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Technical Report · January 2022

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 A

TECHNICAL REPORT ON STUDENTS’ INDUSTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE SCHEME

(SIWES)

UNDERTAKEN AT

TONS DEVELOPMENT LIMITED, NO 2. TDL BUILDING, BEHIND STERLING BANK,

OKE ADO, IBADAN, OYO STATE.

BY

OKANLAWON TAOFEEK TUNDE

2016/1/59809VQ

(APRIL 2021 – SEPTEMBER 2021)

SUBMITTED TO:

THE DEPARTMENT OF QUANTITY SURVEYING

SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY,

FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, MINNA, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA.

OCTOBER, 2021
 CERTIFICATION

This is to certify that OKANLAWON TAOFEEK TUNDE has gone through six months

industrial training at Tons Development limited during the 2020/2021 academic year. He was

trained in the field of Quantity Surveying, and his overall performance during the period was

excellent. He is a good student with a very good performance and also has a good human

relationship. This report has been prepared in accordance to the regulations guiding the

preparation of reports in the Department of Quantity Surveying, Federal University of

Technology, Minna and in partial fulfillment for the award of Bachelor of Technology (B-TECH)

degree in QUANTITY SURVEYING.

i
 DEDICATION

To God Almighty, my mother and my siblings.

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

My utmost sincere gratitude goes to the almighty God for his guidance, protection and support

in my various activities during the period of my SIWES. I must also express my appreciation

to my mother, and my siblings for their unflinching supports, may God almighty continue to

provide for all your needs. I also extend my profound appreciation to my indomitable lecturers,

also to all staff of Tons Development limited, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, Oyo state, where I carried out

my SIWES program. Also, to other interns who came from other schools to have their SIWES

at Tons.

iii
 ABSTRACT

This report gives a comprehensive and concise coverage of activities which occurred during

my industrial training at Tons Development Limited, No 2, TDL building, behind sterling bank,

Oke Ado, Ibadan, Oyo State. It detailed both practical and theoretical experience acquired with

respect to the field of Quantity Surveying. Chapters one and two introduce SIWES and Tons

Development Limited respectively. The detailed report of the work experienced at Tons

Development Limited during my internship period which has been sub-divided into three main

headings; Office Experience, Site Experience and Software Knowledge. A brief subdivision of

the headings includes taking-off, preparation of Bill of Quantities, preparation of work

programme, writing of report for work done on site, preparation of material schedule, planswift

software, valuation, and many more are contained in chapter three. At the end of it all, chapter

4 of this report gives conclusion and recommendations to the organizers of SIWES, the higher

Institutions of learning involved, and also to the students involved. These are done under

different captions and are found best suited for the presentation. However, any constructive

criticism shall not be underrated.

iv
 TABLE OF CONTENT

Certification i

Dedication ii

Acknowledgement iii

Abstract iv

CHAPTER ONE 1

1.0 Introduction 1-2

1.1 Scope of SIWES 2-3

1.1.1 Aims and Objectives 3

1.2 The Bodies involved in the Management of SIWES 3-4

1.2.1 The Federal Government 4

1.2.2 The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) 4-5

1.2.3 The Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) 5

1.2.4 The University 5

1.2.5 The Employer 6

1.3 Significance of SIWES to Quantity Surveying 6-7

1.4 Relevance of SIWES in general 7

1.5 Conclusion 7-8

CHAPTER TWO 9

2.0 Introduction to the organization 9

2.1 Mission of the organization 9 - 10

2.2 Vision of the organization 10

2.3 Organizational structure 11

2.4 Scope of service 12

2.5 What we have 13 - 14

2.6 Who we have 14

v
CHAPTER THREE 15

3.0 Industrial Work Experience and Training 15 - 17

3.1 Office work and Experience 17

3.1.1 Office and workplace ethics 17

3.1.2 Taking off 18

3.1.3 Comprehensive drawing study 19

3.1.4 The drawings I worked on 22

3.1.5 Interim Valuation 29

3.1.6 Collation of Tender Document 30

3.1.7 Material Procurement 31

3.2 Site Experience 32

3.2.1 Casting of roof beam 33

3.2.2 Assembling of roof carcass and roofing 34

3.2.3 Fixing of handrail 34

3.2.4 Tiling works 35

3.2.5 Construction of steel water stanchion 35 - 36

3.2.6 Earthing and installation of thunder arrestor 36 - 38

3.2.7 Construction of water tank base 39

3.2.8 Fencing and fixing of galvanized pole on fence 40 - 41

3.2.9 Conduiting in electrical works 42

3.2.10 Construction of Septic tank and soak away pit 42

3.2.11 Other site works 43 - 45

3.3 Software 46

3.3.1 Microsoft Excel 46

3.3.2 Microsoft Project 47

3.3.3 PlanSwift 47 - 48

3.3.4 Microsoft Visio 48

vi
 3.3.5 Statistical Package for Social Science 49 - 50

CHAPTER 4 51

4.1 Conclusion 51

4.2 Recommendation 51 - 53

vii
LIST OF TABLES

Table 1: List of personnel in the organization 14

viii
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 1: Using PlanSwift to take off 19

