UBE Site Observation Report

Understanding the Built Environment Site observation report Derrick Lim charlie reinhart yutong jin sameer yakub

| 860296 | 996815 | 991449 | 936853

Abpl10005 tutor: Oliver Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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Table of contents Site Drawings

4-5

Project Description

6- 7

A. High Rise Residential Site Dairies:

8 - 27

A01

by Derrick Lim

A02

by Yutong Jin (Kelly)

A03

by Charlie Reinhart

A04

by Sameer Yakub

B. Low Rise Residential Site Dairies:

B01

by Charlie Reinhart

B02

by Sameer Yakub

B03

by Derrick Lim

B04

by Yutong Jin (Kelly)

Conclusion:

28 - 47

48 - 51

Summary of site progress Comparison between sites Similarities & What we have learned

References:

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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Site drawings

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

High rise site plan drawing

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Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

Low rise site plan drawing

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Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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Project Description High Rise Building Project overview: The Arden Gardens is located at 101-117, Canning St, North Melbourne. It is a mixed use development that will feature about 300 apartments and a retail precinct at its ground floor in North Melbourne.

Location: It is located in one of the inner suburbs of Melbourne and is only located 2km north-west from Melbourne’s CBD. It can be considered as a strategic location for this development such that it has close proximity to public transpor. For instance, the 402 bus route, Macaulay Train Station and the 55, 57, 59 tram routes.

Figure 1: Satalite image of the site. (Source: NearMaps, 2018)

construction type: This contruction type for this project mainly relies on the usage of precast concrete panels and walls. This has been done consistently and efficiently for both the structure and building strength for stability.

Figure 2: Street view of the site. (Source: Microsoft Maps, 2018)

Consultants: Architect: Buchan Group Builder: Hickory Developer: CBD Development Group

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

Figure 3: Aerial view of completed Arden Gardens. (Source: Urban Melbourne, 2018)

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Low Rise Building Project overview: Treehaus is located at 65-71 Manningham Street, Parkville.

It is a townhouse development that comprises 17 terraces on the site mainly for residential purposes.

location: Located just by the border of North Melbourne to its southwest. Surrounded with nearby green spaces such as Royal Park and Parkville Gardens.

It also has great proximity to public transportation such as Flemington Train Station and Tram route 57 and 58.

Figure 4: Satalite image of the site. (Source: NearMaps, 2018)

construction type: As this project will only be built up to four levels, timber and steel frames are some of the main type of materials used in this construction. However, concrete blocks are used as to the foundation for the building as well.

Figure 5: Street view of the site. (Source: Microsoft Maps, 2018)

consultants: Architect: Crone Architects Builder: Not mentioned Developer: BSPK Property Figure 6: Aerial view of completed Treehaus. (Source: Urban Melbourne, 2018)

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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high rise residential project

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A01

High Rise Building Site Diary 1

DATE OF VISIT

: 24th March 2018, 9:00am

WEATHER

: 22 oC, Cloudy and Raining : Derrick, Charlie, YuTong Jin, Sameer : Derrick Lim, 860296

ATTENDANCE DIARY BY Table 1: Site details.

Figure 7: Members of Group 91.

Observations: Materials on Site: 1 3 2 2

1

3

Figure 8: View of site from Canning St.

Premixed cement ready to be used after adding the right proportion of water.

Metal sheets

Used in metalworking.

Cut and bend easily into various of shapes.

Precast concrete panels

Factory precast. Durable and versatile.

Figure 9: View from Canning St.

4

5

6

4

Figure 10: View from Canning St.

Sand and cement mix

5

6

Wood type scaffolding

Support materials and structure on construction.

Steel type scaffolding

Providing better support and safety for workers.

Steel frames

Used to support in situ concrete frames in building.

Figure 11: View from Vaughan St.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A01 Equipments on Site:

7a

7c 8

Figure 12: View of construction site from Canning St.

7a

Luffing tower crane for Building A

7b

Luffing tower crane for Building B

7c

Luffing tower crane for Building C

The most prominent equipment on the site are the luffing tower cranes. They are used to lifting materials such as precast concrete panel to higher levels, making a lot easier for panel installation and significantly saving time. The construction is segregated into three sections. Building A facing Canning St, Building B next to Vaughan St and Building C by the side of Macaulay St. Therefore, as shown in Figure 12 and 13, each building is allocating with a dedicated luffing crane.

8

7b

Concrete placement boom

According to workers on site, there are 5 concrete placement boom equipped on site. However, only 3 of these concrete placement booms can be only seen from street level (see Figure 12 and 13). On the other hand, this equipment is powered by electricity and is essential for transferring liquid concrete by pumping.

Moreover, they are also good for saving labour because it is capacable of pumping concrete at very high volumes.

Thus, this innovation is a revolutionary alternative as opposed to the conventional line-concrete pumps.

Figure 13: View of construction site at Canning/Vaughan St.

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9

“STOP” sign

As shown in Figure 14, “STOP” sign is used to stop or even slow down the traffic passing by the construction site while large and potentially risky materials is being transported. This is important as this equipment is one of the cheapest, easy to obtain and probably the most low-tech equipment on site. Although these signs are low-cost assests, they still play a vital role in providing an environment safe for drivers to pass by.

Figure 14: A worker controlling the traffic adjacent to the site.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A01 Key Activities:

Figure 15: Lowering of steel frames onto lorry on Vaughan St dedicated loading bay.

Figure 16: Securing precast concrete planes with wire ropes and chains on Canning St loading bay.

Figure 17: Lifting of precast concrete planes on Canning St.

Objects lifting with cranes: Out of the many activities carried out on site (since we were not allowed to enter the site), the most prominent one from street view is the lowering of steel frames (Figure 15) and the lifting of precast concrete planes (Figure 16 & 17) by dedicated luffing cranes. This is owning the fact that these materials are heavy and provide the most appealing way to be transported at a faster rate. As shown in Figure 15, 16 and 17, cranes are equipped with wire ropes and chains in order to lifting and lowering materials.

On the other hand, as the construction progress to higher levels, scaffolding work is first seen to carry out by workers (Figure 18).

This is important as safety is the top priority in construction sites.

Therefore, by building these sacffolding structure, it can provide a much safer working environment for these builders who work at heights.

Figure 18: Builders carrying of scaffolding work on site.

