Bangladesh National Building Code 2012 Part 07 – Construction Practices and Safety

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TABLE OF CONTENTS PART 7 CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES AND SAFETY Chapter 1 CONSTRUCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND PRACTICES

1.1 INTRODUCTION 7-1

1.2 SCOPE 7-1

1.3 TERMINOLOGY 7-1

1.4 PLANNING 7-2

1.4.1 Responsibilities 7-3

1.4.2 First Aid Attendant 7-3

1.4.3 Temporary Construction 7-3

1.4.4 Preconstruction Phase 7-3

1.4.5 Construction Phase 7-4

1.5 CONSTRUCTION CONTROL 7-5

1.5.1 General 7-5

1.5.2 Professional Services and Responsibilities 7-5

1.5.3 Construction of all Elements 7-5

1.5.4 Construction Using Bamboo 7-5

1.5.5 Low Income Housing 7-6

1.5.6 Site Preparation 7-6

1.5.7 Use of New /Alternative Construction Techniques 7-6

1.5.8 Permits 7-6

1.5.9 Tests and Inspections 7-7

1.6 CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT 7-7

1.6.1 Time Management 7-7

1.6.2 Quality Management 7-7

1.6.3 Health, Safety and Environment 7-7

1.6.4 Cost Management 7-7

1.7 PROTECTION OF PUBLIC AND WORKERS 7-8

1.7.1 General 7-8

1.7.2 Adjoining Property 7-8

1.7.3 Protective Fences and Railings 7-8

1.7.4 Canopies, Overhangs and Platforms 7-9

1.7.5 Protection of Utilities 7-9

1.7.6 Use of Road and Footpath 7-9

1.7.7 Protective Devices 7-10

1.7.8 Notices and Signs 7-10

1.7.9 Watchman and Auditory Signal 7-10

1.7.10 Safe Load 7-10

1.8 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION 7-10

1.8.1 Protection of Existing Drainage Systems and Utilities 7-10

1.8.2 Protection of Soil, Aquifers, and Water Channels against Pollution 7-11

1.8.3 Protection of Air Quality from Obnoxious Emissions 7-11

1.8.4 Protection from Sound Pollution 7-11

bsrm.pranoyTypewritten TextPERSONAL COLLECTION OFENGR. PRANOY BARUABANGLADESH STEEL RE-ROLLING MILLS [email protected]

Part 7 CONSTRUCTION PRACTICES AND SAFETY

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1.8.5 Site Reinstatement 7-12

Chapter 2 STORAGE, STACKING AND HANDLING PRACTICES

2.1 GENERAL PRACTICES 7-13

2.1.1 General Requirements and Restrictions on Storage and Handling: 7-13

2.1.2 Manual Handling 7-13

2.1.3 Protection against Fire 7-13

2.1.4 Housekeeping 7-14

2.2 STORAGE REQUIREMENT BY CLASSIFICATION OF MATERIALS 7-14

2.2.1 Climatically Sensitive Materials 7-14

2.2.2 Durable Materials 7-16

2.2.3 Materials Vulnerable to Rough Handling 7-18

2.2.4 Inflammable and/or Fire-Sensitive Materials 7-21

2.2.5 Hazardous Materials 7-22

2.3 MISCELLANEOUS 7-25

2.4 SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS 7-25

2.5 LOADING AND UNLOADING OF MATERIALS 7-26

Chapter 3 SAFETY DURING CONSTRUCTION

3.1 GENERAL 7-27

3.1.1 Scope 7-27

3.1.2 Safety Management 7-27

3.2 TERMINOLOGY 7-27

3.2.1 Safety of Workmen 7-28

3.2.2 Site Precautions 7-28

3.2.3 Site Amenities 7-28

3.3 EXCAVATION AND FOUNDATION WORK 7-28

3.3.1 General 7-28

3.3.2 Excavating Machinery and Tools 7-29

3.3.3 Excavated Materials and Surcharges 7-29

3.3.4 Ground Water 7-29

3.3.5 Ground Condition 7-29

3.3.6 Overhang, Slopes and Cavities 7-30

3.3.7 Blasting and Vibration 7-30 3.3.8 Health Hazards during Excavation 7-30

3.3.9 Safety of Materials 7-30

3.3.10 Piling and Deep Foundation 7-31

3.3.11 Working in Compressed Air 7-31

3.3.12 Adjoining Properties and Service Lines 7-32

3.4 PILE RIG 7-32

3.4.1 Erection of Pile Rig 7-32

3.4.2 Operation of Pile Rig 7-32

3.4.3 Piles 7-33

3.4.4 Inspection and Tests 7-33

3.5 CONSTRUCTION OF WALLS 7-33

3.5.1 General 7-33

3.5.2 Scaffold 7-33


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3.5.3 Ladders 7-34

3.5.4 Opening in Walls 7-34

3.5.5 Projection from Walls 7-34

3.5.6 Common Hazards During Walling 7-35

3.6 CONSTRUCTION OF FLOORS 7-35

3.6.1 General 7-35

3.6.2 Use of Sheets 7-35

3.6.3 Platforms 7-36

3.6.4 Flat Roof 7-36

3.6.5 Openings and Holes 7-36

3.6.6 Skeleton Construction 7-36

3.7 CONCRETE WORK 7-36

3.7.1 General 7-36

3.7.2 Prestressed Concrete 7-36

3.7.3 Concrete Mixers 7-37

3.7.4 Concrete Truck and Buckets 7-37

3.8 FORMWORK AND SCAFFOLD 7-37

3.8.1 Scaffold and Centering Materials 7-37

3.8.2 Formwork for Concrete 7-38

3.8.3 Load Capacity 7-38

3.8.4 Bamboos 7-38

3.8.5 Timber Posts 7-39

3.8.6 Steel Centering 7-39

3.9 ERECTION OPERATIONS 7-39

3.9.1 Erection and Hoisting 7-39

3.9.2 Small Articles 7-40

3.9.3 Hoist Protection 7-40

3.9.4 Lifting Gear 7-40

3.9.5 Cranes 7-41

3.9.6 Slings 7-41

3.9.7 Inspection 7-41 3.10 ELECTRIFICATION, EQUIPMENT AND OPERATIONS 7-42

3.10.1 Wiring System 7-42

3.10.2 Guarding of Cables 7-42

3.10.3 Lifts 7-42

3.10.4 Construction Machinery 7-42

3.10.5 Heating of Bitumen and Tar 7-42

3.10.6 Flame Cutting and Welding 7-43

3.10.7 Riveting Operation 7-44

3.11 CONSTRUCTION HAZARDS 7-44

3.11.1 General 7-44

3.11.2 Fire Hazards 7-44

3.11.3 Health Hazards 7-46

3.11.4 Skin Hazard 7-46

3.11.5 Noise Hazard 7-46

3.12 ADDITIONAL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR ERECTION OF CONCRETE FRAMED 7-47


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STRUCTURES (HIGH RISE BUILDINGS)

3.12.1 Handling of Plant 7-47

3.12.2 Formwork 7-47

3.12.3 Ramps and Gangways 7-48

3.12.4 Materials Hoists 7-48

3.12.5 Prestressed Concrete 7-49

3.12.6 Erection of Prefabricated Members 7-50

3.12.7 Heated Concrete 7-50

3.12.8 Structural Connections 7-50

3.13 MISCELLANEOUS 7-50

3.13.1 Stair , Ramp and Gangway 7-50

3.13.2 Fragile Fixture 7-51

3.13.3 Hand Tools 7-51

3.13.4 Steel Structure 7-51

3.13.5 Finish Works 7-52

Chapter 4 DEMOLITION WORK

4.1 PRELIMINARY PROCEDURE 7-53

4.1.1 General 7-53

4.1.2 Planning 7-53

4.1.3 Protection of Adjoining Property 7-53

4.1.4 Precautions prior to Demolition 7-53

4.1.5 Protection of Public 7-54

4.1.6 Sidewalk Shed and Canopies 7-54

4.2 PRECAUTIONS DURING DEMOLOTION 7-54

4.2.1 General 7-54

4.2.2 Sequence of Demolition Operation 7-54

4.2.3 Wall 7-55

4.2.4 Floor 7-56

4.2.5 Special Elements 7-56

4.2.6 Mechanical Demolition 7-58

4.2.7 Miscellaneous 7-58

4.3 BLASTING OPERATION AND USE OF EXPLOSIVES 7-58

4.3.1 General 7-58

4.3.2 Code of Signal 7-58

4.3.3 Supervision and Responsibility 7-58

4.3.4 Protection of site Personnel and Installations 7-59

4.3.5 Safety of Third Parties 7-59

4.3.6 Use of Explosives 7-59

4.3.7 Blasting Accessories 7-60

4.4 LOWERING, REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL OF MATERIALS 7-60

4.4.1 General 7-60

4.4.2 Use of Chutes 7-60

4.4.3 Removal of Debris 7-61

4.4.4 Disposal of Materials 7-61

4.4.5 Regularization of Plots 7-61


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Chapter 5 MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT, REPAIRS, RETROFITTING AND STRENGTHENING OF BUILDINGS

