Evaluating the Strategic Measures Responsible for Quality Concrete Elements in Buildings in Onitsha Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Concrete is recently the most common building material in Nigeria construction industry but had also been reported as one of the major causes of structural failure. However, in spite of the popularity of concrete structures, if not properly constructed and the quality maintained, it can deteriorate prematurely which is often referred to as our crumbling infrastructure. The study aims at investigating the strategic measures responsible for ensuring good quality of concrete elements in buildings in Anambra State. A survey research method was adopted for this study. Data was obtained through both primary and secondary sources. The population for this study comprises of registered professionals in Anambra state and was surveyed through a structured questionnaire survey approach. Data generated were analyzed using Tables, Percentage, Ranking and Mean Score. A total of one hundred and fifty-eight questionnaires were distributed to registered construction professionals in Anambra State and one hundred and twenty-nine questionnaires were returned. The sample size for the study is therefore 129. The study revealed that quality concept, quality management system, quality control in construction, quality management standard, quality plan, professional regulatory bodies, companies own quality control document, various acts /decrees for construction professionals, the national building code, action to be taken at each stage are all strategic measures responsible to ensure good quality of concrete works in buildings in the study area. The study revealed that quality concept is the most important strategic measure to ensure good quality of concrete elements. Professional regulatory bodies need to operate only in areas where they are trained and licensed to practice. The study recommends that government at all levels including private sector operators should enforce the implementation of quality strategic measures in all building works to ensure collapse free building.