Traffic Management: As the luffing cranes are lowering and lifting these heavy materials to and off lower ground, workers on street level are seen to controling and managing the traffic on both Vaughan St and Canning St with their “STOP” and “SLOW” signs (Figure 19 & 20). Although some traffic is delayed during this operation, safety measures around the site still prevails for the benefit of the public and the construction.

Furthermore, as much as street level activities are going on, an estimate of ten workers are only seen outside the site. However, according to the workers working outside the site boundary, there is roughly estimate of 150 to 160 workers working on this construction. This is propelling as just by standing beside the site along Canning St, intense drilling and construction sounds were protruding out and does suggest heavy operation is being undertaken.

Workers loading steel frames onto lorry on the loading bay along Vaughan St.

Traffic controllers managing the traffic while cranes are lowering materials to ground level.

Figure 19: Traffic control on Vaughan St.

Traffic controllers slowing down the traffic while cranes are lifting materials into the site on Canning St.

Figure 20: Traffic control on Canning St.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A01 Site Progress:

Figure 21: Construction stage two weeks prior to our first site visit (10/3/18)

Figure 22: Construction stage during our first site visit (24/3/18).

Figure 21 shows the construction stage that was undergoing prior to our that the the building has been structurally completed up to level 1 concrete blocks. In addition, the placement of scaffolding is observed of the building in preperation to continue building upwards by builders

first site visit. It is notable with concrete pillars and to be set around level 2 that is according to plan.

Figure 22 was taken during our first site visit in which all structural elements of level 2 have been completed with the same concrete materials used for level 1. Moreover, the same notion of scaffolding placement onto proceeding to the next level of the building follows the same as seen in Figure 15.

Discussion:

Where did they get their power supply from?

After observing these greatly intense activities on the site, the project could not have commenced wihout electricity supplying to the site. Therefore, towards the right end of the site boundary, a power generator is placed just along Canning St to powering electricity for their equipments such as lights and machines (see Figure 23).

Figure 23: Power generator on Canning St.

Why is the use of scaffolding important?

The use of scaffolding have seen to be one of the main materials used on site. As the construction progessed to level 4, the scaffolding in the other 3 levels remained and not removed (Figure 24). This is significant as it provides extra ceiling support and makes the structure more stable. Moroever, it also plays the role of providing a safer environment for workers to carrying out their work to prevent them from falling from heights. According to Safe Work Australia (2015), it was recorded that 28% of main fatality causes are from falling from high ground.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

Figure 24: Scaffolding structure view from Vaughan St. 12

A02

High Rise Building Site Diary 2

DATE OF VISIT

: 18th April 2018, 3:00pm

WEATHER

: 28 oC, Sunny

ATTENDANCE

: Derrick, Charlie, YuTong Jin, Sameer : YuTong jin, 991449

DIARY BY Table 2: Site details.

Figure 25: Members of Group 91.

Observations: Materials on Site:

4 3

1

2

Figure 27: Truck storing steel and timber

Figure 26: Concrete panel wall

1

3

5

Figure 29: Plastic pipe

Figure 28: Aluminium ceiling

Concrete Panel one of primary materials for the construction, including concrete pillar, concrete plane and concrete blockshigh compressive strength for supporting high rise building Timber Timber bar used for scaffolding.

Cost efficeincy and sustanable.

Plastic pipe Used to reinforce and protect the scaffolding outside the fence, showing a great level of proficiency.

2

4

Steel Steel bar is used for scaffolding and building frame work.

Moreover, it is cost efficiency and has design flexibility.

Aluminium ceiling Metal structure are applied to ceiling for preparation of onboard ceiling service which could include the center air conditioning and lighting system.

Aluminum pipe are installed for ventilation systems

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Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A02 Equipments on Site:

5 4

6

Figure 30: Lighting on canning st

Figure 31: Stop sign at the intersection Figure 32: Workers worked on scissor of canning st and vaughan terrace liftvaughan terrace

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9

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Figure 33: Concrete pumb.y

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5

6

Figure 34: Concrete placement boom on canning st

Light The light on Canning site helps workers to see the dark site shadowed by outsite fence and trees. Lighting equipments were installed on other two site as well.

Stop sign Highlighted in dominant colour with the purpose of drawing passengers attention. Moreover, the illustration of the drawing is readable for different age group and cultural group.

Scissor lift A machinery applied by workers to reach greater heights such as to the ceiling.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

Figure 35: Loading bay/ bin on canning st

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8

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Concrete pump A pump channeling concrete from the external to the internal area of the site.

Concrete placement boom A fixed boom located outside the site. Main location for trucks to transport and refill concrete supply into the site.

Loading bay/bin Convienient place for restoring construction material for supersutructure’s need and disposal of material waste.

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A02 Key Activities: Service Preparation: Observing that more workers on the site this time as we came on Wednesday.

Many of them were cutting and adjusting pipes for building services. It showed the complexity of building’s service for functioning.

Figure 36: Workers adjusting pipes for service supply.

Concrete Activity: Concrete activities dominantely went on the site including the transportation of concrete truck on Macaulay site. One concrete pumb on Vaughan Terrace site and another one on the Canning site observed were transffering concrete directly into the building and also into those Concrete placement boom for superstructure.

Figure 37: Photo taken form Vaughan Terrace.

Transportation & Road safety:

Figure 38: Worker holding the stop sign and a road sign indicating the digging area.

Figure 39: Concrete truck stayed on site for a while then left.

Figure 40: Concrete truck was leaving, directed by trafic cones.

Figure 41: Digging sign and concrete pump noted at the left of the site.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

Road Safty as usual was taken care of: workers on the street were holding stop sign for the transportation of concrete trucks as the huge volume could be dangerous to the people around site without precaution.In addition traffic control was also applied around digging area (see Figure 38 and 41) on Macaulay Rd to prevent vehicles from driving into.

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A02 Objects lifting with cranes: There are other activities going on the site similar to last visit including lifting up loading bays and work with luffing towers

Figure 42: View on Vaughan terrace, lifting loading bays

Site Progress:

Figure 43: Two weeks before actual site visit, 10/03/18

Figure 44: First site visit, 24/03/18

Comparing with the last vist, it can be obeserved the construction of level 3 is basically done. no scaffolding for level1 now and some were unset on level 2 , most scaffolding are left on level 3 which would be moved upwards for higher levels construction.

The materials used follows the observation in first site vist including concrete pillars and concrete blocks.

Figure 45: Second site visit, 18/03/18

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A02 Discussion:

What are major difficulties faced to construct highrise building and how does this project overcome it?