5.1 MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT 7-63

5.2 TERMINOLOGY 7-63

5.3 BUILDING MAINTENANCE 7-63

5.3.1 General 7-63

5.3.2 Factors Affecting Maintenance 7-64

5.3.3 Maintenance Policy 7-64

5.3.4 Maintenance Work Programmes 7-65

5.3.5 Maintenance Guides 7-65

5.3.6 Planning of Maintenance Work 7-65

5.3.7 Feed Back 7-65

5.3.8 Means of Effecting Maintenance 7-66

5.4 ACCESS 7-66

5.4.1 General 7-66

5.4.2 Access Facilities 7-66

5.4.3 Access to Confined Spaces 7-66

5.5 RECORDS 7-67

5.5.1 General 7-67 5.5.2 Use of Building Records 7-67

5.5.3 Mechanical Records 7-68

5.5.4 Electrical Records 7-68

5.6 INSPECTIONS 7-69

5.6.1 General 7-69

5.6.2 Frequency of Inspection 7-69

5.6.3 Inspection of Engineering Services 7-69

5.7 MAINTENANCE OF ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES 7-70

5.7.1 Planning of Maintenance Work 7-70

5.8 OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE MANUALS 7-71

5.9 PREVENTION OF CRACKS 7-71

5.10 REPAIRS AND SEISMIC STRENGTHENING OF BUILDINGS 7-71

5.10.1 Non-structural/Architectural Repairs 7-71

5.10.2 Structural Repairs 7-72

5.10.3 Seismic Strengthening 7-72

5.10.4 Seismic Retrofitting 7-73

5.10.5 Strengthening or Retrofitting Versus Reconstruction 7-73

5.11 MAINTENANCE MANUAL 7-73

Part 7 Construction Practices and Safety 7-1

Chapter 1 CONSTRUCTIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES AND PRACTICES 1.1 INTRODUCTION

This part of the Code provides the minimum requirements for safe constructional operations, constructional planning, management and practices in buildings; as well as for storage, stacking and handling of materials and resources used in buildings. It describes precautionary measures to be adopted to ensure the safety of public, environment & infrastructure, property, workmen, materials, services, plant and equipment. It also covers guidelines relating to maintenance management, repairs, retrofitting and strengthening of buildings.

1.2 SCOPE

The regulations stated in this part cover the constructional responsibilities and practices in building sites; safe storing, stacking and handling of materials, equipments and other resources; and safety of personnel during construction operations. The provisions of this part shall apply to all construction operations viz. erection, alteration, repair, removal or demolition of buildings and structures.

Nothing herein contained shall be construed to nullify any rules, regulations, safety standards or those contained in the various act of the Government of Bangladesh, statutes governing the protection of the public or workers from any hazard involved in manufacturing, mining and other processes and operations which generate toxic gases, dust or other elements dangerous to the respiratory system, eye sight or health.

1.3 TERMINOLOGY

This section provides an alphabetical list of the terms used in and applicable to this part of the Code. In case of any conflict or contradiction between a definition given in this section and that in any other part, without prejudice to provisions arising from laws, statutes and recourses provided under such laws, statutes and covenants of GOB and trade bodies. The meaning provided in this part shall govern for interpretation of the provisions of this part. References shall be made to other part of this Code for terms not defined in this section.

AUTHORITY: The Authority which has been created by a statute and which, for the purpose of administering this Code or part thereof, may authorize a committee or an official to act on its behalf. (This definition of Authority shall apply to all appearances of the term in this Code written with a capital A).

EMPLOYER: The Employer is the party named who employs the Consultant and/or Contractor to carry out the Works

CONSULTANT: The Consultant is the organisation/person whose proposal to perform the Services like design, supervision or other technical and/or management services has been accepted by the Owner/Client and has a Contract Agreement to execute the service.

PROFESSIONALS: Professionals means technical personnel and support staff provided by the Consultant or by any Sub-Consultant and assigned for supervising the execution and completion of the Works and administering the Contract

CONTRACTORS: Contractor means the natural person, private or government enterprise, or a combination of the above, whose Tender to carry out the Works has been accepted by the Employer and is named as such in the Contract Agreement, and includes the legal successors or permitted assigns of the Contractor.

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WORKMEN/ LABOURERS: Workmen means any natural person, who has a Contract with the Contractor to carry out a part of the work in the Contract, which includes work on the Site.

AUTHORIZED OFFICER: An officer appointed by the Government by notification in the Official Gazette to exercise in any area the functions of an Authorized Officer.

BLAST AREA: The area in which danger may arise during or prior to demolition including the potential area affected by preparation, handling and use of explosives.

BLASTING: The operation of disintegrating rock, structure etc. by firing an explosive charge.

CARTRIDGE: A wrapped or otherwise protected cylinder of defined size of a homogeneous explosive material.

CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT: All equipment, machineries, tools and temporary retaining structures and working platforms, such as derricks, concrete pump, staging, scaffolds, runways, ladders and all material handling equipment including safety devices.

DETONATOR: An instantaneous or delay initiator for explosive materials and containing a charge of high explosive fired by means of a flame, spark or electric current.

EXPLOSIVE: Any substance, whether or not contained in a device, used or manufactured with a view to producing an effect by explosion.

FLOOR HOLE : An opening in any floor, platform, pavement, or yard, measuring less than 300 mm but more than 25 mm in its least dimension, through which materials but not persons may fall; e.g. a belt hole, pipe opening or slot opening.

FLOOR OPENING : An opening in any floor, platform, pavement or yard bigger than a floor hole measuring 300 mm or more in its least dimension, through which a person may fall; e.g. hatchway, stair or ladder opening, hopper mouth pit or large manhole.

GUARD RAILING: A barrier erected along exposed edges of an open side, floor opening, wall opening, ramp, platform or catwalk or balcony, etc. to prevent the fall of persons.

HOISTS: A platform, bucket or similar enclosure made of steel frames, struts and timber planks used for the lifting or lowering of construction material and workmen, the hoists being operated from a point outside the conveyance.

MAGAZINE: Any building or structure used for the storage of explosives with approval of the Authority.

PILE RIG: The complete pile driving equipment comprising piling frame, leader, hammer, extractor, winch and power unit. Complete pile driving rig may be mounted on rafts or pontoon or rails. Pile rig may also be a mobile unit mounted on trailers or trucks, or a special full revolving rig for raking piles.

PLATFORM: A working space for persons, elevated above the surrounding floor or ground, e.g. balcony or platform for the operation of machinery and equipment.

PRIMER: A cartridge cord or container of explosive into which a detonator or detonating cord is inserted or attached and is designed to initiate a larger charge.

SALVAGE: An act of saving and utilization of reusable scrap materials conforming to the requirements of this Code.

SCAFFOLD: A temporary erection of timber or metal work used to support or to allow the hoisting and lowering of workmen, tools and materials during construction, alteration or demolition of a building

SHOTFIRER: The person in immediate control of the use of explosives.

TOE BOARD: A vertical barrier erected along exposed edge of a floor opening, wall opening, platform, catwalk or ramp at floor level to prevent fall of materials or persons.

WALL HOLE: An opening in any wall or partition having a height of more than 25 mm to less than750 mm and having no restriction in width.

WALL OPENING: An opening in any wall or partition having a height of at least 750 mm and a width of at least 450 mm.

Construction Responsibilities and Practices Chapter 1

Bangladesh National Building Code 2012 7-3

1.4 PLANNING

Construction planning aspects aim to identify and develop various stages of project execution on site which shall be consistent with the management considerations. Planning aspects evolve out of the objectives of project and requirements of the final completed constructed facility. These objectives can relate to the final constraints, cost considerations, quality standards, safety standards as well as both environmental and health considerations. Construction practices shall, then have to satisfy these objectives during construction phase of the project. Having established objectives of the construction phase, planning determines processes, resources (including materials, equipments, human and environmental) and monitoring system to ensure that the practices are appropriately aligned. Adequate knowledge about pre-construction phase evolution of project, especially related to customers requirements, is an essential prerequisite for construction planning.

1.4.1 Responsibilities

In a construction or demolition work, the terms of contract between the owner and the contractor, and between a consultant and the owner, shall be clearly defined and put in writing. These, however, will not absolve the owner from any of his responsibilities under the various provisions of this Code, and other applicable regulations and bye-laws.

The terms of contract between the owner and the contractor will determine the responsibilities and liabilities of either party in the concerned matters, within the provisions of the relevant acts and codes (e.g. the Employer's Liability Act 1938, the Factories Act 1965, the Fatal Accident Act 1955 and Workmen's Compensation Act 1923).

The owner, or the professional appointed by him to supervise the work, shall ensure the quality of materials used, soundness of the work and observance of all precautionary measures.

