Long Beam Span - Coursework Example

LONG BEAM SPAN Long beam commonly provides flexibility and entire space inside the building I free from the vertical columns. The space can be arranged in variety of manners. Long beam reduce contrite cost also reduce the erection period of steel. Due to having wide range of advantages over disadvantages, log beams can be found nearly in every structure. However, one can prefer a particular disadvantage to several advantages. A number of advantages and disadvantages are given below. LONG SPAN BEAM OPTIONS The below mentioned options describe the solutions in terms of increasing spanning capability. On the other hand, overlaps between solutions based options are also discussed to enhance the range the available options. Plate girders are the basic type of beams that are commonly used in structures. While, cellular, fabricated and rolled out sectioned based beams are also utilized extensively. Most utilize composite structural technique that enhances the durability, stiffness and strength of structure and thus presents better alternative as compared to steel. 1. Prestress Concrete Beam During the construction of modern buildings, both the techniques of prestressing and precasting of concrete slabs is utilized. The practices have been in use since 1930’s. However, modern imagination and computer controlled architecture; the techniques seem to be much feasible. Prestressing adds compressive force to the concrete members. Prestressing can be applied by the application of tension to the steel stands before setting concrete or by applying tension to the steel strands after the concrete is set. However, the principles regarding the prestressing are still unclear. 2. Parallel beam approach Parallel beam approach is feasible for the spans up to 14 meters. In case of floor grids, the beams should run continuously in two layers. The direction of the beans remains in orthogonal direction. The services to the structure are held between the two layers. Parallel beam approach enables the services to move in different direction with the beams. Another advantage of the parallel beam approach is that there is no need to increase the depth of the beams that reduces the cost of full strength beams. 3. Composite beams with web openings Web openings allow the easy access of the services to move through the beam structures. This reduces the structural cost as structural elements and services are at the same place. The techniques also influence the depth of the beam. The spanning capacity also increases. Opening can also be used for interior decoration. For the beams with spans ranging from 10 meters to 16 meters, composite beams proved to be cost effective yet highly durable. Cellular beam is a type of composite beam. Web opening can also be made by cutting the web opening in a particular form of plate. The plate is utilized to produce a web of plate girders. Size, shape and symmetry of the opening determine the appropriate solution that enhances the structural features of the opening. Beams with web openings have comparatively no or least disadvantages according to the familiarity and erection. Composite beams with web opening are similar to the standard beams with web opening in terms of stiffness, rigidity and elasticity. 4. Cellular composite beams Cellular composite beams come in the category of composite beams; however, due to having incredible advantages over regular beams, there is need to discuss cellular composite bema separately. Cellular beams have multiple web openings. Two rolled sections are fragmented longitudinally to form cellular web opening. The splitting results in two tee sections. The tees are then welded in order to make an “I” section. The methods used in the process make the top flange smaller as compared to the bottom flange. Bottom flange is visibly bigger. In the final stage, the real cellular structure results as the concrete cover the steel structure. The upper steel flange is covered with a layer of concrete. The upper steel flange serves only as the platform to hold the concrete. BS EN 1994 describes regulations to envelop beams with irregularity (area of the bottom steel flange divided by that of the upper flange). The more the degree of irregularity between the flanges, the more connecting elements would it require. However, the use of excessive materials may damage the connection between the steel and concrete. 5. Tapered girders If the span ranges from 10 meters to 20 meters, tapered girders are better option in terms of cost effectiveness. They also allow the services to move along with the beams in the similar structural zone. The depth of the girder is influenced by the moments. As, the moments are greatest in the mid sections, the depth increases in the mid sections of the tapered girders. Moments are least at the edges of the tapered girders thus they have less depth and are used for support 6. Composite trusses Composite trusses can reach as much span as 20 meters. They are in the form of concrete slabs. It long spanning is required composite trusses is utilized. As the surface of the structure is very large, the slabs seem to be flexible laterally; on the other hand, there is need to be fire protected that increase the fire safety cost of the structure. Fabrication cost for the structure is high for the composite trusses as compared to the normal fabricated concrete slabs. Services can be moved within the gaps between the trusses. Final Decision It is clear from the discussion that prestressed concrete beam is the most appropriate method, as it is the most cost effective and most reliable methods. The structure remains stable. Cranes can easily lift the prefabricated 40 meters beams to the location where the beams are needed. HEALTH AND SAFETY PLAN INTRODUCTION The assignment summarizes and develops the health and safety plan for an office building that is only four stories in height. The office building is planned to be built in the city