Figure 2: Architectural Drawing 20

Figure 3: Structural Drawing 21

Figure 4: Electrical Drawing (Lighting layout) 21

Figure 5: Mechanical Drawing 22

Figure 6: Proposed residential development (cover page) 22

Figure 7: Proposed residential development (site plan) 23

Figure 8: Proposed residential development (floor plan) 23

Figure 9: Proposed residential development (roof plan) 24

Figure 10: Proposed residential development (front elevation) 24

Figure 11: Foundation layout 25

Figure 12: Proposed residential development for landwey (cover page) 25

Figure 13: Proposed residential development for landwey (site plan) 26

Figure 14: Proposed residential development for landwey (G.F plan) 26

Figure 15: Proposed residential development for landwey (F.F plan) 27

Figure 16: Proposed residential development for landwey (S.F plan) 27

Figure 17: Proposed residential development for landwey (L.R plan) 28

Figure 18: External works for 190-beded hostel 28

Figure 19: Interim Valuation 29

Figure 20: Certification 31

Figure 21: Casting of roof beam 33

Figure 22: Assembling of roof carcass and roofing 34

Figure 23: Fixing of handrail 34

Figure 24: Tiling Work 35

Figure 25: Construction & Fabrication of water stanchion 36

ix
Figure 26: Indelect Thunder Arrestor 37

Figure 27: Earthing Activities 37

Figure 28: Clipping of meter for resistivity test 37

Figure 29: Readings of resistivity test 38

Figure 30: Construction of water tank base 39

Figure 31: Excavation of fencing trench 40

Figure 32: Casting of fencing foundation footing 41

Figure 33: Fixing of pipes & formwork for coping 41

Figure 34: Conduiting in electrical work 42

Figure 35: Boulders to soak away & plastering of septic tank 42

Figure 36: Preparation of screeding 43

Figure 37: Reinforcement and formwork for septic tank slab 44

Figure 38: Plumbing work 45

Figure 39: Interface of Microsoft Excel 46

Figure 40: Interface of Microsoft project 47

Figure 41: Interface of Microsoft PlanSwift 48

Figure 42: Interface of Microsoft Visio 48

Figure 43: Interface of the data view of SPSS 49

Figure 44: Interface of the variable view of SPSS 50

x
xi
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), known in the United Kingdom as

Sandwich and Co-operative Education Programme in U.S.A and Canada respectively, started

in the University of Glasgow in 1840 but could not have a stand in Nigeria until 1973 when the

Industrial Training Fund (ITF) was established by decree no 47 of October 8, 1971. The

programme was established purposely for the provision of high quality technical man power

capable of meeting the demand of the fast-growing industrial sector as it as a viable means of

closing the gap between theory and practice, having watched the program successfully in

countries where it was adopted. The Industrial Training Fund (ITF) is a body established by

decree no 47 of 1971 and amended by decree no 37 of 1973 under the ITF decree. The body

was established by the government to foster a more adequately trained workforce for the

nation’s economic growth, the training processes are funded by the ITF. In Nigeria, the

Industrial Training Fund (ITF) has its history traced back to the Polytechnic education which

at the onset globally was not intended to be part of higher-level institution. Students industrial

work experience scheme (SIWES) is a programme introduced into the Nigerian educational

system to enable students, on the basis of their respective levels, to have practical experiences

of their course of study including its professional correspondence and relevance, by

attachments to established professionals. The Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme

(SIWES) is an out of classroom curricula programme. It is a part of the requirements that must

be met by undergraduate students before the bachelor of technology (B.Tech) degree can be

awarded. It spans a period of six months, all through the second semester of the fourth year in

the university.

During the period of this attachment, a student is expected to put into practical and constructive

use all the knowledge and experiences he has gathered in the classroom over the period of the

preceding three years he had spent in school. The SIWES student is also expected to access

1
new problem-solving techniques while modifying existing ones so as to be able to meet modern

challenges encountered. The training scheme forms a mandatory part of the approved minimum

academic standards for the professions. This scheme is usually undertaken at firms, industries,

companies, establishments and government parastatals to carry out activities relating to the

students’ area of study. On completion of the training, students are required to prepare a

comprehensive technical report based on activities done by him/her during the period of

training.

The aims of the scheme include bridging the gap between the academic environment and the

industry of professionals, therefore to augment the skills I acquire at THE FEDERAL

UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY MINNA, with the skills acquired at any relevant

organization. Therefore, every individual is expected to prepare a report to include details of

the organization as well as the experiences, problems encountered and solutions. These

organizations admit students providing them with the necessary atmosphere and environment

to acquire knowledge. The relationship between the student and these organizations provide

the organization with the necessary work force and the articulation of the current knowledge

that these students have acquired in their various schools. The organizations provide the student

with necessary atmosphere to acquire more knowledge and to be able to apply what they are

taught.

This report therefore discusses my ordeal at the Tons development Limited, no 2, TDL

building, Oke-Ado, Ibadan, Oyo state, including the structure, nature, functions and limitations

of the organization with positive suggestions.

1.1 Scope of SIWES

The Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) is a skill acquisition

programme designed to expose and prepare students of higher learning for the industrial work

situations which are likely to be met after graduation. This has thus been extended to cover the

2
entire curriculum of what students are expected to pass through while they are at their

respective higher institutions. This programme deals with what is being practiced or done

thereby acting as the important addendum to the school curriculum without which it is

uncompleted.

1.1.1 Aim and Objectives of SIWES

The aim of SIWES is to provide necessary practical experience so as to bridge the gap

between the theoretical and practical reality of the student’s course of study and also to convey

information about the knowledge acquired during my SIWES programme as well as to establish

the importance and relevance of SIWES, particularly to the profession of urban and regional

planning.

