Organized By Asemamaw D.

December 16, 2024

§ Contents
§

§
 5.1. Introduction
§ Formwork and scaffolding are two essential temporary structures used in the
construction industry to ensure the safety and efficiency of building projects.

§ Formwork and scaffolding are indispensable in construction, ensuring structural

integrity, worker safety, and efficiency.
 5.2. Formwork

§ Formwork is a temporary structure used to contain and support fresh concrete until it
hardens and achieves its desired shape.
§ It acts as a mold that defines the shape, size, and surface finish of concrete elements like
beams, columns, slabs, and walls
§ It serves as a crucial component in shaping and securing concrete during construction,
ensuring the final structural element meets the desired specifications.
 5.2.1. Requirements of good formwork
1. Ease of Assembly and Dismantling: The formwork system should be easy to assemble
and disassemble, reducing labor costs and construction time.
2. Reusability: The formwork should be designed for multiple uses, minimizing material
waste and reducing the overall cost of the project.
3. Surface Finish: The formwork should provide a smooth surface to the concrete,
reducing the need for additional finishing work.
4. Accuracy: The formwork must be accurately positioned to ensure the correct shape and
dimensions of the concrete element.
5. Safety: The formwork system should be designed to be safe for workers to erect, use,
and dismantle
6. Strength and Rigidity: The formwork must be strong enough to withstand the weight
of fresh concrete, along with any additional loads like wind, rain, or construction
equipment. It should also be rigid to maintain its shape and prevent deformation.
7. Watertightness: Joints between formwork panels must be tight to prevent leakage of
cement grout, which can affect the concrete's quality and appearance.
8. Cost-Effective: The formwork system should be cost-effective, considering the initial
cost of materials, labor, and maintenance, as well as the long-term benefits of reusability.
9. Material Efficiency: The formwork system should minimize material waste and
optimize material usage.
 5.2.2. Materials for formwork
The materials for formwork include
1. Timber: Cost-effective, flexible, and easy to shape but has limited reuse.
2. Steel: Durable, reusable, and suitable for complex or repetitive designs.
3. Plywood: Common for smooth finishes and curved surfaces.
4. Aluminum/Plastic: Lightweight and easy to handle.
A. Timber formwork
§ Widely used due to its versatility and cost-effectiveness.
§ Requires proper treatment to prevent decay and insect infestation.
§ Can be reused multiple times if maintained well.
Disadvantages:
§ Limited reusability.
§ Susceptible to warping and decay when exposed to moisture.
Applications
§ Ideal for one-off structures or projects requiring flexibility
B. Plywood
§ Often used in conjunction with timber to provide a smooth surface finish.
§ Durable and lightweight, making it easy to handle and install
§ Smooth surface for better concrete finishes.
§ Flexible for curved or custom shapes.

§ Moderate reusability depending on quality.

§ Degrades when exposed to moisture for extended periods.
: Used in walls, slabs, and columns for improved finishes.
C. Steel
§ Strong and durable, suitable for large-scale and complex structures.
§ Reusable, making it cost-effective in the long run.
§ Requires heavy machinery for handling and installation.
§ High strength and durability; suitable for heavy loads.
§ Reusable for a large number of cycles.
§ Provides a smooth finish to concrete surfaces.
§
§ Heavy and requires lifting equipment for installation.
§ High initial cost compared to timber or plywood.
Repeated use in large-scale projects like bridges and dams
D. Aluminum Formwork
§ Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, making it easy to handle and assemble.
§ Often used for intricate designs and curved surfaces.
§ More expensive than timber or steel.
§ Corrosion-resistant and durable.
§ Easy to handle due to low weight.
§ Highly reusable, reducing long-term costs
Disadvantages:
§ Higher cost than timber or plywood.
§ Limited to standard designs, less flexible for customization.
§ Applications: High-rise buildings and housing developments.
E. Plastic
§ Versatile and resistant to weather and chemicals.
§ Often used for precast concrete elements and specialized applications.
§ Lightweight and easy to clean.
§ High resistance to water and corrosion.
§ Reusable for multiple cycles, depending on quality.
Disadvantages:
§ More expensive than traditional materials.
§ Limited load-bearing capacity compared to steel.
Applications: Suitable for repetitive projects like housing units.
F. Fiber-Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Formwork
§ Advanced composite material made from fibers and resin.
§ Extremely lightweight and durable.
§ Resistant to corrosion and environmental factors.
§ Can be custom-molded for unique shapes
Disadvantages:
§ High production cost.
§ Not widely used due to its specialized nature.
§ Compared to steel or aluminum, FRP has lower load-bearing capacity
§ Installation and handling of FRP formwork require skilled workers
Applications: Infrastructure projects, marine environments.
 Types of Formwork Based on the Structure
§ Formwork systems are categorized based on the structural element they support
I.
§ Used to support and mold flat concrete slabs like floors and roofs.
Components
• Decking sheets or plywood for the slab surface.
• Props, jacks, or scaffolding to hold the deck.
II.
§ Designed to shape and support beams of various sizes and cross-sections.
Components
§ Side planks (sides of the beam).
§ Bottom planks (soffit or underside of the beam).
§ Props or struts for support.

