REPORT ON INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE

WITH

THE DIRECTORATE OF PHYSICAL PLANNING BENUE STATE

UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI, BENUE STATE

BY

SIMEON, ABRAHAM KAYODE

16/37078/UE

SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING,

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE,

MAKURDI IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS

FOR THE AWARD OF DEGREE OF BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING

IN CIVIL ENGINEERING.

MARCH, 2021
 CERTIFICATION

I hereby certify that this technical report of Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme

(SIWES) was written, edited and compiled by me, KAYODE ABRAHAM SIMEON

(Matriculation Number: 16/37078/UE) from the department of CIVIL ENGINEERING,

COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE,

MAKURDI, BENUE STATE for the successful completion of my six (6) months Industrial

Training undertaken at THE DIRECTORATE OF PHYSICAL PLANNING, BENUE

STATE UNIVERSITY, MAKURDI, BENUE STATE.

………………………………………………….. …………………..

DEPARTMENTAL SIWES COORDINATOR DATE

………………………………………………… ……………………

COLLEGE SIWES COORDINATOR DATE

2
 DECLARATION

I declare that this report was written by me (KAYODE ABRAHAM SIMEON) and it

covers precisely what I have done during my SIWES Industrial Training at The Department

of Physical Planning, Benue State University, Makurdi, Benue State. I therefore declare that

this report and all its contents has not been previously submitted to this or any other

institution of learning for the purpose of completing the requisites for the award of any

degree. All sources of information are acknowledged by list of references.

KAYODE ABRAHAM SIMEON

…………………………………..

…………………………………..

3
 DEDICATION

It would behoove me to dedicate this report to the God Almighty, who has been my ultimate

source of strength (mental, physical and emotional) and sustenance for preserving me through

and for the successful completion of my SIWES programme.

I would additionally want to dedicate this report to my parents Mr. and Mrs. Simeon

Abraham, my siblings (Bunmilola, Temitope, Samuel) and my dearest friend Hephzibah

Amuna, who were channels of inspiration and blessing to me during the period of my

training.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I appreciate God almighty for His unfailing love, care, grace and mercy He has always been

bestowing me with even during the period of my training.

I acknowledge my parents for being there for me all the time and for purchasing for me the

personal laptop for the ease of the work, I appreciate it a lot. In the same vein, I would love to

appreciate my siblings and friends who helped me in one way or the other during the course

of the programme.

I also thank the management and staffs of Seeminai Engineering Limited where I was

attached to by the directorate of physical planning for their exposure, support and assistance.

I appreciate the Young Civil Engineers Forum (YCEF) for all the care, attention,

understanding and mentorship I received.

Finally, I wish to acknowledge the Head, Civil Engineering Department; Engr Dr. G. D.

Akpen, departmental SIWES coordinator; Engr A. Zava and all my lecturers for the

rudiment and theories of Civil Engineering they all have imparted in me.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

CERTIFICATION PAGE..........................................................................................................ii

DECLARATION......................................................................................................................iii

DEDICATION..........................................................................................................................iv

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT..........................................................................................................v

TABLE OF CONTENTS..................................................................................................vi - vii

LIST OF FIGURES................................................................................................................viii

LIST OF PLATES.....................................................................................................................ix

ABSTRACT...............................................................................................................................x

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION OF SIWES.......................................................................................1

1.1 Background of SIWES...................................................................................................1

1.2 Objectives of SIWES......................................................................................................2

1.3 Benefits to Students........................................................................................................3

1.4 Experience Gained.........................................................................................................3

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT SITE..........................................................................4

2.1 Brief History of the Establishment.................................................................................4

2.2 Address of the Establishment.........................................................................................4

2.3 Objectives of the Establishment.....................................................................................4

2.3.1 Mission statement...........................................................................................................5

2.3.2 Vision statement.............................................................................................................5

2.3.3 Core value.......................................................................................................................6

2.4 Organizational Structure.................................................................................................6

6
2.4.1 Departments/units and their functions............................................................................8

2.4.2 Ongoing projects............................................................................................................8

CHAPTER THREE

3.0 PROJECTS/TASKS PERFORMED..............................................................................9

3.1 Background of Project....................................................................................................9

3.2 Description of Design and Construction......................................................................10

3.2.1 Orientation/Introduction to site....................................................................................10

3.2.2 Sub-structural work......................................................................................................10

3.2.3 Super-structural work...................................................................................................19

3.3 Tasks/Responsibilities Handled...................................................................................29

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 ACHIEVEMENT AND CHALLENGES....................................................................30

4.1 Knowledge and Skills Gained......................................................................................30

4.2 Challenges Encountered...............................................................................................30

CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS................................31

5.1 Summary of Attachment Activities..............................................................................31

5.2 Conclusion....................................................................................................................31

5.3 Recommendations........................................................................................................32

REFERENCES.........................................................................................................................33

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 LIST OF FIGURES

Fig 2.1: BSU directorate of physical planning organigram…………………………………...7

Fig 3.1: Stair terminology……………………………………………………………………23

Fig 3.2: Types of stairs……………………………………………………………………….24

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 LIST OF PLATES

Plate 3.1: Excavation trench.....................................................................................................17

Plate 3.2: Concrete blinding of pad trenches............................................................................17

Plate 3.3: Column bases and starter reinforcement placement.................................................17

Plate 3.4: Casting of column bases...........................................................................................17