1.4.2 First Aid Attendant

Depending on the scope and nature of the work, at least one person trained in first aid for every 100 workers shall be available at work site to render and direct first aid to casualties. The first aid attendant shall have a refresher course every five years and certificates renewed.

A telephone shall be made available to first aid assistant with emergency telephone numbers prominently displayed. Record/reports of all accidents and actions taken thereon shall be kept by the first aid attendant and forwarded to appropriate authorities when asked.

1.4.3 Temporary Construction

Plan, layout, design and specification of all temporary constructions, e.g. workers' shed, toilet, site store, site office, runway, trestle, foot bridge, guard shed etc., which are likely to interfere with right-of-way or utility services provided by various agencies, shall be submitted to the respective authorities for approval before commencement of any construction operation.

Temporary structures shall be constructed from inflammable materials, but they shall be so located as not to cause any fire hazard to adjoining structures or works and neighboring properties.

1.4.4 Preconstruction Phase

Besides the design aspects, preconstruction phase should also address all the issues related to the implementation of the design at the site through suitable construction strategy. During the design stage, the site conditions should be fully understood with anticipated difficulties and avoid the risk of subsequent delays and changes after the construction has started.

The selection of construction methods, building systems and materials, components, manpower and equipments and techniques are best done in the preconstruction phase. Such selection is influenced by the local conditions like terrain, climate, vulnerability for disasters, etc.

Construction in busy localities of cities needs special considerations and meticulous planning due to restricted space, adjoining structures, underground utilities, traffic restrictions, noise and other environmental pollution and other specific site constraints,


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The constructability aspects of the proposed construction methods needs to be carefully evaluated at the planning stage to ensure ease of construction besides optimizing the construction schedule and achieving quality, reliability and maintainability of the constructed facilities.

Constructional practices in hilly regions needs to take into considerations the problem of landslides, slope stability, drainage, etc, besides ensuring no adverse impact on the fragile environmental conditions.

Durability of constructions in corrosive atmospheric conditions like coastal regions and aggressive ground situations with high chlorides and sulphates should also be taken care of with appropriate constructional practices.

Constructional practices in disaster prone areas need specific planning. The type of construction, use of materials, construction techniques require special considerations in such areas.

Adverse weather conditions have strong bearing on construction phase. Situations wherein constructions are to be carried out in adverse weather conditions, such as heavy and continuous rain fall, extreme hot or cold weather, dust storms, etc, the practices have to address the relevant aspects. Accordingly, suitable design and field operations should be adapted or redefined in anticipation of these aspects. Some of these aspects are:

a) Site layout which enables accessibility in adverse weather. b) Adequate protected storage for weather sensitive materials/equipments. c) Protections to personnel from extreme hot/control conditions. d) Scheduling to allow maximization of outdoor activities during fair weather conditions. e) Special design and construction provisions for activities in extreme temperature conditions like hot

or cold weather concreting, staple of false work in extreme wind conditions (gusts). f) Adequate lighting for shorter days in winter/night work. g) Design for early enclosure. h) Adjacent historically important structure shall be given highest care against any damage during

construction process.

All sanitary facilities shall be kept in a hygienic condition. Temporary toilets shall be enclosed, screened and weather proofed and shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the relevant part of the Code.

1.4.5 Construction Phase

1.4.5.1 Organizational structure

The site management should be carried out through suitable site organization structure with roles and responsibilities assigned to the construction personnel for various construction related functions. Safety management is one of the important components of site management.

1.4.5.2 Site layout

The layout of the construction site shall be carefully planned keeping in view the various requirements to construction activities and the specific constraints in terms of its size, shape, topography, traffic and other restrictions, in public interest. The site layout shall take into considerations the following factors:

a) Easy access and exit, with proper parking of vehicle and equipments during construction. b) Properly located material stores for easy handling and storage c) Adequate stack areas for bulk construction materials. d) Optimum location of plants and equipments (batching plants, etc). e) Layout of temporary services (water, power, power suppression unit, hoists, cranes, elevators, etc). f) Adequate yard lighting and lighting for night shifts. g) Temporary buildings; site office and shelter for workforce with use of non-combustible materials as

far as possible including emergency medical aids

h) Roads for vehicular movement with effective drainage plan. i) Construction safety with emergency access and evacuations and security measures. j) Fabrication yards for reinforcement assembly, concrete casting and shattering materials. k) Fencing, barricades and signage.



1.4.5.3 Access for firefighting equipment vehicles

Access for firefighting equipment shall be provided to the construction site at the start of construction and maintained until all construction work is completed.

Free access from the street to fire hydrants/static water tanks, where available, shall be provided and maintained at all times.

No materials for construction shall be placed within 3m of hydrants/static water tanks.

During building operations, free access to permanent, temporary or portable first-aid firefighting equipment shall be maintained at all times.

In all buildings over two stories high, at least one stairway shall be provided in usable condition at all times. This stairway shall be extended upward as each floor is completed. There shall be a handrail on the staircase.

1.4.5.4 Construction strategy and construction sequence

Construction strategy and construction methods are to be evolved at the planning and design stage specific to the conditions and constraints of the project site and implemented by the site management personnel to ensure ease of construction and smooth flow of construction activities.

Sites of high water table conditions with aggressive chemical contents of subsoil needs special design considerations. Buildings with basement in sites of high water table should be planned with dewatering scheme with appropriate construction sequence, Duration of dewatering shall continue till sufficient dead loads are achieved to stabilize the buoyancy loads with adequate factor of safety. The construction sequence should be planned taking into consideration the following aspects:

a) Availability of resources (men, material and equipment); b) Construction methods employed including prefabrication; c) Planned construction time; d) Design requirements and load transfer mechanism; e) Stability of ground like in hilly terrain; f) Ensuring slope stability with retaining structure before the main construction; g) Installation and movement of heavy equipments like cranes and piling equipments; h) Effect of weather; and i) Minimum time to be spent below ground level working. j) Protection against ground water seepage.

1.5 CONSTRUCTION CONTROL

1.5.1 General

All construction including extension, alteration and demolition shall require a permit from the Authority. Permits shall also be obtained from relevant organizations for service connections and other facilities. The construction work shall conform to the plan approved by the Authority.

The owner shall make arrangements for obtaining the required approvals.

All new work or alteration shall be planned, designed, supervised and executed by competent professionals of relevant discipline.

1.5.2 Professional Services and Responsibilities

The responsibility of professionals with regard to planning designing and supervision of building construction work, etc and that of the owner shall be in accordance with the relevant part of the Code and professional practice. Employment of trained workers shall be encouraged for building construction activity.


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1.5.3 Construction of all Elements

Construction of all elements of a building shall be in accordance with good practice. It shall also be ensured that the elements of structure satisfy the appropriate fire resistance requirements as specified in Part 4 Fire Protection, and quality of building materials/components used shall be in accordance with Part 5 Building Materials.

1.5.4 Construction Using Bamboo

Bamboo being a versatile resource characterized by high strength, low mass and ease of working with simple tools, it is desirable to increasingly make appropriate use of this material. Design of structures using bamboo shall be done in accordance with Part 6 Structural Design, Section 4 Bamboo, Chapter 11 Timber.

For construction using bamboo, some of the important constructional provisions given below shall be followed.

Bamboo can be cut and split easily with very simple hand tools. Immature bamboos are soft, pliable and can be molded to desired shape. It takes polish and paint well.

While it is possible to work with bamboo simply using a machete, a few basic tools, such as, machete, hack saw, axe, hatchet, sharpening tools, adze, chisel (20 mm), chill, wood rasps, steel rod, and pliers, will greatly increase the effectiveness of the construction process.

For providing safety to the structure against fire, bamboo may be given fire retardant treatment using following chemicals; a few drops of concentrated HCL shall be added to the solution to dissolve the precipitated salts:

Ammonium phosphate 3 parts

Boric acid 3 parts

Copper sulphate 1 part

Zinc chloride 5 parts

Sodium dichromate 3 parts

Water 100 parts

Bamboo indirect contact with ground, bamboo on rock or preformed concrete footing, bamboo incorporated into concrete or bamboo piles may form the foundation structure.

The floor of bamboo may be at ground level with covering of bamboo matting, etc. In elevated floors, bamboo members become an integral part of structural framework of building. The floor will comprise structural bamboo elements and bamboo decking.

The jointing techniques in construction using bamboo shall be in accordance with Part 6 Structural Design, Section 4 Bamboo, Chapter 11 Timber.

1.5.5 Low Income Housing

For low income housing, appropriate planning and selection of building materials and techniques of construction have to be judiciously done and applied in practice. Requirements of low income housing specified in Part 3 General Building Requirements, shall be followed. However, all requirements regarding structural safety, health safety and fire safety shall be in accordance with this Code.

