Materials wastage on construction sites in Lagos Nigeria

Abstract

The construction sector has been one of the most active sectors of the Nigerian economy lately. Construction materials costs are going through a period of price increase for almost all variety of construction materials. This study aimed at identifying the main sources and causes of materials waste on construction sites arising from storage and handling of high waste generating building materials; and magnitude of wastage of construction materials on construction projects sites in Lagos state, Nigeria, with a view to maximizing profit in the construction sector. One hundred and fifty (150) questionnaires were distributed to participants (clients, contractors, and consultants) in the construction industry. The study revealed that materials storage and handling, operational factors, design and documentation factors and procurement factors are the main sources of waste on building construction sites. The findings also revealed that the most important causes of wastage of materials on construction sites are frequent design and client’s changes; rework due to workers mistakes; poor contract documents; wrong and lack of storage of materials; poor strategy for waste minimization; shortage and lack of experience of skilled workers; poor site conditions; damage during transportation; theft and vandalism; and mistakes in quantity surveying and over allowance. The study concluded that the percentage of wastage materials is accounted for by values between 18% and 25% on Lagos construction sites. It was recommended that designers should coordinate dimensions between materials specified during design and those procured for use at sites. Employment of skilled experienced labour and supervisor and implementing training programs for the jobs should be done