Plate 3.5: Formwork of Ground Floor Beam…………………………………………….…..17

Plate 3.6: Ground Beam...........................................................................................................17

Plate 3.7: Block work on foundation........................................................................................18

Plate 3.8: Backfilling and Compaction of Foundation.............................................................18

Plate 3.9: Hardcore placement and backfilling........................................................................18

Plate 3.10: Placement of DPM and wire mesh.........................................................................18

Plate 3.11: Casting of ground floor slab...................................................................................18

Plate 3.12: Column kicker and extension.................................................................................26

Plate 3.13: Column formwork..................................................................................................26

Plate 3.14: Ground floor column..............................................................................................26

Plate 3.15: Taking levels using dumpy level and staff.............................................................27

Plate 3.16: First floor beams and slab formwork.....................................................................27

Plate 3.17: First floor beams and slabs reinforcements............................................................28

Plate 3.18: Casting of first floor beams and slabs....................................................................28

Plate 3.19: Staircase reinforcement..........................................................................................28

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 ABSTRACT

This report is a summary of the experience I acquired during my six months Industrial Work

Experience with the Directorate of Physical Planning, Benue State University, Makurdi,

Benue State (from December 6th 2019 to May 6th 2020) where I was attached to the

construction and furnishing of the faculty of science building. The building was contracted to

Seeminai Engineering Limited and it was a one-storey building which was to make up of

classrooms and blocks of offices. This technical report covers in details all the activities I

witness with highlights majorly on Civil Engineering and Building Engineering giving a full

enlightenment on various structural components of building construction steps and

processes. The challenges during the programme with recommendations which if

implemented will improve the Industrial Training Scheme are also included in this report.

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 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION OF SIWES

The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) is the accepted national skills

training programme established in 1973 by the federal government of Nigeria with the basic

aim of equipping students with practical knowledge before graduating from the university or

other higher institutions of learning.

It is an effort aimed at bridging the gap existing between theory and practical of engineering,

technology, sciences, agriculture, medicine, management and other professional educational

institutions. The programme is actually tripartite, that is, involving the educational institution,

the students, and the industry (employer of labour). All is co-ordinated by the Industrial

Training Fund (ITF) and the National University Commission (NUC).

The period of Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) in some tertiary

institutions lasts for 24 weeks (six months). Within this period of training, it is believed that

the student will have gained some industrial experience which will enhance his/her career in

the near future.

1.1 Background of SIWES

The early phase of science and technology in Nigeria was characterized by the theoretical

lectures in polytechnics and universities which have proven to be an ill method of teaching.

Students in universities and polytechnics graduate with little or no technical experience in

their course of study.

In the same vein, student’s inability to contribute to the society is hampering the growth and

development of our country. It was in this view that SIWES was established in the year 1973

in order to improve the standard of education in Nigeria in order to achieve the needed

technological advancement.

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SIWES was solely funded by ITF (Industrial Training Funds) during its early stage not until

it was difficult to continue for economic stress; then the responsibility was Industrial Training

Funds (ITF) and the Federal Government.

The Federal Government took over the funding of the scheme and Industrial Training Funds

took over the managerial position by managing the funds given to them by the Federal

Government in order to sustain the scheme.

SIWES (Student’s Industrial Work Experience Scheme) is a scheme for the duration of

twenty-four weeks (6 months). According to Ekpenyong (2011), one of the principles

underlying any industrial work experience scheme for students in institutions of learning is

the desire to marry the practical with the theoretical learning which characterizes

conventional classroom situations with a view to striking a balance between theory and

practice.

The result of the ITF survey showed a great disparity between students’ knowledge and their

ability to apply it in relevant jobs. In order to bridge the gap between the two, the ITF in 1974

established a co-operative internship programme, which enabled students of technology to

spend some part of their courses for relevant on the-job practical experiences in appropriate

areas of the Nigerian industry (Ekpenyong, 2011).

1.2 Objectives of SIWES

The Industrial Training Fund’s policy Document No. 1 of 1973 which established SIWES

outlined the objectives of the scheme. The objectives are:

1. To expose students to work methods and techniques in handling equipment and

machinery that may not be available in their institutions.

2. To provide an avenue for students to acquire industrial skill and experience during

their course of study.

3. To Enhance students’ contacts with potential employers while on training.

4. To help students appreciate the role their professions play in the society.

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5. To provide students with the opportunities to apply their educational knowledge in

real work and industrial situations, there by bridging the gap between theory and

practice.

1.3 Benefits to Students

The main reason engineering students need to do Industrial Training (IT) is that they should

be well prepared for a graduate job in their chosen field. It is a chance for them to put what

they have learned at university to work in the kind of real-life situations. Industrial training

gives the students great experience during their Bachelor of Engineering degree including:

1. Apply their technical knowledge and engineering methods to a real-life situation.

2. Work with other engineering professionals.

3. Experience what it’s like to work in a professional organization.

4. Increase their technical, interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and

written.

5. Observe interactions of engineers with other professional groups.

6. Witness the functioning and organization of business and companies.

1.4 Experience Gained

Being opportune to work with the construction company I was attached to, gives me a

firsthand appreciation of construction & design of structures, learning its fundamentals and

acquiring skills in software design packages like Orion, STAAD pro, etc.

My experiences gained during the industrial training are as follow:

1. I learnt how to read and interpret a structural drawing.

2. I learnt how to arrange reinforcement bars, the primary bars and distribution bars.

3. I learnt about Gantt chart and Critical Path on project management.

4. I was able to know the difference between the theories in class and the field work.

13
5. I learnt that networking is most essential in the construction industry as one can be

referred for a contract.

