A TECHNICAL REPORT

ON
STUDENT INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME (SIWES)

BY

AGHAGBA OGHENEMARO MITCHEL

MATRIC NO: 19CI025668
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING
DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING
PROGRAMME: B.ENG
COVENANT UNIVERSITY, OTA

UNDERTAKEN
AT
MINISTRY OF WORKS ASABA, DELTA STATE

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE

AWARD OF BACHELOR OF ENGINEERING OF COVENANT
UNIVERSITY OTA, OGUN STATE.
SEPTEMBER, 2023.
 DEDICATION

This report is dedicated to God almighty who is the beginning and end of my existence, but for
his grace and mercies I would not be writing this report today. Also to my wonderful parents
Engr. and Arc. S.A. Aghagba, for their unconditional love and support in my life, to my siblings,
friends as well as other interns, a very big thank you.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I return all glory and honor to Almighty God; the father of light and giver of all wisdoms for His

inspiration and impartation of knowledge throughout the course of my industrial training

programme, also for giving me the commitment and patience to pass various obstacles. Also, the

Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Works for giving me the opportunity to be trained under an

organization of high status. To the entire working staffs, my colleagues at Ministry of Works I

really appreciate you all for all the support.

I will also like to acknowledge my parents, Engr. and Arc. S.A. Aghagba for their endless

supports in every areas for their labor of love, my siblings for taking care of, throughout my

stay at home.

My lecturers would not be left out, I want to acknowledge my lecturers for their endless effort

in trying to bring out the very best in me, for their impact on me. I also want to thank Covenant

University for giving me this opportunity to gain knowledge and skills

I will like to appreciate the industrial training coordinating center (ITCC) for the privilege

given to me to explore the practical world of my career.

God bless you all………

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 ABSTRACT

This work report contains a detailed overview of my Six months SIWES industrial training
programme for students in engineering and technology which they must undergo in a relevant
industry and a general account on the experienced gained during the training.

It describes the firm that the industrial training was undertaken, location of the firm, the
functions performed, the major work executed in the firm, the challenges faced and some
solutions to the problems encountered.

An explicit report on the facilities provided by the firm, stages involved in the construction of a
residential building, the use of software in analysis and design of engineering structures.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEDICATION...............................................................................................................................ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT...........................................................................................................iii
ABSTRACT..................................................................................................................................iv
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION................................................................................................1
1.1 Introduction: SIWES.............................................................................................................1
1.1.1 Aims of SIWES.........................................................................................................2
1.1.2 Objective of SIWES.......................................................................................................2
1.2 SIWES Recruitment and Engagement...................................................................................3
1.3 About Ministry of Works.......................................................................................................4
1.3.1 Vision..............................................................................................................................4
1.3.2 Mission...........................................................................................................................4
1.3.3 Functions.........................................................................................................................4
1.3.4 Corporate Structure.........................................................................................................5
1.4 Letters and Form Submission................................................................................................6
1.5 Internship Overview..........................................................................................................7
CHAPTER 2: GENERAL OVERVIEW.....................................................................................8
2.1 Facilities at Ministry of Works..............................................................................................8
2.1.1 Office Facilities..............................................................................................................8
2.1.2 Field Facilities................................................................................................................9
2.2 Quality of Company-based Supervision..............................................................................18
2.3 Knowledge and Experience Gained.....................................................................................19
2.3.1 Construction of Structural Components of a Building.................................................19
2.3.2 Design of Structural Components of a Building...........................................................34
2.3.3 Site Supervision............................................................................................................37
CHAPTER 3: CONTRIBUTIONS AND APPLICATION OF KNOWLEGDE GAINED . 38
3.1 Contributions.......................................................................................................................38
3.2 Applicability of Knowledge Gained....................................................................................38
3.2.1 The Field of Study and Educational Career..................................................................38
3.2.2 The Goals of Company Engagement............................................................................39
3.2.3 The Larger Society.......................................................................................................39
3.3 Bridging the Gap in Knowledge..........................................................................................39

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 3.4 Organizational Culture.........................................................................................................40
3.5 Challenges Encountered......................................................................................................40
3.5.1 Challenges Encountered by Student.............................................................................40
3.5.2 Challenges Encountered by Company..........................................................................41
3.6 Project Topics Identified......................................................................................................41
CHAPTER 4: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION................................................42
4.1. Conclusion..........................................................................................................................42
4.2 Recommendation.................................................................................................................43
REFERENCES............................................................................................................................44