Geographical: High-rise buildings are often surrounded by low-rise residential structures which are subjected to much smaller loadings. Thus, relationship between the high- and low-rise portions need to be considered (Poulos, 2014).

For this project, the great location, of being blocked individually by three main roads and another side with spare spaces, naturally overcome the problem .This contributes to the effectiveness of material transportation, enabling the needs reach to each side of construction site.

Figure 46: Satellite image of the site, showing the geographical advantage of the site.

Structural: The weight of building in terms of vertical load can be substantial, plus wind load effect, the bearing capacity and stablisation therefore are needed to be carefully considered.

The foundations of this project, similar to most of the high-rise buildings have been solved using structural concrete advantaged by its characteristic strengths and lightweight.Plus, the use of reinforced concrete column and structural steel minimizes the effect of the vertical displacement of the building (Corres et al., 2008)

Figure 47: Concrete and steel reinforced the durability of building.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A03

High Rise Building Site Diary 3

DATE OF VISIT

: 18th April 2018, 3:00pm

WEATHER

: 22 oC, Cloudy

ATTENDANCE

: Derrick, Charlie, YuTong Jin, Sameer : Charlie reinhart, 996815

DIARY BY Table 3: Site details.

Figure 48: Members of Group 91.

Observations: Materials on Site: 1

1

33 2 2 2

1

3

5

4

4

5

4 5

Unitised glass panels

Prefabricated panels manufactured in a factory and moved directly to the site.

Steel Scaffolding

Provides safety for workers Cantilever Loading Bay

It is seen protruding out from the building to avoid moving activities damaging the building walls.

Ventilation Boxes

Necessary services for the building.

Lightweight Protection System or “cocoon”

Providing extra safety and ensuring materials and tools don’t fall out of the building.

7

6

66 7

7

Concrete Panels

Precast concrete suitable for Melbourne’s harsh environment.

Piping

Used for plumbing.

Figure 49: Annotations of site materials.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A03 Equipments on Site:

Mobile Elevating Work Platform This elevating platform allows workers to reach inaccessible heights to install plumbing and ventilation on the ceiling of each level.

Furthermore, this machine is not only able to move up and down but also the wheels allow the operator to move throughout the area with ease.

Figure 50: Elevated working platform.

Luffing Tower Cranes Three luffing tower cranes continue to stand tall on the site, as seen in Figure 51, since our first site visit. The main high rise construction is well underway and the construction site will need all the help it can get to efficiently construct the building. Each crane contributes to each side allowing multiple truck deliveries to occur at once.

Furthermore, with the addition of the cocoons or the lightweight panel system, cranes are constantly being used to move the system from one level to another.

Figure 51: Luffing tower cranes in use.

Key Activities: Summary of Key Activities: Being a Wednesday afternoon, our group was able to see quite a few activities being carried out. Two cranes were in use while we were on site as seen in Figure 52. One was seen lifting Lightweight panel systems in preparation for the rise of construction and the other was seen lifting precast concrete panels off a truck and into position in the middle of the site where our eyes could not reach. In terms of progress we can see from Figure 51 the scaffolding that was previously there has been removed leaving only a simple scaffolding type. Furthermore, Figure 51 also provides the progress of the central high rise part of the building as seen in the foreground. At least two levels have already been added on this part of construction in only two weeks. Overall, from a street view, the construction of the outer levels looks to have reached its desired point and the crew is now developing the inner levels of the building.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A03 Key Activities: Lightweight Panel System Nicknamed the “cocoon�, the lightweight panel system wraps around the building to ensure added site safety but also ensures site tools do not fall out of the building. The large panels are numbered, as seen in Figure 52, it is assumed this is done to ensure the organisation of the panels when attaching and detaching.

Additionally, the panel system is slotted onto a rail system which allows the panels to rise with the building. In Figure 52, the panel system is being placed onto the rail system in preparation for the building to begin rising in construction.

This panel system allows workers to work at the edge of the building with assurance they wont accidentally drop a tool out of the side and landing on something down below. Ultimately it is the perfect way to ensure maximum safety as the building continue to grows.

Figure 52: Panel screens installment at higher heights.

Unitised Glass Panels On this visit, one unitised glass panel had been installed on the Manning Street façade. To us, this looked quite strange as the building looks completely bare with only a concrete core to be seen with steel scaffolding surrounding the edges, as seen in Figure 52. The panel stuck out and developed what the building will eventually look like once completed. These glass panels are manufactured offsite speeding up the construction time. They are moved from the factory environment to the construction site where they are craned onto pre-prepared fixings, as seen in figure 53. Furthermore, this also increases the safety on site as it covers protects workers from floor to ceiling. Finally, this method reduces storage of materials on site which is an advantage to a building like this where it is constructed in the city as there is limited space.

Figure 53: Unitised glass panels

Concrete Panels Another key activity that we saw on this day was the movement of more concrete panels, as seen in Figure 54.

Unfortunately, we could not go onto the site, therefore we did not see where these panels were being placed into.

However, as the intense scaffolding has been removed since last week, as seen in figure 55, we can see more through the building. The concrete panels are more easily seen here and we can get an understanding of how they are using the slabs in their construction. The panels we see in Figure 11 are precast which allows cranes to place the panels into position off a truck. This provides much needed speed of construction and ensures a safer site due to less clutter.

Figure 54: Concrete panels on loading bay.

Figure 55: Steel scaffolding.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A03 Site Progress:

Figure 56: Site visit on 10/3/18

Figure 57: Site visit on 24//3/18

Figure 58: Site visit on 18/4/18

Figure 59: Site visit on 2/5/18

The four images above show the progression from the Canning Street and Vaughn Terrace corner. From our first site visit, we can see only the first level has been built of the outer layer of the building. The workers have placed dense scaffolding in preparation to build more levels and by our second visit we see they have built the second level. They have kept the same scaffolding up all the way up until the third level of construction providing much needed safety to the workers on site. By our fourth site visit the dense scaffolding has now been removed leaving only the steel barriers protecting workers from the edge. Overall, the construction of the building is being completed with speed. The 150 or so workers, multiple cranes, entry points on three out of four sides and emphasis on site safety and organisation has allowed the construction process to smoothly proceed.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A03 Discussion:

Figure 60: Screening installments and with labels (photo on the right).