6. I was able to reproduce some of the architectural and structural drawings using

AutoCAD, Revit and Orion.

7. I learnt how to use measuring tape.

14
 CHAPTER TWO

INDUSTRIAL ATTACHMENT SITE

I was attached to a construction company; Seeminai Engineering Ltd, by the Directorate of

Physical Planning Benue State University, which were in charge of the construction of

Faculty of Science Building at Benue State University, Makurdi. The proposed structure is a

one-storey building located at the first campus of the university and occupies an area of

3515.78m2.

2.1 Brief History of the Establishment

The Benue State University Directorate of physical planning is made of professions in the

field of Architecture, Engineering, and Quantity surveying, the directorate is charge with the

responsibility of developing, provision of infrastructure, carrying out feasibility studies,

surveys, designing and supervision of projects and public procurement.

The directorate was created in 2012 by the then vice chancellor by name Prof. Angye

Charity. The directorate was then headed by Arc Gabriel Iyua Sen (FNIA) as the pioneer

coordinator. He was there till December 2015; he was succeeded by Arc John Bosco

Tyozenda from January, 2016 to October, 2018. He was later replaced, and Engr. Terhemba

Agber succeeded him till date (BSU, 2012).

2.2 Address of the Establishment

The directorate of physical planning, Benue State University, head office is located at the first

campus, Benue State University Makurdi, PMB, 102119 at KM1, Gboko road, Makurdi, Benue

state, Nigeria.

2.3 Objectives of the Establishment

The objectives of the Physical Planning Directorate of the University are as follows:

(i) To implement the approved university physical master plan.

15
 (ii) To receive briefs and directives from the management, from time to time on the

physical and infrastructural development needs of the university, and to translate the

said briefs into technical and professional documents.

(iii) To implement the physical and infrastructural development initiatives of the

university.

(iv) To provide professional and technical expertise relating to the design,

implementation, supervision and subsequent usage of the physical and infrastructural

facilities.

(v) To translate management’s initiatives in physical and infrastructural development of

the university into professional and technical briefs for purpose of implementation.

(vi) To liaise with consultants and sub-consultants appointed for the design and

supervision of contracts.

(vii) To prepare, keep and submit when the need arises, all relevant project documents

relating to the physical and infrastructural development projects.

(viii) To enforce the conditions and technical specifications of all physical and

infrastructural development contracts under execution by the university; including

preparation of interim payment valuations.

(ix) To prepare periodic progress reports on all on-going projects and to submit same to

the management, as may be required.

(x) To carry out any other ancillary functions that may be assigned by management.

2.3.1 Mission statement

To plan, design, and manage improvements to the campus environment, to meet functional

and aesthetic goals of the University and its community.

2.3.2 Vision statement

It is to be in the forefront of the University campus planning and development in Nigeria.

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2.3.3 Core value

To provide an aesthetically pleasing built environment that enhances the academic and work

environment for the University community.

2.4 Organizational Structure

Organization structure defines how activities such as task allocation, coordination, and

supervision are directed toward the achievement of organizational aims. It can also be

considered as the viewing glass or perspective through which individuals see their

organization and its environment.

The Directorate of Physical Planning, Benue State University works under the University

management headed by the vice chancellor.

However, the directorate on her own is headed by the Director and assisted by four other

assistant Directors in Engineering services, architecture, surveying and planning with each

having specific responsibilities.

Below is a diagrammatic representation of the hierarchy of staff:

17
 VICE CHANCELLOR

DIRECTOR

Asst. Director (Engineering Asst. Director Secretary

Services)

Chief Arch/Surveyor/Planner
Chief Tech. Officer Computer
Chief Engineers Operator
(civil/structural/Mechanical) Principal
Asst Chief Tech. Arch/Surveyors/Planners
Officer Snr
Asst. Chief Engineers Messenger/Clean
Senior
Principal Tech. Officer er
Arch/Surveyors/Planner
(Civil/Electrical/Mechanical) I

Principal Officer II Architect I/Surveyor

Principal Engineers I/Planner I
(civil/Electrical/mechanical)
Senior Tech Officer
Arch II/Surveyor II/
Planner II
Senior Engineers
Higher Tech. Officer
(Civil/Electrical/Mechanical)
Asst. Arch/Surveyors/Planners
Technical Officers
Engineer I

(Civil/Electrical/Mechanical) Technical Assistants

Pupil Engineers
(Civil/Electrical/Mechanical)

Fig 2.1: BSU directorate of physical planning organigram

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2.4.1 Departments/units and their functions

Director: He coordinates and directs all activities in the department. All other deputy

directors in the department are answerable to him. He is in charge of this directorate.

Assistant Director Engineering Services: vetting of contract drawings (structural),

supervision (not inspection) of all projects, he is also responsible for approval of work phases

and offering of Interim certificates in absence of the consultant. He acts as the resident

Engineer.

Assistant Director Architecture/Planning: vetting of contract drawings (architectural)

provided by the consultant and provision of drawings to the contractor depending on the type

of project. He does the provision of specification to contractors and carries out planning to

determine the arrangement and layout of structures to the school’s need.

Assistant Director Building: He carries out the supervision of Projects activities pertaining

to concrete and block-works making sure that correct mix ratios are utilized and specified

concrete components are used.

