See discussions, stats, and author profiles for this publication at: https://www.researchgate.

net/publication/363257710

Godwin okpe technical report siwes-5

Presentation · September 2022

CITATIONS READS
0 535

2 authors:

Okpe jayjay Godwin Okpe Godwin

University of Jos University of Jos
1 PUBLICATION 0 CITATIONS 1 PUBLICATION 0 CITATIONS

SEE PROFILE SEE PROFILE

All content following this page was uploaded by Okpe Godwin on 03 September 2022.

The user has requested enhancement of the downloaded file.

 A TECHNICAL REPORT ON
STUDENT INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME (SIWES)

UNDERTAKEN AT

DEFENCE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUREAU FCT ,ABUJA.

Plot 1154/1155 Central Area Cadastral Zone A00, Federal Capital Territory
(CBD), Abuja.

BY
OKPE GODWIN
UJ/2016/EN/0233

SUBMITTED TO

THE DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING
UNIVERSITY OF JOS,JOS,PLATEAU STATE,NIGERIA.

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF

BACHELOR OF ENGINNEERING (B.Eng) DEGREE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING

OCTOBER, 2021.
 DECLARATION

I solemnly declare that this technical report is based on my own work carried out during the
course of my six months industry training with DEFENCE RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT BUREAU (DRDB) FCT, ABUJA, NIGERIA. The experience gathered /
gained during the course of this training has been duly acknowledged in this report and also that
the work contained in the report is original and has been done by me. No part of this report have
been presented in another degree or diploma at this or any other institutions.

OKPE GODWIN _______________________ ______________________

(UJ/2016/EN/0233) Signature Date

i
 CERTIFICATION
This is to certify that this report was prepared and compiled by OKPE GODWIN with the
registration number UJ/2016/EN/0233 is an undergraduate student from the Department of
CIVIL ENGINEERING, UNIVERSITY OF JOS, PLATEAU STATE for the successful
completion of my six (6) months Industrial Training undertaken at DEFENCE RESEARCH
AND DEVELOPMENT BUREAU(DRDB) FCT, ABUJA. This technical report serves as a
prerequisite requirement for the partial fulfillment for the award of Bachelor’s Degree in Civil
Engineering, University of Jos, and hereby approved for its contribution to knowledge and
literary presentation.

Engr. Dr. M. I. Alfa __________________ _______________

(Department SIWES Supervisor) Signature Date

Engr. Dr. M. I. Alfa __________________ _________________

(Department SIWES coordinator) Signature Date

Engr. Dr. T. S. Ketkukah __________________ _________________

(Head of Department) Signature Date

ii
 DEDICATION

This report is dedicated foremost to God Almighty for his favour, mercy and grace. He's
overwhelming love upon my life throughout my six (6) months of industrial training.

iii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, my deepest appreciation goes to God Almighty for his divine love, peace and
grace upon my life, for given me the strength, opportunity to complete my industrial training
successfully.

I appreciate my parents, Mr. and Mrs. Okpe Amodu James and my sister’s, aunty for their
constant prayers, help and support. I appreciate it and love you all.

I am so grateful to my godmother Mrs. Grace Ezekiel who ensured I get a placement and also
encouraged me morally and financially.

I also thank the officers, staffs and management of DEFENCE RESEARCH AND
DEVELOPMENT BUREAU(DRDB), FCT, ABUJA, NIGERIA especially Flight lieutenant
George David, Engr. Nonso Okorie, Engr. Clifford .O. Aziegbe, and the NYSC members for
their exposure, support and assistance, and a chance to prove myself. You are so wonderful and
special people, who inspire and impact jubilance into the lives of others.

I also like to specifically thank the Dean-Faculty of Engineering Prof Stephen J.Mallo, Head of
Department- Engr. Dr. T.S Ketkukah, Departmental SIWES coordinator Engr. Dr M.I Alfa and
my lecturers for the cognizance of Civil Engineering you all have impacted in me.

iv
 TABLE OF CONTENT

Declaration .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..i

Certification .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..ii

Dedication .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..iii

Acknowledgement .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. iv

Table of Content .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. v-ix

List of Plates .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. x

List of Tables .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. xi

Abstract .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. xii

CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 1

1.2 Background of SIWES -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 1-2

1.3 Bodies involved in the management of SIWES -- -- -- -- -- -- 2

1.4 Aims and objectives of SIWES -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 2-3

1.5 Importance of SIWES to Civil Engineering -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 3

1.6 Justification of choice of Industry -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 3-4

v
CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 Defence Research And Development Bureau (DRDB) -- -- -- -- -- 5

2.1 Mission -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 5

2.2 Vision -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 5

2.3 The various department in the establishment and their functions -- -- -- -- 5

2.4 Place of primary assignment -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 5

CHAPTER THREE: MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 Material -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.1 Concrete -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.2 Cement. -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.3 Water -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.4 Aggregates -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

Fine aggregate-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

Coarse aggregate -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.5 Reinforcement bar -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.6 Binding wires -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.7 Nails -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.8 Sandcrete block -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.9 Timber -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.10 Caution Tape -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.1.11 Bitumen felt -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 7