1.5.6 Site Preparation

While preparing the site for construction, bush and other wood, debris, etc, shall be removed and promptly disposed of so as to minimize the attendant hazards. Temporary buildings for construction offices and storage shall be so located as to cause the minimum fire hazards and shall be constructed from noncombustible materials as far as possible.



1.5.7 Use of New /Alternative Construction Techniques

The provisions of this part are not intended to prevent use of any construction techniques including any alternative materials, nonspecifically prescribed by the Code, provided any such alternative has been approved. The Authority may approve any such alternative such as ferrocement construction, row-lock (rat trap) bond in masonry, stretcher bond in filler slab and filler slab provided; that the proposed alternative is satisfactory and conforms to the provisions of relevant parts regarding material, design and construction of this Code. The material or method or work offered as alternative is, for the purpose intended, at least equivalent to that prescribed in the Code in quality, strength, compatibility, effectiveness, fire and water resistance, durability and safety.

1.5.8 Permits

The owner of a building shall obtain permission from the Authority for the work to be undertaken in accordance with the provisions of the relevant part of this Code.

Special permits shall be obtained from relevant authorities before commencement of a particular construction work for the following items and for any other item as decided by the Building Official:

a) storing materials on roads and sidewalks; b) using water, electricity, gas, sewerage or other public utilities; c) digging roads or interfering with the drainage system; d) storing and handling of explosives; and e) affecting any structure having historical association and antiquity.

1.5.9 Tests and Inspections

The Authority shall notify both the owner and the contractor of any unsafe, unlawful or unethical situation discovered during inspection and direct them to take necessary remedial measures to remove the hazard or rectify the violation.

Where the strength or adequacy of any scaffold or other device or construction equipment is in doubt, or where any complaint is lodged, the Authority shall inspect such equipment and shall prohibit its use until tested safe or until all danger is removed.

1.6 CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT

Employer and Management shall be responsible for optimizing Construction Planning, resource utilization, and scope, time, quality, health, safety and environment and cost for implementation, monitoring and control for their effectiveness. This may be preferably in line with proven National/International documentation system covering all aspects of monitoring and controls. Various parameters to be managed during construction are as below.

1.6.1 Time Management

The project shall be completed in the defined time schedule to get its fruitful benefits. The system planned shall cover total schedule of completion with one or more construction agencies, number of vendors, identification of total resources, timely availability of all inputs, including critical ones, its processing during construction of a project. The system shall include a periodic review of a project with all parameters as well as catch up plans in case of delay identified for controls and reporting from time to time. The system planned shall preferably be computer friendly and simple to follow for implementation, monitoring and controls and for reporting from time-to-time.

1.6.2 Quality Management

Quality of a project shall be planned for all activities from inception to completion. It is desirable that the system planned gives adequate assurance and controls that it shall meet project quality objectives. The system shall cover review of existing requirements, subcontracting, materials, processes and controls during process, auditing, training of personnel, final inspection and acceptance. All activities shall be planned and controlled. Quality systems approach may be referred for planning, suitable to a particular project for implementation.


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1.6.3 Health, Safety and Environment

Each project affects the safety and health of the workmen and surroundings during construction. Various activities having impact on health, safety and environment need to be identified with their likely effect and proposed preventive corrective actions, together with the concerned statutory obligations. The system planned for health, safety and environment shall address and cover the above including use of personnel protective equipments by all concerned and reporting on their monitoring and controls during project implementation.

1.6.4 Cost Management

To keep the project under viable proposition, it is desired that cost of the project during construction are monitored and controlled through a documentation system. The various parameters which may affect the basic cost, escalations, cost due to variation in scope and quantities, etc need to be monitored at a defined frequency. The system planned shall be in line with a proven cost control method or similar in nature and cost incurred vis-a-vis cost sanctioned and cost anticipated to be reported and controlled from time to time.

1.7 PROTECTION OF PUBLIC AND WORKERS

1.7.1 General

Erection, alteration, renovation, remodeling, repairing, removal or demolition of a building or structure shall be conducted in a safe manner. Suitable protection for the general public and workers employed thereon shall be provided according to the various provisions of this Code.

All existing and adjoining public and private property shall be protected from any damage due to construction operations. Whenever requested, site plans, construction details, and specification shall be submitted for review by the concerned agency.

All equipment and safeguard required for the construction work such as temporary stair, ladder, ramp, scaffold, hoist, runway, barricade, chute, lift etc. shall be substantially constructed and erected so as not to create any unsafe situation for the workmen using them or the workmen and general public passing under, on or near them.

Public walkway shall not be occupied to carry out work under a building permit unless the pedestrians are protected as specified in this section. Any material or structure temporarily occupying public property, including fences and walkways, shall be adequately lighted at night.

1.7.2 Adjoining Property

The owner of the building shall preserve all adjoining structures and walls from damage. He shall support the adjoining building or structure by proper foundations to comply with the Code.

Necessary permissions to preserve and protect the adjoining plot, building or structure shall be obtained by the owner of the building to be constructed. Adjoining property shall be completely protected from any damage due to the building operation when the owner of the adjoining property permits free access to the adjoining site and building.

If required, the owner of the adjoining plot, building or structure shall be granted necessary permission to enter the construction site to make his own property safe.

No part of any structure, except signs, shall project beyond the property line of the site. Sidewalk sheds, underpinning and other temporary protective guards and devices may project beyond the property lines if approved by the Authority. Where necessary, the permission of the adjoining property owner shall also be obtained.

Where a construction or demolition is undertaken at a level higher than the adjacent structure, the roof, roof outlets, skylights and other roof structures of adjoining buildings shall be protected against damage. This shall be ensured by the owner of the construction site at his own expense.

Where the grade of the adjoining plot is lower than the site level, a retaining wall shall be erected, if necessary, at the owner's expense and on his site. Design and construction of retaining wall shall conform to the structural



requirements for such walls, and may have a railing or fence at the top to provide a total height of not less than 1 m above the finished grade of the higher plot.

If the owner, lessee or tenant of the adjoining building refuses permission to have the roofs and skylights of the adjoining building protected, the responsibility and expense for the said protection shall transfer to the person refusing such permission.

During any demolition or excavation work, the structure or the wall shall be maintained structurally safe by adequate temporary props and lateral supports.

1.7.3 Protective Fences and Railings

Pedestrian traffic on the adjacent road or footpath, or the walkway constructed shall be protected by a railing or fence. Protective railing or fence shall also be placed adjacent to excavations. Railings shall be at least 1m in height and when adjacent to excavations, shall be provided with a mid-rail.

All construction work within 1.5 m from the road shall be enclosed with a fence not less than 2.4 m high from the grade. If the work is more than 1.5 m away from the road, a fence or other barriers shall be erected at least on the side of the site nearest to the footpath/road. The fence shall extend over the entire length of the side. Openings in fences may have doors which normally shall be kept closed.

All fences shall be of adequate strength to resist wind pressure and other load as specified in relevant part of the Code. All fences shall be well braced. The side of any fence/handrail adjacent to a road or sidewalk shall be kept smooth. Fences, barriers, or temporary structures of any kind located on public roads shall not obstruct vision at the intersection of streets.

1.7.4 Canopies, Overhangs and Platforms

Protective canopy shall have a clear height of 2.4 m over the walkway. Walkways under the canopy shall be not less than 1.2 m wide in the clear. However, the Building Regulatory Authority may instruct differently regarding the clear width in congested areas.

Every canopy shall have a fence built along its entire length on the construction side. If materials are stored or work is done on the roof of the canopy, edges of the canopy roof shall have a tight curb board not less than 200 mm high and a railing not less than 1 m high. The entire structure shall be designed to carry the loads to be imposed.

The posts or other supporting members of any temporary structure on the road side shall be designed for the load due to vibration generated by the street traffic. The framework supporting the covering shall be well braced and designed to support at least 7 kpa. However the top deck shall be designed to carry load not less than 10 kpa.

The roof covering shall be of a width sufficient to cover the entire walkway or side walk and shall be made watertight. Covered walkways shall be provided with adequate lights at all times.

Cantilevered platforms or other substitute protection in lieu of sidewalk sheds shall not be used unless approved by the authority and deemed adequate to insure public safety.

Materials shall not be stored on overhangs unless these are designed for the load. Such storage shall in no case exceed a day's supply. All materials shall be piled in an orderly manner and height to permit removal without endangering the stability of the pile and canopy.

1.7.5 Protection of Utilities

Protective frame and boarding shall be built around and over every street lamp, utility box, fire and police alarm box, fire hydrant, catch basin and manhole that may be damaged by any construction work. The protection shall be maintained while such work is being done; and shall not obstruct the normal functioning of the device.

Building material, fence, shed etc. shall not obstruct free access to any fire hydrant, lamppost, manhole, fire alarm box, or catch basin, or interfere with the drainage of the site. Protective covers shall be provided to such utility fixtures during the progress of the work without obscuring their identity.

Precaution shall be taken during construction to prevent concrete, mortar washing or any other material from entering and blocking a sewer.


