This article explores the causes of temporary works failures through the lens of real-life examples. By focusing on human, procedural, and technical issues.
Temporary works are essential components of construction projects, acting as temporary structures that facilitate the execution of permanent works. Despite their transitional nature, temporary works are pivotal in ensuring construction safety and efficiency. They require precise planning, meticulous execution, and close supervision to prevent failures, which can result in costly delays, structural damage, or even fatalities.
Failures in temporary works are not merely accidents; they often stem from human errors, procedural shortcomings, and technical flaws. Each failure presents an opportunity to learn and improve, thereby reinforcing safety protocols and fostering better construction practices. By examining the root causes of these failures, it becomes possible to implement corrective measures that minimize risks and enhance the success of future projects.
This article explores the causes of temporary works failures through the lens of real-life examples. By focusing on human, procedural, and technical issues, the lessons learned from these cases provide a roadway for improving safety and reliability in construction.
Human Factors in Temporary Works Failures
Incompetence
Incompetence is a frequent cause of temporary works failures, often resulting from inadequate training, insufficient experience, or lack of proper oversight.
Fanum House Scaffolding Collapse (UK): In 2000, thirty tonnes of scaffolding collapsed from a 12-story office building in Cardiff during high winds. Investigations revealed that 70% of the essential ties meant to secure the scaffolding were never installed, and the remaining ties were poorly fixed. This catastrophic oversight was attributed to untrained workers using inappropriate equipment, showcasing the consequences of inadequate training and supervision.
Negligence
Negligence arises when critical safety measures are ignored or dismissed, often due to overconfidence or misjudgment.
Example: B-Tower Collapse (Netherlands): In Rotterdam, the temporary support scaffolding for precast concrete planks collapsed during construction. The investigation revealed that stability braces were omitted, and while the issue was noticed, it was not rectified due to unclear responsibilities among the construction team. This neglect emphasized the critical need for clear accountability and rigorous follow-up on identified issues.
Poor Communication
Poor communication can result in misaligned expectations, uncoordinated efforts, and overlooked safety measures.
Denver I-70 Overpass Collapse (USA): In 2004, a fabricated steel girder collapsed during installation, killing three occupants of a passing vehicle. The failure was caused by improperly installed bracing and a lack of alignment in the planning and execution phases. Miscommunication among team members compounded these issues, underscoring the importance of seamless coordination in complex construction tasks.
Procedural Failures in Temporary Works
Faulty Design Assumptions
Design assumptions that fail to account for real-world conditions can lead to catastrophic outcomes.
Nicoll Highway Collapse (Singapore) In 2004, a tunnel excavation for Singapore’s Circle Line railway collapsed, killing four workers. The failure was attributed to an inadequate soil simulation model, under-designed support connections, and the omission of key structural props. These procedural errors weakened the retaining wall system by nearly 50%, highlighting the importance of accurate design calculations and robust safety checks.
Inadequate Planning
A lack of thorough planning can expose temporary works to unforeseen risks and unstable conditions.
Queen Juliana Bridge Crane Collapse (Netherlands): In 2015, two cranes mounted on barges attempted a tandem lift of a bridge section, but both barges capsized during the process. Investigations revealed that the planning failed to account for barge stability during the lift. This oversight caused a chain reaction that destroyed several nearby buildings. Proper logistical planning and risk assessments could have prevented this disaster.
Risk Underestimation
Underestimating potential risks can lead to insufficient preventive measures, leaving temporary works vulnerable to failure.
Cline Avenue Ramp Collapse (USA): In 1982, the collapse of falsework beneath a ramp killed 14 workers and injured 18 others during a concrete pour. Investigators discovered that concrete pads supporting shoring towers were substandard and lacked proper engineering calculations. The incident illustrated the consequences of inadequate risk assessment and the failure to adhere to engineering best practices.
Technical and Material Deficiencies
Material Failures
Using inappropriate or substandard materials can severely compromise the stability and safety of temporary works.
Hybrid Concrete Construction Near-Miss (UK): A construction site utilized precast and in-situ concrete elements, relying solely on friction for stability. During construction, a precast unit slid towards the edge of a corbel, nearly falling into a 20-meter-deep shaft. The improper application of materials and stabilization methods highlighted the need for secure anchoring systems and thorough material assessments.