Application: Used in constructing horizontal structural

members like beams in buildings or bridges.
III.
§ Specialized formwork for casting vertical structures such as columns.
Components
§ Vertical panels or boxes.
§ Clamps and ties to hold the formwork in place
IV.
§ Used to support the weight of fresh concrete poured for walls.
Components
§ Vertical Panels: These define the wall's height and thickness.
§ Horizontal Ties: These hold the vertical panels in place.
V.
§ Pad formwork is a type of formwork used to create concrete pads or footings
VI.
§ Stair formwork is a specialized type of formwork used to construct concrete stairs.
§ It's a complex system that requires careful planning and execution to ensure the accurate
shape and size of the stairs.
5.2.3. Requirement for Good formwork
A good formwork should satisfy the followings requirements:
§ The material of the formwork should be cheap and it should be suitable for reuse several
times.
§ The form should be practically waterproof so that it does not leak and absorb water from
concrete.
§ Its shrinkage and swelling should be minimal.
§ It should easily carry the load of concrete and live load of pouring, vibration, compaction,
and curing.
§ It should have enough stiffness and rigidity so that deflection is minimum.
§ As soon as possible it should be light in weight, smooth and should be easily stoppable.
§ All the joints in formwork should be leakproof.
§ The formwork should rest on non-movable supports.
 5.2.4. Factors Affecting Selection of formwork
Type of Structure: Determines the size, shape, and material requirements for the formwork to fit specific
designs.
Material of Formwork: Affects strength, durability, reusability, and surface finish of the concrete structure.
Cost and Budget: Balances initial investment, labor, and reuse potential to meet financial constraints.
Load-Bearing Capacity: Ensures the formwork can safely withstand wet concrete, workers, and equipment.
Surface Finish: Guides material choice based on the desired smoothness or texture of the concrete.
Construction Speed: Prefabricated systems like aluminum or plastic allow faster assembly and disassembly.
Reusability: Impacts long-term cost efficiency, favoring durable materials for repetitive use.
Availability of Materials and Labor: Local resources and skilled labor influence the choice of formwork systems.
Environmental Conditions: Requires material resistance to moisture, corrosion, or extreme temperatures.
Safety Considerations: Ensures structural stability and prevents accidents during construction.
Flexibility in Design: Custom or modular formwork is essential for unique or complex architectural shapes.
 5.2.5. Procedures in Construction of formwork

i. Plan the Formwork Design: Determine structure requirements and choose materials.
ii. Prepare the Site: Clear and level the area for stable ground support.
iii. Assemble Formwork Panels: Fabricate panels to fit design specifications.
iv. Apply Release Agent: Coat inner surfaces for easy removal of formwork.
v. Erect the Formwork: Position panels using props and align correctly.
vi. Provide Bracing and Supports: Add stabilizers to resist pressure and movement.
vii. Inspect and Verify: Ensure alignment and stability before pouring concrete.
viii.Pour Concrete: Gradually fill the formwork and compact properly.
ix. Allow Concrete to Cure: Let the concrete set and gain strength.
x. Remove the Formwork: Carefully dismantle without damaging the structure.
xi. Clean and Store Formwork: Clean reusable parts and store for future use.
 5.2.6. Formwork Striking (Removing)
§ Formwork Striking refers to the process of removing formwork after the concrete has
gained sufficient strength to support its own weight and any applied loads.