7-10 Vol. 7

1.7.6 Use of Road and Footpath

Road and footpath spaces may be used only temporarily during construction subject to the following conditions:

a) permissions shall be obtained from relevant authorities for all such uses; b) the allocated space or any portion thereof shall be more than 1.5 m away from a railway track; c) a walkway shall be constructed in the outer portion of the road space permitted to be occupied in

conformity with Sec 1.4.2 and 1.4.3; d) an 1 m clear passage shall be maintained along the building site; e) person(s) who has been issued a permit to use road and footpath spaces shall furnish a bond with

the relevant authority of such type and amount as may be deemed advisable by the authority as protection from all liabilities;

f) the permittee shall repair any damages done to the adjacent road due to its use for construction work at his own expense; the bond money shall stand forfeited if the permittee fails to comply with this requirement; and

g) it shall be used in a manner that will not deface it or create a nuisance. The owner, upon the completion of the building, shall immediately remove all temporary walkways, debris and all other obstruction and leave such public property in as good a condition as it was before such work commenced.

1.7.7 Protective Devices

No structure, fire protection or sanitary safeguard or device shall be removed or made inoperative unless instructed by the Authority. Pedestrian protection required by all relevant regulations shall be maintained in place and kept in good order as long as pedestrians may be endangered. Every protection, fence, canopy and other protective devices shall be removed within 7 days after such protection is no longer required.

1.7.8 Notices and Signs

Every walkway adjacent to a construction, demolition or excavation site shall be kept well-lighted at night. The outer edge of the occupied space of the street or footpath shall have red lights placed thereon which shall flash continuously day and night.

Boards with caution signs, along with safety regulations and emergency instructions painted in bright colour, preferably red, shall be erected near the entry and in prominent places of the site. It shall describe appropriate measures for the elimination or control of the danger and the conduct and course of action to be taken. Red caution marks shall also be placed on the building, equipment and utility connections.

1.7.9 Watchman and Auditory Signal

A watchman shall be employed to warn the general public when intermittent hazardous operations are conducted. Audible signal shall be used in case of extreme danger. It shall be such that any person in the reception area can recognize and react to the signal as intended. An auditory emergency evacuation signal shall take precedence concerning recognition over all auditory signals.

1.7.10 Safe Load

No structure, temporary support, scaffolding, sidewalk, footpath and drain covers, shed, other devices and construction equipment shall be loaded in excess of its safe working capacity.

Whenever the structural quality or strength of scaffolding plank or other construction equipment is in doubt, these shall be replaced or be subject to a strength test to two and half times the superimposed live load; the member may be used if it sustains the test load without failure.

Requirements of Sec 3.8 shall be observed regarding design loads in scaffolds.

1.8 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

The following provisions shall be met during construction for environmental protection.



The construction and operation of the work/project shall comply with relevant national environmental legislation including environmental quality standards. The basic responsibility of the contractor/owner towards the environment shall be:

a) requires the Contractor/Owner to take all reasonable steps to protect the environment and avoid damage and nuisance arising because of his/her operations.

b) the Contractor/Owner to comply with all status and regulations concerning the execution of works c) the Contractor/Owner shall be responsible for familiarizing himself with all legislation relating to

environmental protection that is relevant to his activities. Reference to national environmental quality guidelines shall be made.

d) the Contractor/Owner shall be responsible for the costs of cleaning up any environmental pollution resulting from his/her activities during construction.

1.8.1 Protection of Existing Drainage Systems and Utilities

During construction work all excavation and/or filling work shall be taken as to ensure safety to the existing underground utility lines and drainage system. The Contractor/Owner shall obtain written permission from the respective authorities before excavation or filling in such areas.

1.8.2 Protection of Soil, Aquifers, and Water Channels against Pollution

Construction activities are likely to generate waste in various forms. This shall be dealt with adequately to avoid pollution. The following measures shall be taken during construction of work:

a) The Contractor/Owner shall, all times, maintain all sites under his control in a clean and tidy condition and shall provide appropriate and adequate facilities for the temporary storage of all wastes before disposal.

b) The Contractor/Owner shall be responsible for the safe transportation and disposal of all wastes generated because of his/her activities in such a manner as to not cause environmental pollution or hazards to health in any form. In the event of any third party being employed to dispose of wastes, the Contractor/Owner shall be considered to have discharged his/her responsibilities from the time the wastes leave sites under his/her control, providing that he/she has exercised due diligence in ascertaining that the proposed transport and disposal arrangements are such as to not cause pollution or health hazards.

c) The Contractor/Owner shall not allow waste oils or other petroleum derived wastes to be used as dust suppressants and that all reasonable precautions shall be taken to prevent accidental spillage of petroleum products, their contact with soil or discharge into water courses.

d) The Contractor/Owner shall be responsible for the provision of adequate sanitary facilities for the construction workforce (including those employed under subcontracts) at all construction and camp sites. The Contractor/Owner shall not knowingly allow the discharge of any untreated sanitary wastes to ground water or surface water. Before mobilization of the construction workforce, the Contractor/Owner shall provide details of sanitary arrangements. The detail shall include maintenance and operation plans and generally be sufficient to assess whether the proposed facilities are adequate.

e) where abstraction from a borehole by the Contractor/Owner results in adverse effects on groundwater, which at the time of commencement of the contract was being used by local people, the Contractor/Owner shall arrange supplies of equivalent quality and quantity of water to that previously available.

1.8.3 Protection of Air Quality from Obnoxious Emissions

To cover the unlikely event that dust blow becomes a nuisance, to the following effect shall be taken:

The Contractor/Owner shall take all reasonable measures to minimize dust-blow arising from any sites under his/her control by regular watering of any stockpiles, bare soil, and haul roads. Unsurpassed traffic areas and any sources of fugitive dust, when conditions require dust suppression.


7-12 Vol. 7

1.8.4 Protection from Sound Pollution

The management shall be responsible for confining all construction and transportation activities in Residential and mixed Residential Areas strictly to normal business hours, so as not to cause emission of such sound and noise which is considered detrimental to human health. Such noisy activities shall not be carried out from 1800 hours in the evening to 0600 hours in the morning and on non-working days and holidays.

Noise nuisance shall be minimized through adequate machine maintenance and good site practices. However, a degree of unavoidable noise nuisance from construction is expected. Control vibration from piling operations is not possible without incurring an unreasonable financial cost.

The following noise control measures shall be taken during construction work:

a) All vehicles and plant operated by the contractor or (including subcontractors) shall be maintained according to the original manufacturer's specifications and manuals, with particular regard to the control of noise emissions The Consultant/Authority shall have the right to require the Contractor to replace or rectify any vehicle or plant that he thinks emits excessive noise, within 48 hours of notice in writing.

b) The contractor shall make every reasonable effort to reduce noise nuisance caused by construction activities, including suing of crusher and ancillary plant in locations where the distance between them and residential areas is such that it results in attenuation of noise at existing residential areas.

1.8.5 Site Reinstatement

The construction sites-shall be reinstated to an acceptable level to the following effect shall be included:

Upon completion of construction the contractor/owner shall remove equipment, surplus material, rubbish and temporary works of every kind, and the site in clean condition to the satisfaction of the appropriate authority.

Part 7 Construction Practices and Safety 7-13

Chapter 2 STORAGE, STACKING AND HANDLING PRACTICES 2.1 GENERAL PRACTICES

2.1.1 General Requirements and Restrictions on Storage and Handling

Materials required in construction operations shall be stored, and handled in a manner to prevent deterioration and damage to the materials, ensure safety of workmen in handling operations and non-interference with public life including safety of public, prevention of damage to public property and natural environment.

Materials shall be stored and placed so as not to endanger the public, the workers or the adjoining property. Materials shall be stacked on well-drained, flat and unyielding surface. Material stacks shall not impose any undue stresses on walls or other structures.

Materials shall be separated according to kind, size and length and placed in neat, orderly piles. High piles shall be staggered back at suitable intervals in height. Piles of materials shall be arranged so as to allow a minimum 800 mm wide passageway in between for inspection and removal. All passageways shall be kept clear of dry vegetation, greasy substance and debris.

For any site, there should be proper planning of the layout for stacking and storage of different materials, components and equipments with proper access and proper maneuverability of the vehicles carrying the material. While planning the layout, the requirements of various materials, components and equipments at different stages of construction shall be considered.

Stairways, passageways and gangways shall not become obstructed by storage of building materials, tools or accumulated rubbish.

Materials stored at site, depending upon the individual characteristics, shall be protected from atmospheric actions, such as rain, sun, winds and moisture, to avoid deterioration.

Special and specified care should be taken for inflammable and destructive chemicals and explosive during storage.

2.1.2 Manual Handling

When heavy materials have to be handled manually each workman shall be instructed by his foreman or supervisor for the proper method of handling such materials. Each workman shall be provided with suitable equipment for his personal safety as necessary. Supervisors shall also take care to assign enough men to each such job depending on the weight and the distance involved.