Facade Construction: Nicknamed the “cocoon�, the lightweight panel system wraps around the building to ensure added site safety but also ensures site tools do not fall out of the building. The large panels are numbered, as seen in Figure 60, it is assumed this is done to ensure the organisation of the panels when attaching and detaching. Additionally, the panel system is slotted onto a rail system which allows the panels to rise with the building. In Figure 60, the panel system is being placed onto the rail system in preparation for the building to begin rising in construction. This panel system allows workers to work at the edge of the building with assurance they won’t accidentally drop a tool out of the side and landing on something down below. Ultimately it is the perfect way to ensure maximum safety as the building continue to grows.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A04

High Rise Building Site Diary 4

DATE OF VISIT

: 9th May 2018, 3:00pm

WEATHER

: 20 oC, Cloudly

ATTENDANCE

: Derrick, Charlie, YuTong Jin, Sameer : SAMEER YAKUB, 936853

DIARY BY Table 4: Site details.

Figure 61: Members of Group 91.

Observations: Materials on Site:

3 1

2

1

3

Concrete Cylinder Mold Handles: These are the mold carrying handles and base plates that are used to split the mold in order for concrete to be tested in it as well as to be able to carry it

2

Steel rods and ladders: These rods are often used to strengthen layers within the superstructure of the building and are also used as scaffolding.

We also notice a ladder next to the rods. These are often used to reach heights on the ceiling and walls to setup interior servicing such as pipe and wire work.

4

Concrete Cylinder Molds: These molds are constructed of plated steel for rust resistance and are dimensionally stable under severe use. The plated steel makes them reusable and thus gives them durability. Concrete molds are often used to test the compressive strength of concrete.

This is important because if the concrete being used isn’t resistant enough it could be disastrous for the end project

4

Paint: As concrete construction of the building is progressing, work has also started on painting the structure of the building.

This is important of course to maintain the aesthetic look of the building. Paint color is often chosen by the client and in this case it seems to be white.

Figure 62: Annotations of site materials.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A04 Equipments on Site: As most of the structural work is being wrapped up there aren’t any apparent new additions to the equipment that was used last week. Most of the interior work is still in its early stages and so there weren’t any new machines seen yet. Part of this could also be because remaining subcontractors for other internal finishes have yet to be brought in and because internal finishing doesnt require the same scale of equipment required to build the structure and concrete layers associated with the superstructure. This is also due to the fact that things like pipes and wires are usually purchased or worked on in warehouses which reduces the need to have heavy equipment to work on them on site.

Key Activities: Wiring Installation: Wiring has also started on other areas of the building. As we see here holes have cut through the concrete to allow the wires to pass through. However, over here the wires are still exposed and will eventually be covered both to protect the wires from damage and people from injury or electrocution.

Figure 63: Wiring on ceiling

Piping works: Perhaps the most significant activity that can be seen this time is the work that’s started on the interior servicing: Pipework has begun on the roof. The material used here appears to be PVC. PVC pipes are often cheaper to use but still offer a fair bit of durability if handled carefully. Pipework itself is important as it is needed to ensure supply of water and gas throughout the building and is also used to protect fragile wiring.

Figure 64: Pipework on ceiling

Scaffolding: Steel scaffolding has also been setup to support a large wall to the right. This scaffolding will likely remain as it is until the wall and the structure around it is developed sufficiently to stand by itself

Figure 65: Construction site (east) Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A04 Site Progress:

Figure 66: Site visit on 10/3/18

Figure 67: Site visit on 24//3/18

Figure 68: Site visit on 18/4/18

Figure 69: Site visit on 2/5/18

High Rise Building progress: We have, however, noticed that a lot of the steel scaffolding that was used on the top two stories has been removed and restructured. This is because the production stage here has progressed enough as more structural and concrete support has been created which reduces the need for external scaffolding support. This is important as external scaffolding is usually only used to support the structure until enough work has been done on it for it to be able to support itself

Figure 70: Site visit on 9/5/18 Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A04

Figure 71: Wiring on ceiling

Figure 72: Wiring on ceiling

Facade installation: Since most of the structural work is complete, they have now begun on setting up the external works. Over here we see that glazed windows and window panels have been set up along the sides. This is to create aesthetic appeal.

Figure 73: Structure (previous visit on 2/5/18)

Figure 74: Structure (current visit on 9/5/18)

Interior Activities: However, at the same time we can note that since most of the structural work is already being wrapped up there wasn’t really any significant noticeable progress from the outside. It is likely that their focus is currently on the interior work in the building. For now we can see that some work has been done on the fencing but other than that there isn’t much to see.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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A04 Discussion:

Surrounding area: It appears that some of the road and pavement has been damaged around the area being used as the loading bay. This could also be because often heavy vehicles ride over the loading bay and mishandling them or underestimating their weight may have resulted in this. However, it could also have also been caused by heavy material falling from a height which is the deadlier of the two possibilities as falling material or equipment is not just a hazard to the surrounding area but also to civilians and workers alike.

Figure 75: Damaged ground near the loading bay

Waste Disposal: A bin has been placed along the sides to ensure that waste isnt cluttering the site or the streets. Often the government places regulations on construction companies to prevent them from creating disruption and damage to the surrounding areas.

Figure 76: Waste bin on road

Safety: A warning light system is also in place to alert everyone in the event of an emergency situation.

This is necessary both to warn workers and civilians of any danger and thus making the process to run smoother.

Figure 77: Construction warning lights.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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low rise residential project

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B01

Low Rise Building Site Diary 1

DATE OF VISIT

: 24th March 2018, 11:00am

WEATHER

: 22 oC, Raining

ATTENDANCE

: Derrick, Charlie, YuTong Jin, Sameer : Charlie reinhart, 996815

DIARY BY Table 5: Site details.

Figure 78: Members of Group 91.

Observations: Materials on Site: 2

3

1

5

4

Figure 79: Annotations of site materials.

1

2

Timber beams Structural timber beams which are high in strength and has long life span.

Steel frames Providing the main skeleton for the building structure as a support and stability purposes.

3

4

Timberwood panels An alternative to precast concrete panels for walls and low rise developments.

5

Timber scaffolding Scaffolding used for the support of the building and safety purposes during construction.

Concrete Main material for its foundation due to its advantage of being firmer and stronger than timber.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B01 Equipments on Site:

6 7

Figure 80: Excavator seen on site.

6

Crawler Excavator

This machine is used to excavate various type of soil forcefully with its bucket. It consists of a boom, dipper, bucket and cab on a rotating platform known as the ‘house’. This type of excavator is unique such that it has its leg spread on large that gives the machine a lower ground pressure, hence, is used where soil support is weak as shown in Figure 27. On the other hand, it is also used in hilly areas as it imposed lesser risks of the machinery on the verge of sliding down.