Quantity Surveyor: He carries out monetary evaluation of activities and materials to help in

the accurate preparation of the Bill of Quantities.

Land Surveyor: He is responsible for supervision of setting out activities carried out by the

contractors on all the projects.

2.4.2 Current activities/ongoing projects

1. Construction of the faculty of science Building.

2. Construction of the faculty of education Building.

3. Construction of Academic office building.

4. Construction of block of offices for college of health sciences.

5. Construction of the block of clinic and counselling unit Building.

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 CHAPTER THREE

PROJECTS/TASKS PERFORMED

I was attached to the building of the faculty of science building by the directorate of physical

planning Benue State University.

3.1 Background of Project

During the 24-week SIWES program at the Directorate of physical planning Benue State

University Makurdi, I was posted to an ongoing construction of the faculty of science building.

The faculty of Science building is a one storey building with an area of 3515.78 square meters

to be erected for educational purposes hence, consisted of class rooms and offices amongst other

features. The building project was public sponsored by the Benue State Government and

contracted by the Seeminai Engineering Ltd to be benefited by Benue State University Makurdi.

The building was sited at the university’s first campus.

Contract: proposed construction of faculty of science building at Benue State University,

Makurdi.

Contractor: Seeminai Engineering Ltd, No 22 Claude Ake Street, Gwarinpa, Abuja

Consultants:

Architects: Projectglobus Consulting Ltd

Structural: Dortek Consults Ltd

M&E: Domtech Consults Ltd

Q.S: Ivambe Ivambe and Associates

Contract sum: Four hundred million, three hundred and eighty seven thousand Naira.

20
3.2 Description of Design and Construction

3.2.1 Orientation/Introduction to site:

When I reported on the place of assignment, the industrial training exercise commenced with an

orientation program, during which I was introduced to the various staff such as the site engineer,

architect, fore man, surveyor. I was shown samples of contract drawings which contained

architectural, structural and mechanical drawings; I was also lectured on how to interpret

architectural and structural drawings. Site safety precautions were outlined, such as regular

wearing of safety boots and to avoid stepping on lying logs of wood no matter how attractive

they may look.

After that, I was taken around by the site Engineer for a brief observation of the ongoing project.

The sub-structure work was ongoing though the site clearance and the setting out had already

been done. From enquiry, I was made to understand that the site clearance was done with the use

of bulldozer and grader where trees and shrubs as well as the top soil were removed respectively.

Whereas, the setting out was done with the use of surveying instruments such as dumpy level,

staff, pegs and lines where bench marks were taken from existing buildings and the nearby

street. From the reference marks, a rectangle was formed on ground according to the external

dimensions of the building (36000 X 97660) mm where offsets were taken and the profile board

was established.

The detail of the work I partook in, at the stage of excavation to the construction of the staircase

are described sequentially.

3.2.2 Sub-structural work

i. Excavation of trenches

Excavation means to remove earth to form cavity in the ground. The excavation was on a

reduce level to form a level surface on which to build. The excavation of the footing depth

(column bases) was 1500mm to 2000m on the lower and upper soil level respectively. The

width of the trenches was established on profile board that had been fixed from the setting out

21
as shown in the architectural working drawing. The line was tied on the nails which were

fixed 600mm apart on the profile board and extended across each wall as indicated in the

drawing and the depth of the trench was 1000mm. All excavations were done using human

labours. Control of excavation depth was done by level instrument and staff.

ii. Foundation

A foundation is the lower part of the structure that supports the weight of the structure and

transfers the load to underlying soil or rock. Foundation transfers and spreads the loads from a

structure's column and wall into the ground such that the load bearing capacity of the soil is not

exceeded otherwise, excessive settlement may occur resulting in damage to the building. Its

main function and requirements are:

1. To transmit and distribute the total load of the structure to a larger area of underlying

support.

2. To prevent differential settlement of the structure.

3. To provide stability to the structure.

Foundations are classified as shallow and deep foundations.

The type of foundation we used was the pad foundation because the soil has sufficient

bearing capacity of 100kN/m3. Equipment used for the excavation includes Digger, shovel,

wheel barrow, pick axe, hoe etc.

iii. Blinding

A blinding is a thin layer of concrete placed before reinforcements are laid for foundation. It has

a minimum thickness of 50mm.

Concrete blinding is the process of pouring a thin layer of concrete on a newly excavated

foundation. The purpose of this is to seal in underlying material and prevent dust and mud

from interfering with the structure.

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The trenches were light blinded using a concrete mix ratio of 1:3:6, with a thickness of

50mm. The application of this weak concrete was to reduce surface voids or to provide a

clean and dry working surface.

iv. Column bases and column starter reinforcement

Concrete is a material which is strong in compression but weak in tension, if its tensile

strength is exceeded cracks will occur resulting in a weak and unstable foundation. In order to

provide tensile resistance we introduce in the concrete foundation reinforcement to resist all

tensile forces induced in the foundation.

The foundation type utilized in this site was pad foundation , the pads base were constructed

according to the position of pad base which was specified by the design of the pad base, the

four different pad base were incorporated as shown in the structural drawing.

The four pad foundation base type had the following dimensions:

Base Type 1 size ( 1500 ×1500 ) mm where the bottom reinforcement bars were comprised

of 8Y16 bars ( main bars ) running from longitudinal direction of the pad base and 10Y16

bars ( distribution bars ) were place over running transverse to the main bars with 200mm

spacing forming ( 200 × 200)mm square like mat mesh. Concrete cover called (biscuit)

reinforcement was provided using cement sand mortal were placed below the bottom

reinforcement in order to prevent bars from having direct contact to soil which may lead to

corrosion of the bars.