2.1.3 Protection against Fire

Timber, Bamboo, coal, paints and similar combustible materials shall be kept separated from each other. A minimum of two dry chemical powder (DCP) type fire extinguishers shall be provided at both open and covered locations where combustible and flammable materials are stored.

Flammable liquids like petrol, thinner etc., shall be stored in conformity with relevant regulations.

Explosives like detonators, gun powder etc. shall be stored in conformity with the fire protection provisions set forth in this Code so as to ensure desire safety during storage. Stacks shall not be piled so high as to make them unstable under fire fighting conditions and in general they shall not be more than 4.5 m in height.

Materials which are likely to be affected by subsidence of soil like precast beams, slabs and timber of sizes shall be stored by adopting suitable measures to ensure unyielding supports.


7-14 Vol. 7

Materials liable to be affected by floods, tides, etc shall be suitably stored to prevent their being washed away or damaged due to floods, tides, etc.

2.1.4 Housekeeping

Stairways, walkways, scaffolds, gangways and access ways shall be kept free of building material, tools, accumulated rubbish and obstructions.

Materials or equipment stored on the street, footpath and other public places with permission from the proper Authority, and conforming to Sec 1.5.3, shall not interfere with vehicular traffic or pedestrians on the highway or street. The piles shall be arranged to leave a safe walkway unobstructed for its full length, and adequately lighted at night and at all other necessary times.

Material and equipment shall not be located within 7.5 m of a street intersection. These shall neither be so placed as to obstruct normal observation of traffic signals nor to hinder the use of public transit loading platforms.

2.2 STORAGE REQUIREMENT BY CLASSIFICATION OF MATERIALS

Stored materials shall be separately stored under following classifications, with appropriate care necessary precautions to each Classification:

a) Climatically Sensitive Materials b) Durable Materials c) Materials Vulnerable to Rough Handling d) Inflammable and/or Fire Sensitive Materials e) Hazardous Materials

Under each classification a list of commonly used materials are listed below. Other materials used but not mentioned here shall be treated under one or more of the above listed classifications which most closely match the unlisted material.

2.2.1 Climatically Sensitive Materials

Such material shall be stored in properly constructed sheds which must be stored in cool dry and well ventilated and confines, ensuring its storage without deterioration and without contact to ground and structural members, without exposure to moisture and heat, and away from direct sun.

Materials requiring breathing, such as timber and other natural products, shall be allowed ample air flow between successive layers of stacking.

Materials subject to deformation under stress shall be supported uniformly so as not to subject it to bending load or excessive vertical load.

Materials subject to loss of quality through moisture shall be kept within impermeable wrapping, if not used within a reasonable period.

2.2.1.1 Cement

Cement shall be stored at the work site in a building or a shed which is dry, leak proof and moisture proof. The building or shed shall have minimum number of windows and close fitting doors which shall be kept closed at all times except during loading and unloading.

Cement received in bags shall be prevented from coming into contact with any dampness or moisture. Cement bags shall be stacked on wooden planks maintaining a minimum clearance of 200 mm from the floor. A minimum clear space of 450 mm shall be provided between the stacks and any exterior wall.

Maximum height of the stack shall be 15 bags and the width not more than four bags or 3m. In stacks more than 8 bags high, the bags shall be arranged alternate length and crosswise. The bags shall be stacked closely as to minimize the surface area exposed to air.

Storage, Stacking and Handling Practices Chapter 2


During monsoon and for storage for more than 2 months, the stack shall be kept completely enclosed by a waterproofing membrane such as polyethylene sheet which shall close on top of the sack. Care should be taken to see that waterproofing membrane is not damaged any time during the use.

Heavy containers of cement shall not be stacked more than two tiers high. Cement shall be used in the order they are received; storage shall facilitate this requirement.

Hooks shall not be used for handling cement bags unless permitted by the supervisor. Workers handling cement shall put on protective hand and face coverings and use skin protective. They shall be instructed to the need of cleanliness from time to time.

When entering a silo or bin for any purpose, the workman shall wear a lifeline attended by another workman outside. The ejection system shall be shut down and locked out during such operation.

In case cement is received in silos, the silos shall be placed near the concrete batching plan. Proper access shall be provided for the replacement of silos.

Different types of cements shall be stacked and stored separately. In similar manner cements in gunny bags, paper bags and polythene sheets shall be stored separately.

2.2.1.2 Lime

Quicklime shall be slaked as soon as possible. If unavoidable, it may be stored in compact heaps having only the minimum of exposed area. The heaps shall be stored on a suitable platform under a roof protected from rain and wind. A minimum space of 300 mm shall be provided all-round the heaps to avoid bulging of walls.

Unslaked lime shall be stored in a watertight place and shall be separated from combustible materials.

Hydrated lime shall be supplied either in containers or sacks, such as jute bags lined with polyethylene or high density polyethylene woven bags lined with polyethylene or craft paper bags.

It shall be stored in a dry room to protect the lime from dampness and to minimize warehouse deterioration. The building should be with a concrete floor and having least ventilation to eliminate draughts through the walls and roof. In general, the recommendations given in storing of cement shall be applicable for hydrated lime. When air movement is reduced to a practical minimum, hydrated lime can be stored for up to three months without appreciable change.

When dry slaked lime is to be used within a few days, it shall be stored on a covered platform and protected from rain and wind. It shall be kept in a dry and air-tight go down when immediate use is not required. However, it shall never be stored for more than two months.

Workmen handling bulk lime shall wear protective clothing, respirators, and goggles, shall be instructed in the need of cleanliness to prevent dermatitis, and shall be provided with hand cream, petroleum jelly, or similar protectors.

a) Handling of Cement and Lime

Bulk cement stored in silos or bins may fail to feed to the ejection system. When necessary to enter a silo or bin for any purpose, the ejection system employed shall be shutdown and locked out electrically as well as mechanically, when necessary for a workman to enter such storage area, he shall wear a life-line, with another workman outside the silo or hopper attending the rope.

Workmen, handling bulk cement or lime shall wear protective clothing, respirators, and goggles; shall be instructed in the need of cleanliness to prevent dermatitis, and shall be provided with hand cream, petroleum jelly, or similar preparation for protection of exposed skin.

2.2.1.3 Timber

Timber shall be stored in stacks on well treated and even surfaced beams, sleepers or brick pillars so as to be at least 200 mm above the ground level. Contact with water shall be avoided under all circumstances. Members shall be stored separately in layers according to lengths and materials of equal lengths shall be piled together in layers with crossers or wooden battens of sound wood, straight and uniform thickness.


7-16 Vol. 7

In any layer a 25 mm air space shall be kept between adjacent members. The longer pieces shall be placed in the bottom layers and shorter pieces in the top layers. At least one end of the stack shall be in true vertical alignment. The crossers themselves in different layer shall be in vertical alignment.

The recommended width and height of a stack are 1.5 m and 2.0 m respectively. Minimum distance between two stacks shall be 800 mm. In case stacking with battens is not possible, the timber may be close piled in heaps, and the precautions specified above observed.

All timbers to be stored for a year or more, the ends of members shall be coated with coal tar, aluminum leaf paints (hardened gloss oil), microcrystalline wax or other suitable material.

The stacks of timbers shall be protected from hot dry wind, direct sun and rain. Heavy weights may be placed on top of the stacks to prevent warping of timber. Nails, metal straps, etc. attached to used timber, particularly planks and formwork for shuttering shall be removed before stacking.

Care must be taken that handler or workmen are not injured by rails, straps, etc, attached to the used timber. This applies particularly to planks and formwork for shuttering.

2.2.1.4 Bamboo

The site shall be properly inspected and termite colonies or mounds if detected shall be destroyed. All refuse and useless cellulosic materials shall be removed from the site. The ground may then be disinfected by suitable insecticides. The area should have good drainage.

Bamboo may preferably be stacked on high skids or raised platform at least 300 mm above ground, Storage under cover reduces the liability to fungal attack. Good ventilation and frequent inspection are important.

Bamboo dries by air-seasoning under cover in the storage yards from 6 to 12 weeks time.

Prophylactic treatment of bamboo during storage prevents losses due to fungi and insects even under open storage. Following chemicals are found suitable at the coverage rate of 24 liters per ton.

Sodium pentachlorophenate : 1 percent solution

Boric acid + borax (1:1) : 2 percent solution

Sodium pentachlorophenate + boric acid + borax (5:1:1)

: 2.5 percent solution

A mixture of these compounds yields the best results.

NOTE for better protection of structural bamboo, (if stored outside) repetition of the treatment after four to six months is desirable.

2.2.1.5 Particle Board

See Article 2.2.3.9

2.2.2 Durable Materials

2.2.2.1 Steel Bars and Sections

Steel reinforcement bars and structural steel shall be stored in a way to prevent distortion, corrosion, scaling and rusting. Reinforcement bars and structural steel sections shall be coated with cement wash before stacking, especially in humid areas. In case of long time storage or storage in coastal areas, reinforcement bars and steel sections shall be stacked at least 200 mm above ground level.