Figure 81: Toilet cubicle.

7

Toilet Cubicle

A stand alone toilet is seen to be placed on the construction site. This is significant as no nearby toilet can be seen from the site. Therfore, the effort of the contractor in providing amentities such as this to shows its consideration for the well being of these builders who are working on site.

Site Progress:

Figure 82: Construction stage two weeks prior to our first site visit on 10/3/18..

Figure 83: Construction stage at our first site visit on the 24/3/18

From our initial visit of the low-rise site (Figure 29), many developments have been made, including the placement of timber structures adding to the already placed steel structures (Figure 30). The filling in of internal structure can be seen and the form of the building is slowing take shape and place.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B01 Key Activities:

Townhouse foundation and structure:

Timber struture for the first level of this part of the construction site almost complete.

As it was a Saturday, there were no activities being done on site. However, from the outside point of view (Figure 84), the foundations of the townhouse had been built up using concrete slabs. Furthermore, we could see the builders had made developments on timber wall structures. Steel was also being used in the support of the walls. The wall structures have been built up to one level out of three with the input of steel structures allowing for further progression of building the following stories.

Figure 84: Construction view from Manningham St.

On one side of the site no structures had been developed and the excavator was being used to clear land (Figure 85). Being a townhouse development, the land is being cleared to prepare for the next development of town houses. It is assumed that the builders are taking one step at a time and building each town house section separately. In total there will be 17 townhouses.

Excavator in the process of excavating the soil for it to be ready for the next construction stage.

Figure 85: Construction view from Lennon St.

Timber frames construction: This type of construction can be seen to be used in this project. The construction type will provide a cost effective and energy efficient structure to the development. The beginning of this process includes a concrete slabs which timber frames are built upon. The frames that can be seen being built in Figure 86, 87 and 88 acting as a skeleton. It attaches exterior wall claddings, flooring, roofing and windows.

Figure 86: Timber and concrete structure on site.

Steel frames acting as the skeleton of the structure and timber beams for giving more support to the structure.

Figure 87: Steel frames and timber structure on site.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

Figure 88. Timber beams place together for structure support.

31

B01 Discussion:

Figure 89. Fence knocked over along Lennon St.

Figure 90. Excessive timber and rubbish being randomly tossed on the ground.

Site Safety Due to the site being in the early developments of construction and not being situated on a main road, site fencing is only needed to protect the public passing by at this stage in the project. Although the fencing surrounds all areas of the construction site, there were areas in the fence which had been knocked over (Figure 89 & 91). In addition to this, materials and rubbish had no distinct area causing the site to look unorganised and un-safe, this can be seen in Figure 90. In Figure 92 materials can be seen to be stored in the basement section of the townhouse, away from the publics eye and also out of the weather affected areas. Furthermore, this storage section is out of the way of builders allowing safe practices. The builders have set there own fence to ensure site safety around the concrete slab. Using timber and steel, workers are protected from falling off the edge.

Figure 91. More fence being knocked over along Lennon St.

The use of machinery Figure 85 demonstrates all the machinery that is currently being used on site at this point in time. The excavator that can be seen in the image is being used to clear out land to prepare the start of the following townhouses. The first townhouse that has been built up is only taking about a quarter of the block of land, as more developments are made, it is assumed that more machinery will be needed on site. Fortunately this site has multiple entrances and a large back alley where trucks can enter into, as seen in Figure 85.

Figure 92. Storage basement located on site.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B02

Low Rise Building Site Diary 2

DATE OF VISIT

: 18th April 2018, 3:30pm

WEATHER

: 28 oC, SUNNY

ATTENDANCE

: Derrick, Charlie, YuTong Jin, Sameer : sameer yakub, 936853

DIARY BY Table 6: Site details.

Figure 93: Members of Group 91.

Observations: Materials on Site: 1

1 1

Waterproof structural walls:

These are being used to lay the supporting walls for the foundation of the 2nd part of the town house. An important part of the construction process is to ensure that the materials used provide a certain degree of durability. Hence using a waterproof structure is important especially as low rise buildings are more susceptible to rain flooding.

Figure 94: Waterproof material on site

2

LVL Timer:

LVL is an engineered form of timber typically used in the buildings structure and particularly the superstructure. It consists of multiple layers of timber glued together. This improves strength and durability.

2

Figure 95: LVL Timber stack

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B02 3

3 4 4

Timber scaffolding To support the structural walls.

Ghulam Timber Glued layers of wood stacked together and bonded

Figure 96: West side of the construction site

Site Progress:

Figure 97: Site visit on 10/3/18

Figure 98: Site visit on 24/3/18

Town house progress: As compared to our last visit we can notice a number of additions here. Firstly we see that more timber wood panels have been placed for the walls.

Secondly we also see that a lot more structuring has been done for the roof where timber has been used in addition to the steel frame.

Figure 99: Site visit on 18/4/18

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B02 Progress Summary: Last week the area for the other townhouses was relatively empty as focus still seemed to be on the first townhouse However, significant progress was made since then, with much work being done for the foundation of the second townhouse. As we can see from the pictures they’ve already put up structural walls and have also layered them from the back with waterproof material. Additionally we also see several supporting steel beams have been fixed into the area surrounding the wall. All of this is part of the superstructure.

Key Activities:

Figure 100: Progress on the other side of the constuction site.

Work on the next townhouse blocks has started: Perhaps one of the most noticeable new activity is the construction that’s underway on the substructure for the third townhouse extension. As we can see the lining for it has already been dug and concrete has been poured to the base. The substructure should soon be ready for the steel piping and framework to be placed. It is also likely that the digging was also with the help of the excavator that can be seen at the back. However, the substructure is still in its early stages and must be completed before work on the superstructure can start.

Figure 101: Substructure of the next townhouse blockv

Superstructure Progress: Lastly we also see how steel beams have been placed to support the foundation of the second townhouse. Steel is hard and tough which makes it good for strengthening the base of the superstructure.

Figure 102: Current site progress taken from Yakes lane (18/4/18).

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B02 Discussion:

Site Safety: As we can see here improvements were made for site safety since our last visit.

The previously knocked down fence meant that people or animals could potentially enter the construction site which is highly problematic and as such it appears the fence has been restored to its proper form.

Figure 103: Damaged fence (previous visit on 24/3/18).

Figure 104: Mended fence (current visit on 18/4/18).