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1.1 Acceptance letter............................................................................................................3
Figure 1.2 Organogram of Delta State Ministry of Works..............................................................6
Figure 2.1 Concrete Mixer...............................................................................................................9
Figure 2.2 Dump Truck.................................................................................................................10
Figure 2.3 Dumpy Level................................................................................................................11
Figure 2.4 Levelling Staff..............................................................................................................11
Figure 2.5 Wheel Barrow..............................................................................................................12
Figure 2.6 Excavator......................................................................................................................13
Figure 2.7 Mechanical Roller........................................................................................................14
Figure 2.8 Machine Rammer.........................................................................................................15
Figure 2.9 Measuring Wheel.........................................................................................................16
Figure 2.10 Concrete Vibrator on Site...........................................................................................17
Figure 2.11 Grader Machine..........................................................................................................18

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 LIST OF PLATES

Plate 2.1 Setting out at Plot 238.....................................................................................................20

Plate 2.2 Excavation at the Site.....................................................................................................21
Plate 2.3 Excavation of Foundation Trenches...............................................................................22
Plate 2.4 Placement of Foundation Reinforcements......................................................................23
Plate 2.5 Casting of Foundation Reinforcements..........................................................................24
Plate 2.6 Placement of Damp proof Membrane at the Compacted Base.......................................25
Plate 2.7 Casting at Damp Proof Course Level.............................................................................25
Plate 2.8 Placement of Column Reinforcement.............................................................................26
Plate 2.9 Placement of Column Formwork....................................................................................27
Plate 2.10 Placement of Beam Reincorcements and Formwork....................................................29
Plate 2.11 Casting of Beam Reinforcements.................................................................................30
Plate 2.12 Placement of Slab Formwork.......................................................................................31
Plate 2.13 Placement of Damp Proof Membrane on Slab Formwork...........................................31
Plate 2.14 Placement of Slab Reinforcements...............................................................................32
Plate 2.15 Casting of First Floor Slab............................................................................................33
Plate 2.16 Curing of the Slab by Spraying Watter.........................................................................33
Plate 2.17 Plan view of the Structural Members of a Shopping Complex in Orion......................34
Plate 2.18 3D View of the Structural Members of a Shopping Complex in Orion.......................35
Plate 2.19a Analysis of two-way Slab Using MS Excel Spreadsheet...........................................36
Plate 2.19b Reinforcement Table of the Two-way Slab on MS Excel Spreadsheet......................36

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viii
 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction: SIWES

Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) is a skilled training programme

designed to expose and prepare students of higher educational learning to practical work on site;
this scheme is for student studying practical and professional jobs.

SIWES came into existence with the establishment of the Industrial Training Fund under
decree 47 of 1971 in a bid to boost professionalism in the construction industry. The fund in
its policy statement No. 1 published in 1973 inserted a clause dealing with the same issue of
practical skills. The fund will seek to work out cooperative machinery with industry, where
students in institution of higher learning may require industrial training or mid-career
attachment by contributions to the allowance payable to the student.

Student industrial work experience scheme (SIWES) has been considered as the
accepted skill training programme. It forms part of the approved minimum academic
standard in various degree programs in all Nigerian Universities. It is an effort to bridge the
gap existing between theory and practice of various professions whereby at the end, the
main quest of such scheme is achieved.

SIWES has basically aimed at exposing students to machinery, professional work

methods, ways of safe guarding the work areas, workers in industries and organizations.

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1.1.1 Aims of SIWES

The aim of SIWES is primarily to bridge the gap existing between theory and practice of
engineering and technology, science, medical management and other professional courses in
Nigerian Universities. Expose students to various plants and machineries in their field of
study. It provides an avenue for students to apply the skills they acquired at school into
practice. Enhance and strengthen employer’s involvement in the entire educational process
and provides an opportunity for jobs in the industrial sector. To expose students to skills
acquisition and their ability to learn managerial services. To boost student interest in their
area of discipline.

1.1.2 Objective of SIWES

 To prepare students for the work situation they are likely to meet after graduation.
 To make the transition from the university to the world of work easier and enhance
student contacts for later job placement.
 To expose students to work methods and to acquire techniques in handling equipment
and machinery that may not be available in the universities.
 To provide an avenue for students in Nigerian universities to acquire industrial skills and
experience in their courses of study.
 To provide students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge in real work situation
thereby bringing the gap between university work and actual practice.
 To strengthen employers involvement in the entire educational process of preparing
university graduates for employment in the industry.

