Structural construction works

Level-I
Based on March 2022, Curriculum Version 1

Module Title: - Read and interpret plans and specification

Module code: EIS SCW1 M04 0322
Nominal duration: 60Hour

Prepared by: Ministry of Labor and Skill

August, 2022
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

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 Table of Content
Acknowledgment...........................................................................................................................4
Acronym..........................................................................................................................................5
Introduction to the Module...........................................................................................................6
Unit one: Types of drawings and their purposes...................................................................7
1.1. Tools and equipment’s................................................................................................8
1.2. Types of Construction Drawings.............................................................................10
1.3. Aspects of drawing....................................................................................................30
Self-check--1......................................................................................................................39
Unit Two Architectural symbols and abbreviations................................................................40
2.1. Architectural symbols and abbreviations...............................................................41
2.2. Architectural symbols on drawing...........................................................................50
2.3. Building construction terms......................................................................................53
Self-Check--2.....................................................................................................................57
Operation Sheet 1.............................................................................................................58
Lap test 1............................................................................................................................58
Unit Three: Key features on a site plan...................................................................................59
3.1 Building site location...................................................................................................60
3.2 Key features of the site plan.....................................................................................63
The difference between a Site Plan and a Location Plan.....................................................66
Site Plan..............................................................................................................................67
Location Plan.....................................................................................................................67
3.2.5. Hazards and risks...................................................................................................74
3.2.6. Considerations........................................................................................................74
3.2.7. Possible design options to reduce hazards.......................................................74
3.3. True north and building orientation.........................................................................76
Self-check-3........................................................................................................................78
Unit Four: key features on drawings........................................................................................79
4.1. Key features of drawings..........................................................................................80
4.2 Architectural key features..........................................................................................84

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 4.3. Client Request variations.........................................................................................88
Self-check-4........................................................................................................................95
Operation sheet 1: prepare building drawing................................................................96
LAP Test.............................................................................................................................97
Unit five: read and interpret drawings, and Specification.....................................................98
5.1. Customer variations to standard specifications....................................................99
5.2. Interpretations of essential elements...............................................................101
5.3. Ethiopian Building Codes and Standards (EBCS).............................................104
Self-check5106
Reference…………………………………………………………………………………108

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Acknowledgment

Ministry of Labor and Skills wish to extend thanks and appreciation to the many representatives of
TVET instructors and respective industry experts who donated their time and expertise to the
development of this Teaching, Training and Learning Materials (TTLM).

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 Acronym

Abbreviation Definition TBR Timber

AC Air Conditioner CL. Closet
GLV Galvanized TTC Telephone Terminal Closet
AFF above Finished Flo CL Ceiling level
AL Aluminum U/S Under side
GRC Glass reinforced concrete CR Cement render
AO Access opening VB Vapor barrier
HW Hot Water DG Double glazing
APF Acid proof floor VENT Ventilator
HWD Hardwood DW Dishwasher
AW Acid Waste VP Vent pipe
IO Inspection opening EJ Expansion joint
B Basin VT Vinyl tile
MSB Main switch board FD Fire detector
BHD Bulk head WC Water closet (toilet)
O Oven FE Fire extinguisher
BN Bull nose WBD Wall board
PBD Plasterboard FFL Finished floor level
CD Clothes drier WI Wrought iron
R Refrigerator FH Fire hydrant
CF Concrete floor WM Washing machine
S Sink FW Floor waste
CT Ceramic tile WMR Water meter
SV Sheet vinyl GM Gas meter
CPT Carpet WP Waste pipe
C.C. Center to Center GPO General purpose outlet
Std. Standard WR Wardrobe
C.I. Cast Iron HWB Hand Wash
BV Brick veneer

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 Introduction to the Module

This module is designed to meet the industry requirement under the structural construction work level II
occupational standard, particularly for the unit of competency: Read and Interpret Plans and
Specifications which covers the knowledge, skills and attitude required to read and interpret plans and
specifications relevant to construction operations. It includes the identification of types of plans and
drawings and their functions, the recognition of commonly used symbols and abbreviations, the
identification of key features and specifications on a site plan, the comprehension of written job
specifications and the recognition of document status and amendment detail.
This module covers the units:
 Types of drawings and their purposes
 Architectural symbols and abbreviations.
 Key features on a site plan
 Key features on drawings.
 Read and interpret drawings, and Specification
Learning Objective of the Module
 Identify types of drawings and their purposes
 Apply Architectural symbols and abbreviations.
 Locate and identify key features on a site plan.
 Identify and locate key features on drawings.
 Correctly read and interpret drawings, and Specification
Module Instruction
For effective use this modules trainees are expected to follow the following module instruction:
1. Read the information written in each unit
2. Accomplish the Self-checks at the end of each unit
3. Perform Operation Sheets which were provided at the end of units
4. Do the “LAP test” giver at the end of each unit and
5. Read the identified reference book for Examples and exercise

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 Unit one: Types of drawings and their purposes

This unit is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following content
coverage and topics:
 Tools and equipment’s.
 Types of drawing.
 aspects of drawings
This unit will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the cover page.
Specifically, upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 Select tools and equipment’s.
 Identify types of drawing.
 Identify aspects of drawings

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 1.1. Tools and equipment’s.