Why is there a lack of material storage on site?

Not only is the space for material storage small, but also relatively empty. Infact even the site itself didn’t have many material stacks lying about. This is likely due to much of the work being completed in the company workshops or factories and then simply being fit into place on site. This could also explain how they made so much progress on the site so quickly.

Figure 105: Storage space on site

Where do they get their power from?

Figure 106: Breaker box

Figure 107: Overhead cables

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

As we can see above the power is supplied by the overhead cables and controlled by the breaker box. We also see that the cabling behind the breaker box is covered. This is important for safety for if it were left exposed there would be a possible risk of electrocution.

36

B03

Low Rise Building Site Diary 3

DATE OF VISIT

: 2nd may 2018, 3:30pm

WEATHER

: 22 oC, cloudy

ATTENDANCE

: Derrick, Charlie, YuTong Jin, Sameer : Derrick lim, 860296

DIARY BY Table 7: Site details.

Figure 108: Members of Group 91.

Observations: Materials on Site:

2 3

1

6 4 5

Figure 109: Annotations of site materials.

1

2

Prefabricated reinforcement cages Used in precasting, columns reinforcement and beans in large structure such as this construction that is made out of steel.

Rebar It is collectively known as a reinforcing steel bar and is used as a tension device in reinforcing and strengthening concrete.

3

4

Concrete columns These concrete columns is reinforced with steel frame to provide support for compressive load structures above it in the future.

600x600 Stormwater pit This is a reinforced concrete chamber constructed below ground for receiving rainwater, pipes and discharging water into a single downstream flow.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

5

6

Cement hollow bricks One of the most popular materials used in construction due to its durability and stability.

Steel rods is filled into hollow parts for reinforcements.

Yellow tongue and groove board These boards exist in different colours which indiciates different thickness. In this case, the yellow color indicates a thickness of 19mm.

Moreover, it has a groove on the side of the board where the green tongue is slide into it.

37

B03 Equipments on Site:

8

7

9

Figure 110: Annotations of site equipments.

7

On-site bin An appropriate place for construction disposal while on site. The initiative to planning waste management has been taken into account by the contractor.

8

Small type crawler excavator It has almost the same function as to the many other type of excavators. However, this can handle smaller areas and carry out lighter excavating activities on site.

9

Vertical water tank A tank for water storage and transporting water source to areas with low or yet to be build water network for activities on site.

Site Progress: Building of Substructure:

Figure 111: Substruture condition from 2nd site visit (18/4/18)

Figure 112: The progress in site’s substruture after 2 weeks (2/5/18)

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

The substructure or also known as the foundation of the site has shown significant progress in carrying out this stage of the construction. For instance, it can be observed that concrete strip footing had been applied (see Figure 112) onto the trenches (see Figure 111) that was measured and excavated by the subcontractors. Moreover, according to Figure 112, starter bars has also been attached into these substructures with the support from the application of strip footing. This is important as these starter bars are arranged vertically upwards which allow it to function as a great starting point for columns to be constructed, in this case, preparing the foundation for the superstructure. However, there are also different types of starter bars arrangemnt can be found on site (see Figure 113 and 114.

Figure 113: A drawing of an L-shape type starter bars in a footing in a rectangle form (Tekla Structures, 2018).

Figure 114: A drawing of a straight up starter bars in a footing in a circular form (Tekla Structures, 2018).

38

B03 Townhouse progress:

Figure 115: (Top-Left) Site progress 2 weeks prior to our 1st site viist (10/3/18). (Top-Right) SIte progress in 1st site vist (24/3/18). (Bottom-Left) Site progress in 2nd visit (18/4/18). (Bottom right) Current progress (2/5/18).

Comparison: As shown in Figure 115, comparing the progress made on this part of the site prior to the 2nd visit, it has not made that much of progress except finishing up covering the roof of the first level.

Moreover, more timber structures is seen to built more as preparation for the next level of the building to be built.

First floor of construction site Figure 116: 1st floor of this part of townhouse is completed.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B03

Figure 117: 2nd site visit site progress taken from Yakes lane (18/4/18).

Building of Superstructure:

Figure 118: Current site progress taken from Yakes lane (2/5/18).

In conjunction to constructing its superstructure, it can be seen from Figure 117 and 118 that there is significant progress to its built form. As the constructed steel beams is continued from the starter bars on the strip footing in Figure 117, concrete columns has now covered the steel beams as well as the filling of concrete mix in these columns for further reinforcement. This can be observed for all steel beams on site as shown in Figure 118. Conversely, the construction of concrete columns is seen to be an important stage in this phase is because it will provide a stronger support for the further built up levels of the building. Moreover, these columns are situated at strategic points on the site planned consulted by architects and engineers mainly for appropriate building support.

Key Activities: Soil grading and landscaping: One of the key activities that occured on site was observing workers working on land grading with the utilization of an excavator. This activity is important as it helps to prevent water from flowing into the substructure of the buidling (ACS Distance Education, 2018), hence, reducing the risk of substruture damage during rain. In addition, this also illustrates that excators does not merely function as digging up soil but also grading and levelling such as this.

Figure 119: Grading and levelling of soil with the help of machinery.

Reviewing construction progress: On the other hand, there was hardly any workers seen on site and could suggest that these workers may be more active on site before 3pm. Nevertheless, one or two workers were seen on top of the building as shown in Figure 120, appears to be dealing with phone calls regarding the construction progress while reviewing certain parts of the building. This is important as the notion in taking to check certain work done by subcontractors is essential to carrying out further actions in the construction.

Figure 120: A worker seen on roof of the site reviewing progress.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B03 Discussion:

Why is substructure so important?

Substructure is important because it connects the upper part of the building to ensure that there is a strong foundation and resistance to shock, a resilience component of the structure (Australian Resilience Taskforce, 2018). Moreover, it also acts to distribute and reduce load intensity of incoming structures and provide enough stability. However, substructures are vulnerable to moving water especially flooding.

Figure 121: A drawing in illustrating building substructure and superstructure (Crawford, 2018).

Construction technology: Steel and Concrete As Zhu et al. (2017) asserts that the reshaped steel on concrete structures has become an increasingly used of method in constructing public buildings. This is because of its advantages such as fire resistance, economical and can withstand a good amount of tensile stress (Din, 2016). This technology had attracted many contractors and suppliers as well as gaining the trust of the people knowing its use and benefits in building their homes as opposed to other materials.

Figure 122: Concrete columns is being filled with steel beams and concrete mix as part of its superstructure on site.