Base Type 2size (1800 × 1800) mm where bottom reinforcement were comprise of 9Y16

bars (main bars) and 9Y12 bars (distribution bars) spacing at 200mm.

Base Type 3 size (1200 × 1200) mm where bottom reinforcement which comprise of 7Y12

bars (main bars) and 7Y12 bars (distribution bars) spacing at 200mm.

Base Type 4size (2000 × 2000) mm where bottom reinforcement were comprise of10Y16

bars (main bars) and 10Y16 bars (distribution bars) spacing at 200mm.

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3.2.2.4.1 Formwork for pad base : Due to the nature of the soil, which made it difficult for

easy excavation of the trenches, wooden formwork were prepare outside the trenches by

cutting marine plywood to the required height and length ad specified by the design of pad

base as shown in the structural drawing .

v. Concrete casting of pad footing

Mix ratio of 1:2:4 (concrete grade 20),the batching of concrete was done using cubic box size

(300 × 300 × 300 )mm given as length , breath and height ( L × B × H ) as batching medium,

also concrete mixer machine was used to prepared the mix to ensure proper mix.

The prepared concrete (fresh concrete) was poured into reinforcement pad footing formwork.

A vibrator machine was used to vibrate the fresh concrete to ensured proper compaction and

expel air pore, by leveling the vibrated concrete using wooden rammer and the hand trowel.

vi. Curing of column bases

Curing started 24 hours after the concrete was placed. The concrete was cured with adequate

water because this plays an important role on the strength development and durability of the

concrete. It also involves the maintenance of desired moisture and temperature conditions

both at depth and near the surface of the concrete.

vii. Ground beam

Ground Beams are beams that are designed to span between pad foundations, piles etc as an

alternative to traditional foundations.

viii. Reinforcement details for ground floor beam

The ground floor beam had dimension of (230 × 450) mm, it comprised of 2Y16 bars at the

bottom zone, (tension moment rebar reinforcement) and top zone (compression or hogging

moment rebar reinforcement) .A shear links also called (stirrup) for the ground floor beam

was provided Y10 spaced at 200mm apart along the whole length of the beam.

The ground floor beam was introduced in order to help to tie all the columns of the structure.

24
ix. Formwork for the ground floor beam

Formwork is a temporary mould, made from plank, into which concrete is poured. due to

difficulty in of hammering within the trenches, the wooden formwork were prepared outside

the trenches by cutting marine plywood to the required height and length, also the cut

plywood were braced ,( to bind tie closely ) properly with ( 50 × 50 )mm log of Wood , the

prepared formwork were mounted to cover the already fixed ground floor beam

reinforcement , also( 50 × 75 )mm log of wood brace were used to attached to the ensure that

it is firmly fixed .

x. Casting of ground beam

Mix ratio of 1:2:4 (concrete grade 20),the batching of concrete was done using cubic box size

(300 × 300 × 300 )mm given as length , breath and height ( L × B × H ) as batching medium,

also concrete mixer machine was used to prepared the mix to ensure proper mix.

The prepared concrete was poured into reinforcement ground beam formwork. A vibrator

machine was used to vibrate the fresh concrete to ensure proper compaction and expel air.

xi. Block work on foundation

Foundation columns have been installed so it was easier for the masons to place the blocks

accurately. We used line (rope); plumb and Engineering Square to make sure the blocks were

straight and aligned. Hollow sandcrete 9 inches (450×225×225) blocks were used and the

cement mortar mixture of 1:6 (1 part of cement to 6 part of fine aggregate) with adequate water

was used to hold the blocks together. A 10mm full bed of mortar was spread out using trowel

and the first course of blocks were then laid on the on the mortar. After the forming of the first

blocks on foundation, block work continued up to damp proof course (DPC). The blocks on the

foundation were filled with weak concrete (fcu =10N/mm2) to add strength to the foundation.

xii. Casting of column starters

The foundation block work formed part of formwork for columns where the remaining spaces

were covered with marine board to obtain the exact dimensions of the columns (225X225) mm.

25
The column starters were cast to DPC (Damp Proof Course) level using a mix ratio of 1:2:4(1

part of cement to 2 part of sharp sand to 4 part of granite) aggregate size 20 mm diameters. The

batching and mixing process was well monitored and the fresh concrete was placed in the

formwork and vibrated with a concrete vibrator machine to expel voids and enhance proper

compaction.

xiii. Backfilling and compaction

Backfilling is the process of refilling a trench or other excavations with the soil dug out of it.

Backfilling was done after the foundation walls was built on both sides of the walls

simultaneously and also for the bed of the floor was filled using the previously excavated

materials and recommended materials by the consultants. The foundation was backfilled

using human labour and it was compacted to a 150mm thickness using a hand driven diesel

powered compactor. Water was used to soak the soil to expel air void.

xiv. Placement of hardcore and sand filling

Hardcore was placed after the soil was compacted. Hardcore strengthens or solidifies the base

which the German concrete (over site concrete) will sit on, thereby resisting pressure of dead

and live loads on the ground floor. The size of the hardcore was 300mm.

After the placement of hardcore was finally completed, sharp sand was used to fill the spaces

in between the hardcore.

xv. Application of DPM (damp proof membrane)

DPM (damp proof membrane) is a membrane material applied to prevent moisture

transmission from the ground into the floor and the wall. It was done by spreading a

polyethylene sheet above the hardcore layer before placing the reinforcement to the ground

floor slab to prevent the floor from gaining moisture through capillary action.