1.1.1. Drawing Tools

Many drawing tools are used for drawing and design. Drawing tools may be used for
measurement and layout of drawing. They include pens, pencils, rulers, triangle, drafting
machine, drawing pencils, erasers and erasing shields, templates, compasses, protractors and
other drawing utilities.

 Stencil

The stencil is a template for making pictures or texts by just applying it to the printing surface
ant coloring it. This form of printing and coloring is used from stone ages, and it is still used
today by artists, military, government and many others.

 Ruler

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 A ruler is a tool which helps people to measure, draw straight lines and do other stuff. It is used
by carpenters, masons, drawers and many others. First rulers were made more than four thousand
years ago.

Figur1.1 Ruler

 Protractor

Protractors are the tools that help humans to measure angles. Throughout history, protractors
were also used to help sailors to navigate at sea. The first protractor was invented in sixteen
century, and it is still used today.

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 Figur1.2 Protractor

 Caliper and Venire Scale

A caliper is a tool which is used for a measurement of some objects. Throughout history, calipers
have many forms, and they are still in usage today. One of the types of the caliper is a vernier
scale which is used for very precise measurement.

Figur1.3 Caliper

 Drawing Compass

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 Drawing compass is a tool for drawing circles on a specific material but also for navigational
help and measuring distances. Humans use it ever since ancient times. There are many types of
drawing compasses for different purposes.

Figur1.4 Caliper

1.2. Types of Construction Drawings

There are different types of drawing used for the construction process. Depending upon the
purpose they serve, construction drawings are divided into 5 types,

1.2.1. Architectural Drawing

Architectural drawing can be termed as the mother drawing for all the other drawings used for
construction. It contains all the details of the project such as location site plan, setting out plan,
elevations, sections and other details.

 Concept drawings/Sketch Plans: A sketch is a rapidly executed freehand drawing that is

not usually intended as a finished work. Sketches can be made in any drawing medium.
Concept drawings or sketches are drawings, often freehand, that are used by designers such
as architects, engineers and interior designers as a quick and simple way of exploring initial
ideas for designs.

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 Fig. 1.5: concept/sketch floor plan

Fig.1.6: sketch elevation plan

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  Working drawings and specifications are the primary working documents used by a
contractor to bid and execute a project. Specifications are the written documents that go
with the construction documents and describe the materials as well as the installation
methods. They consist of precisely written documentation that describes a project to be
constructed, supplementing drawings and forming part of the contract and describing
qualities of materials, their methods of manufacture and installation into the project,
workmanship and mode of construction, in addition to providing other information not
shown in the drawings including description of the final result.

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 Fig 1.7. Working drawings

 presentation drawings
Presentation drawing during the design sequence as the residence was being designed the floor
plan and rendering where draw to help the owners understand the design side
The presentation drawings are the drawings that are used to convey basic design concepts from
the design team to the owner or other interested person. The presentation drawing are very
important parts of public hearing and design review as a structure study by the [Link]
residential architecture presentation drawing are frequently used to show compliance with review
board standards and to help advertise existing stock plan

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 Fig 1.8. Presentation drawings

 Preliminary and final drawings however produced

PRELIMINARY DRAWINGS are the initial plans for projects prepared by the designer
or architect's and engineer's (A/E) firm during the early planning or promotional stage of
the building development. They provide a means of communication between the designer
and the user (customer). These drawings are NOT intended to be used for construction, but
they are used for exploring design concepts, material selection, preliminary cost estimates,
and approval by the customer, and a basis for the preparation of finished working
drawings.
Notice that most of the design work incorporated into the preliminary drawings at the 35
percent stage of completion contain, as a minimum, the following information: site plans,
architectural floor plans, elevations, building sections, preliminary finish schedule and
furniture layouts, interior and exterior mechanical and electrical data, and civil and
structural details.

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  Perspective drawing: Perspective drawing is a technique for depicting three-dimensional
volumes and spatial relationships based on the eye level and vanishing point (or points) of
the viewer. It can give a realistic impression of what a volume or space will look like in
reality. Constructing perspective drawings of buildings is extremely complicated, but has
been much simplified recently by the development of computer aided design (CAD),
building information modeling (BIM) and other forms of computer-generated imagery (CGI).

Fig 1.9. Perspective drawing

 detailed amendment drawings

In drawing an amendment to a bill or resolution reference must be made first to the number of the
bill, then to the page, and then to the line or lines where language is to be stricken or inserted."
The house of representatives has no formal rule similar to senate rule 33.2 but follows the same
rule in practice.
In drawing an amendment, a person must know what bill is being amended, what version of the
bill is the most current, and where in the bill the amendment is being inserted.