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1.2 SIWES Recruitment and Engagement

I received my SIWES letter of placement, Form 8 and Student Commencement of Attachment

(SCAF) Form in February, 2023 from the Civil Engineering departmental SIWES coordinator,
Dr. Paul Awoyera. I began my search for a company that I can be given Internship opportunity. I
scanned and submitted my SIWES letter to engineering firms in Asaba to tender my request for a
6 month internship but I was mostly ignored or unattended to. I went on to submit my
application letter to Ministry of Work, Asaba on 1st March, 2023. I was given an acceptance
letter by the Director of administration of Ministry of Works and was communicated to
commence on the 6th of March, 2023.

Figure 1.1 Acceptance letter

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1.3 About Ministry of Works

Ministry of Works is a Professional Federal Service Ministry charged with the responsibility
of providing technical service such as Design Construction and Maintenance of State Roads, and
Provision of Mechanical and Electrical Services. It also renders Professional advice to other
arms of Government on Technical matters.

1.3.1 Vision

A Ministry where its staff are faithful in carrying out their professional duties in line with the
physical policies of Government thereby giving value for money in the executive of
infrastructural development in the state.

1.3.2 Mission

The Ministry of Works will remain committed in the implementation of projects in the areas of
design, construction and supervision of projects to the state Government as it seeks to provide
Engineering facilities for the economic progress of its people.

1.3.3 Functions

As earlier stated, the Ministry of Works is a professional Ministry and has the following
functions: -

 Design of highways
 Construction and Supervision of State Roads, Bridges and their Maintenance
 The repairs, Servicing, Maintenance of road construction plants, vehicles and generating
sets.
 Maintenance of Electrical Installations, Equipment and appliances in Government
Buildings.

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  The Ministry also serves as the technical adviser and supervisor of other Ministries, and
Government Departments in their areas of Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering and
Mechanical Engineering Projects. Even though each department is charged with specific
responsibilities and Functions, there is always a good deal of co-operation in ensuring
effective utilization of available manpower for successful implementation of all
Government Programmers.

1.3.4 Corporate Structure

The Commissioner is the head and Chief Executive of the Ministry and is assisted by the
Permanent Secretary who is the administrative head and, the accounting officer.

The Ministry of Works, Asaba has for administrative convenience been divided into the
following departments:

 Administrative Department
 Highway Department
 Rural Roads Department
 Urban Roads Department
 Finance and Supplies Department
 Planning, Research and Statistics Department
 All Departments are headed by a Director.

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 DELTA STATE
GOVERNOR

COMMISIONER OF WORKS

PERMANENT SECRETARY OF
WORKS

DIRECTORS OF
THE DEPARTMENTS

DEPUTY
DIRECTORS OF THE DEPARTMENTS

ASSISANT
DIRECTORS OF THE DEPARTMENTS

STAFFS OF THE DEPARTMENTS

Figure 1.2 Organogram of Delta State Ministry of Works

1.4 Letters and Form Submission

I emailed a scanned copy of my acceptance letter to Covenant University’s SIWES office to

notify them of my acceptance. On 5th April, 2023, I submitted my Students Commencement of
Attachment Form (SCAF) to the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) office located at Ajamimogha
Road in Warri, Delta State. At the completion of my industrial attachment after 26 weeks on 18 th
September, 2023, I went back to the same ITF office for my logbook to be stamped.

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1.5 Internship Overview

I commenced my 6 months Internship Program on the 6th March, 2023 at Ministry of Works,
Asaba, Delta State. I was officially posted to the Ministry’s department of Rural Roads. I was
assigned under Engr. Owen Mordi. He gave me an orientation about the whole activities which
will be done during my intern time. In addition to this he told more about the organizational
structure of the construction company, the management level of the organization and the raw
materials used or their resource and other related information in the first week of the internship.
Moreover, he advised me what I have to see and what shall I do during the internship period.

Throughout my six months at Ministry of Works, I so in technical engineering-related activities

which I was also exposed to. I gained experience on three different categories of training: Site
survey, Site supervision and Design of Structures.

 Site Survey: I was exposed on surveying instruments such as dumpy level and how it
can be used in road and drainage construction. I also learnt how to read the levelling
staff
 Site Supervision: I was privileged to experience the construction of a residential storey
building. I witnessed the construction process of structural elements from foundation
to the casting of roof beams.
 Design of Structures: I was educated thoroughly on the manual design of structural
elements of a building from slab to foundation. I also made use of software such as
AutoCAD, Orion and MS excel for analysis and design of structural components of a
structure.