3.2 Equipment -- -- -- -- - -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

3.2.1 Trowel -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

vi
3.2.2 Spirit level -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

3.2.3 Builder’s square -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

3.3 Machineries used -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

3.3.1 Excavator -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

3.3.2 Concrete mixer -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

3.3.3 Front end loader -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

3.3.4 Poker vibrator -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 8

3.4 Structural members -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 9

3.4.1 Foundation -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 9

Pad foundation. -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 9

3.4.2 Beams -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 9

3.4.3 Columns -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10

3.4.4 Staircase -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 10

3.4.5 Slabs -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --10-11

3.4.6 Retaining wall -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 11

3.5 Non-structural members -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 11

3.5.1 Expansion joint -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --11-12

3.6 Methods and Tests -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 12

3.6.1 Slump test -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --12-13

3.6.2 Cube test -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --13-14

3.7 Quality Control of concrete -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 14

3.7.1 Batching of materials -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 14

3.7.2 concrete mix ratio -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 14

vii
3.7.3 Check for concrete cover to reinforcements -- -- -- -- -- -- 15

3.7.4 Transportation -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 15

3.7.5 Concreting -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 15

3.7.6 Compacting -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 15

3.7.7 Curing -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 15

3.8 Construction Activities -- -- -- - -- -- -- -- -- 16

3.8.1 Site Clarence -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 16

3.8.2 Setting-out -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 16

3.8.3 Excavation -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --16-17

3.8.4 Blinding -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --17-18

3.8.5 Levelling -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 18

3.8.6 Form-work -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --18-19

3.8.7 Block-work-- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 19

3.8.8 Lintel -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 20

3.8.9 Backfilling -- --- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 20

3.8.10 Placing of the DPM (Dam proof membrane) -- -- -- -- -- -- 20

3.8.11 Casting of the DPC (Dam proof course) -- -- -- -- -- --20-21

3.8.12 Lapping of Reinforcements bar -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 21

3.8.13 Cranking of reinforcements -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 21

3.8.14 Scaffold -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 21

3.8.15 Plastering -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --21-22

3.8.16 Rendering -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 22

viii
CHAPTER FOUR: RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Slump test -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 23

4.2 Cube test -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --23-25

CHAPTER FIVE: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1: Summary -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 26

5.2: Conclusion. -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 26

5.3: Recommendations -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --26-27

5.4 CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED DURING MY SIWES -- -- -- -- 27

References -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- -- 28

Appendices -- -- -- -- - -- -- -- -- -- --29-30

ix
LIST OF PLATES

Plate 3.0: Showing Pad footings reinforcement works.

Plate 3.1: Showing of different Columns sizes.

Plate 3.2 Casting of the slab

Plate 3.3: Slump test being carried out.

Plate 3.4: Concrete Cube mould.

Plate 3.5: Excavating of the column base(footings) and foundation strips.

Plate 3.6: Blinding of the column-base(footing).

Plate 3.7: Form-work for the slab and beam.

Plate3.8: Backfilling of the basement using a front end loader.

Plate 3.9: Casting of the Damp proof course (DPC).

x
LIST OF TABLES

Table 4.0 : Compressive strength test result data tested after 7 days.

Table 4.1 : Compressive strength test result data tested after 28 days.

xi
 ABSTRACT

The student industrial work Experience scheme established by the Federal Government of
Nigeria was aimed at exposing students of higher institutions to acquire industrial skills and
practical experiences in their approved courses of study and also to prepare students for the
industrial work situation which they are likely to meet after graduation. This technical report is
based on the experience gained during my six (6) months of industrial training with DEFENCE
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUREAU (DRDB) FCT, ABUJA, NIGERIA. This
report highlights how a freshly proposed ADMINISTRATIVE BUILDING was constructed,
managed, several tests carried out on concrete, materials, equipment/machineries used on site,
structural members/non structural members and construction activities. I was opportune to work
in both site and laboratory section. Both sections has exposed me to the precautions, rule and
regulations of my field and how tests are being carried out and analysed. Most importantly, it
describes the activities and my experiences gained during the period of the training. It also stated
the problems encountered.

xii
 CHAPTER ONE
1.1 INTRODUCTION

SIWES: Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme is a programme designed by many tertiary
institutions to acquaint students with the practical or field knowledge of their profession. It
enhances student’s knowledge of the past, present and the future. By the past, I mean it affords
the student an opportunity to witness practically what has been taught theoretically in the class.
And by the present, I mean distinguishing between theoretical knowledge and what is on ground
i.e. the reality of the 100% assumption by the theories. It also affords student the current
knowledge of what the field is all about, getting familiar with new development in technology.
The future aspect of it is the foreknowledge of what should be expected when he/she begins to
practice the profession. In partial fulfilment of the award of Bachelor’s Degree in engineering in
the Faculty of engineering, University of Jos. The SIWES programme is very important. It
makes engineering very real, to be precise, civil engineering. Going to the field brings to sight
those visualized beams, columns, slabs e.t.c. Furthermore, it avails the students an opportunity to
learn inter- and intra- personal relationship, office organization and administration, site
management, identification of equipment’s among other opportunities. This report entails some
of the experience I was able to acquire in my little period of attachment.