Steel sections shall be stacked upon platforms, skids or any other suitable supports. Bars of different types, sizes and lengths and structural steel sections shall be stored separately to facilitate issues in required sizes and lengths without cutting from standard lengths. Ends of bars and sections of each type shall be painted with separate designated colors.



Tag lines shall be used to control the load in handling reinforcing bars or structural steel when a crane is used. Heavy steel sections and bundles of reinforcing bars shall be lifted and carried with the help of slings and tackles.

2.2.2.2 Bricks and Masonry Blocks

Bricks shall be stacked on dry firm ground in regular tiers. For proper inspection of quality and ease in counting, the stacks shall be 50 bricks long and 10 bricks high and not more than 4 bricks in width, being placed on edge two at a time along the width of the stack. Clear distance between adjacent stacks shall be not less than 800 mm.

Bricks of each truckload shall be put in one stack. Bricks of different types, such as, clay bricks, clay fly ash bricks, fly ash lime bricks, sand lime (calcium silicate) bricks shall be stacked separately.

Bricks of different classifications from strength consideration and size consideration (such as, conventional and modular) shall be stacked separately. Also bricks of different types, such as, solid, hollow and perforated shall be stacked separately.

Bricks made of clay containing lime shall be thoroughly soaked in water (docked) while in stack.

Bricks of different types shall be stacked separately. Concrete blocks, stone blocks and other masonry blocks shall be stored in stacks of such height as not to damage the blocks in the lower layers or topple.

Bricks shall be loaded or unloaded with care, and shall not be thrown or dumped. They shall be carried from the stack to the site of placement in small batches as and when necessary.

Brick stacks shall be placed close to the site of work so that least effort is required to unload and transport the bricks again by loading on pallets or in barrows. Unloading of building bricks or handling in any other way likely to damage the corners or edges or other parts of bricks shall not be permitted.

Blocks are available as hollow and solid concrete blocks, hollow and solid light weight concrete blocks, autoclave aerated concrete blocks, concrete stone masonry blocks and soil based blocks. Blocks shall be unloaded one at a time and stacked in regular tiers to minimize breakage and defacement. These shall not be dumped at site. The height of the stack shall not be more than 1.2 m, the length of the stack shall not be more than 3.0 m, as far as possible and the width shall be of two or three blocks. Normally blocks cured for 28 days only should be received at site. In case blocks cured for less than 28 days are received, these shall be stacked separately. All blocks should be water cured for 10 to 14 days and air cured for another 15 days; thus no blocks with less than 28 days curing shall be used in building construction. Blocks shall be placed close to the site of work so that least effort is required for their transportation. The date of manufacture of the blocks shall be suitably marked on the stacks of blocks manufactured at factory or site.

2.2.2.3 Stones

Stones of different sizes, types and classification shall be stored separately. Stones shall be stacked on dry firm ground in a .regular heap not more than 1 m in height.

Veneering stones shall be stacked against vertical support on a firm dry ground in tiers up to a height of 1.2 m. A distance of about 0.8 m shall be kept between two adjacent stacks.

2.2.2.4 Aggregates

Aggregates shall be stored at site on a hard, dry and level ground. If such a surface is not available, a platform of planks or old corrugated iron sheets, or a floor of bricks, or a thin layer of lean concrete shall be used. Contact with clay, dust, vegetable and other foreign matters shall be avoided.

Fine and coarse aggregates shall either be stored separately or heaps be separated by dividing walls. Fine aggregate shall be stored in a place and manner where loss due to the effect of wind is minimum, viz. in the leeward side behind a wall, or by covering with a polyethylene sheet.

On a large job it is desirable to construct dividing walls to give each type of aggregates its own compartment. Fine aggregates shall be stacked in a place where loss due to the effect of wind is found minimum.

When withdrawals are made from heaps, no overhang in the original heap shall be permitted. Employees required to enter hoppers shall be equipped with safety belts and life-lines, attended by another person.


7-18 Vol. 7

Machine driven hoppers, feeders, and loaders shall be locked in the off position prior to entry electrically as well as mechanically.

2.2.2.5 Water

Water to be used in construction shall be stored in tanks, bottom and the sides of which shall be constructed with brick or concrete. Contact with any organic impurities shall be prevented.

The total capacity of the storage tank shall be determined after taking into account the water required for fire fighting. Also See Part 4, Sec 4.2.

The tank shall be so located as to facilitate easy storage and filling in, and supply both for construction work and for fire fighting. Passage of water to the water tank shall not be blocked at any time.

2.2.3 Materials Vulnerable to Rough Handling

2.2.3.1 Aluminum Sections

Aluminum sections of different classification, sizes and lengths shall be stored separately, on a level platform under cover.

The aluminum sections shall not be pulled or pushed from the stack nor shall be slided over each other, to protect the anodizing layer.

2.2.3.2 Pulverized Fuel Ash/Fly Ash

Fly ash shall be stored in such a manner as to permit easy access for proper inspection and identification of each consignment. Fly ash in bulk quantities shall be stored in stack similar to fine aggregates, avoiding any intrusion of foreign matter. Fly ash in bags shall be stored in stacks not more than 10 bags high.

Handling: See Sec. 2.2.1.2

2.2.3.3 Cinder

Cinder shall be stored in bulk quantities in stacks similar to coarse aggregates avoiding any extrusion of foreign matter.

2.2.3.4 Pipes and Tubing

Pipes shall be stored in stacks with stoppers provided at the bottom layer to keep the pipe stack stable. The stack, particularly of smaller diameter pipes, shall be in pyramid shape. Pipes shall not be stacked more than 1.5 m high.

Each stack shall have pipes of the same type and size only. Removal of pipes shall start from the top layer and by pulling from one end. A pipe shall not be stored inside another pipe. The pipes may also be placed alternately length and crosswise.

Asbestos cement pipes shall be unloaded at location, for example near trenches. Cast iron detachable joints and fittings shall be stacked under cover and separated from the asbestos cement pipes and fittings. Rubber rings shall be kept clean and away from grease, oil, heat and light.

Pipe shall be carried one at a time on shoulders by at least two workmen. Pipe fittings and joints shall be handled individually.

Black polyethylene pipes may be stored either under cover or in the open. However, natural coloured polyethylene pipes shall be stored under cover only and protected from direct sunlight.

Coils of tubing shall be stored either on edge or stacked flat one on top of the other; in either case they shall not be allowed to come into contact with hot water or steam pipes and should be kept away from hot surface.

Straight lengths of unplasticized PVC pipes shall be stored on horizontal racks supported throughout their lengths on a reasonably flat surface free from stones and sharp projections. Pipes shall not be stacked in large piles, especially under warm conditions. Socket and spigot pipes shall be stacked in layers with sockets placed at alternate ends of the stack to avoid top sided stack.



PVC pipes shall be stored in a shaded area. The ends of pipe, particularly those specially prepared for jointing, shall be protected from abrasion. Damaged portion of a pipe shall be cut out completely.

Pipes of conducting materials shall be stacked on solid level sills and contained in a manner to prevent spreading or rolling of the pipe. For storage in large quantity, suitable packing shall be placed between the layers. During transportation, the pipes shall be so secured as to prevent displacement/rolling.

In stacking and handling of pipes and other conducting materials, the following minimum vertical safety distances from overhead power lines shall be provided

Handling - Removal of pipes from a pile shall be accomplished by working from the ends of the pipe. During transportation, the pipes shall be so secured as to ensure against displacement.

2.2.3.5 Timber Piles and Poles

Piles and poles shall be stacked on solid and level sills so as to prevent rolling or spreading of the stack. The storage area shall be maintained free of vegetation and flammable materials.

Removal of piles and poles shall start from the top layer and by pulling from one end. Tag lines shall be used to control movement of piles and poles. In stacking and handling of piles and poles, precautions as laid down in Sec 2.2.3.4 shall be followed.

2.2.3.6 Sanitary Appliances

All sanitary appliances shall be stored under cover to prevent damage. In receiving and storing appliances consideration shall be given to the sequence of removal from the store to the assembly positions. Vitreous fittings shall be stacked separately from the metal ones.

Bigger sanitary appliances shall be handled one at a time. Traps, water seals and gullies shall be handled separately. Sanitary fittings shall be protected from any oil spillages; hands of the workers shall be free of any oily substance. The supporting brackets, pedestals etc. shall be checked before lowering the appliances in their position.