The objectives of SIWES among others includes to:

• Provide an avenue for students in institutions of higher learning to acquire industrial

skills and experience in their approved course of study;

• To expose students to work methods and techniques in handling equipment and

machineries that may not be in educational institutions.

• To make transition from school to the world of work easier and enhance students

contacts for later job placements.

• To create and strengthen employers’ investment in the entire educational process for

preparing students for employment industry.

• Prepare students for the industrial work situation which they are likely to meet after

graduation.

1.2 The Bodies Involved in The Management of SIWES

The bodies involved are the Federal Government, the Industrial Training Fund (ITF)

and other supervising agencies like the National University Commission (NUC), National
3
Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the National Council for Colleges of Education

(NCCE). The functions of these agencies are to:

• Establish SIWES and accredit SIWES unit in every approved institution;

• Formulate policies and guideline for participating bodies and institutions as well as

appointing SIWES coordinators and supporting staff;

• Vet and process students’ log-books and forward same to ITF Area offices.

• Ensure the viability of this scheme through adequate funding;

• Ensure payment of Allowances for students and their supervisors.

There are five bodies involved in SIWES in Nigeria. They include the following;

❖ The Federal Government

❖ The Industrial Training Fund (ITF)

❖ The Collaborating Agencies (NUC, NBTE and NCEE)

❖ The Institution

❖ The Employer

1.2.1 The Federal Government

The Federal government is charged with the responsibilities of;

i. Making fund available to the Federal Ministries of Industries for the scheme.

ii. Making it mandatory for all establishments to offer places to the student for attachment.

1.2.2 The Industrial Training Fund (ITF)

According to the ITF Act (Decree No. 47 of October 8, 1971), the general objective of

the ITF is to promote and develop the acquisition of skills in the industry, with a view of

generating a pool of indigenously trained manpower sufficient to meet the demand of the

economy. In lieu, the general function of the fund includes:

• The provision of facilities for the training of people employed in industry and

commerce.

4
 • The approval of course and appraisal of facilities provided for training by the other

bodies particularly in industry and commerce.

• Identification on a regular basis, the training needs of industrial and commercial

enterprises, as well as ensuring that standards are attained.

• Assisting individual persons or cooperate organization to find training facilities.

• Conducting or assisting others to conduct research in any matter relating to training in

industries.

• Organizing workshops, seminars and conferences on SIWES.

• Compiling the list of employers and available places for industrial experience and

forward such lists to the coordinating agencies.

• Providing the logistic materials needed for the administration of the scheme.

1.2.3 The Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC)

i. To establish SIWES coordinating agencies.

ii. To appoint full time industrial coordinators to operate the scheme at the agency level.

iii. To approve SIWES master and placement lists and forward such lists to ITF.

iv. To involve the minimum National aid program for supervised Industrial activities for

approved SIWES courses.

1.2.4 The University

i. To establish SIWES coordinating units and appoint departmental and faculty

coordinators within the institution.

ii. To assess the students’ performance and award grade accordingly.

iii. To help secure placement of students on attachment with employers.

iv. Top help in submitting the ITF forms to the training fund at the end of the program.

v. To organize orientation programs for students to prepare them for industrial training.

5
1.2.5 The Employer

i. To accept students for Industrial Attachment as stipulated in ITF Decree No. 47 as

amended (1990).

ii. To participate fully in the assessment of students by completing the necessary

instruments e.g. ITF form 8, logbook etc.

iii. To allow students have access to their facilities.

iv. To appoint an Industry-based Supervisor for students on attachment.

1.3 Significance of SIWES to Quantity Surveying

The profession, Quantity Surveying has been defined as a construction industry

expert/professional with requisite knowledge and skills on construction costs and contracts.

The profession is responsible for managing all the contractual and financial aspect of

construction projects. It should be known that a qualified individuals who have got necessary

knowledge and mandatory tutelage in the field of Quantity Surveying are known as Chartered

surveyors (Members and Fellows of RICS) in the United kingdom and certified Quantity

surveyor, a designation of AIQS in Australia and numerous other countries such as Canada,

South Africa, Kenya etc.

In a nutshell, Quantity Surveying is concerned with the timely execution of construction

projects, proper cost estimating and cost planning of construction project to keep projects

within reasonable budget, and to establish value that matches the client’s financial investment.

It is not an over statement to say that SIWES has gone a long way to develop students of

Quantity Surveying with more skills, which give them the privilege of having the practical

experience of Quantity Surveying outside the theories they learn in the lecture room in order

to prepare their minds for the task ahead after leaving the institutional environment.

Therefore, SIWES (Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme) has gone a long way

to help in the following ways:

6
 i. Through SIWES, Quantity Surveying have been able to adopt the best cost control

technique upon being exposed to the practicality of the profession.

ii. Through SIWES, students of Quantity Surveying have been able to know the methods

of assessing building plans

iii. Through SIWES, students of Quantity Surveying have been able to know the

procedures requited in handling comparative analysis and field report.

iv. Through SIWES, students know the ethical codes of conducts in the profession.

v. Through SIWES, students of Quantity Surveying have been able to know how to use

several modern-day software to enhance the act of Quantity Surveying.

vi. Through SIWES, students of Quantity Surveying have been able to acquire and adopt

the best management skills to keep project on track and to increase productivity.

