Building Collapse in Nigeria: General recommendations by Nigeria Institution of Structural Engineers (NIStructE)

The incessant building collapse in Nigeria is a worrisome occurrence and this has brought much loss to lives, properties and economy. The professional body saddled with the responsibility for structural engineering practice in Nigeria, NIStructE provided and constantly re-echo the following guidelines to ensure that building structures built in Nigeria are safe. These include:

Choice of Site

1. Avoid building in a low lying, flood prone swampy or peaty sites.
2. If you must build on such site, seek the advice of a structural engineer.

Planning and Design

1. Use the services of registered and certified structural engineers. Do not use quacks. Confirm that the structural engineer is registered with NIStructE and Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).
2. The structural engineer usually asks for subsoil conditions before his design. Take this seriously and ensure it is provided through the services of a geotechnical engineer.
3. Be sincere with the intended use of the building. Do not alter the intended use of the building after construction and add additional floors without consulting the structural engineer. Additional floors bring additional loads and can lead the foundation to fail if the load goes beyond its capacity.
4. Be adequately advised about the estimated cost of the building before embarking on the construction. Phase out the construction as necessary based on your financial capability. Do not cut corners.
5. Beware of some unqualified approval authority staff who claim to be able to design and obtain approval for your building construction.
6. Ensure that the building is adequately drained and surface water is not made to run towards the building.

Choice of Building Contractor

1. The choice of building contractor must be devoid of sentiments.
2. Let the structural engineer assist you in assessing the competence of the construction team.
3. If you have to manage your construction by yourself, let the structural engineer be your guide.
4. The cheapest construction bid may not necessarily be the best. Be guided.

During Construction

1. Let the structural designer of the building supervise its construction.
2. Do not rush to complete the work by not allowing the concrete to attain the required strength before building on it or striking formwork.
3. Avoid concreting at night or during rain.

Together we can make our buildings and our environment safe. Let’s share this to potential clients.