1.2 BACKGROUND OF SIWES

The programme (SIWES) came to existence through establishment of the Industrial Training
Fund (ITF) under decree 47 of 1971 in bid top boost professionalism in the construction industry.
The fund in its policy statement NO.1 published in 1973 inserted a clause dealing with the issue
of practical skill. The fund will seek to look out co-operative machinery with industry, where
students in institutions of higher learning may rewrite industrial training or mid-career
attachment by contribution to the allowance payable to the students. SIWES is therefore a skill
training programme designed to expose and prepare students of the universities, polytechnics and
colleges of education to practical work on site, this scheme is for students of engineering and
technology including environmental, technical and business studies. However, in 1979, ITF
withdrew the funding enjoyed by polytechnics and colleges of education, technical and went
ahead to notify all universities that it would withdraw the funding of SIWES as from January
1980. In view of this, the National University Commission took up the responsibility of funding

1
the programme for engineering and technology students of Nigerian Universities, while the
National Body for the Technical Education (NBTE) assumed financial responsibilities for the
programme in the polytechnics and colleges of education. The administration of the programme
was still a Herculean task and was not without a myriad of operational problem so the Federal
Government agreed on the funding of the scheme in 1985. In 1985, ITF assured the
administration of SIWES programme.

1. 3 BODIES INVOLVED IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SIWES:

The bodies involved are:

 The Federal Government.

 Industrial Training Fund(ITF).

Other supervising agents are:

 National University Commission (NUC).

 National Board for Technical Education (NBTE).
 National Council for College of Education (NCE).

The functions of the agencies above includes :

 Establish SIWES and accredit SIWES unit in the approved institutions.

 Formulate policies and guidelines for participating bodies and institutions as well as
appointing SIWES coordinates and supporting staff.
 Supervise students at their places of attachment and sign their log-book and I. T forms.
 Ensure payment of allowances for students and supervisors.
 Ensure adequate funding of the scheme.

1.4 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF SIWES:

The purpose and reason behind the establishment of SIWES by the government are numerous
and they are discussed below:

1.To allow students to apply theoretical knowledge they have gathered in the four walls of the
university to practical issues where the knowledge is highly needed.

2
2.To help students on how to interact with people of varying ranks and classes when they finally
get employed.

3.To help prepare students for future challenges and innovations in establishments.

4.To allow the students develop exceptional skills and instincts in their individual disciplines by
participating actively in the operations of their areas.

5.To increase lecturer’s efficiency. Since students are able to practice what they are taught, it
enhances quick understanding. Lecturer’s effort is therefore appreciated in this sense.

6.To help balance up in some establishments where there are shortage of workers to carry out
their operations. Students are able to render assistance most especially in labour intensive
organizations.

1.5 IMPORTANCE OF SIWES TO CIVIL ENGINEERING

1. It exposes students to more practical work methods and techniques in civil engineering.

2. It provides students in civil engineering with an opportunity to apply their theoretical

knowledge to real life situations.

3. It enables students in civil engineering to gain experience in handling equipment and

machineries.

4. It provides an environment whereby students in civil engineering can develop their creativity
and interpersonal skills through software design techniques.

5. It is one of the requirements for the award of Bachelors of Science Degree (B.Sc.) in Civil
Engineering

1.6 JUSTIFICATION OF CHOICE OF INDUSTRY

Theoretical knowledge alone would not usually prepare and prepare an educated person for the
world of work. The worker or productive individual must not only be knowledgeable but also be
versatile in the application of skills to perform defined jobs or work. Both education and training
are important; there cannot be effective education without some training input and there cannot
be effective training without some educational input. The productive individual, particularly in
this millennium, must be able to combine and utilize the outcomes from the two forms of

3
learning (Know-How Ability and Do-How Capability) for production of goods and services
which is crucial in pursuing careers in s civil engineering disciplines.

4
 CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 DEFENCE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT BUREAU (DRDB)

The Defence Research Development Bureau (DRDB) coordinates and conducts research and
development of military science and technology for the purpose of enhancing local sourcing of
material in support of military operations. It is headed by the Director General of Defence
Research Development Bureau (DG DRDB).

2.1 MISSION: To be a internationally recognized research and development centre capable of

meeting Nigeria's defence and security needs while leveraging on expertise of indigenous and
international partners.

2.2 VISION: To provide strategic direction for self-reliance in defence and security needs
through research and development.

2.3 THE VARIOUS DEPARTMENT IN THE ESTABLISHMENT AND THEIR

FUNCTIONS

1. Administrative Department: This department is responsible for providing administrative

aid in five areas of a business: information management systems, human resources,
payroll, acquisition and communication. The goal of the administration department is to
keep all departments within a business operating at maximum capacity.
2. Department of works and services (DWS): DWS departments entails the employment of
total quality management concept through planning, coordination, and supervision of
every project work. DWS is aimed at meeting a client's requirement in order to produce a
functionally and financially viable project

2.4 PLACE OF PRIMARY ASSIGNMENT

In defence research and development bureau, Nigeria. I worked in the department of works and
services as a student trainee. I worked alongside other engineers and foremen on site work.
Moreover, the department is responsible for supervising all on-site and off-site constructions to
monitor compliance with building and safety regulations, and also coordinate and direct
construction workers and subcontractors. The sector ensures quality construction standards and
the use of proper construction techniques for every given project work.
5
 CHAPTER THREE
MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 MATERIALS
3.1.1 Concrete: Concrete is a composite material composed of fine and coarse aggregate bonded
together with a fluid cement (cement paste) that hardens (cures) over time. When aggregate is
mixed with dry Portland cement and water, the mixture forms a fluid slurry that is easily poured
and moulded into shape.

3.1.2 Cements: Cement is a dry powdery substance made by calcining lime and clay, when
mixed with water to form mortar or mixed with sand, gravel and water to make concrete. It is a
binder material. Once hardened, cement delivers sufficient strength to structures.