26
xvi. Ground floor slab reinforcement

A wire mesh of 6mm diameter spaced at (200×200) mm was used to reinforce the ground

floor slab by spreading the wire mesh on the damp proof membrane with concrete cover of

25mm under.

xvii. Casting of the ground floor

The ground floor was cast using a concrete mix ratio of 1:2:4 (1 part of cement to 2 part of

sharp sand to 4 part of granite) with adequate water. A diesel powered concrete Mixer was

used for mixing the concrete. The over site concrete was laid 150mm thick and vibrated using

a poker vibrator (which works to remove air from concrete), a wooden tapper was also used

in compacting the concrete to make the concrete more denser.

xviii. Curing of ground floor slab

Curing started 24 hours after concrete was placed by curing it with drinkable water as

specified.

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Plate 3.1: Excavation trench Plate 3.2: Concrete Blinding of Pad

Trenches

Plate 3.3: Column bases and starter reinforcement

placement Plate 3.4: Casting of column bases

Plate 3.5: Formwork of Ground Floor Beam Plate 3.6: Ground beam

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 Plate 3.7: Block work on foundation Plate 3.8: Backfilling and Compaction of Foundation

Plate 3.9: Hardcore placement and backfilling Plate 3.10: Placement of DPM and wire mesh

Plate 3.11: Casting of ground floor slab

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3.2.3 Super-structural work

i. Lapping

The lapping length is taken as 41 multiplied by the diameter of the reinforcing bars. We made

use of Y16 bars, so the lapping length was 750mm.

ii. Column extension reinforcements

After the casting of the ground floor slab, the column extensions reinforcements were fixed

accordingly.

iii. Column Kicker Formwork/ Concrete Work

Kickers are lateral support for column concrete form work. They are placed around a column

reinforcement to make placement of column formwork faster as we only have to put the

formwork against the kicker. The formwork was made for the kicker using wood and their

height were 75mm while their areas were based on the areas of the columns. A concrete mix

of 1:2:4 (1 part of cement to 2 part of sharp sand to 4 part of granite) with adequate water was

place in the kicker formwork. After 24 hours the formwork was removed and the concrete

kicker was cured with adequate water.

iv. Column formwork

Formwork is used to keep concrete in place when casting, the section or area of the form

were of different areas and their areas were based on the areas of the columns. Marine

plywood formwork was used for the square columns of 230mm x 230mm. The column

formwork was attached against the concrete kicker and braced properly using 4x4 inches

wood. With the use of plumb board and tape the column formwork was vertically straight.

The column formwork was of (230 X 2100)mm. 3750mm is the height of the column to the

soffit of the slab.

v. Column concrete casting

Before concrete was poured into the column formwork, biscuit of one inch high was used to

centralize the column reinforcement. Also water was poured into the formwork before

30
concrete was placed, these is to help the concrete bind properly with the column

reinforcement and kicker.

A concrete mix ratio of 1:2:4 (1 part of cement to 2 part of sharp sand to4 part of granite)

with adequate water was used. Poker vibrator was used to vibrate the concrete to attain

maximum density and to avoid segregation. 24 hours later the formwork was removed and

the concrete column was cured with adequate water.

vi. Levelling

Levelling is the measurement of geodetic height using an optical levelling instrument and a

level staff or rod having numbered scale. Common levelling instruments include the spirit

level, dumpy level, the digital level and laser level.

In the course of my training, and constuction of the building, two common levelling

instruments were used, the spirit and dumpy levels. The spirit level was used to check

horinzontal and vertical alignment of block work and columns. While dumpy level( alond

side levelling staff) was used to determine the positons/ level for DPC and height of first floor

slab.

vii. Construction of first floor formwork

After the level for the first floor slab was gotten, the full construction of the first floor slab

began with the bottom plate of the beams and the runners were made, after which the marine

boards were properly nailed to the runners. The top slab was properly supported in order to

avoid deformation of the form work. The depths of the beams were 350mm and the width as

230mm the slab thickness was 150mm.

viii. First floor beam and slab reinforcement

Beams and slabs are structural elements which help to withstand loads by resisting against

bending. Reinforcements were provided in the beams and slabs to resist tensile stresses due to

bending and shear. Stirrups help to resist the shear forces acting on the beams. The sizes,

31
numbers, and diameter of bar used and even the spacing between the bars are based on the

span of the slab and the load that particular area of the building will be subjected to.

The slab comprises of main and distribution bars, the main bars are employed to guarantee

the resistance needed by the structure as a whole to support the design load while the

distribution bars acts as lateral bars and they add strength in the tensile areas. We provided

top and bottom reinforcement for the slab, the top reinforcement takes care of the cracking at

the surface of the slab while the bottom reinforcement is provided to resist tensile stresses.

The reinforcements were placed as near to the outside as practicable with sufficient cover of

concrete over the reinforcement to prevent the steel bars from corrosion and provide a degree

of fire resistance. The top and bottom reinforcement were separated using horse bench of

150mm high.