1.4 Relevance of SIWES in General

Students who had undergone SIWES are afforded the opportunity of learning more

about the practical application of Quantity Surveying theories learnt in school to problem

solving in real life. SIWES is of utmost importance to students as it serves as bedrock to

professional practice as students are exposed to some professional ethics guiding their

profession.

1.5 Conclusion

The SIWES if properly harnessed by all relevant stakeholders involved, the declined

production currently experienced in our country, Nigeria would be a thing of the past as

employers of labour are given the opportunity to mode their prospective employers into what

is really needed by their respective organizations and this can only be achieved in the period

of industrial attachment.

Therefore, the success of SIWES depends on the efficiency and functionality of the

ITF, Ministries, Institutions, and Employers in various organizations and the general public

involved in articulation and management of the programme. Thus, the evaluation of SIWES in

7
tertiary institutions in meeting up with the needs for the establishment of the programme is

necessary.

8
 CHAPTER TWO

2.0 INTRODUCTION TO THE ORGANISATION

TONS DEVELOPMENT LIMITED, a limited liability company formally registered in

Nigeria, is an efficient and dynamic outfit established to undertake Construction, Renovation

and Maintenance of Building and Civil Engineering Works and related projects for Individuals,

Government, Corporate Bodies and other institutions with satisfaction guaranteed. Established

in 2002, the firm has increasingly been involved in broad-based engineering construction,

renovation, maintenance and management projects. Our team of highly qualified, experienced

capable professionals and skilled technical personnel of varied expertise executes these projects

according to specification with high precision. The Directors are vastly experienced having

worked as contractors and consultants in construction, consulting and management firms.

A data bank encompassing this vast experience is available to be drawn on during the execution

of assigned duties. The firm believes and encourages the in-depth development of functional

planning which encompasses the long-range goals and objectives of our client, regardless of

the type, size and scope of project.

Our corporate head office is located in Ibadan, the Capital City of Oyo State.

Address: 2nd Floor, TDL building, House No 2, Ososami road, behind sterling bank, Oke Ado,

Ibadan Oyo State.E-mail: tonsdevltd@gmail.com.

2.1 Mission of the Organization

TONS DEV. LTD is committed to satisfying client’ needs through the provision of cost-

effective engineering services and solutions, with budget and appropriate standards

In support of these, we are committed:

1. To be the preferred supplier of profitable selected Building and Civil.

2. Engineering services to a broad customer base through sustained quality

services.

9
 3. To provide total quality, cost effective, professional and timely management

services to satisfy the business needs of TONS DEV. LTD clients.

4. To be the most responsive and reliable Engineering Construction company in

the industry.

5. To promote skills transfer to previously disadvantaged individuals and

communities.

2.2 Vision of the Organization

TONS DEV. LTD vision is to be a leading Building & Civil Engineering

Construction Company committed to reconstruction and development in Nigeria, Africa

and the rest of the world. Key factors in this vision are:

1. Responsiveness

2. Reliability

3. Appropriate cutting-edge technology, Total quality, Professional and timely

engineering services.

4. The development of communities and our nation at large.

10
2.3 Organisational Structure

11
 2.4 Scope of Service

With a dual focus of providing accurate information for both scientific, construction and

engineering applications, and generation of realistic, feasible and cost-effective projects the

firm’s services include:

Construction: TONS DEV. LTD execute construction of Buildings and finishes, Facility

Maintenance, Roads, embankments, Canals, Waste Treatment sites, Boreholes,

Telecommunications Base station Development and other Civil Engineering and related

projects.

Building Services Engineering: TONS DEV. LTD undertakes equipment selection, supply

and installation for mechanical and electrical systems that are related to building. These include

Air- Conditioning, Plumbing, Fire Detection, Fire Fighting, Communications, and Lifts among

others.

Maintenance and Renovations: TONS DEV. LTD handles the maintenance and renovation

of existing buildings and related service systems to retain or improve on the structural stability,

serviceability and aesthetics of the buildings and to match the present-day requirements.

Telecommunications: We undertake equipment selection, supply and laying of Cables,

fabrications of steel for Mast and installations of mechanical and electrical systems that are

related to Telecommunication facilities.

12
 2.5 What We Have

TONS DEVELOPMENT stays at the forefront of providing comprehensive, client-focused

services. Our In-house Professionals, Quantity Surveyors, Architects, Engineers, and

Surveyors enhance the team’s capabilities, thus providing clients with a full-service resource

base rarely found within the industry. Coupled with our team of seasoned professional Staff,

our firm is fully automated with computers, Construction Equipment, CAD Software and

Electronics accessories. Briefs collected is stored digitally and transferred directly to

Computers for processing, Computing and Presentation. This operation minimizes human

handling errors, thus ensuring integrity and improve efficiency. The modern equipment and

machines we have at TONS DEVELOPMENT include;

1. 10 workstations with the following the software installed;

• AutoCAD,

• REVIT

• Microsoft Excel

• Microsoft project

• Microsoft Word

• Planswift

• Bluebeam REVU

2. Plants and Equipment

• D6, D7, & D8 Bulldozer

• 930, 936 & 966 Pay loader

• 12G % 14G Motor graders

• 15- & 30-Tons tipping truck

• 10 Tons water tanker

• Dumper

• Concrete Mixer
13
• Block moulding machine

• Scaffold (covering 1500m2)

• 4.5 Ton Truck

• Excavator

• Tundra Project jeep

• Surveying and levelling equipment

• Bar cutting and Bar bending machine

• Safety equipment

• Sundry tools

14
 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 INDSUTRIAL WORK EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING.