2.2.3.7 Doors, Windows, Ventilators and Grilles

Metal and plastic doors, windows and ventilators shall be stacked upright (on their sills) on level ground preferably on wooden battens and shall not come in contact with dirt or ashes. If received in crates they shall be stacked according to manufacturers instructions and removed from the crates as and when required for the work. Metal and plastic frames of doors, windows and ventilators shall be stacked upside down with the kick plates at the top. These shall not be allowed to stand for long in this manner before being fixed so as to avoid the door frames getting out of shape and hinges being strained and shutters drooping. During the period of storage of aluminum doors, windows and ventilators, these shall be protected from loose cement and mortar by suitable covering, such as tarpaulin. The tarpaulin shall be hung loosely on temporary framing to permit circulation of air to prevent moisture condensation. All timber and other lignocellulosic material based frames and shutters shall be stored in a dry and clean covered space away from any infestation and dampness. The storage shall preferably be in well-ventilated dry rooms. The frames shall be stacked one over the other distances to keep the stack vertical and straight. These cross battens should be of uniform thickness and placed vertically one above the other. The door shutters shall be stacked in the form of clean vertical stacks one over

11 KV and below 1.40 m

Above 11 KV and below 33 KV 3.60 m



Above 275 and below 400 kV 6.50 m


7-20 Vol. 7

the other and at least 80 mm above ground on pallets or suitable beams or rafters. The top of the stack shall be covered by a protecting cover and weighted down by means of scantlings or other suitable weights. The shutter stack shall rest on hard and level surface. If any timber or other lignocellulosic material based frame or shutter becomes wet during transit, it shall be kept separate from the undamaged material. The wet material may be dried by stacking in shade with battens in between adjacent boards with free access of dry air. Separate stacks shall be built up for each size, each grade an each type of material. When materials of different sizes, grades and types are to be stacked in one stack due to shortage of space, the bigger size shall be stacked in the lower portion of the stacks. Suitable pallets or separating battens shall be kept in between the two types of material. Precast concrete door and window frames shall be stored in upright position adopting suitable measures against risk of subsidence of soil support.

While unloading, shifting, handling and stacking timber or other lignocellulosic material based, metal and plastic door and window frames and shutters, care shall be taken that the pieces are not dragged one over the other as it may cause damage to their surface particularly in case of the decorative shutters. The pieces should be lifted and carried preferably flat avoiding damage to corners or sides.

Metal frames of doors, windows and ventilators shall be stacked with the kick plates at the top. They shall not be kept in this manner for long, and should be taken to the fixing position as soon as possible.

2.2.3.8 Floors, Wall and Roof Tiles

Floor, wall and clay roof tiles of different types, such as, cement concrete tiles (plain, colored and terrazzo) and ceramic tiles (glazed and unglazed) shall be stacked on regular platform as far as possible under cover in proper layers and in tiers and they shall not be dumped in heaps. In the stack, the tiles shall be so placed that the mould surface of one faces that of another. Height of the stack shall not more than 1000 mm. Tiles of different quality, size and thickness shall be stacked separately to facilitate easy removal for use in work. Tiles when supplied by manufacturers packed in wooden crates shall be stored in crates. The crates shall be opened one at a time as and when required for use.

Ceramic tiles and roof tiles are generally supplied in cartons which shall be handled with care to avoid breakage. It is preferable to transport these at the site on platform trolleys.

2.2.3.9 Sheets and Boards

For storing and handling of sheets and boards, such as asbestos sheets, CGI sheets, particle boards, gypsum boards etc., the following requirements shall be fulfilled:

a) sheets and boards shall be stacked to a height of not more than 1 m on dry, clean, firm and level ground with timber or other packing beneath them;

b) bottom of the stack shall be raised adequately from the ground level where there is a risk of water coming on the floor;

c) sheets and boards shall be stacked under cover and protected from damage due to wind, rain and sun;

d) at least one edge of the stack shall be in true vertical alignment; the top sheet in each stack shall be suitably weighed down;

e) damage to the corners and surface of sheets and boards shall be prevented and damaged sheets shall not be stacked with sound materials;

f) sheets shall not be pushed forward against the lower sheet for more than one-fourth of the sheet length;

g) they shall be lifted into position by two workmen, if necessary; h) sheets and boards shall be lowered or raised gently and not thrown; and suitable hand protection

like gloves, jelly etc. shall be provided to the workmen wherever necessary.

CGI sheets shall be stacked in not more than 100 bundles per stack built solidly. Corrugations of sheets in one stack shall run in the same direction. One end of the stack shall be raised by at least 100 mm to drain accumulated water, if any. Sheets not for immediate use shall be stacked under roof.

Plywood, fiber board, particle board, block board etc. shall be stacked on a flat dunnage on top of which a wooden frame shall be constructed with battens of suitable size in such a way that it supports all four corners and edges of the boards. For boards up to a length of 2 m, minimum of one intermediate batten and for boards longer than 2 m, at least two intermediate battens shall be provided to avoid warping.



Decorative plywood and laminated and decorative boards shall be stacked in pairs facing each other. Sheets shall not be dragged one over another.

Specification laid out in BDS 1159 shall be followed for packaging of plywood, particle board, hard board and flush doors.

2.2.3.10 Cast Iron, Galvanized Iron and Asbestos Cement Pipes and Fittings

The pipes shall be unloaded where they are required, when the trenches are ready to receive them. Storage shall be provided at the bottom layer to keep the stack stable. The stack shall be in pyramid shape or the pipes placed length-wise and cross-wise in alternate layers. The pyramid stack is advisable in smaller diameter pipes for conserving space in storing them. The height of the stack shall not exceed 1.5 m. Each stack shall contain only pipes of the same class and size. Each stack shall contain only pipes of same class and size, with consignment or batch number marked on it with particulars or suppliers wherever possible. Cast iron detachable joints and fittings shall be stacked under cover and separated from the asbestos cement pipes and fittings. Rubber rings shall be kept clean, away from grease, oil, heat and light.

Pipes in the top layer shall be handled first. At a time only one pipe shall be handled by two laborers while conveying to the actual site and shall be carried on shoulders. Fittings shall be handled individually.

2.2.3.11 Glass Sheets

All glass sheets shall be kept dry and stored in a covered space. Glass sheets shall be lifted and stored upright on their long edges and put into stacks of not more than 25 sheets. They shall be supported at two points at about 300 mm from each end by fillets of wood.

The bottom of each stack shall be about 25 mm clear from the base of the wall and other support against which the stack rests. The whole stack shall be as close to upright as possible. Smooth floors shall be covered with gunny bags.

Workmen handling glass sheets, remnants and waste glass pieces, and fibre glass shall be provided with gloves, jelly and other suitable hand protections. In removing glass sheets from crates, great care shall be taken to avoid damages from breakage. Glass edges shall be covered or protected to prevent injuries to workmen.

2.2.4 Inflammable and/or Fire-Sensitive Materials

Materials under this classification shall be stored within fire-preventive confines, furnished with fire fighting provisions. Buckets containing sand shall be kept ready for use. A 5 kg dry powder fire extinguisher conforming to accepted standards shall be kept at an easily accessible position. Besides the areas shall be close to fire hydrants.

2.2.4.1 Plastic and Rubber sheets

Plastic and rubber sheets shall be stored within fire proof confines according to manufacturer's instructions. Sheets shall be stored in the coolest of the store rooms available. The room shall be well ventilated and kept dark; direct sun light shall not be allowed to fall on the stored sheets.

The sheets shall be stored away from electric generators, electric motors, switchgears and other such electrical equipment.

Contamination of the sheets with vegetable and mineral oil, grease, organic solvents, acid and their fumes, alkalis, dust and grit shall be prevented. All greasy contamination shall be removed immediately with kerosene or similar liquid, and the sheets thoroughly wiped dry and dusted with French chalk.

Undue stretch and strain, kinks, sharp bends or folds of the sheets shall be avoided in case of long time storage. The sheets shall be turned over periodically and treated with fresh chalk.

In addition, safety precautions common for all types of sheets, as laid down in Sec 2.2.3.9, shall be followed.

2.2.4.2 Paints, Varnishes, Thinners, Bitumen and Road Tar

Paints, varnishes, lacquers, thinners and other inflammable materials shall be kept in properly sealed or closed containers. The containers shall be kept in a well ventilated location, free from excessive heat, smoke, sparks or flame. The floor of the paint store shall have 100 mm thick loose sand on it.


7-22 Vol. 7

Paint materials in quantities other than required for daily use shall be kept stocked in the regular storage place. The manner of storage shall facilitate removal and use of lots in the same order in which they are received.

Temporary electrical wiring and fittings shall not be installed in the paint store. When electric lights, switches or electrical equipment are necessary to be stored or used in the same room, the room shall be designed in a way to reduce explosion risk.

Sources of ignition, such as open flame and exposed heating elements, shall not be permitted in paint store, nor shall smoking be allowed there.

Drums or containers containing bitumen, road tar, asphalt, etc. shall be stacked vertically on their bottoms in up to 3 tiers. Leaky drums shall be either totally removed or separated. Empty drums

Bangladesh National Building Code 2012 Part 07 – Construction Practices and Safety

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Transcript of Bangladesh National Building Code 2012 Part 07 – Construction Practices and Safety