Waste management probelm As prior to observing and identifying an on-site bin, it appears that there are still waste being placed around the construction site. This is crucial as it raises question on the adequacy of supplying bins by the contractor on site. Moreover, the bad practice of leaving disposal of materials around the site is dangerous for the condition workers as well as the safety of the public..

In short, this problem is placed onto the obligation of the client and respecting contractors in making sure that there is a proper waster mangement plan during the course of the project.

Figure 123: Unwanted and broken concrete hollow bricks lying on site.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B04

Low Rise Building Site Diary 4

DATE OF VISIT

: 9th may 2018, 3:30pm

WEATHER

: 18 oC, cloudy

ATTENDANCE

: Derrick, Charlie, YuTong Jin, Sameer : Yutong jin, 991449

DIARY BY Table 8: Site details.

Figure 124: Members of Group 91.

Observations: Materials on Site:

2

1

3 Figure 125: Photo on Heathcote Rd showing higher level scaffolding materials.

Figure 126: Welded wire fabric

Figure 127: Poured concrete for foundation.

4

6 5

Figure 128: Timber floor board and laminated veneer lumber stacked onsite.

1

2

Steel scaffolding Scaffolding made of steel constructed for protecting worker from doing higher levels of construction.

Welded wire fabric (WWF) It is made of steel wire, mesh in sqaure or rectangular shape and welded at each intersection. WWF is commonly used in reinforced concrete, typically for concrete slabs when building floor.

3

4

Figure 129: Structural insulated panel for wallmaterials.

Poured Concrete Poured concrete foundation(substructure) and pour concrete walls(superstructure) as mentioned in previous site diary provides better lateral strength, allowing higher resistance to against pressure from the water and the soil from the outside.

Timber floor board Sustainable building materials are used for flooring structure.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

5

6

Laminated veneer lumber(LVL) Commonly used for headers, beams, rimboard, and edge-forming material. LVL offers stronger, straighter, and more uniform property. It is much less likely than conventional lumber to warp, twist, bow, or shrink and have a higher allowable stress comparing with Glued laminated timber.

Structural Insulated Panel A form of sandwich panel regulating pressures and heat in a uniform and consistent manner.

42

B04 Equipments on Site:

7

8

Figure 130: Laser rotator taken from Manningham Road

7

Laser Rotator

Figure 131: Concrete truck moved into site from Manningham Rd

8

Used for grading the base course for a road, leveling its slope and correcting irregularitites.

Also for Aligning horizontal and vertical level of building.

Concrete truck Concrete truck, also called a concrete mixer combines cement, aggregate such as sand or gravel, and water to form concrete.

The one shown in the figure is a special concrete transport trucks (in-transit mixers) are made to mix concrete and transport it to the construction site.

Supply services (provided by sub contrators):

10 9

Figure 132: Photo of Temporary electrical panel

9

Power supply Temporary electrical room generates the power required for excavator, drills and lighting.

Temporary power supply allows builders and trades to work when there is no permanent connection to the site. However, it could be equally as dangerous as any permanent electrical installation. Therefore, in order to provide safe power, contractor have to take into consideration grounding, shock hazards, short circuit considerations, vault currents and safety.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

Figure 133: Photo of water supply, water tap, installed on the side, closed to the Manningham Rd

10

Water supply A supply of water is needed on construction site for a variaty of uses including mixing concrete, drinking water and toilet services. Temporary water for construction normally comes from the local water supplier, which will be connected at the front of the block(see Figure 133). The restriction came with this type of temporary connection is that the water shouldn’t be used to water plants.

43

B04 Site Progress:

Figure 134: Observation prior to the actual site visit, 10/03/18

Figure 135: 1st visit, 24/03/18

Figure 136: 2nd visit, 18/04/18

Figure 137: 3rd visit, 02/05/18

Townhouse progress: Interior sapce basically remains the same view comparing to last visit. Some timber boards are placed around, preparing for higher level structure. Stronger steel scaffolding protecting workers can be seen.

Figure 138: 4th visit, 9/05/18

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B04

Figure 139: Exterior space of townhouse on 3rd visit

Figure 141: Progress of substructure on 4th visit

Distanced View: From the distance, not much progress could be seen in the actual townhouse as well, however, it can be observed that more scaffolding was set, preparing for the following construction of superstructures. Some of the timber waste on Heathcote Rd are removed.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

Figure 140: Progress of substructure on 3rd visit

Figure 142: Progress of substructure on 4th visit

Substructure on the other side of the townhouse: Viewing from Lennon St, a greater progress was done in substructure work. Showing in the figure of last visit, four rows of starter bars in same direction (denoted as vertical) were attached whereas this time, three more rows in horizontal direction are attached behind. The preparation of foundation for superstructure are almost completed at this stage.

45

B04

Key Activities:

Transportation: The dominant activity happened this time is the transportation of a concrete truck. This truck as mentioned is advantaged by its ability of both carrying and mixing, ensuring the need of concrete useage on site. As the traffic is not very busy around this area, only a “stop� sign used was sufficient enough to warn vehicles and passengers, no man needed standing on the road.

Figure 143: Transportation going on with traffic instruction on Manningham St

Landscaping: Grading and levelling work on soil was still going on.

Only a small size excavator was in used at the time to adjust the final bit, showing the progress of site landscaping.

Figure 144: Photo of excavator landscaping

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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B04 Discussion:

Why is Welded Wire Frame essential?

Basically is because concrete has little resistance to tension. By adding fabric to the slab, extra tensile strength is added to contrete slabs since the fabric is made of steel which is extremely strong in tension.

Steel Frame could reduce the effect caused by force of twisting or warping. It resists the tensile stresses when the slab shrinks or contracts, distributing them evenly over a large area and helping it to hold tightly together minimizing cracks.

Figure 145: Welded wire frame

Figure 146:View of poured concrete reinforced by the welded wire firm.

Disorganisation of the site: Based on four visits, gerneral issuse observed on the site is the poor management of material and waste as everytime showing mess around.

Fencing has been improved since first visit, however, unused or waste materials are atill randomly placed around on the site.

Not only does it cause danger and uneccessary cost, it also drags down the efficiency of construntion process since mess makes it difficult to identify the purpose of different materials and the wastes left on the site would slow down the process of excavator.

Figure 147: Insufficient material and waste are placed around.

People on site: Instead of consistent large number of people working onsite, the human resources for low rise depends of different stages of construction.

