Negligence of contractors observed while doing form-work






  • For column form-work, contractors use binding wire in place of shinkanjas (clamp).

  • In column reinforcement, normally they avoid the stirrups or rings from beam bottom to the top of slab.

  • For support to beam bottom at column, contractors use wastage material for topi (cap).

  • Disadvantages of Topi (cap) made from waste materials are:
  • 1.      Improper fixing of topi (cap) affects the plumb of column.
  • 2.    Cross-cutting of topi affects the level of beam bottom.

  • Contractors are not interested in repairing the small gap (ghabadi). The affects the strength of the concrete because all cement slurry flows away from these gap (ghabadi) and after de-shuttering, honeycombs are observed in such parts.

  • For slab form-work where it is not possible to place plates, contractors use scrap material. In such cases, after de-shuttering the concrete surface at the bottom of slab is not found in proper level. It affects the thickness of the plaster. So, insist that he must use new planks for all gap (ghabadi) work.

  • While de-shuttering the slab, carpenters drop steel plates from the total height of the slab i.e. from minimum 2.75 m (9’.00”) causing accidents. So, de-shuttering for slab should be done with the help of scaffolding.

  • Normally, white oil or centering oil should be applied to the from-work in required quantities. Extra oiling of the form-work affects the bonding of steel with concrete. Oily surface of concrete affects curing. So, curing for column, beam, slab cannot be done properly.

  • Contractors provide only single type of bracing for props. It should be done in two directions, i.e. all props should be supported with bi-directional bracing at the same level.

  • Contractors prefer early de-shuttering to speed up the work with minimum shuttering. Follow the de-shuttering chart. Do not allow early de-shuttering.

  • Contractor use less number of nails and insufficient supports to the joint, which may result in joints which are not tightened.

  • To avoid cutting of props, contractors fix the prop in a slanted position or give more packing from the bottom to utilize short props.

  • Contractors avoid making holes in the shuttering ply for straight horizontal projecting dowel bars. The bar should be bent vertically inside the shuttering only.