The philosophy at TONS DEVELOPMENT is a limited liability company formally

registered in Nigeria, is an efficient and dynamic outfit established to undertake Construction,

Renovation and Maintenance of Building and Civil Engineering Works and related projects for

Individuals, Government, Corporate Bodies and other institutions with satisfaction guaranteed.

Established in 2002, the firm has increasingly been involved in broad-based engineering

construction, renovation, maintenance and management projects. Our team of highly qualified,

experienced capable professionals and skilled technical personnel of varied expertise executes

these projects according to specification with high precision. The Directors are vastly

experienced having worked as contractors and consultants in construction, consulting and

management firms.

A data bank encompassing this vast experience is available to be drawn on during the execution

of assigned duties. The firm believes and encourages the in-depth development of functional

planning which encompasses the long-range goals and objectives of our client, regardless of

the type, size and scope of project.

Various works done and training undergone during my internship period, toward the

achievement of the above would be discussed later in this report. However, before I proceed

to the detailing of the work experience and training, I’d like to create a list of the training I

underwent during the internship period.

A. OFFICE EXPERIENCE

I. Taking off

a. Measurement of building works

b. Steel work

c. Projects I worked on

II. Valuation

15
 III. Collation of Tender Document

IV. Material Procurement

V. Office and workplace ethics

B. SITE EXPERIENCE

I. The site I worked on

a. Casting of roof beam

b. Roof carcass and roofing

c. Staircase work

d. Construction of septic tank and soak away pit

e. Construction of water tank base

f. Construction steel stanchion

g. Tiling work

h. Conduiting in electrical works

i. Fencing

j. Earthing

k. Fixing of Burglar proof and aluminum

l. Painting and screeding of walls

m. Plastering and rendering

n. Fixing of galvanized pipes on fence

o. Plumbing works

p. Other site works and experiences.

C. SOFTWARE

I. Microsoft Package

a. MS Excel

b. MS Project

c. MS Visio

II. PlanSwift
16
 III. Statistical Package for Social Science.

3.1 Office work and experiences

In every profession or any field of study, office work and experience is of high importance –

quantity surveying not left out. Office work is of paramount importance before advancing to

the practical aspect of the field. It should be known that all branches that projected out of the

field – consulting, contracting, academia and public requires office knowledge and experience

to carry out tasks effectively and to go in line with the three main watchword of the profession

– time, cost and quality. As such, during my internship with TONS DEVELOPMENT, I was

exposed to the official aspect of the profession where we carried out our basic activities before

transforming them into the clients’ dream. The official activities carried out includes taking

off, preparation of bills, collation of tender documents, procurement of materials and the art of

office and workplace ethics.

3.1.1 Office and workplace ethics

Office or workplace ethics can be regarded as the set of codes, conducts or values that clearly

spells out the choices of behavior that is expected of employees in a workplace. It should be

known that office work is dependent on each office which is in return tied around the core

values, philosophy and vision of each organization. At TONS DEVELOPMENT, our core

visions vision is to be a leading Building & Civil Engineering Construction Company

committed to reconstruction and development in Nigeria, Africa and the rest of the world.

During my internship at TONS DEVELOPMENT, I learnt some workplace and office ethics;

a. Appearance

b. Attendance

c. Attitude

d. Character

e. Communication and interpersonal relations

f. Cooperation

g. Organizational skills
17
 h. Productivity

i. Teamwork

j. Respect

3.1.2 Taking off

The concept of taking off in the built environment, particularly in the field of quantity surveying

does not mean “the art of flying an aircraft” but rather, the process of identifying various

elements that makes up a building and simultaneously measuring and determining the

quantities of materials needed for each element to foster pricing. It should be known that this

activity is very important as far as the bill preparation is concerned and it is dependent on

design and specification. It should also be known that “taking off” follows a known and

identified order, which are set or laid down by the standard methods of measurements. During

my Internship with TONS DEVELOPMENT, I learnt how to measure or take off quantities

using PLANSWIFT software and AutoCAD. I was also exposed to the measurement and

conversion of reinforcement in structural drawings and the art of reading the bar bending

schedule etc.

Figure 1: Using PlanSwift to take off.

3.1.3 Comprehensive Drawing Study

18
Understand every bits of details in all forms of drawings is of high importance as it forms the

basis of proper measurement of quantities. During my internship at TONS DEVELOPMENT,

I was exposed how to comprehensively read the following drawings and I was briefly

introduced to the last one.

1. Architectural drawing

2. Structural drawing

3. Mechanical and Electrical drawing

4. Steel work and trusses drawing

Architectural Drawing

Architectural drawing is regarded as a technical drawing of a building project which spells out

the elements, spaces analysis and the function of every points. As an intern, I was groomed in

the art of reading various Architectural drawings as this would enable me carry out

measurement activities perfectly without omitting an element of the building. This act led to

an increase in my productivity and the overall output of my place of attachment.

Fig 2: Architectural drawing.

Structural Drawing (floor plan).