I was visited by my University Supervisor, Dr. Agbetunyi Ayoade Felix from the Electrical and
Information Engineering Department on 28th August, 2023. He asked me lots of questions as
regards to my SIWES placement and its relation to my course of study; he also had a
conversation with my company-based supervisor, about my engagement with the company and
how I was able to cope with the company's operations and activities. He reviewed and signed my
logbook and I submitted my Form C to him.

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 CHAPTER 2: GENERAL OVERVIEW

2.1 Facilities at Ministry of Works

Ministry of works provides various facilities to aid in the day-to-day carrying out of
specific duties. These facilities are classified into two: Office Facilities and Field Facilities.

2.1.1 Office Facilities

These include: Software, Printers, Filing Cabinets and Photocopying Machines.

Software
 AutoCAD:
AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (thus, the name "CAD") program. It was created
by Autodesk, a company that primarily produces software and solutions for industries such
as architecture, engineering, product design, manufacturing, construction, and more.
AutoCAD lets designers create and edit designs and digital images in both 2D and 3D very
efficiently. Instead of requiring them to edit images by hand, AutoCAD makes it much easier
to manipulate designs. Essentially, AutoCAD lets designers create geometric models on-
screen, offering endless permutations for creating different types of objects and structures.
This flexibility is what led AutoCAD to become an industry leader since it could be adopted
for use in almost any industry or application.

 Orion Software;
Orion is a powerful application that can be used to design and analyze concrete buildings.
This tool is great for automating the design of concrete building plans. This program allows
you to create clear drawings and precise documentation that includes calculations as well as
quantities. This application can be used to design and analyze concrete buildings.

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2.1.2 Field Facilities

Concrete mixer

These are machines used for mixing concrete. It mixes sand, granite (fine and coarse aggregate)
and cement with water in the right proportions.

Figure 2.1 Concrete Mixer

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Lorries/Truck

These are used for transporting the site materials. Materials such as laterite, granite as well as
sharp sand are transported to and away from site with these.

Figure 2.2 Dump Truck

Dumpy Level

This is an optical instrument used to establish points in the same horizontal plane in a process
known as levelling, and is used in conjunction with a levelling staff to establish the relative
height level of objects or marks.

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 Figure 2.3 Dumpy Level

Levelling Staff

A level staff, also called levelling rod, is a graduated wooden or aluminum rod, used with a
levelling instrument to determine the difference in height between points or heights of points
above a vertical datum. It cannot be used without a levelling.

Figure 2.4 Levelling Staff

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Wheel barrow

These are used to convey already mixed concrete, loose materials as well as bags of cements to
locations where they are needed on site.

Figure 2.5 Wheel Barrow

Excavator

An excavator is a large, diesel-powered construction machine made for digging out earth with its
bucket to create trenches, holes and foundations. It is used to excavate rocks and soil in the site,
for drainage excavation, also used in loading loose materials.

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 Figure 2.6 Excavator

Roller

A roller is a piece of heavy equipment specifically designed for soil compaction applications.
Several types of rollers are available, and each compacts the soil in different ways. It is used for
compacting materials such as soil, gravel, sand, road surfaces and so on.

1
 Figure 2.7 Mechanical Roller

Rammer

Sometimes known as a ‘rammer compactor’ or a ‘vibratory rammer’, a mechanical earth rammer

does the same job as a manual earth rammer in compacting loose soil. A mechanical rammer is
maneuvered by hand and powered normally by either petrol or diesel.

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 Figure 2.8 Machine Rammer

Measuring Wheel

Measuring wheel very simple tools. At a minimum, they consist of a wheel attached to a long
handle with a grip. As the wheel turns, it marks off the amount of times it rotates, quickly
calculating distance. It is very efficient in measuring long distances.

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 Figure 2.9 Measuring Wheel

Concrete Vibrator

A concrete vibrator is a tool that makes stronger concrete by vigorously shaking the concrete
right after you pour it to eliminate the air bubbles or air pockets. Air pockets substantially
weaken a concrete structure.

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 Figure 2.10 Concrete Vibrator on Site

Grader Machine

Graders are commonly used in the construction and maintenance of dirt and gravel roads for
creating a flat surface where the asphalt will be placed. For civil engineering projects, the
purpose of the graders is to perform fine grading.

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 Figure 2.11 Grader Machine

2.2 Quality of Company-based Supervision

My company-based supervisor was Engr. Mordi Owen. He is the Deputy Director 1V of

Rural Roads department at Ministry of Works Asaba, Delta State. His supervision and
guidance during these six months was top-notch. I was carefully guided on how to carry
out my tasks. He was very patient with me and made sure I understood any concept
necessary to perform my duties. . From time to time, I was asked some questions by him to
test the extent of my knowledge and understanding. My supervisor was also careful to
answer all my questions and provide useful suggestions wherever I needed guidance.
Added to the quality on-the-job supervision, my welfare was also prioritized, and I was
well taken care of.