Here below minimum periods for Formwork Stripping as per Building and Transport Construction Design
Authority (BATCODA), 1991
Formwork Type Typical Striking Time

Vertical formwork to columns, walls & beams 16 hours after concrete pouring.

Soffit Formwork to slabs 21days hours after concrete pouring

Props to slabs 14 days hours after concrete pouring

Soffit Formwork for beams 21 dayshours after concrete pouring

Props to Beams 14days hours after concrete pouring

 5.2.7. Formwork Releasing Agent
§ Formwork Releasing Agent is a substance applied to the surfaces of formwork to prevent
the freshly poured concrete from sticking to the formwork.
§ This ensures that the formwork can be removed easily once the concrete has hardened,
leaving a smooth, clean surface on the concrete structure without damage.
Purpose of Formwork Releasing Agent
1. Facilitates Easy Removal: It ensures that the formwork can be removed without damaging
the concrete surface.
2. Improves Surface Finish: Helps achieve a smooth and aesthetically pleasing concrete
surface.
3. Prevents Bonding: Stops the concrete from adhering to the formwork, preventing surface
defects.
4. Protects the Formwork: Helps reduce wear and tear on reusable formwork components,
prolonging their lifespan.
Types of Formwork Releasing Agents:
1. Oil-based Agents: These are commonly used and work by creating a thin, oily film
between the formwork and the concrete. Example: Mineral oils, vegetable oils.
2. Water-based Agents: These are environmentally friendly alternatives that use water as a
solvent. Example: Soap-based or emulsified releasing agents.
3. Chemical-based Agents: These include synthetic compounds that are specifically
designed to work with different types of formwork and concrete.
Example: Silicone-based agents, fatty acid derivatives.
Application Method of Formwork releasing Agents:
Spraying: The most common method, using either a manual spray or a mechanical sprayer to
apply the agent evenly.
Brushing or Rolling: Used for smaller or detailed formwork areas.
 5.2.7. Formwork Design Principles
§ Formwork Design Principles are guidelines that ensure formwork systems are safe, efficient,
and cost-effective.
1. Safety: Ensure the formwork is structurally stable and safe for workers.
2. Efficiency in Construction: Design for quick assembly, dismantling, and reusability.
3. Material Selection: Choose durable, lightweight materials compatible with concrete.
4. Flexibility and Adaptability: Use modular or adjustable systems to accommodate different designs.
5. Quality of Finish: Ensure the formwork produces a smooth, defect-free concrete surface.
6. Load-Bearing Capacity: Design formwork to withstand both concrete and live loads.
7. Cost-Effectiveness: Balance material and labor costs while ensuring durability.
8. Curing and Concrete Protection: Ensure proper curing and use of release agents for easy removal.
9. Environmental Conditions: Design formwork to withstand weather impacts and promote sustainability.
10. Compliance with Standards: Adhere to local building codes and construction regulations.
 5.2.7. Causes of Formwork Failures
Here are the Causes of Formwork Failures:
1. Improper Design: Incorrect formwork design leads to instability and inadequate load-bearing capacity.
2. Poor Material Selection: Using substandard or inappropriate materials for formwork can cause
deformation or collapse.
3. Inadequate Shoring and Bracing: Lack of proper support to resist concrete weight and external forces
can lead to failure.
4. Overloading: Exceeding the formwork's weight-bearing capacity with excessive concrete or equipment.
5. Inaccurate Formwork Installation: Incorrect alignment or spacing of formwork components leads to
failure.
6. Failure to Check Concrete Strength: Striking formwork too early before concrete achieves sufficient
strength can cause damage.
7. Improper Curing: Not allowing concrete to cure properly may weaken the structure, leading to formwork
collapse.
8. Excessive Vibration: Over-vibrating concrete can cause the formwork to shift or deform.
9. Environmental Factors: Extreme weather conditions like heavy rain, heat, or wind can destabilize the
formwork.
10. Poor Maintenance of Formwork: Worn-out or damaged formwork components increase the risk of failure.
 5.3. Scaffoldings
§ Scaffolding is a temporary structure used in construction, maintenance, or repair work
that provides support and access to workers and materials.
§ It enables workers to safely reach heights or difficult areas of a building or structure.
§ Scaffolding is commonly made of materials such as steel, aluminum, or wood, and can
vary in design based on the nature of the work being done.
 5.3.1 functional requirments of Scaffoldings
i. Safety: Provide secure access for workers, including guardrails and secure platforms to prevent
falls.
ii. Load-Bearing Capacity: Designed to support the expected weight of workers, tools, and
materials without failure.
iii. Access and Mobility: Allow easy access and movement for workers, ensuring they can reach
different heights safely.
iv. Adaptability: Should be flexible to accommodate different building shapes, heights, and types of
work.
v. Durability: Made of materials that can withstand environmental factors like weather and wear
over time.
vi. Ease of Assembly and Dismantling: Components should be easy to assemble, adjust, and
remove to save time during setup and takedown.
vii. Compliance with Standards: Must adhere to local building codes, safety regulations, and
construction standards.
viii.Height Adjustment: Should allow adjustment to varying heights to provide workers with safe
working platforms.
ix. Secure Support: Needs a reliable base or anchor system to ensure the scaffold remains firmly in
 5.3.2 Key Components Scaffoldings
The following are main components of Scafolding
Standards: Vertical posts that support the entire
scaffold.
Ledgers: Horizontal members that connect the
standards.
Transoms: Beams that support the working platform.
Planks: The platform that workers stand on, usually
made from wood or metal.
 5.3.3 Benefits Scaffoldings