3.1.3 Water :A clear colourless liquid, odourless and tasteless when pure, that occurs as rain,
snow and ice, forms rivers, lakes and seas, and is essential for life. Water is one of the most
important elements in construction and is required for the preparation of mortar, mixing of
cement concrete and for curing work e.t.c. The quality of water used has a direct impact on the
strength of the mortar and cement concrete in the construction work.

3.1.4 Aggregate: This consists of sand, ground crushed stone, broken blocks and similar such
materials. Aggregate may either be light or heavyweight and also all-in- aggregates. Aggregates
must be clean, structural sound, well graded and weather resistance.

There are two types of Aggregates:

 Fine Aggregate (sand) : These are any natural sand particles or any crushed rock (stone
dust).
 Coarse Aggregate: These are crush rocks used in the production of concrete, and are of
different sizes.
3.1.5 Reinforcement bar: Reinforcement is provided in concrete structures to enhance its tensile
strength. Basically reinforcement bars of different sizes were used in reinforcing the column-
base(basket), retaining wall, columns, beams and slabs e.t.c.Therefore in all structural members,
the reinforcement is provided in the region of the members that will be subjected to tension. The
diameters of reinforcement bars used were Y-8,Y-10,Y-12,Y-16 and Y-20 respectively.

6
3.1.6 Binding wires: This is a flexible steel which are used to tie reinforcement together.
Binding wire is used for binding reinforcement slabs, metal mesh processing, beams walls,
columns and so on. In particular, it is used in concrete construction. Binding wire provides a
secure hold reinforcing bars of different diameters.

3.1.7 Nails: a slender metal shaft that is pointed at one end and flattened at the other end and is
used for fastening one or more objects to each other. Nails are most commonly used in joining
pieces of wood together, but they are also used with plastic, drywall, masonry, and concrete.

3.1.8 Sandcrete blocks: Sandcrete blocks comprise of water, sand and cement. Sandcrete blocks
are the building units used in the construction of wall and partitions. Diverse sizes of sandcrete
blocks are used to construct free standing walls and building structure with load and non – load
bearing units. Sandcrete blocks can either be solid or hollow rectangular types with 450mm x
225mm × 225mm (9inches) and 450mm × 150mm x 225mm (6inches) being the most common
sizes respectively.

3.1.9 Timber: large piece of wood, usually squared, used in a building e.g. wooden form-works.
These were provided for the construction of form-works to columns, beams, slabs and retaining
wall

3.1.10 Caution Tape: This is also known as barricade tape, construction tape or barrier tape.
This is used in construction zones to notify people about ongoing construction and that there are
possible hazards within the demarcated area. Construction tape usually employs a yellow-black
colour combination and incorporates printed text, such as "Under Construction", "Caution",
"Work Zone", and "Keep Out" (among others). This type of tape is commonly found at the site
of renovations, demolition, and minor repairs.

3.1.11 Bitumen felt: Bituminous or Roofing Felt is a glass fibre or polyester fleece impregnated
with bituminous material e.g. tar or bitumen which is produced in roll form and is used as a
waterproof material. The bituminous felt was placed on the retaining wall before backfilling to
avoid the Penetration of water and it was applied with the use of burner.

7
3.2 EQUIPMENT

The following are various tools used on site.

3.2.1 Trowel: This is a flat metal blade fixed to a short handle used for the application, jointing,
smoothing, and shaping of mortar in masonry. It is also used in trimming of block/bricks. Trowel
size range from 225-350mm measuring from the blade.

3.2.2 Spirit level: This is a Hand-tools used for indicating true horizontal and vertical of a work,
by means of air bubbles sealed in a marked, liquid-filled glass tube mounted in a frame; the tube
is horizontal when the bubble is between two marks. Spirit level are of various length ranging
from about 250mm - 1.2 mm.

3.2.3 Builder’s square: this is a hand tool of a angle 90 which measures 600mm by 450mm long.
It is used for setting - out walls at right angel triangle to check for square nature of a section of
work.

3.3 MACHINERIES USED

The machineries that were used on site were brought into consideration so as to promote high
standard requirement. Machineries are used on site to eliminate heavy manual work. Such
machineries that were used include the following;

3.3.1 Excavator: Excavator is a earthmoving machine that feature a bucket, arm, rotating cab,
and movable tracks. These components provide superior digging power and mobility, allowing
this heavy equipment to perform a variety of functions, from digging trenches and breaking holes
to lifting away waste and excavating mines.

3.3.2 Concrete mixer: A concrete mixer (often mistakenly called a cement mixer) is a device
that homogeneously combines cement, aggregate such as sand or gravel, and water to form
concrete. A typical concrete mixer uses a revolving drum to mix the components.

3.3.3 Front end loader: A loader is a heavy equipment machine used in construction to move or
load materials such as soil, rock, sand, demolition debris, e.t.c.

3.3.4 Poker vibrator: This consist of a hollow steel tube causing in which is a rotating impeller
which generates vibrations as its head comes into contact with the casting. It is immersed in fresh
concrete to provide compaction through gentle agitation.

8
3.4 STRUCTURAL MEMBER

These are members that forms the skeleton system that supports the structure.

3.4.1 Foundation: A foundation is the substructure on which the whole building rests on.
Foundations are generally considered either shallow or deep and are selected prior to the
structural property of the soil.

Pad foundation: Pad foundations are common for storey buildings which are situated on
relatively good soil. The function of the pad is to spread out the point load coming from the
building over an area large enough to make the applied pressure lower than the soil’s load
bearing capacity. As a result, the size of the pad or base depends on the bearing capacity of the
soil. For good soils, the pads are always relatively small compared to those in low-bearing soils.

Plate 3.0: Showing Pad footings reinforcement works.

3.4.2 Beams: A beam is a structural element that is capable of withstanding load primarily by
resisting bending. The bending force induced into the material of the beam as a result of the
external loads, own weight, span and external reactions to these loads is called a bending
moment. Beams are characterized by their profile (shape of cross-section), their length, and their
material. Also a beam is a horizontal member of a building which receives load from the slab and
the transmitting them to the column and to the foundation. Generally, beams not exceeding 6.0m
are designed for a depth of 450mm while between 6.0m and 7.0m has a depth of 600mm i.e. the
longer the span of the beam the larger the depth of the beam.

9
3.4.3 Columns: The column is the structural member that receives load from the beams and
transfers it down to the foundation. The columns are usually compression members, but are also
subjected to bending along their axes. The primary function of a column or wall is to act as a
vertical support to suspended members and to transmit loads from these members to the
foundation below. Hence, its strength lies in the capacity of the resist compressive stress.

Plate 3.1: Showing Columns of different sizes.

3.4.4 Staircase: For a building with a suspended floor, or more, the means of moving between
floors are the stairs. A staircase is a set of steps or flight leading from one floor to another. Stairs
could be constructed by timbers, stone/concrete (reinforced).

The following are the components of typical stairs:

 The riser
 The tread
 The concrete waist
 The landing

The riser is the vertical side of a step, while the tread or going is its horizontal side. The concrete
waist is the inclined reinforced concrete slab on which the riser and tread sit.

3.4.5 Slabs: Slabs are constructed to provide flat surfaces, usually horizontal in building floors,
roofs, bridges, and other types of structures. in most cases slabs are horizontal members but they
10
can be used as vertical members such as walls to infill panels, side walls to drains and sewer e.t.c.
The slab may be supported by walls or by reinforced concrete beams usually cast monolithically
with the slab or by structural steel beams or by columns, or by the ground.

Plate 3.2: Showing Casting of slabs

3.4.6 Retaining wall: a retaining wall is a structure designed and constructed to resist lateral
pressure of soil when there is a desired change in ground elevation that exceed the angle of
repose of the soil. A basement wall is thus one kind of retaining wall, but the term usually refers
to a cantilever retaining wall, which is a free-standing structure without lateral support at its top.
These are cantilevered from a footing and rise above the grade on one side to retain a higher
level grade on the opposite side. The wall must resist the lateral pressure generated by loose soils
or in some cases water pressure.

3.5 NON-STRUCTURAL MEMBER

Non-structural member refer to everything in or on a structure other than the structural member.
Unlike structural elements, if non-structural elements fail, the structure will not collapse.

3.5.1 Expansion joint: In structure, an expansion joint is a mid-structure separation designed to

relieve stress on building materials caused by building movement. this is usually provided in

11
structures spanning over 10m and above, the material used in construction of expansion joints is
called a Polystyrene board, they are provided between two structural elements to ensure proper
separation between the two elements.

3.6 METHODS AND TESTS

3.6.1 Slump test: This is the most common, easy and simple test used to measure the
workability of fresh concrete. It is carried out to check the workability or consistency of freshly
mixed concrete in a specific batch. This test was done at construction site before the concreting
process. The use of a metal mould in the shape of a conical frustum know as a slump cone that
has an opening at both ends and has attached handles, the cone has an internal diameter of
100mm (3.9 inches) at the top and of 200mm (7.9inches) at the bottom with a height of 300mm
(12inches), a tamping rod (600mm), non-porous base plate, and a measuring tape. The slump test
was prepared according to BS EN 12350-2 (2009) with the specification ranging from 50mm-
100mm.

Procedures of slump test are as follows:

 The inner surface of the empty mould is cleaned and oil was applied.
 The mould is set on a horizontal non-porous and non-absorbent base plate.
 The mould is filled by pouring freshly mixed concrete into three equal layers.
 Each layers is tamp 25 times each with a tamping rod over the cross-section.
 After tamping 25 times the top of the layer was struck off level and the mould is lifted
slowly in the vertical direction without disturbing the concrete cone.
 A measuring tape is use to measure the different level between the height of the mould
and the concrete sample.
 The subsidence of the concrete can either be true, shear, or collapse slump and it is
measured in millimetre (mm).

12
 Plate 3.3: Slump test being carried out
3.6.2 Cube test: Test applied to the concrete, this is the utmost important which gives an idea
about all the characteristics of concrete. By this single test one judge that whether concreting has
been done properly or not. Compressive strength is the ability of material or structure to carry the
maximum loads on its surface without any crack or deflection. Under compression test a material
tends to reduce the size, while in tension, size elongates. The formula for compressive strength is:

Compressive Strength = Load / Cross-sectional Area

For cube test two types of specimens either 15cm X 15cm X 15cm or 10cm X 10cm X 10cm
depending upon the size of aggregate are used. For most of the works cubical moulds of size
15cm X 15cm X 15cm are commonly used. Three cubes are taken from each sample of concrete.
This concrete is poured on the mould and tempered properly so as not to have any voids. After
24hours, these moulds are removed and test specimens are put in water for curing. The top
Surface of these specimen should be made even and smooth. This is done by putting cement
paste and spreading smoothly on whole area of specimen. These specimens are tested by
compression testing machine after 7days curing and 28days curing

Procedure for concrete cube test are:

 The specimens was removed from the water after 7days and 28days curing,excess water
wiped out from the surface.
 After the specimen was removed from water and excess water wiped out from the surface,
it was weigh using a weighing balance machine and recorded.
 Bearing surface of the testing machine was cleaned and specimen placed in the machine
in such a manner that the load will be applied to the opposite sides of the cube cast.