19
Structural drawing is a type of drawing – engineering drawing that clearly shows the location

of the structural elements such as the column, slab, beam, staircase etc. and also details the

arrangement of reinforcements in such elements. At TONS DEVELOPMENT, I was taught

how to read the bar bending schedule of all structural elements. This enabled me carry out my

measurement activity with zero hindrance.

Fig 3: Structural drawing

Mechanical and Electrical drawing

These are drawings that shows the mechanical and electrical layouts of a building. It shows

how electricity conduiting and cablings are been done and also shows how all mechanical

requirements are been fulfilled. I was exposed to the area of reading electrical and mechanical

drawings.

20
Fig 4: Electrical drawing (Lighting layout)

Fig 5: Mechanical drawing (Air conditioning and ventilation system).

3.1.4 The drawings I worked on

Having underwent series of training on drawing-reading and interpretation, I was privileged to

work on some ongoing project drawings. I carried out the taking off of different items of works

on various drawings which aids the preparation of Bill of Quantities (BOQ) of such projects.

21
Below are the pictures of some of the drawings I worked on during my internship at TONS

DEVELOPMENT LIMITED.

Fig 6: Proposed residential development for Mrs. Eunice Akinola (cover page).

Fig 7: Proposed residential development (site plan)

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 Fig 8: Proposed residential development for Mrs. Eunice Akinola (floor plan).

Fig 9: Proposed residential development (roof plan).

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Fig 10: Proposed residential development (front elevation).

Fig 11: foundation layout.

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Fig 13: Proposed apartment estate development (site plan).

Fig 14: Proposed apartment estate development (ground floor plan).

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Fig 15: Proposed apartment estate development(first floor).

Fig 16: Proposed apartment estate development (second floor).

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Fig 17: Proposed apartment estate development for landwey investment (lower roof plan).

Fig 18: External works drawing for the ongoing 190-bedded space hostel.

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 3.1.5 Interim Valuation

One of the functions of a Quantity Surveyor (QS) is the ability to rate work done based on

figures, particularly in percentage. Interim is basically a document prepared by a QS on a

known or specific constant duration. The document clearly spells out the percentage of work

done in relation to the actual work to be carried out. On the part of contractor’s QS. He prepares

valuation based on the project BOQ and submit to the Consultant who then visits the site, rate

the work in percentage and recommend certificate – which is basically a document that reveals

the amount to be paid to the contractor based on the work done. It should be known that Interim

valuation consists of the following items – preliminaries, measured works, variations, unfixed

materials and goods (materials off & on site), statutory fee and charges, fluctuations, retention

and claim. During my internship with TONS Development, I was taught the art of valuation. I

also had the opportunity of working on some valuations of an ongoing project – 190 Bedded

space hostels for Bowen University Teaching Hospital. I was also asked to answer a valuation-

related question to perfect my knowledge.

Fig 19: Interim Valuation.

3.1.6 Collation of Tender document

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It is an established fact the tendering is the process by which organization either private or

public selects the most qualified bidder or contractor to carry out a specific construction project.

During my internship at TONS DEVELOPMENT, I participated in the collation of tender

documents for the bidding process of a project whose invitation to tender came from OGUN

OSHUN RIVER BASIN, ALABATA, OGUN STATE. I also participated in the pricing of the

bill that was sent to us by the consultant QS. While collating the documents in a bid to tender

for the job, here are the documents I was mandated to collate and package in a sealed envelope.

✓ Evidence of current pension clearance

✓ Evidence of Current Industrial Training Fund (ITF)

✓ Evidence of Current Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF)

✓ Evidence of Current registration on BPP

✓ Sworn affidavit

✓ Company’s audited account

✓ Reference letter

✓ Detailed company’s profile and Organization Structure

✓ Verifiable Documentary Evidence of Experience

✓ Works Lists of Plants/Equipment and proof of ownership/lease

✓ Memorandum of understanding

✓ Evidence of Certificate of the firm’s registration with regulatory

professional bodies

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 3.1.7 Material Procurement

In the building industry, material procurement is an essential activity which involves the

selection, ordering, invoicing, purchase and delivering of construction materials to the site. As

a QS, the knowledge of negotiation, procurement and finance management is very important

as we are concerned about the financial implications of projects towards quality delivery.

During my 6-month internship at TONS DEVELOPMENT LIMITED, I was exposed to the art

of procurement which sharpened my negotiation skill – I was also tasked on different occasions

to procure materials for our ongoing projects. To develop myself, I also took my time to take

a financial management course on YALI – I took a course on the “Fundamentals of Personal

money management” this exposed me to the art of money management and the management

of project funds.

Fig 20: Certification on Fundamentals of Personal Money Management.

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 3.2 SITE EXPERIENCE

It is a known fact the Quantity Surveying is a profession of practical – the application of what

is been taught on done in the office to solve real life problems. During my internship at TONS

DEVELOMENT LIMITED, I was not only taught and exposed to the official aspect of my

profession, I was also exposed to site works where I could practically apply my theoretical

knowledge. I was deployed to two construction sites in the same location. The sites are located

at the BOWEN UNIVERSITY TEACHING HOSPITAL, OGBOMOSO, OYO STATE. The

site consists of two different projects being managed and constructed by TONS

DEVELOPMENT LIMITED. The sites are;

• The construction of 190-Bedded space Hostel

• Construction of a skilled laboratory for Nursing department.

