changes to the original design. The RA reviews and processes these "variations"
(changes) and obtains the necessary approvals from the architect and client before they are
implemented.
5. Preparing Site Documentation: The RA maintains detailed records of the construction
process. This includes site meeting minutes, inspection reports, and documentation of any
variations or changes made.
6. Ensuring Health and Safety: The RA plays a role in promoting a safe working environment
on the construction site. They may collaborate with safety officers to identify potential
hazards and ensure workers adhere to safety regulations.
Lecture 5: Heavy Lifting on Construction Site while Minimizing Injury/Accident Risks
In construction, lifting heavy objects is a common task, but improper lifting techniques can lead
to serious injuries. Below is a guide to safe lifting procedures:
1. Before You Lift:
Plan the Lift: Assess the weight, size, and shape of the object. Is it too heavy for one person?
Do you need lifting equipment?
Inspect the Load: Look for damage, loose parts, or sharp edges that could cause injury.
Clear the Path: Ensure a clear path for lifting and lowering the object, free from obstacles.
Wear Proper Gear: Use sturdy footwear with good grip and gloves for improved handling.
2. While Lifting:
Bend Your Knees: Squat down close to the object. Don't bend at the waist! Keep your back
straight and core engaged.
Get a Firm Grip: Use a full hand grip on the object, close to your body.
Lift with Your Legs: Straighten your legs to lift the object, using your leg muscles for power.
Keep the Load Close: Hold the object close to your body throughout the lift to maintain
control.
Don't Twist: Avoid twisting your body while lifting. Turn your whole body if necessary.
Ask for Help: If the object is too heavy or awkward, don't be a hero! Get help from a coworker
or use mechanical lifting equipment.
Things to note:
● Plan ahead and assess the weight.
● Use proper lifting posture (knees bent, back straight).
● Lift with your legs, keep the load close, and avoid twisting.
● Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Lecture 6: Factors Influencing Earthmoving Equipment Selection
1. Project Requirements:
a. Type of Site Work: Are you digging trenches, foundations, or large excavations? Different
equipment is suited for various tasks (e.g., trenchers for narrow ditches, excavators for
multi-purpose digging).
b. Material to be Moved: The type of material (soil, rock, sand) influences the equipment
needed. For example, tougher materials may require stronger equipment like bulldozers.
c. Depth and Volume: The depth and volume of earth to be moved determine the equipment's
capacity. Large-scale projects might require high-capacity excavators or dump trucks.
2. Site Conditions:
a. Space Constraints: Is your site spacious or tight? Large excavators might not be suitable for
confined spaces, while skid steers offer better maneuverability.
b. Ground Conditions: Uneven terrain, soft ground, or slopes may require specific equipment
like tracked excavators for better stability.
c. Environmental Considerations: Minimize environmental impact! Choose fuel-efficient
equipment or consider electric alternatives for urban projects with stricter emission
regulations.
3. Project Logistics and Efficiency:
a. Hauling Distances: The distance between excavation and dumping points affects equipment
selection. For longer distances, articulated dump trucks might be more efficient than
traditional dump trucks.
b. Production Rate: How quickly does the earth need to be moved? High-production
equipment like scraper loaders might be necessary for tight deadlines.
c. Cost Considerations: Equipment rental or purchase costs should be factored in. Balancing
cost with project needs is key.
Lesson 7: Earthmoving Equipments
In construction, earthmoving equipment plays a vital role in site preparation, excavation, and
material transportation. Understanding the operation of these machines is essential for anyone
involved in construction projects.
1. Excavator:
Function: The excavator is a versatile workhorse capable of digging, trenching, lifting, and
loading.
Operation: A rotating platform houses a boom, arm, and bucket. The operator sits in a cab and
controls the machine's movements using joysticks and levers. Hydraulics power the arm and
bucket movements for precise digging and lifting.
Fig 1: Escavator
2. Bulldozer:
Function: The bulldozer is a powerful machine used for pushing large amounts of soil and
debris.
Operation: A wide, horizontal blade at the front is used to push and level earth. The operator sits
in a cab and steers the machine, controlling the blade's height and angle with levers. Bulldozers
can be wheeled or tracked, with tracked options offering better traction on uneven terrain.
Fig 2: Bulldozer
3. Loader:
Function: The loader scoops, lifts, and loads loose materials like dirt, gravel, and sand.
Operation: A bucket at the front of the machine is raised and lowered using hydraulics. The
operator sits in a cab and controls the bucket's movement with levers. Loaders can be wheeled
or tracked, with some offering articulated steering for tight spaces.
Fig 3: Loader
4. Dump Truck:
Function: The dump truck transports excavated materials from the digging site to disposal or
use areas.
Operation: A hydraulic bed raises and lowers at the back, allowing for loading and unloading of
materials. The driver sits in a cab and steers the truck, operating the bed with controls. Dump
trucks come in various sizes, with larger capacities suited for hauling substantial amounts of
earth.
Fig 4: Dump Truck
5. Grader:
Function: The grader levels, shapes, and slopes surfaces.
Operation: A long blade mounted under the machine can be adjusted to different angles. The
operator sits in a cab and steers the grader, controlling the blade's height and angle with levers.
Graders are essential for preparing base layers for roads and other paved surfaces.
Fig 5: Grader
