Structural failures of reinforced concrete buildings: a case of multi-storey buildings in Dar es Salaam region
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Date
2017
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This research investigated causes of three structural failures cases of multi-storey reinforced concrete buildings in Dar es Salaam region. The research examined causes of structural cracks at the four-storey building, causes of collapse of sixteen-storey building, and causes of disapproval and demolition of another sixteen-storey. The research investigated whether inadequate structural design, construction supervision, or use of substandard buildings materials contributed to failures. Data in this study were collected from both primary and secondary sources. The researcher collected data from primary sources by the means of interviews with municipal buildings inspectors on causes of collapse and condemnation of the buildings. The secondary data were collected by means of documentary review of the investigation report on structural integrity of the cracked four-storey reinforced concrete building. The collected data were analysed by content analysis method. Results showed that inadequate structural design, supervision and use of substandard building materials contributed to structural failures of multi-storey buildings. It is recommended that, the structural design for buildings to be independently verified for accuracy and completeness by competent structural engineers (peer review) apart from designers. Also the Government agencies in charge of housing development and control should employ strict supervision of construction activities to ensure compliance. In addition the government agencies responsible for controlling quality of construction materials should conduct the intensified regular audits at construction sites. Moreover the government should strengthen proper training to building professionals.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library, Class mark (THS EAF TA656.T34M34)
Keywords
Structural failures, Buildings, reinfornced construction, Reinforced concrete construction, Tall buildings, Tanzania, Dar es Salaam region
Citation
Malalo, M. G. (2017) Structural failures of reinforced concrete buildings: a case of multi-storey buildings in Dar es Salaam region, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam.