Assessment of the implementation of measures to curb collapse of buildings in Uganda. A case of Kampala capital city (Rubaga and central divisions)

Abstract

The study assessed the implementation of measures to avoid collapse of buildings in Kampala District specifically Central and Rubaga Divisions, which dominates the incidence of collapsed buildings, thus represents KCCA and entire Uganda. The study is driven with the fact that collapse of buildings threatens the economic development which requires empirical assessment to suggest means of improving the measures under National Building Control Act 2013. The study was guided with four objectives include: establish the measures stipulated to curb collapse of buildings in KCCA, examine the extent of application of the measures to curb collapse of building in KCCA, analyze the effectiveness of the measures to curb collapse of building in KCCA; and suggestions for improvement of measures to curb collapse of building. The study used a descriptive design with qualitative and quantitative approaches. The unit of analysis were 2 Divisions of KCCA and units of inquiry were staff at the Division. Qualitative data was analyzed with Nvivo and quantitative data was analyzed with SPSS version 20 to generate the graph and frequency tables. Results revealed that mechanisms to curb collapse of building include; issuing of approved architectural and structural plans, excavation permits, testing and checking the procured construction material, inspecting the beam, columns and slabs after 28 days of concrete maturity, checking the structural integrity of old buildings, close supervision of construction activities and proper inspection and monitoring of construction sites. The stipulated measures to curb collapse of building were consulting the structural Engineer and the architect in case of any architectural modifications, use of approved plan, hiring structural engineer to validate the structural elements, following guidelines on excavation permit and empowering local building control team to monitor the construction work with division support. The effectiveness of the measures includes following up the approved plan, regular inspection of excavation work, testing of the construction materials and checking of construction items to curb collapse of buildings. Suggested ways of improvement were qualified personnel, periodical check on the structural integrity of old buildings, proper drainage of surface runoff from the building, quality construction materials and compliance on regulations made under the Building Control Act. The study recommends strengthening the inspections of construction sites to adhere to approved plan, testing of sampled materials from the sites in laboratories, empowering local building control team to monitor constructions, periodical check on structural integrity of old and new structures.