In-time negotiation with different subcontractors are therefore needed to ensure the need for different roles such as electrician, plumber could be sufficiently organized.

Figure 148: View of site taken from Lenon St

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Conclusion

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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Conclusion:

i. Summary of work observed High Rise

Low Rise The superstructure has been built awaiting the timber structure to be filled in.

The first level of the outer section of the construction has been completed and scaffolding is inputted above the level to prepare for two more levels.

10th March 2018. Pre Site Visit

Progress has been made through the addition of the timber structure, supported by the steel frames.

It is evident that another level has been added from this view in just two weeks, with more scaffolding added for the development of another level.

24th March 2018. First Site Visit

The addition of the ceiling is evident in this visit, however, more development has taken place on the other side of the site bounded by Lennon St and Manningham St.

Three weeks on from our last visit, they are close to completing the first stage of their construction and are beginning to build the main high rise in the centre of the site, unseen to us.

18th April 2018. Second Site Visit The ceiling of the first floor is now complete and developments to the next level is underway. The sub and super structure is at the beginning stage for the other blocks of town houses.

A glass faรงade has started to be installed using unitised glass panels and a lightweight panel system surrounds the main structure of the building to ensure safety and allowing further development of the building.

From a street view it was hard to see many developments as they have now concentrated work on the central structures.

However, more glass facades have been added in random spots around the lower levels of the building. Furthermore, on the ground floor, services such as plumbing, ventilation and wiring are continuing to increase.

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

2nd May 2018. Third Site Visit

The super structure has now taken shape on the other block of town houses with structural insulated panels added to the site.

9th May 2018. Fourth Site Visit 49

ii. Site comparison High Rise

Material Equipment Trade person OH & S

Low Rise

• Dominantly concrete and steel structural elements • High standard steel scaffolding structure surrounding the building

• Concrete used for sub-structure • Steel frames and timber beams

• • • •

• Excavator • Laser Rotator • Concrete Truck

Luffing Tower Crane x3 Concrete placement boom Mobile Elevating Work Platforms Cantilever

• Approximately 150 people

• Not fixed, depends on sub-contractors

• Workers are seen wearing safety equipment (helmets, vests and boots) at all times • Consistent scaffolding and “cocoons” surrounding the building

• Casual worker safety without too much reliance on safety equipment -Simple scaffolding arrangement

• Heavily reliance on prefabricated concrete panels • Heavy use on machinery (cranes, concrete pumps) • Multiple entrances allow materials to be transported and lifted onto site

• Hands on and limited machinery • Rely on sub-contractors for different construction practices ie. Concrete trucks, electrical technicians, builders

• On-site Lighting • On-site offices • Large material storage on-site • Multiple entrances • Consistent opaque fencing shielding views into the site • Security cameras • Power generator

• Rubbish dump • Toilet • Small on-site office • Transparent steel fencing surrounding site

Public Protection

• Pedestrian areas sheltered from the construction above • Loading bay extends out to the road with a large concrete divider separating the road and site • Traffic control is evident with the use of stop signs when large deliveries are made

• Loose fencing structure • Material storage unsecure • Disorganised materials, equipment and rubbish

Issues on site

• Impacts traffic on Macauley Street • Extremely loud construction site which is surrounded by suburbia

• Materials are exposed to rain and not secured or sheltered • Site rubbish is left around the site and minimal rubbish bins can be seen • Site security is extremely limited the fencing is easily accessible from the street

Construction Method

Site Set Up

Understanding the Built Environment: Site Observation Report by Group 91

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Similarities The foundation in both construction sites are built with concrete ensuring a stable structure for the building to be built upon. Furthermore, scaffolding is seen as an essential element on both construction sites. With the use of steel and timber scaffolding to achieve this.

Machinery can be seen on both sites helping the speed of construction. Obviously, the high rise is much more heavily reliant on machinery, however, the low-rise building construction would not flow smoothly. Additionally, although fencing on the low-rise site is not secured, both sites manage to encompass their sites away from the public.

What we have learned The differences between low-rise and high-rise construction methods are significantly different.

Furthermore, the constant work being done on the high-rise is evident with multiple levels being added between every site visit. Whereas, the low-rise building, there was barely more than five builders on site. This was evident in the slow progress in the construction process of the multiple townhouse blocks. From the first visit to the last, one level had not even been completed.

Teamwork is essential in not only the construction industry but also groups to ensure success.

Without teamwork, goals of the group will not be able to be achieved. Furthermore, a need for a leader within a group is very important to allow the group to function and operate smoothly.

Site safety is an integral part within a construction site to ensure not only the safety of workers but also pedestrians.

Time management can heavily impact the progress of a site.

The high-rise building was a great example of management leading the team with a focus on speed and quality.

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References: ACS Distance Education. (2018). Moving earth. Retrieved from https://www.acs.edu.au/ info/alternative-living/alternative-technology/moving-earth.aspx.

Australian Resilience Taskforce. (2018). Substructure. Retrieved from http://www. buildingresilience.org.au/brkd/substructure/1.

Corres, H., Romo, J., & Romero, E. (2008). High Rise Buildings. The Challenge of a New Field of Possibilities of the use of Structural Concrete. FHECOR, Ingenieros Consultores.

Retrieved from http://www.abece.com.br/web/restrito/restrito/pdf/ch126.pdf.

Crawford, R. (2018). Week 6a. Starting a Project - Construction Materials and Equipment [PDF]. Retrieved from University of Melbourne Understanding the Built Environment LMS site.

Din, R. (2016). Advantages of reinforced concrete. Retrieved from https://www.linkedin. com/pulse/advantages-disadvantages-reinforced-concrete-reza-din.

Poulos, H. (2014). Challenges in the Design of Tall Building Foundations. Geotechnical Engineering, 45(4), 108-112. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/ publication/273949144_Challenges_in_the_Design_of_Tall_Building_Foundations Safe Work Australia. (2015). Construction Industry Profile. Retrieved from https://www. safeworkaustralia.gov.au/system/files/documents/1702/construction-industry-profile.pdf.

Tekla Structures. (2018). Starter bars. Retrieved from https://teklastructures.support.tekla. com/2018/en/det_reinforcement_starter_bars.

Zhu, S., Zhang, Z., Liu, L., & Bu, F. (2017). Research on construction technology of shaped steel reinforced concrete beam and column. IOP Conference Series: Earth And Environmental Science, 61, 012123. doi: 10.1088/1755-1315/61/1/012123

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