After the formwork for the first floor slab was prepared, the artisan began to install the beams

in accordance to the specification from the structure design. The top and bottom

reinforcements of the slab were both Y12 spaced at 200mm bottom and 300mm top. The

reinforcement for the beams used were of varying sizes, for example, beam 2 had 2Y16 from

grid 1- 15 both top and bottom, while beam 59 had 4Y16 bottom and 2Y12 top from grid D-

G, grid G-J and N-O comprises of 2Y16 bottom and 2Y12 top and J-M had 3Y16 bottom

and 2Y12 top. The structure hast 59 beams all together. After the mat and the beams were

properly installed, the column extensions were fixed. Column type 3 terminated at the first

floor slab and they were fourteen (14 in number). Whereas column type 1 and two were

design to support the roof beam. Column type 1 and type 2 have height of 7150mm while

type 3 has a height of 3300mm.The lap length is 750mm.

ix. First floor beams/ slabs concrete casting

After the fixing of formwork and reinforcement for beams and slabs were completed, the

placement of concrete in formworks commenced. Before the placement of concrete a

temporary stair case was constructed to easy the movement of concrete from ground to first

32
floor for casting. A concrete mix of 1:2:4 (1 part of cement to 2 part of sharp sand to 4 part of

granite) with adequate water was used for casting. A poker vibrator was used to vibrate the

concrete to attain maximum density and to avoid segregation. The side panel for the outer

part of the slab was removed after 24 hours of casting and the concrete was cured with

adequate water.

A concrete cover of 25mm was prepared using mortar of mix ratio 1:3; it was cured for two

weeks using water after which it was later fixed at the slab to avoid direct contact of the

reinforcement to the slab.

A straight line was tied at the both end of slab formwork. This straight line enables us to

maintain the normal depth of the slab which was 150mm. A concrete mix ratio of 1:2:4 was

used for the casting of the first floor slab. The cast slab was cured for 28 days using drinkable

water. The curing was done to increase hardening and concrete durability.

x. Laying of ground floor block/casting of ground floor lintels

The partition blocks were done using 9 inches blocks as specified by the Architect in the

Architectural plan. The 6 inches blocks were used mostly in partitioning of the water closet

and stores. The openings in the buildings were marked out in order to allow free circulation

of air. At a height of 2100mm, the formwork for the lintel was constructed and the

reinforcement for the lintel was given as 2Y16 top and bottom. The lintel was constructed

using a mix ratio of 1:2:4 and it was properly vibrated using the poker vibrating machine.

xi. Staircase

A staircase is a set of steps or flight leading from one floor to another. Stairs could be

constructed by timbers, stone/concrete (reinforced). Each stair consists of horizontal portion

or tread connected to the front part known as the Riser. The going in a stair is the horizontal

distances between the faces of two consecutive risers. While the riser of a step is the vertical

distance between the tops of two consecutive treads.

33
 Fig 3.1: Stair terminology

BS 5395-1:2000 (STAIRS) - recommends sizes for straight stairs and winders. There are

different types of staircase and it includes:

1. Straight flight- a flight between the two floors to be accessed without intermediate

landing.

2. Half-turn (180deg) Stair- two flights between the floors with an intermediate

landing known as half landing. This stair is also known as dogleg.

3. Free standing -it’s similar to half turn but with a suspended half landing i.e. the half

turn is supported by the two flights. This calls for more rigorous design for torsion at

ends of the stair.

4. Quarter-turn (open well stair) - three flight between the two floors with two

intervening landing.

34
 5. Helical stair-this is usually common in the building of the affluent. It occupies less

space than others. It has a curved like shape it is always a straight flight but turning as

it rises. It also experiences great torsion as it curves.

6. Cantilever – in this type of staircase, there is a central reinforced concrete spine wall

and each I0step cantilevers out of this wall. Each landing are designed as double

cantilever like a beam in turn a cantilever.

7. Spiral stair- this is the most economical stair to design in terms of space utilization

and in terms of cost. Consist of series of cantilever step jotting out like leaves from a

central circular column. The landing spans from the supporting column to the wall.

Fig 3.2: Types of stairs

The type of staircase constructed on the site was the Half-turn stair.

xii. Staircase formwork/reinforcement work

The flight formwork was first fixed at a pitch of 30° to the ground floor. The flight formwork

from the ground terminated at the landing, after which it continued all the way to the first

floor, it was supported by a 4×4 inches wood and were braced with a bamboo sticks which

were braced properly with a 2×4 inches wood.

35
The side panel for the stair case was also fixed and the height was 300mm. The width of the

landing was 1000mm and the formworks for the risers were fixed after the placement of the

staircase reinforcements. The height of the riser was 150mm while that of the going was

300mm. The starter bars for the staircase was fixed when placing hardcore for the ground

floor. It was bent at an angle of 30°which was the pitch of the staircase. The staircase

comprised of main and distribution bars. Y16 bars were used as the main bars while Y12 bars

were used as distribution bars; they were spaced at 200mm centre to centre.

For the beam, four Y16 bars were used while Y10 was used for the stirrups and spaced at

150mm centre to centre.

xiii. Casting of the staircase

After the formwork and reinforcement for the staircase was completed and due inspection by

the team of consultants, we started to cast. Concrete was carefully placed on the staircase

formwork and reinforcement to avoid destroying the riser formwork. The concrete mix ratio

used for the casting of the staircase was 1:2:4 with adequate water for binding and it was

properly vibrated using the poker vibrator machine. 24 hours after the casting, the formwork

for the riser was removed and cured with adequate water.