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2.3 Knowledge and Experience Gained
During the course of my Internship Program, I gained experience in the following
specialties;

 Construction of Structural components of a building

 Design of Structural components of a building.
 Site Supervision

2.3.1 Construction of Structural Components of a Building

I was privileged to visit some building sites during my training and witnessed
construction of structural elements like foundation, slab, beams and columns.

Construction at Plot 238 Site

The building at this site was a twin duplex and I was able to experience the entire
structural construction process; setting out and excavation, foundation, casting of DPC (Damp
Proof Concrete), columns, beams and slabs.

 Setting Out and Excavation

Setting out is the process of developing the physical positions of corners and walls of s
building, and it’s done by transferring dimensions from the layout plan. Setting out clearly
defines the outlines of the excavations and the center line of the walls so that the construction
can be carried out according to plan. It can be very complex but with vast experience it
becomes easy. There are two methods of setting out; Setting out using pegs and setting out
using blocks.
Setting out Steps
The plot 238 site utilized the method of using pegs was employed for setting out. The
following are the steps involved in this method;

 Clearance of site.
 Obtain the building plan
 Get materials ready (i.e. pegs, nails, line etc.)
 Take note of the four corners where the columns will be, establish said corners in relation
to the dimension of the building floor plan by pegging it.
1
 Insert nails at the center top of each peg and run rope around the pegs
 Take one side, measure setback from the back of the fence to the end of building lines
in that Particular angle, then come to the front and measure the setback also as given on
your building plan
 After this go back to the rear or the front depending on you. Measure the setback from
the fence, establish these two points with pegs then put a rope to cross both pegs and
make them form a right angle. A checker usually called square is used to check if the
ropes are straight, this will direct you if you need to shift the rope
 After establishing the right angle, do your measurement to correspond with what is on the
plan and use the square at the other end to establish the other points
 Nail pegs at 3m interval round under the rope marking your building line, then
nailtie rods (flat thin wood) on top round the entire area
 Establish each room measurement by nails. Four nails are required, two will serve as
the two sides of the width of the block used and the other two nails will be at both ends
serving as the width of the trench
 The width of excavation of trench are also marked by a line with pegs at appropriate
positions. The excavated depth depends on the structural engineer. The excavation depth
at the plot 238 site was 1.2 meters from the natural ground Level.

Plate 2.1 Setting out at Plot 238

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 Plate 2.2 Excavation at the Site

 Foundation

Foundation is the lowest part of the building or the civil structure that is in direct contact with
the soil which transfers loads from the structure to the soil safely. Generally, the foundation can
be classified into two, namely shallow foundation and deep foundation. A shallow foundation
transfers the load to a stratum present in a shallow depth. The deep foundation transfers the load
to a deeper depth below the ground surface. A tall building like a skyscraper or a building
constructed on very weak soil requires deep foundation. If the constructed building has the plan
to extend vertically in future, then a deep foundation must be suggested.

Pad Foundation

Pad foundations, also known as isolated footings, are structural elements that distribute the
load from a column or wall to the underlying soil. These foundations are typically used when
the loads from the structure are relatively light or when the soil bearing capacity is adequate to
support individual footings. Unlike continuous footings that support multiple columns, pad

2
footings are isolated and support individual load-bearing elements.
The pad foundation was used in the construction of the twin duplex at the plot 238 site. I
was able to experience the construction process and I classified them in the following steps;

 Excavation
The site was excavated in accordance with the dimensions provided in the plan
by the structural engineer. The excavation depth was 1.2 meters from natural ground
level and the foundation width was 1.5 by1.5 meters.

Plate 2.3 Excavation of Foundation Trenches

 Reinforcement Placement
After excavation, reinforced steel bars are placed to provide tensile strength to the
footings. The rebar was placed as per design requirements, ensuring that adequate cover
of 50mm was provided. The diameter of steel used was 16mm.

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 Plate 2.4 Placement of Foundation Reinforcements

 Casting
After the reinforcement placement, a concrete mix of 1:3:4 was poured into the
formwork. Proper compaction and vibration techniques are employed to eliminate air
voids and ensure a dense, homogenous concrete structure.