13
  With the specimen aligned centrally on the base plate of the machine, the movable
portion was rotated gently by hand so that it touches the top surface of the specimen.
 Load was applied gradually without shock and continuously till the specimen failed.
 Maximum load applied was recorded.

This same process was repeated for the other cast cubes (specimen) and their corresponding
loads recorded.

Plate 3.4: Concrete Cube mould.

3.7 QUALITY CONTROL OF CONCRETE

3.7.1 Batching of materials: The method of estimating or measuring of the various materials
used in concrete mix is known as batch. Before making a concrete mixture, the concrete material
must be properly and accurately batched to achieve the excellent quality of the concrete. While
on site the method used for batching was volume, volume involves the use of head pans and
buckets where used to measure fine aggregate and coarse aggregate. The mix ratio was 1:2:4 that
is the ratio of cement to fine aggregate and coarse aggregate and water in the required proportion.

3.7.2 Concrete mix ratio. : Concrete mix ratios are the proportions of concrete components such
as cement, sand, aggregates and water. These mix ratios are decided based on type of
construction and mix designs. Mixing water with the cement, fine aggregate and coarse
14
aggregate will form a paste that will bind the materials together until the mix hardens. The
strength properties of the concrete are inversely proportional to the water cement ratio. Basically
that means the more water used to mix the concrete, the weaker the concrete mix. The grade of
concrete used was M25.

3.7.3 Check for concrete cover to reinforcements: Concrete cover, in reinforced concrete, is
the least distance between the surface of embedded reinforcement and the outer surface of the
concrete. Concrete cover protects the reinforcement from corrosion, insulates the steel from
extreme heat such as fire, and it ensures the reinforcement can be actively engaged without
slipping when loaded. The sizes of concrete covers vary prior to the elements in which it is
provided for, they are checked and provided in to reinforcement before casting or placement of
concrete takes place.

3.7.4 Transportation: This involves the means of conveying materials, concrete from one
place to the other on site. In the case of concrete, concrete where conveyed from the point of
mixing to the point of placement. The choice of transportation depends on the size and
complexity of the site, weather condition and the height of the placement of the concrete. The
mode of transportation used was the manual method with the use of head pans and labours. A
Manson’s ladder was made of timber that was constructed to enhance vertical/inclined
movements.

3.7.5 Concreting: This so generally referred to as casting. It is process of working with freshly
mixed concrete especially the placing of concrete.

3.7.6 Compacting: The compacting of freshly placed concrete is to make is a unit mass by
eliminating voids within it. The method and the type of compacting given to concrete depends on
the nature of work. Compacting of a concrete can either be done by the use of a wooden stick or
a poker vibrator. The use of both methods were used for compacting of concrete.

3.7.7 Curing: After the placing and compacting of the concrete it is allowed to sufficiently
harden for a day than the curing process comes in which involves the prevention of the
evaporation of moisture in the concrete. The concrete was watered for days with the use of a
hose pipe connected to a bore hole. This was done to avoid shrinkage of the concrete and cause a
more permanent and durable material produced.

15
3.8 CONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES

3.8.1 Site Clearance: The very first step is site clearance which involves removal of grass and
vegetation along with any other objections which might be there in the site, site clearance can
either be done manually or mechanically.

3.8.2 Setting-out: The process of laying down the excavation line and centre line on the ground
based on the foundation plan is known as setting-out. Before commencing the excavation process,
once the design of the foundation is completed, a setting out plan or foundation layout is
prepared for a suitable scale and the plan is dimensioned according.

Procedures in setting out of a foundation are:

 The initial step is to mark the corners of the building. After which the lengths of the side
are checked by diagonal measurement.
 The centre lines of the trenches are marked with the help of profile, nails, lines and pegs.
 The trenches positioning is controlled by outline profile boards. Profiles are set 2m away
from the outline so that they do not interrupt the excavation process.
 The cross walls positioning is performed by measuring along the main walls and squared.

3.8.3 Excavation: Excavation work generally means work involving the removal of soil or rock
from a site to form an open face, hole or cavity, using tools, machinery or explosives. Excavation
was carried out both manually as well as mechanically.

16
 Plate 3.5: Excavating of the column base(footings) and foundation strips.

3.8.4 Blinding: These was actually done before the placement of the footing baskets, usually
2inches(50mm) of weak concrete was poured into the column-base, which was the thickness or
depth. Mostly concrete is used, this is just the mixture of cement, fine aggregate and coarse
aggregate and water in the required proportion. Blinding prevents the base reinforcements not to
come in contact with the ground surface. There is a tendency that when the reinforcement bars
come in contact with the ground surface it easily weaken the reinforcement due to capillary
action. The concrete was well tampered using a wooden range and a plumb was also used to
check if the surface is levelled.

17
 Plate 3.6: Blinding of the column-base(footing).

3.8.5 Levelling: Levelling is a process of determining the height of one level relative to another.
These has to deal with the transfer of horizontal height or horizontal line of sight. These was
done by the use of a levelling instrument which is called DUMPY LEVEL and a LEVELLING
STAFF and a TRIPOD STAND. Mostly used in determining heights of columns, ground
beams, retaining wall before casting takes place and also cut and back filling of lateral.