of Leeds, United Kingdom. Stake holders are given the health and safety precautionary measures to remain safe at work and create a safe environment. PRE- CONSTRUCTION HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION Presence of asbestos, contaminated ground and hazards due to demolitions are the pre- construction health and safety issue that are needed to be addressed before implementing plans on the site. SIGNIFICANT DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION HAZARDS Environmental issues (pollution, wastewater, etc) noise, lifting of materials, working at heights, testing, interfaces, welfare of workers, excavation and trenches, working near residential area without any concern about the residential area and frequent high speed traffic movement are some of the significant design and construction hazards in the future phase of construction. In order to highlight the design safety issue, design risks have been assessed. Materials Requiring Particular Precautions All electrical works, materials from demolished structures like asbestos and steel reinforcement materials require particular precautions. Extent and Location of Existing Records and Plans At Leeds City Council, archived has been done for all known drawings. With the Council’s prior permission and agreement, it can be viewed. COMMUNICATION & MANAGEMENT OF THE WORK Safety and health management issues are discussed below in detail. The information below summarizes the key concepts about the duties and roles of management in designing the health and safety precautionary tactics. Management and Supervisory Principal Responsibilities The role of the project manager or principle contactor is responsible for the construction. Site safety supervisor ensures that all the safety issue are resolved and all the work has been done with proper safety. First Aider gives first aid in case of any emergency. Crane and Plant coordinator coordinates with various activities for an uninterrupted construction work. Site COSHH co-ordinator keeps an eye on the occupational health and safety implementation. Temporary works Co-ordinator assists site manager in work coordination. Emergency incident Coordinator ensures that all the staff remains prepared and respond properly in case of any emergency incident. Site fire Safety co-ordinator takes responsibility for site fire safety. Fire Marshall works to get rid of the fire. Scaffold Inspector verifies the strength and placement of scaffolding. Excavation Inspector oversees the site excavation. Lifting Appliances and Associated ensures that elevators and cranes are working properly. Plant and Equipment Inspector ensures that all the equipment used in the construction remains safe. Electrics/Electrical Appliances Inspector ensures that all the electrical equipment is working under safe conditions. Toolbox Talks Provider motivates the fellow employees to follow the best safety procedures. Training Certificates and Competence Overseer ensures certification and competence according to the technology. Weekly Site Inspections Nominee inspects the site weekly and mostly works as a third party. Site Accident Statistics/Weekly Returns Nominee analyses site data. Preparing Risk Assessments and Method Statements work as engineer, section engineer and sub-agents. Loading and Unloading of Vehicles Supervisor provides logistics support. Traffic Segregation Supervisor ensures safe and smooth traffic. Emergency Lighting Organiser ensures that site is getting constant electrical supply. Asbestos Removal is a sub contractor’s agent that removes or neutralizes asbestos. Health and Security Project Performance Targets and Goals Yearly wellbeing of Principal Contractor’s and security assessment will be part of the project. Regional Safety Advisors usually have a trip on monthly basis for evaluation of security objectives, which are six in total annually for 2012 to 2014. They are evaluation of risks along with applicability of Method Statements; there is a well-defined work at height chain of command that should be properly installed; a total of fifty percent members will be chosen from the employees in the consultation meetings that are to be arranged every fortnight; any unsafe situations or performances will not be endured for the provision of surety to the contractors, workers and administration as they are allowed to discontinue any ongoing work in case of unsafe working conditions and lastly, the workplace is supposed to motivate the employees for near miss reporting. Regular liaison arrangement between on site parties Safety and health related issues will be preferred in all the site connected meetings. The parties that are part of the construction stage of project will assemble on weekly basis. These assemblages will involve other important parties along with working employees. Along with these meetings, unceremonious meetings will be arranged for the communication of construction staff and local working staff. The Copperfield site peripheries contain all the categories of work that should be done. Momentary fences will be arranged around the places of construction work along with the overall bordered site. The boundaries of the construction work that will be fenced will be evaluated and preserved without any gap because of involvement of elevated risks in case of trespassing. One aspect is important to be noted that the construction site is near to East-End Park making it a more vulnerable spot for people. Consultation arrangements along with the workforce For connected construction sites, consultation meetings related to self managed security and health should be arranged. The meetings will not involve everyone and the participants will be chosen with the help of peers of employees or union. As a whole, the participants will be more between the employees than the management workers. With the advancement in meeting, the participants will be asked to fill in a consultation Performa. The information collected