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 Plate 2.5 Casting of Foundation Reinforcements

 Damp Proof Course above ground level

The damp proof course (DPC) is generally applied at basement levels, which restricts the
movement of moisture through walls and floors. It can also be seen as a barrier installed
through a structure to prevent moisture from rising from the ground into a structure.

The DPC at the plot 238 site was done by laying a damp proof membrane and casting a
concrete layer over the membrane. The concrete layer was 130mm thick with a mix of 1:2:4

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Plate 2.6 Placement of Damp proof Membrane at the Compacted Base

Plate 2.7 Casting at Damp Proof Course Level

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  Columns

RCC column is a vertical structural member which transfers loads from beam and slab
directly to the underneath soil. That means an entire building stands on columns. Most of the
building failure occurs not only for design fault but also for poor construction practices.
All columns constructed at the plot 238 site were reinforced concrete columns with
dimensions of 225 X 225mm. I classified the construction process in the following steps;

 Reinforcement Placement
The location of columns are established and the reinforcements are placed according to
the structural drawing. All columns at the site had 4 numbers of 16mm diameter bar as
Vertical bars and 10mm diameter steel bar placed 175mm center to center spacing as
stirrup (4Y16 and stirrup 20Y10@175c/c)

Plate 2.8 Placement of Column Reinforcement

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 Formwork Placement
Formwork is placed around the column reinforcements and cover is provided as
per structural plan. The formwork used should not exceed 5 feet.

Plate 2.9 Placement of Column Formwork

 Casting
A concrete mix of 1:3:4 was poured into the formwork. This was done manually by the
laborers on the site. Concrete vibrator was used to eliminate air voids and air spaces.

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  Beams

Beams are structural elements used in buildings, and they resist loads applied laterally to
their axis. They are characterized by the manner of their supports, shape of the cross-section,
length, material, and equilibrium conditions. Beams transfer loads applied on their length to the
endpoint and transmit the load to a column, wall, or foundation. The mode of deflection of
beams is primarily by bending. Beams withstand shear forces, bending moments, and vertical
loads. There are different types of construction beams based on the choice of the construction
material. Common materials are reinforced concrete, timber, steel, and fiber-reinforced
polymeric materials.

Reinforced Concrete Beam

Reinforced concrete beams are made when steel bars are embedded along the length of a
structural member to increase the structure's tensile strength. These are the most common beam
types.

This type of beam was used at the plot 238 site. The beams carrying the first floor slab had a
dimension of 225 X 600mm, while the roof beams were of dimensions 225 X 300mm. The
construction process is listed below;

 Formwork Placement
Formworks were placed for the beams by the carpenter, ensuring adequate that cover of
25mm was provided.

 Reinforcement Placement
The reinforcements were done in accordance with the structural drawing and placed in
the formwork. 3Y16 (i.e. 3 number of 16mm diameter steel bar) was provided for bottom
reinforcements and 2Y16 as top reinforcements

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 Plate 2.10 Placement of Beam Reincorcements and Formwork

 Casting
A concrete mix of 1:3:4 was poured manually into the formwork. The concrete mix was
compacted and vibrated thoroughly by a concrete vibrator to prevent air voids.

2
 Plate 2.11 Casting of Beam Reinforcements

 Slab

A concrete slab is a structural feature, usually of constant thickness, that can be used as a
floor or a roof. A slab-on-ground is supported on the subsoil and is usually reinforced with
reinforcing bars or welded wire mesh. A suspended slab (or structural slab) spans between
supports and must be reinforced to resist bending moments calculated from statics based on the
magnitude of load and span. There are one-way slabs, two-way slabs, waffle slabs, flat plates,
flat slabs, and many other slab types.
I was privileged to experience the construction of the first floor slab at the plot 238 site.

3
The construction processes included formwork placement, reinforcement placement, casting,
curing concrete and formwork removal

 Formwork Placement
The material for the slab formwork used was wood. The formwork for each panel was
erected and propped up firmly by bamboos. A damp proof membrane was laid upon the
formwork at each panel. The thickness of the first floor slab was 150mm and formwork
was done accordingly.

Plate 2.12 Placement of Slab Formwork

Plate 2.13 Placement of Damp Proof Membrane on Slab Formwork

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 Reinforcement Placement
The slab reinforcements were properly placed and arranged according to the structural
plan. The structural drawing provided necessary reinforcement details, so it only needs
understanding to use designated bar size, cutting required length, and make necessary
hooks and bents. Spacers were introduced to ensure that concrete cover and spacing was
maintained.

Plate 2.14 Placement of Slab Reinforcements

 Casting
A concrete mix of 1:3:4 was poured along the perimeter of the form work manually by
laborers. The concrete was adequately compacted to mold within the formwork and
around the reinforcements.