The following are the site experiences I had during my stay on the site while

carrying out my mandatory Industrial attachment with TONS

DEVELOPMENT LIMITED.

- Casting of roof beam

- Assembling of roof carcass and roofing

- Installation of Handrail

- Construction of water tank base

- Construction of septic tank and soak away pit

- Tiling work

- Construction of steel water stanchion

- Construction of fence

- Installation of galvanized poles on fence

- Conduit piping in electrical works

- Earthing and thunder arrestor installation

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 - Installation of Burglar proof and aluminum window

- Plumbing works.

The aforementioned site work experiences are clearly shown in the figures

below.

3.2.1 Casting of roof beam

Roof beam is an integral part of a building that increases the strength of a structure. It does that

by carrying the load of the roof, transfer it to the column whilst the columns transfer it to the

foundation for effective distribution on the soil. While on site, we cast a roof beam of 225mm

wide by 225mm thick at the construction of the Nursing skilled laboratory. It was done by

assembly a formwork of marine board to the required size. Afterwards, we supported the soffit

with enough props to prevent sagging and deflection.

Fig 21: Casting of roof beam

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 3.2.2 Assembling of roof carcass and roofing

The roof is the upper most part of the building that protects the occupants of the building from

adverse effect of weather. This particular part of the building consists of members such as

kingpost, rafter, tie beam, wall plate, noggin, purlin etc. It is on this element the roofing sheet

is being laid and nailed. While on site, I learnt how to assemble each member during the

assembling of the roofing elements of the skilled laboratory.

Fig 22: Assembling of roof carcass and roofing of the Nursing skilled

laboratory.

3.2.3 Fixing of Handrail

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 Fig 22: Fixing of handrails.

3.2.4 Tiling works

Tile is regarded a decorative floor and wall finish made of baked clay. They of two types, the

ceramic tile and the vitrified tiles and are available in different sizes. In the Nigerian Building

material market, the two are further divided into Royal brand tiles which are produced in

Nigeria and the imported one. Tiles are laid with soft sand, cement pastry and white cement for

grouting. While on site, I learnt how tile is being laid.

Fig 24: Tiling work

3.2.5 Construction of steel water stanchion

Stanchions are constructed of for overhead tank for the collection and distribution of water to

the building. It is constructed of steel of I-section, strips steel belts for bracing, platform,

holding down bolts and other bolts to enhance connection.

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 Fig 25: Construction and fabrication of water stanchion.

3.2.6 Earthing and installation of thunder arrestor

Earthing is basically the process of transferring electrical energy to the soil. It is done to prevent

electrical appliances from high current induced by lighting or thunder. It is done by connecting

a neutral supply from the panel to the soil. During my internship at TONS DEVELOPMENT

while on site, I had the privilege of seeing and learning hoe earthing is being done. The

following materials were used – 150mm flexible earthing cable, copper mat, copper rod,

galvanized pole, industrial salt, charcoal, copper tape and a thunder arrestor called thunder

arrestor. After we concluded the earthing system, a resistivity test was conducted with a

resistance meter which is connected to the copper rod that was nailed to the ground inside the

pit. I learnt the fact that the accepted resistivity bandwidth is between 0.00 – 0.25 ohms and we

recorded a reading of 0.07ohms resistivity which is within the accepted bandwidth.

Fig 26: Indelect thunder arrestor

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Fig 27: Earthing activities Fig 28: Clipping of metetre for test

Fig 29: Readings of resistivity test

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37
 Fig 30: Construction of water tank base

3.2.7 Fencing and fixing of galvanized pole on fence

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Fencing is an external work that gives boundary to the plot on which a structure is built. It also

offers a certain level of security and privacy to the occupants of the building. While on

internship, I learnt the construction of fencing while constructing a fencing structure for the

190-bedded space hostel. I also learnt how coping is being done and the installation of

galvanized pipe to hook wire mesh. The fencing is of 300.85m in perimeter. The sequence of

work follows thus; setting out, excavation of fencing line, blinding, casting of base (1:3:6),

setting of blocks, installation of coping formwork, placement of galvanized pole and casting of

coping.

Fig 31: Excavation of fencing line.

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 Fig 32: Casting of fencing foundation base.

Fig 33: Fixing of galvanized pipes and formwork panel for coping.

3.2.8 Conduiting in Electrical works

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 Fig 34: Conduiting in electrical work.

3.2.9 Construction of septic tank and soak away pit

Fig 35: placing of boulders in soak away pit and plastering of septic tank.

3.2.10 Other site works

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Fig 36: Preparation of screed to correct defected painted part walls.

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Fig 37: Reinforcement and formwork to septic tank slab.

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Fig 38: plumbing work.

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 3.3 SOFTWARE

To increase productivity, a Quantity surveyor must be knowledgeable in the usage of some

software. During my internship, the following are the software packages I was able to learn.

- Microsoft Excel

- Ms Project

- Planswift

- Ms Visio

- SPSS

3.3.1 Microsoft Excel

Microsoft excel exercise is a software/spread-sheet program that is used to produce tables,

charts, calculation exercises, graphical representation of data, mathematical computation, etc.

It is one of the major key tool of Quantity surveyor as it is used to prepare documents such as

bill of quantities, interim valuation, financial statement, bar bending schedule, material

schedule, etc. During my internship at TONS DEVELOPMENT, I had the privilege of

performing series of tasks on Microsoft Excel.

Fig 39: Interface of Microsoft excel

3.3.2 Microsoft project

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Microsoft project is project planning and scheduling software with series of planning designs

(Gantt chart, node diagram, etc.). It is an important project management tool which is one of

the major functions of a quantity surveyor. It is used to prepare programme of work, manage

resources, etc. I was tasked to prepare programme of work for a various residential project.

Fig 40: Interface of Microsoft project.

3.3.3 PlanSwift

PlanSwift is an estimating and taking-off software that takeoffs quantities automatically

thereby saving time and energy. It provides a way for users to digitalize value, and labour-

material estimation in one click. During my internship, I learnt how to use planSwift to carry

out taking off and its integration to an already-built BOQ in Microsoft excel.

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Fig 41: Interface of PlanSwift.

3.3.4 Microsoft Visio

Microsoft Visio is a software used to draw site organogram, layout of buildings, layout of

electrical works, network diagram, flow chart. During my internship, I was able to learn how

to use this software from the basics and I was tasked to use to design an organogram.

Fig 42: Interface of Microsoft visio.

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 3.3.5 Statistical package for social science (SPSS)

SPSS is a widely used program for statistical analysis in social science. It is also used by

market researchers, health researchers, survey companies, government, education researchers,

marketing organizations, data miners, and others. During my internship, I was introduced to

the software and carried out some basic tasks using SPSS.

Fig 43: Interface of the data view of SPSS.

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Fig 44: Interface of the variable view of SPSS.

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 CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 Conclusion

The Student Industrial Work Experience scheme (SIWES) is a very good and important

programme which often boosts the professional knowledge of students and prepare student for

their future in their chosen carrier. Engaging in the Students Industrial Work Experience

(SIWES) is a necessary program for all students in tertiary institutions in Nigeria. I have

completed my internship program successfully and have learnt necessary skills, experience,

and knowledge as expected of me as a SIWES student in the country.

Also, I started the report writing by describing the nature of SIWES program in Nigeria

in the first chapter and narrated the program’s aims and objectives, the relevance of the program

and the Bodies involved in the program. Arguably, students that do not participate in SIWES

program have found it not easy to blend with the work force after graduation. This will not

only hinder the students to gain employment but make them loose the academic knowledge

gained from school after so many years of job seeking. I further describe the Quantity

Surveying firm where I started and finished my internship program. I have explained the

experience, skills and knowledge gained in some major aspects of Quantity surveying during

my internship program in the chapter three of this my report. It should also be noted that my

experience during my internship program was fully based on the capacity of the firm.

In addition, I was able to see up-close the variety of opportunities the profession has to

offer. The training broadened my knowledge beyond the four walls of the classroom and

improved my knowledge of some other related disciplines. I experienced the daily hustle and

bustle of the working population, met with client, saw events, experienced the industrial work

situation, learnt how to tolerate co-workers and be an active team worker.

Finally, we should not forget that the success of the scheme as could be seen is

dependent on the Ministries, Industrial Training Fund, Institutions, Employers of Labour and

the general public involved in the articulation and management of it. It is pertinent to mention

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that the scheme is aimed at promoting the much-desired technological know-how for the

advancement of the nation. This laudable scheme amongst others will surely develop the much-

needed well – skilled and articulated labour force required to build an indigenous self-reliant

economy envisaged for Nigeria. The units, by virtue of their positions as Industrial Liaison

Offices, should be the most appropriate channels for guiding students in career/job placement

opportunities.

4.1 Recommendations

Although the SIWES program is a very wonderful and enriching program for students.

I have also noted some lapses in the program and have decided to make some recommendations

pertaining to the improvement of the program. The recommendations will be made to the major

bodies involved in the SIWES program; The Federal Government; the Industrial Training Fund

(ITF); the Supervising Agencies – National Universities Commission (NUC), the National

Board for Technical Education (NBTE), National Commission for Colleges of Education

(NCCE); Employers of Labour and Institutions have specific roles assigned to them in the

management of the SIWES Programme.

➢ Recommendations for the Federal Government

a) The federal government must ensure that the funds disbursed to the Industrial Training

Fund through the Federal Ministry of Industries for the Scheme are actually given to

the SIWES students on time;

b) If need be, the government should bring up a supervising body that will handle the

funds such that it gets to the students on time.

➢ Recommendations to the Industrial training Fund (ITF)

The supervision of SIWES students on internship is expected to be monthly and at the SIWES

Student’s firm premises. Most of the supervision is not regular and not at the actual place of

work of the SIWES student.

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 ➢ Recommendations to the Institutions

The Institutions should be serious with the funding and empowering the SIWES supervisors

with necessary tools and fund to help carry their job effectively. Also, the Institutions should

try as much as possible to compile a list of potential industrial attachment locations for their

SIWES students.

➢ Recommendations to the Employers

The employers of SIWES students should not discriminate students from different universities

and make it a painstaking effort to bring up SIWES students in their firms and see them as

toddlers that need to be fed in the mouth.

➢ Recommendations to the SIWES Students

However, the SIWES student seems to be the focal point of this program, therefore, the SIWES

student should be diligent, ready to learn, always punctual and respectful at this workplace.

Finally, the functions of the units should incorporate such schemes as the college-based

student’s work experience programme, which involves setting up pilot projects like proto-type

industries and production centres where students can acquire industrial experience during the

early periods of their training.

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