Evaluation of compliance of concreting materials to standards in building projects in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Abstract

The incessant collapse of high-rise buildings has necessitated research into the compliance of materials — structural components and elements — to standards. This study evaluated compliance of concreting materials with standards in building project delivery. It examined the factors that influence compliance with standards of materials used for producing concrete elements. A quantitative approach was adopted in the study where structured questionnaires were administered to designers and constructors (such as architects, engineers/site supervisors and quantity surveyors) in consulting and contracting organisations in Lagos State, Nigeria. The data were analysed using frequency distribution, mean score, standard deviation, factor analysis and Kruskal Wallis test. Factors affecting compliance of materials with standards were categorised into construction site-based and procurement-based. These are technical, regulation, procurement, capacity, performance, and skill. The study provides implications for quality building production through improved compliance of concreting materials to standards. It also found the neglect of the use of structural engineers' services and limited standards observance on site. These lead to substandard components and elements production. It, therefore, recommends efficient regulatory policies, enforcement mechanisms, improved training and instilling ethical standards among project stakeholders.

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Keywords – Building projects, Compliance, Concreting materials, National standards, Project delivery