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 Plate 2.15 Casting of First Floor Slab

 Curing Concrete and Form removal

After finishing, the concrete was sprayed with water as a slab curing technique. The
formwork was removed 12 days after.

Plate 2.16 Curing of the Slab by Spraying Watter

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2.3.2 Design of Structural Components of a Building
I was educated thoroughly on the design of structural components and its importance in
building construction. I was privileged to learn both manual design and software design.

 Software Design of Structural Components

The use of software to design buildings is necessary and efficient, especially in these
modern days. At Ministry of works, I learnt to use software like Orion and MS Excel to
design, detail and analyze building plan

 Orion Software
I learnt how to use this software for General Arrangement (G.A).General
Arrangement (G.A) is a drawing drafted from an architectural plan that shows the
position and size of structural members such as beams, columns, slabs and reinforced
concrete walls/Shear walls. I learnt how to place the columns, beams, slabs and walls in
the software
It was from the G.A, I learnt detailing analysis and design of the structural
members of a building.

Plate 2.17 Plan view of the Structural Members of a Shopping Complex in Orion

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 Plate 2.18 3D View of the Structural Members of a Shopping Complex in Orion

 MS Excel
Microsoft Excel is widely used for various purposes, including data analysis,
financial modeling, and project management. At Ministry of works, the MS Excel was
programmed and configured to analyze Reinforced Concrete slabs. I was able to learn
how to use the extension to analyze two- way spanning slabs by simply inputting the
dimensions, materials, loading and edge conditions.

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 Plate 2.19a Analysis of two-way Slab Using MS Excel Spreadsheet

Plate 2.19b Reinforcement Table of the Two-way Slab on MS Excel Spreadsheet

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  Manual Design of Structural Components

The importance of the knowledge of manual design was emphasized on throughout this IT
period. Even with the knowledge of software design, manual design is necessary for check of the
software output. Engr. Ojarigho lectured me on step by step manual design of roof beams,
columns, floor beams, slabs and foundation using British Standard codes. I also learnt how to
transfer loads from roof beams to foundation. It was helpful in refreshing my memory on what
was learnt in school and how it is applied.

2.3.3 Site Supervision

During this internship period, I was privileged to visit various sites and work with some
site engineers. I learnt from them the importance of proper supervision, that you should check
adequately every activity being done on site so as not to compromise the integrity of your
work.
Through site supervision I was able to improve the following skills;

 I improved my team playing skills: Through supervision, I learnt how to work

together with other interns and technicians on site to achieve a given task
 I improved my Inter-personal communication skills: I improved my communication skills
and as a result, I could talk to any person at the site in confidence and easily as much as
possible.

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CHAPTER 3: CONTRIBUTIONS AND APPLICATION OF KNOWLEGDE
GAINED
3.1 Contributions
During my internship training at Ministry of Works, I was able to add value to
myself and also the ministry. I made some contributions and some the contributions include

 Recording of daily activities occurring on site

 Calculating reduced level for excavation and filling

 Recording of materials on site

 Quality control: I ensured that optimum standards are met on site operations

 Supervision of Site operations such as reinforcements placement and casting

 Inspection of sites to ensure structural plans and designs are adhered to

3.2 Applicability of Knowledge Gained

3.2.1 The Field of Study and Educational Career

During the industrial training, I was able to gain experience on what civil engineering is in the
real sense. Most of the time in class, we focus on the theoretical part and it was difficult to
understand about the real work. I was able to see the application of the theoretical knowledge on
the site. I witnessed placement of formwork, reinforcement and casting of various structural
members. I was also educated on the use of software to design and analyze these structural
components of a building which added to the knowledge from the classroom.
This internship experience gave me confidence in my ability as I developed
professional relationships and was mentored on important decisions to be taken in the
future.

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3.2.2 The Goals of Company Engagement

Delta State Ministry of Works’ main goal is the implementation of infrastructural projects such
as roads, buildings, bridges, dams to provide more engineering facilities for the economic
progress of the state. I learnt how to work according to those standards in order to further and
achieve this aim.

3.2.3 The Larger Society

Civil Engineering is very important for progress of the society. I attended seminars at Ministry
of Works where I was educated on the need to demand high quality on constructions and not cut
corners. I will do my best to integrate these values into the larger society because failure to
ensure optimum quality could lead to collapse of structure that can cause loss of lives.
The knowledge gained has helped me to be more innovative in solving general engineering
problems in the society.