from the Performa will be given at the reception notice boards. Handling Changes of Design during the Phase of Construction Separate meetings will be arranged for coordination on transformed designs and these meetings will be arranged on weekly basis. The meetings will involve customer’s consultation PM and design manager. Contractors’ Selection as well as Control All the rules, regulations, codes of practice and guidance notes according to UK standards will be followed and compliance with working conditions related to health and safety act 1974 will be assured by contractors, services providers, equipment providers and other related personnel. Sub-contractors should know that they should be well aware of emergency procedures that are to be opted in case of emergency. The safety of consumers along with employers should ne assured. The suppliers and sub-contractors should be properly qualified and must have working experience about the design work. For example, they must be fully aware of the lawful and significant legislative needs. The sub-contractors will be provided with a questionnaire in relation to their services provision that will be assessed for their suitability for the job. Afterwards, the selected sub-contactors will have to attend a Pre-Let meeting before finally getting the contract. Along with all these, the arrangements about health and security, ecological, assurance, features and the construction site in general will be saved formally. Health and Safety Information Exchange among different contractors Weekly meetings with sub-contractors will be arranged in order to analyse and correct issues, and to assure suitable security concerns. The equipment and plant material will be certified to make them examinable by Principal Contractor. Extendedly, the civil workers will be allotted a CSCS card and its copy will be forwarded to B & V along withy other details of the workers such as educational level and certifications. Security arrangements at site The construction site is overly secure that is already highlighted in ‘Pre-tender Safety and Health Plan’ as there are access passes for crossing the front gates and a general clock for counting in and out is also available. In addition, a visitors’ induction sheet is maintained that contains visitors’ in and out signature along with timings. The contractual language is English and all the workers have to speak English as their first language. Along with speaking, sign boards are also in English. For indications of danger and other necessary information, sign boards are installed at associated places. Induction of Site, On-site Training, Competence and Toolbox Talks Induction The site contains portable water that is installed as per the National Water Hygiene Scheme. The Site Safety induction is provided to all the workers and personnel before investigation or starting of the work. The visitor signatories of the induction sheet are provided with support by an informed person who knows about the site and other details. The children who come for study purposes of workplace experience or for schooling visits are assisted likewise with full support. The induction of the site is given to visitors and workers because they should be aware of the rules and regulations of the site along with ways involved in handling risky situations because o elevated risk involved. Environmental videos are also shown to staff members for showing site area issues. In addition, there is targeted site induction that involves fire site alarms, damage to the ground as a result of inadequately solidified ground and other similar risks in the working site. The foreman’s office contains a detailed induction log. A site induction photocopied log will be attached to Appendix of re-examined CPHS. Competence The induction supervisor is responsible for assessing the accuracy of all training certifications based on doubtful appearance of the person. The qualifications of the doubted person will also be assessed. Toolbox Talks A toolbox talks will be provided weekly and whenever required in between the final contracted work phases. The subcontractors will be required to give in a toolbox talk attendance log in meetings every week. The log will be made available at the reception area of the site. Welfare Facilities The site area will have some beneficial facilities such as washrooms with availability of hot water, showers, drying rooms, storage for infected clothes, provisions for pregnant ladies, cafeteria with availability of hot water, drinking cups for water, food heating provisions, sub-contractor beneficial facilities, group provisions and skin safety provisions. First Aid Arrangements The staff kitchens contain many first aid facilities such as accident book related to site, first aid posts, first aid room and first aid boxes. The first aid providers and other related personnel are trained and are enlisted in a list. The first aid boxes need to be refilled and evaluated on weekly basis by the agent of the Principal Contractor. The passages of fire escape have availability of first aid posters. Local Casualty Hospital – Access Route St. James’ Teaching Hospital is in the vicinity of the site. One can use York Road, East End Park and Becketts Street for reaching the hospital. Dangerous Occurrences including Near Misses and Accidents Investigation Reporting The documentation of Principal Contractor’s Management System needs to be referred to. Method Statements/Risk Assessments The sub-contractors are responsible for not only administering the Principal’s Contract’s site, but also for the evaluation of risks and Method Statement. Further, the management of the site should endorse the evaluation of risks and Method Statement. The evaluation of risk reports and Method Statement should be placed as per their easy availability for seeing like at reception. The site Manager of Principal Contract should also keep a copy of evaluated risks in his office. Emergency Procedures A