The Benfits of Scaffolding are

Safety: Provides a secure platform for workers at height, reducing the risk of falls.
Accessibility: Allows workers to easily reach high or hard-to-access parts of buildings.
Efficiency: Speeds up construction or repair work by providing easy access and a safe working.
 5.3.4 Types of Scaffoldings
Based on Material
1. Steel Scaffolding:
§ Steel scaffolding is a versatile and durable
solution for a variety of construction and
maintenance projects.
§ it is Reusable, can be disassembled and
reassembled multiple times, reducing waste and
saving costs
§ Over time, steel scaffolding can be more cost-
effective than other materials due to its durability
and reusability.
 5.3.4 Types of Scaffoldings
2. Aluminum Scaffolding:
§ Lightweight and corrosion-resistant.
§ Often used in indoor applications and where portability is essential.
3. Wooden Scaffolding:
§ Traditional method, often used in smaller-scale projects.
§ Requires regular maintenance to prevent decay and insect infestation
 5.3.4 Types of Scaffoldings
Based on Construction Design
1. Single Scaffolding
§ also known as bricklayers’ scaffolding, is a simple type of scaffolding used primarily for brick
masonry construction.
§ It is erected parallel to the wall at a distance of about 1.2 meters and provides a working platform
for masons during construction or repair work.
§ Erected only on one side of the wall.
§ Relatively simple and quick to set up.
§ Suitable for heights up to limited levels, typically used in smaller projects
§ Not suitable for very tall buildings.
§ Relies on the wall for support, making it unsuitable for weak or incomplete structures
2. Double scaffolding or Independent Scaffolding
§ Independent Scaffolding is a more robust scaffolding system used primarily for stone masonry
work
§ it does not rely on the wall for support. Instead, it uses two rows of vertical supports (standards)
to create an independent and stable structure.
Key Features:
§ Two Rows of Standards:
• The first row is placed close to the wall.
• The second row is positioned further away from the wall for added stability.
§ Ledgers: Horizontal members that connect the standards and provide support for the working
platform.
§ Putlogs: Placed on the ledgers to hold the working platform, but not inserted into the wall as in
single scaffolding.
§ Cross Bracing: Provides additional stability, especially for higher scaffolds.
Double scaffolding
3. Suspended Scaffolds
• Suspended Scaffolds are a type of scaffolding
where the working platform is suspended from the
top of a structure using ropes, chains, or other
suspension mechanisms.

• These scaffolds can be adjusted vertically to

provide access to various heights, making them
particularly suitable for tasks like painting,
window cleaning, or repairs on tall buildings.
4. Trestle Scaffolding
§ Trestle Scaffolding is a type of scaffolding
designed for lightweight, short-height
construction and maintenance tasks.
§ It consists of a working platform supported by
trestles, which are movable, tripod-like frames or
ladders.
§ This type of scaffolding is primarily used indoors
for tasks like painting, plastering, and
maintenance.