Grasping the Nonconformities in Building Construction Supply Chains

Abstract

Identifying and understanding potential nonconformities in different construction phases is key to ensuring the anticipated quality and performance of a building in its service period. Previous studies mostly focus on studying nonconformities in the handover or posthandover phases of building projects. There has been relatively less attention paid to the issue in the preconstruction and construction phases of building projects, particularly in densely populated South Asian countries. This study aims to identify the potential and critical nonconformity problems from the initiation to construction phases of building projects, with a particular focus on Bangladesh, where the quality and integrity of building construction works and practices are generally lacking. The study is informed by a comprehensive literature review of the topic, followed by a series of discussions and workshops with highly qualified and experienced experts to identify the potential nonconformities frequently encountered in building construction projects. Additionally, three building projects are studied to identify the instances of nonconformities and their root causes. The major nonconformities identified from this study are improper soil investigation, poor quality of materials, poor quality of concrete, improper alignment of structural members, insufficient concrete cover, lack of or no curing of concrete, defective formwork, and early removal of formwork. Subsequently, specific remedial actions are recommended for the individuals/organizations involved throughout the building construction phases in developing countries, such as Bangladesh, toward improving the quality and performance of buildings in their service lives.