list of site emergency co-ordinators along with their location and contact number also needs to be displayed. Green boards having text “Fire Assembly Point” in white are adjusted in site’s care park area. In emergent situations, Divisional Managing Director can be accessed on phone. In addition, the workers are accommodated with practice drills in case of emergency on weekly basis. The emergency plan is re-evaluated every month. CONTROLS FOR SIGNIFICANT HEALTH & SAFETY RISKS Physical safety risks The prevalent provisions of the site need to be recognised with the support of present drawings and associated placements approved by the trail holes. The Principal Contractor procedure should be adopted for obtainment of digging allowance before the initiation of the work. For electrical equipment configuration and implementation, an expert electrician should be hired for lasting as well as momentary electrical work. SAP should be followed for implementation of electricity safety rules of Principal Contractors. The employment of ladders should be ignored and in place of ladders, staircases should be used as access routes. The general foreman chooses suitable plant or equipment for performance of work. For digging purposes, proper and thorough fencing requires to be done. Along with fencing, there should be availability of suitable security route, outlet points and border safety. Lift co-ordinator should be there for the management of lifts and for lifting functions, suitable lifting plan should be followed. The crane users, slingers or signallers should have endorsed certificates following CTA standards. The scaffolds should be constructed with the support of skilled people along with scaff-tag investigation system. The borders should be preset as at least double guiderails. Drip trays should be used for the suitable settlement of plants and machinery. Spill kits should be constructed at required locations. Investigation and maintenance of plants and machinery is required on routine basis after their installation. Any kind of defect or issue related to equipment or plants needs to be reported by sub-contractors and workers. The operating people should have proper skills, training and authority over their work. The method statement and the planning phase require enlistment of requirements for boundary support. The excavation support design is to be created by a skilled worker. The Department of Principal Contractors Temporary Works needs to endorse the design. The construction phase and maintenance phase require compliance as per COSHH regulations. The COSHH co-ordinator bring together data along with the data provision through the Symbol Information System. Reception provides COSHH file. Risk evaluation processing and method statement should be consulted for delivering, removal of materials to and from the site. The prevalent provisions present at the workplace should be taken care of in terms of their security and restriction towards unlimited usage of provisions. For digging at a location, proper permission is required along with the associated risks that should be recognised and described in risks evaluation processing report and method statement. The prevalent creatures at the workplace that are concealed on the workplaces need to be included in risk evaluation processing report and method statement. The adverse ground situation along with digging work must be in compliance with the method statement and risk evaluation report. Further excavations require daily investigation by skilled personnel so that they can inspect the digging locations. The deliverance of traffic management along with removal of material from the site is part of the Site Traffic Management Plan. If the digging does not involve asbestos and the asbestos requires to be calculated in any specific placement, the digging needs to be discontinued. The asbestos elimination should be done by asbestos removal contractor who should be appointed for the purpose. Additionally, risk evaluation should be done. Health risks There are risks of human error due to which, the manual handling requirements must be evaluated and completed. Proper risk assurance must be there before starting work with hazardous substances. The shuddering and sounds must be minimized as per the processing of Principal Contractor. Ground contamination, asbestos in current as well as concealed structures, trespassing because of suburban area and presence of a busy road in close proximity can be regarded as probable health risks. THE HEALTH & SAFETY FILE The site team should be allowed to develop a system intended to handle information to the coordinator of CDM. With this assistance, the Safety and Assistance file can be maintained sooner at the end of construction stage. The Client’s Representative Project Manager must be accessed and should concede to the development of file containing information of project’s advances from the beginning till the end. Minimally, the subsequent information can be recorded. A brief report of the continued work. Additional risks involved that are ignored and their information through diverse means such as surveying or other ways of information in association with asbestos, infected land, water held level and concealed services. Major constructional features attached with the constructional design such as considerable stocked up power resources. Pre-emptive measures in association with disposable or risky substances employed in the work such as lead paint or other particular coverings. Suitable and secure functional loads for floor work along with roof work in order to forestall the placement of heavy equipment. Information related to mounted machinery’s or plant’s removal from the office or getting down like lifting facilities. The location, extent and markings of significant facilities like fire fighting provisions. Information about security and health related to diverse installations for structure’s protection and tidiness. Read More