3.8.6 Form-work: This is a temporary or permanent mould erected to contain concrete during
placing and initial hardening it is used to give temporary support for in-situ concrete while it
hardens. The inside of a form-work are thoroughly clean and a release agent (lubricant) was
placed on the surface of the form-work before fixing.Before the fixing of the form-work,
concrete biscuit are tied to multiple places of the reinforcement bars so that the reinforcement
can flush uniformly to create a concrete cover after casting. Materials used for form-work are
marine board and steel panels.

18
 Plate 3.7: Form-work for the slab and beam.

3.8.7 Block-work: This is the process of laying concrete masonry units to form either external
walls as in-fills or lock wall which are load-bearing or non- load bearing or internal walls as
partitions. These masonry units are commonly hollow sand-crete blocks which are much
economical per unit of wall area. The standard sand-crete block wall is explained below;

Sequence of laying of sand-crete block wall:

•A bed of mortar is spread on the footing/floor.

•The first course of blocks for a lead is laid on the mortar. The mortar for the head joint is
applied to the end of each block with the trowel before the block is laid.

•The lead is built higher. Mortar is normally applied only to the face shells of the block and not
to the webs.

•As each new course is started on the lead, its height is checked with either a folding rule or a
story pole marked with the height of each course.

•A line is stretched between the lead*s on line blocks.

•The course between the leads are laid rapidly by aligning each block with the stretched line.

•The last block to be installed in each course of infill blocks, the closer must be inserted between
blocks that have already been laid then the block is lowered carefully into position.

19
3.8.8 Lintel: This is a structural element usually horizontal that spans the space or opening
between two vertical supports. It is used to support and transmit the load above the opening to
the sides. Lintels are usually placed above doors and windows openings. On site in-situ lintels
were used. A marine board is used for the form-work and was casted on site. The lintel generally
ends into the masonry wall so as to convey the weight carried by them to the masonry walls and
its width is same to the wall width. It can also be used as decorative architecture element.

3.8.9 Backfilling: Backfilling is the process of reusing or replacing the soil that is removed
during the excavation of foundations or other groundworks to support and strengthen a structure.
It protects foundations and forms part of the substructure of slabs, roadways, walkways and
other groundwork elements.

Plate3.8: Backfilling of the basement using a front end loader.

3.8.10 Placing of DPM (Damp proof membrane): A DPM (damp proof membrane) is a plastic
sheet membrane that sits between a concrete slab or screed, and acts as a barrier to stop moisture
and contaminants entering a building from the ground. DPM membranes are laid either under a
new concrete slab or on top of it to prevent moisture transmission. Ordinarily you will have a
bird of hard core on the ground then either a blinded surface and a DPM before a layer of
concrete, or placed the DPM on top of the concrete slab before final flooring.

3.8.11 Casting of the DPC (Damp proof course): This is a type of moisture control applied to
building walls and floors to prevent moisture from passing into the interior spaces due capillary
action.
20
 Plate 3.9: Casting of the Damp proof course (DPC)

3.8.12 Lapping of Reinforcement bars: This is the overlapping of two bars side by side to up
to the design length. Usually, the stock length of steel bars is limited to 12m. This is for easy
transportation of steel bars to the construction site. This amount of overlapping between two bars
is called “lap length”. Lapping is usually done where minimum bending stress is encountered. In
general, lap length is 50d which means 50 times the bar diameter, if both bars are of same
diameter.

3.8.13 Cranking of reinforcements: This is mostly carried out in order to ensure that column
reinforcements or reinforcements bars that are out of position are being brought back to position
to ensure adequate concrete cover.

3.8.14 Scaffold: A Scaffold is a temporary framework used to support people and material in the
construction or repair of buildings and other large structures. It is usually a modular system of
metal pipes, although it can be made out of other materials. The purpose of a working scaffold is
to provide a safe place of work with safe access suitable for the work being done. All scaffolds
must be equipped with a toe board to eliminate the possibility that tools or debris will be kicked
or pushed onto people below. A scaffold must be designed to support four times the weight of
the workers and the materials resting on it.

3.8.15 Plastering : This is the application of a building material called plaster on a wall for
protection and decoration. Plasterer is referred to as the type of aggregate when mixed with

21
cement and water is used to spread over coarse textured walls and ceiling surface to provide a
smooth level finish plaster basically is a mixture of cement and very fine aggregate (soft sand).

3.8.16 Rendering : This is a term used for plastering done on the external or outer part of the
building. It mix ratio is slightly differs from plastering due to its functional requirement.
Although mix ratio 1:3 can be used, most times mix ratio 1:4 (i.e 1 part cement and 4 part sand)
are used for more strength. Rendering serves as a protection from weather condition.

22
 CHAPTER FOUR

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

4.1 SLUMP TEST:

This was carried out to check if the freshly mixed concrete is workable or not. Three batches of
concrete slump tests was carried out on a freshly mixed concrete and each batch having three
samples tested and their average slumps recorded. Grade of concrete used was G25 (C25N/mm2)
with a mix ratio of 1:2:4.the first batch gave an average slump value of 76mm, the second batch
gave an average slump value of 72mm and the third batch gave the average slump value of
80mm. According to the slump specification which ranges from 70mm-100mm, the slump of all
the samples was workable and okay to use.

4.2 CUBE TEST:

The curing method being employed was through immersion and concrete grade C25 (25N/mm2)
used and the mix design is 1:2:4.