Lack of Maintenance
Failure to inspect and maintain temporary structures leads to wear and tear, which can reduce their load-bearing capacity.
Bridge Shuttering Support Near-Collapse (UK): An 800m³ concrete pour for a bridge deck nearly ended in disaster when temporary supports began to distort under pressure. Fortunately, adjacent reinforced concrete walls prevented a complete collapse. The incident highlighted how regular maintenance and monitoring could prevent near-failures and enhance the longevity of temporary works.
Improper Installation
Errors during the installation phase can undermine even the most robust designs.
Denver I-70 Incident (USA): A girder fell from an overpass due to improper bracing installation. Poorly aligned bolts and a lack of plumb alignment weakened the structure, leading to its collapse. This case underscores the necessity of precise installation practices and diligent inspection to verify compliance with design specifications.
Lessons Learned from Temporary Works Failures
The repeated themes in these cases provide critical insights into improving temporary works management. Key takeaways include:
The Importance of a Competent Workforce
A skilled and qualified workforce is fundamental to the success of temporary works. Workers must possess the necessary expertise and undergo proper training to handle the complex demands of construction projects. Skilled personnel can recognize potential issues and address them proactively, reducing the likelihood of errors. Equally important is the role of experienced supervisors, who oversee operations and ensure that teams adhere to design specifications and safety protocols. Supervisors bridge the gap between planning and execution, creating an environment where workers can perform efficiently and effectively.
Clear and Effective Communication
Communication is the backbone of any construction project, and temporary works are no exception. Clear and timely communication between stakeholders—designers, contractors, and on-site personnel—prevents misunderstandings and fosters collaboration. Poor communication can lead to oversights, delays, and safety risks, while effective communication ensures that everyone remains aligned with the project’s objectives. Modern digital tools can be utilized to streamline communication, track project updates, and monitor safety protocols, enabling seamless coordination across all phases of the project.
The Role of Comprehensive Planning
Thorough planning is essential to the stability and success of temporary works. Feasibility studies conducted at the outset of a project help identify potential risks and challenges. These studies provide a foundation for integrating safety margins and contingency plans into the design process, ensuring the project is prepared to handle unforeseen circumstances. Comprehensive planning anticipates the changing loads and conditions that temporary works often encounter, allowing for proactive risk management and minimizing disruptions during construction.
The Necessity of Regular Inspections and Maintenance
Regular inspections and timely maintenance are vital for the durability and safety of temporary works. Temporary structures are often subjected to wear and tear, which can compromise their performance if not addressed promptly. Periodic inspections help detect early signs of deterioration, enabling corrective measures before problems escalate. Repairing or replacing damaged components is essential to maintaining the structural integrity of temporary works throughout their lifespan. Inspections also ensure compliance with design specifications, reinforcing safety at every stage of construction.
Ensuring Material and Installation Quality
Material selection and installation quality are critical to the success of temporary works. Materials must be chosen based on the specific demands of each project, ensuring they are robust enough to handle expected loads and conditions. Similarly, installation procedures must be carried out with precision and oversight. Proper training and supervision of installation teams help mitigate errors and ensure that structures perform as intended. High-quality materials and meticulous installation practices reduce the risk of failure, contributing to safer and more reliable temporary works.
Conclusion
Temporary works are indispensable to the success of construction projects, yet their failure can have severe consequences. Human errors, procedural shortcomings, and material deficiencies often play a central role in these failures. Real-world examples, such as the Fanum House scaffolding collapse and the Nicoll Highway disaster, reveal the importance of addressing these issues proactively.
Learning from past failures not only reduces risks but also sets a foundation for safer, more efficient construction practices.
See: Temporary Works and the Structural Engineer
Sources and Citations
- Soane, A. (2017). Temporary Works Failures – What Are the Common Causes? The Structural Engineer.
- Structural-Safety CROSS Database. Available at: www.structural-safety.org.
- Dutch Safety Board (2016). Lifting Accident Alphen aan den Rijn.
- Hansford, M. (2012). Nicoll Highway Collapse. New Civil Engineer.