36
Plate 3.12: Column kickers and column extension

Plate 3.13: Column formwork

Plate 3.14: Ground floor column

37
Plate 3.15: Taking of level using dumpy level and staff

Plate 3.16: First floor beam and slab formwork

38
Plate 3.17: First floor beam and slab reinforcement

Plate 3.18: Casting of first floor beam and slab

Plate 3.19: Staircase reinforcement

39
3.3 Tasks/Responsibilities Handled

I was supervising the artisans, taking records of works being done and also asking questions

from the site engineer. After the lectures on the design mix and the appropriate mix ratios, we

were instructed to supervise the artisans working on the site ensuring they adhere to the

specifications given to them making sure they add the actual amount of aggregates and also

the required water/cement ratio.

I was also involved in the setting out of the building and taking level for the first floor slab

using Dumpy Level.

I was given some portions of the structural plan to do manual calculation on and also to

reproduce the structural drawings using softwares like AutoCAD, Orion and Civil Soft.

40
 CHAPTER FOUR

ACHIEVEMENT AND CHALLENGES

4.1 Knowledge and Skills Gained

At the completion of the six (6) months Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme

(SIWES), I acquired experience in the following areas:

1. Setting out of a Structure;

2. Interpretation of Structural Drawings;

3. Building Construction;

4. Civil engineering related softwares like AutoCAD, CSC Orion, STAAD Pro, Epanet,

etc;

5. Quantifying materials and scheduling of construction materials;

6. Taking Levels using a Dumpy Level;

7. Site Supervision/Inspection;

8. Preparing Structural Layout using AutoCAD;

9. Technical Writing/Communication.

4.2 Challenges Encountered

The challenges encountered in the course of the training include:

1. Difficulty in getting a place of attachment: It was difficult getting a place of

attachment for training as most companies are not willing to accept IT students

because of their naivety and inexperience.

2. Transportation fare: Transportation fare was sometimes a challenge as we were not

paid.

3. Limited knowledge of the practical work: It was challenging at first as there was a

huge difference between theoretical work learnt in the class and field work.

41
 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Summary of Attachment Activities

At the end of the twenty-four weeks of training, my industrial work experience came to an

end as I was able to; witness the construction of the one storey building of the faculty of

science, gain knowledge of structural members and have mastery of civil engineering related

softwares.

The industrial training bordered around the perimeter of the construction of a structure by

designing and constructing the pad footings, column bases, column starters and column

extensions, ground beams, lintels, ground floor slab, first floor slab and staircase.

5.2 Conclusion

The six (6) months Students' Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) was a great

success to me as I learnt a lot during the period. It broadened my knowledge and has made

me appreciate the discipline and profession of a civil engineer. It exposed and helped me gain

knowledge and mastery in the practical aspect of civil engineering; building construction and

general site supervision.

At the end of the training, experience gained was invaluable both professionally and socially.

The Industrial training was very important to the building of professional working ethics in

Civil Engineering, understanding of the society at large having related with both

professionals and non-professionals within and outside the construction and consultancy firm.

Having worked in a construction firm related to Civil Engineering gave an opportunity to

practice the theories I have been taught in school and appreciated how the industry works in

real life. The training generally was interesting, educating, challenging and experience gained

were enormous.

42
5.3 Recommendations

Here are some suggestions which if implemented will improve the Industrial Training

Scheme:

1. The Federal Government should enact laws to compel companies and organisations

to accept students that are due for the scheme.

2. Proper supervision strategies should be employed by both the ITF and the institutions

in order to enhance the students’ seriousness during the training.

3. The industry based supervisor should always have time to expose the students to the

necessary skills.

4. The employers can do better on the aspect of student’s allowances.

5. I recommend that ITF increase the SIWES duration or allow the SIWES students to

continue their Youth Service in the same company or other organisations.

6. I implore the Students to take the SIWES program very seriously, because it is the

bridge between Classroom and Real Life.

7. The school should introduce building technology as a course for the students to be

well equipped before going for the industrial training.

8. Just like our counterparts, law and medicine, the body governing engineering

profession should make this industrial exercise an internship or a one year

programme so that we can be well equipped.

43
REFERENCES

Ajibade, J.T. (2017): Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) Report, Federal

University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State. Unpublished.

Bhavikatti, S.S. (2010): Basic Civil Engineering, pp. 33, 34, 39 and 40.

BS 5395-1:2000 (STAIRS)

Benue State University (2012): Physical Planning Handbook.

COREN (1991): Supervised Industrial Training Scheme in Engineering (SITSIE). Council of

Registered Engineers of Nigeria.

Craig, R. L. (1987). Training and development handbook: A guide to human resource

development (3rd ed.). New York: McGraw-Hill.

Ekpenyong, L.E. (2011). Foundations of Technical and Vocational Education: Evolution and

Practice for Nigerian Students in TVE and Adult Education, Policy Makers &

Practitioners.

http://mysiwesplacement.com.ng/

Iho, J.M. (2014): Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) Report, Federal

University of Agriculture Makurdi. Unpublished.

ITF (1973): Policy Document No 1. Industrial Training Fund, Jos, Nigeria.

Mosley, W.H. and Bungey, J.H. (1990): Reinforced Concrete Design. 4th edition.

McGinley, T.J. and Choo, B.S. (1990): Reinforced Concrete Design Theory and Examples

2ndedition.

Oyenuga, V.O. (2011): Simplified Reinforced Concrete Design (A Consultant/Computer

Based Approach). 2nd edition.

Structural Use of Concrete. Part 1: Code of Practice for Design and Construction. BS 8110.

(1985). London: BSI.

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