An Investigation Into Materials Wastes on Building Construction Projects in Kampala-Uganda

An investigation into Materials Wastes on Building Construction Projects in Kampala-Uganda
L. Muhwezi *1, L. M. Chamuriho2 and N. M. Lema2
*1Department

of Civil and Building Engineering, Kyambogo University, P.O Box 7181, Kampala, Uganda 2Department of Structural and Construction Engineering, University of Dar-es-salaam, P.O. Box 35131, Dar-es-salaam, Tanzania
*1Corresponding author: [e-mail]

Abstract Increased economic growth and urbanization in developing countries has led to extensive construction activities that generate large amounts of wastes. Materials wastes on building projects have not only caused financial setbacks to contractors but also caused significant impacts on health, aesthetics and the general environment. Management of these wastes is still a problem in Uganda and their causes need to be ascertained in order to pave way for their proper management. The objectives of this study were to identify the major attributes of construction wastes on building projects in Uganda and to propose the possible measures of minimizing their occurrences. The study was conducted using a structured survey questionnaire. From literature review, waste attributes that lead to wastes generation on building projects were identified and they include: Design and documentation attributes; Site management and practices; Procurement attributes; Materials handling, storage and transportation; Operational attributes and Environmental and other conditions. T-test statistical technique of comparing means was used in the analysis of data with SPSS version 12.0 software to determine the major construction waste generation attributes. The study revealed that: Changes made to the design while construction is in progress; Lack of skills of workers/tradesmen or sub-contractors’ skills; Purchased products that do not comply with specifications; Inappropriate storage facilities at site leading to damage or deterioration; Changing orders/instructions by

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