Calculation;

Compressive strength of concrete = Load / Cross-sectional Area

Size of the cube mould = 15cm X 15cm X 15cm
Area of the specimen (L X B X H) =3375cm² or(3375000mm²)

For example;

To get Characteristic compressive strength at 7 days.

Length X breath X height (l X b X h) = 3375cm²

To get the unit weight of the cube

Unit weight = Mass/Volume ;Assuming the mass = 8232kg

Volume of the cube (L X B X H) =3375cm²

Unit weight= 8232/3375 =2.44kg/dm³ ,To get the strength of the cube;

Strength = force/surface area

Surface area = L X B = 225cm²

440/22.5 = 19.50N/mm²

23
Similar calculation is done for 28 days compressive strength.

Table 4.0: Compressive strength test result data tested after 7 day

7 DAYS TESTS (date of testing 14/06/2021)

Test cube no 1659 1661 1663 Average

Weight of cube(kg) 8232 8134 8248

Unit weight in (kg/dm²) 2.44 2.41 2.44

Crushed at (KN) 440 430 420

Dimensions of cube: a/b/h
(mm)
Strength (N/mm²) 19.5 19.1 18.8 19.13

Average cube strength = (19.5 + 19.1 + 18.8) = 19.13N/mm²

¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯3¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

Table 4.1 :Compressive strength test result data tested after 28 days

28 DAYS TESTS (date of testing 14/06/2021)

Test cube no 1660 1662 1664 Average

Weight of cube(kg) 8262 8632 8434

Unit weight in (kg/dm²) 2.48 2.48 2.47

Crushed at (KN) 530 620 590

Dimensions of cube: a/b/h
(mm)
Strength (N/mm2) 23.56 27.56 26.22 25.78

Average cube strength=(23.56 + 27.56 + 26.22) = 25.78N/mm²

¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯3¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯¯

24
Concrete gains 65% of its strength after 7days and 99% of it strength after 28 days of casting and
proper curing. Therefore, the expected minimum strength of C25 grade of concrete after 7 days
is 16.25N/mm² and at 28 days is 25N/mm². Since the average compressive strengths (cube
strength) from the tested batches are well above this minimum (i.e. 19.3 >16.25 at 7 days and
25.78>25), the batching is accepted and is safe to use.

25
 CHAPTER FIVE

CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

5. 1 SUMMARY

The industrial training enlightened me on practical and field aspects of engineering. During the
training, I also came across people from different tribes and different parts of the world thereby
improving my human relations.

5. 2 CONCLUSION

The industrial training over years has been found to be effective and efficient in closing the gap
between the scientific study and practical study. The Student Industrial Work Experience
Scheme (SIWES) has exposed me to practical works but also has opened me up in the way to
interact with senior colleagues in the field, which has exposed me to industry based skills
necessary for a smooth transition from the classroom to real-time practice of the profession.
training has exposed me to the following important spheres of development:

1. How to deal and interact with other fellow engineers in the field of civil engineering.

2. Finding that team work is the most important element in every successful project.

3. Learn that the civil engineer is capable of a lot of work such as supervision, implementation,
the calculation of quantities and design of structures. Also, an engineer can work as a consultant
or contractor.

4. How to control and manage the site and how to behave when there is a problem by taking a
professional decision.

5. Plan must be clear and easy to read for those who will use it.

5. 3 RECOMMENDATIONS

In view of the relevance of the SIWES program, it is important that it is sustained by the
government through the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) as it exposes the student to work tools,
facilities, and equipment that may not be available in their respective institutions in relation to
their course of study. To this end, I recommend that the following under-listed points should be
implemented:

26
i. Students’ Industrial Works Experience Scheme (SIWES) needs to be strengthened by all
concerned stakeholder in order for its objectives to be fully realized.

ii. Regular monthly allowances for students on attachment should be paid promptly.

iii. Organizations should always accept students for SIWES and subsequently assign them to
relevant jobs.

iv. Experience staff should always be made to train the students on attachment

v. There should be more funding of the scheme by the government in order for it to be more
effective.

vi. The companies should put in place all the necessary facilities needed to enhance the
knowledge of the student in industrial attachment.

vii. It will be of great benefit if the institution can create a platform whereby student can obtain
PRE-SIWES knowledge or excursion programs, before student embark for general 6 months
industrial training programme.

5.4 CHALLENGES ENCOUNTERED DURING MY SIWES

1. The industrial training fund (ITF) delay of payment to SIWES students reduce the level of
seriousness which students put into the scheme.

2. Many students were not given remuneration or allowance. Prior to that, some were faced with
difficulty in getting placements.

3. During my first few weeks, I had difficulties understanding a lot of the terms and
terminologies that was used at the office because a lot of them were very new to me. This made
it hard for me to follow the procedures.

4. I wasn't able to visit other on-going projects by DEFENCE RESEARCH AND

DEVELOPMENT BUREAU NIGERIA hence, no experience was gained in regard to their
operations.

5. Inadequate equipment to carry out some tests in the quality control section limited my
experience concerning test for re-bar.

27
 REFERENCES

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

Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria.

Wikipedia (11/03/2016) Civil Engineering. Accessed 14/03/2016.

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

8110. (1985). London: BSI. Loading for buildings. (1997). London: British Standards Institution.

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

Council of Registered Engineers of Nigeria.

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

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

Practitioners.

Ekwue, K.C. & Eluro, D.C. (2002). Business Education for industry. The SIWES

Experience. Business Education Journal, 11(5), 9-14.

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

28
APPENDIX

29
View publication stats

30