3.3 Bridging the Gap in Knowledge

The industrial training experience helped me to bridge a gap between practical

knowledge and theoretical knowledge. It also helped to remove the doubts on the importance of
the theoretical knowledge. I saw how useful courses like CVE433 (Structural Design) and
CVE434 (Civil Drawing) were useful in the design and detailing of structural plans used in site
works. I improved my practical skill by doing my best connecting the theoretical part with the
real situation. The benefit that I have gained during my internship time is not only from my
advisor or site engineer, but also from store keeper, carpenter, bar bender and even from day
workers. This helped me improve my overall knowledge in Civil Engineering.

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3.4 Organizational Culture

Culture in an organization is the set of values, beliefs, attitudes, systems, and rules that

outline and influence employee behavior in an organization. The norms at the Ministry of Works
include;

 Punctuality: All staffs are required to be in the office before 8:30am every working
day. The failure to meet this requirement results in sanction or query on the employee.
 Dressing: Employees are allowed to dress corporately or in their native attires to
the office but on site visitation, you can be casually dressed with protective
equipment
 Religious Beliefs: Workers are employed based on merit irrespective of their religion to
ensure maximum productivity and minimum hindrance in the execution of work.
Religious holidays are also observed.

3.5 Challenges Encountered

In engineering there will always be problems and challenges which must be solved, providing
solutions to such problems is what makes an engineer good, engineering without problems is no
engineering, hence during my industrial attachment at Ministry of Works several problems were
encountered, as detailed below:

3.5.1 Challenges Encountered by Student

 No payment of allowance during my internship program

 Language barrier, throughout my industrial training local language was mostly spoken
at the office and on site this hindered my learning
 Not much site work was available
 Lack of protective equipment was provided in the sites

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3.5.2 Challenges Encountered by Company

 The slow pace of work by the contractors this also added to late delivery of the projects.
 Inflation of Market Prices: Prices of materials had drastically gone up during
the country's recession.
 Community people halting projects and asking for settlement

3.6 Project Topics Identified

 Health and Safety on the construction site

 Use of Plastic or waste materials in road construction

 Importance of Software in Civil Engineering

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 CHAPTER 4: CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

4.1. Conclusion

The industrial training has been found to be effective and efficient in closing the gap between the
scientific study and practical study. The Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES)
has exposed me to practical works and has also opened me up in the way to interact with senior
colleagues in the field, which has exposed me to industry based skills necessary for a smooth
transition from the classroom to real-time practice of the profession.

This training has exposed me to the following important spheres of development:

 How to deal and interact with other fellow engineers in the field of civil engineering
 Finding that team work is the most important element in every successful project.
 Learn that the civil engineer is capable of a lot of work such as supervision,
implementation, the calculation of quantities and design of structures. Also, an engineer
can work as a consultant or contractor.
 How to control and manage the site and how to behave when there is a problem by taking a
professional decision

The internship has really helped my career as an undergraduate student aiming to acquire
the Bachelor of Civil Engineering Degree. During the course of my internship, I had the
opportunity to work directly with civil engineers with several years of field experience. I
was opportune to witness an actual construction and not just witness it but be an active part
of the drainage construction in Delta state. The internship has helped me to put theories and
concepts that I have learnt in my theoretical class to practice. Truth be told, it was
interesting seeing what I learnt in my class work in real life.

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4.2 Recommendation

Truly this scheme can be described as an eye-opener for students in general. Based on the
knowledge and experience I acquired in the industrial attachment the following
recommendations are made with the aim of improving the scheme and upholding its
objectives;
 Allowances should be paid to students during their programme as this would really
assist with transportation and also help handle some financial problems during their
training.
 Safety kits should be provided by the government for both laborers and site supervisors.
 The State Government should provide and construct adequate roads in less developed areas.
 The Industrial Training Fund should provide a network in which students can
communicate better so promotes easier means of finding placements.
 I also recommend that both the school as an institution and the company should give the
students a thorough orientation and job specification before the official commencement
of the training.

 The program should be funded better for better work experience for students
 I also recommend to students who will do their industrial training soon or later in the
future, to be very inquisitive about every aspect of the site operation, so they could be
well informed and not assume some critical aspects of the operation.

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 REFERENCES

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Civil_engineering
https://siwesbeginner.com/write-siwes-report/
https://www.britannica.com/technology/civil-engineering

https://civilguruji.com/civil-engineering

Orientation from Site Engineers

Mafe, O. A. T. 2009 Guide to Successful Participation in SIWES. Panaf publishing Inc... Abuja
and Lagos: Panaf publishing Inc.