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 Fig [Link] amendment drawings

 Floor plans: Floor plans are a form of orthographic projection that can be used to show the
layout of rooms within buildings, as seen from above. They may be prepared as part of the
design process, or to provide instructions for construction, often associated with other
drawings, schedules, and specifications.

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 Fig.1.10: Rendered floor plan
 Section Drawings: Section drawings represents the material of construction to be used,
heights and measurement of the different components of buildings, type of structural
components such as type of slab, etc. It is representing the drawing when the building is cut
through a vertical plane.
 Elevation Drawing: it represents the information of openings, size and shape of external
surface, height of building and finish of the building after completion. These drawings are
made by having a aesthetic view of the building.

Fig.1.11: 2D External Elevation.

1.2.2. Structural Drawing:

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 Structural Drawing can be termed as the backbone drawing of the building. It consists all the
information about the structural intervention that are coming on a building. It contains many
types of drawing with very minute details and description..

 Excavation Drawing
This drawing represents the footing excavation dimension, column position, footing plan and
grid lines of column.

1.12 Fig Excavation Drawing

Fig 1.13 Excavation for footing

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 Fig. 1.14: footing excavation drawing

 Column Layout: It represents the position and orientation of columns and column
reinforcement details.

Fig. 1.15: Column Layout

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  Plinth Beam Layout
This drawing represents the dimensions, position and section of plinth beam and the details of
reinforcement in plinth beam.

Fig. 1.16: Plinth Beam Layout

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 Fig. 1.17: Plinth Beam Details

 Lintel Beam Layout This drawing represents the dimensions, position and section of lintel
beam and the details of reinforcement in lintel beam.

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 Fig 1.18 Lintel Beam Layout and Details

 Roof Beam and Shuttering Layout: This drawing represents the details of reinforcement of
roof beam, its section and shuttering details.

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 Fig 1.19: Roof Beam and Shuttering Layout

 Roof Slab Layout: This drawing represents the details of reinforcement of roof slab, its
section and openings in the roof for various purposes such as stairs or skylight.

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 Fig 1.20: Roof Slab Layout

1.2.3. Electrical Drawing

Electrical drawing represents the details of electrical fixtures, location of switches, fan, light and
others. It also represents the load calculation, tapping for electricity, wiring path and other
interventions such as AC and UPS and its components.

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 Fig 1.21 E lectrical floor design

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 Fig 1.22 Electrical plan

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 Fig 1.22 Electrical plan

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 Fig [Link] drawing

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 Fig 1.23 typical sections of wall showing locations of fixtures

1.2.4. Plumbing Drawing

Plumbing drawings give the location of sanitary, piping for water supply system, fixture, and the
process to connect every fixture.

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 Fig 1.24 Plumbing Drawing

Fig 1.25. sanitary waste & vent isometric view

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 Fig 1.26. Sanitary riser diagram

1.2.5. Finishing Drawings

Finishing drawings represents the finish type of every component of the building such as flooring
pattern, painting color, false ceiling shape, plastering texture and elevation design. These details
are sometime given in elevation drawings also. There is no standard rule of drawings required for
a project. Depending upon the type of building and requirement, types of drawings are made and
issued.

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 Fig 1.26. Finishing Drawings

1.3. Aspects of drawing

1.3.1. General aspects relating to building drawing

 Clearly representative
 Easily under stood
 Comprehensive
 Free from necessary notes (repetitive details)
 Accurately drawn (proper also in line work)
 Drawn with appropriate symbols and proper convention
 Dimensional well
 Drawn by referring building code
 Proper in graphical representation
 Proper titled (information panel)
 Logically and rarely arranged to give a balanced layout on the short paper
 Drawn in appropriate scale

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 A Layout Drawing is a graphical statement of the overall form of components and devices that
is similar to a detail, assembly, or installation drawing. The Layout Drawing provides the design
solution used in preparing other engineering drawings.

1.3.2. Elevation

The term ‘elevation’ refers to an orthographic projection of the exterior (or sometimes
the interior) faces of a building, that is a two-dimensional drawing of the building’s façades.
As buildings are rarely simple rectangular shapes in plan, an elevation drawing is a first
angle projection that shows all parts of the building as seen from a particular direction with
the perspective flattened. Generally, elevations are produced for four directional views, example,
north, south, east, west.

1.3.3. Sections
Sections are used to show interior details clearly. A cutting-plane line shows where object was
cut to obtain the section view. Cross hatching in the section view shows the solid surface of the
object which were cut through to produce the section. Section views may replace standard views.
Conventional practices, such as not showing hatching on ribs and webs, help make sections
easier to interpret correctly.

The purpose of section

 Clarify the views by
- Reducing or eliminating the hidden line
- Revealing the cross sectional shape
 Facilitate the dimensioning.
1.3.4. Views in isometric projection and perspective

Because plans represent three-dimensional objects on a two-dimensional plane, the use

of views or projections is crucial to the legibility of plans. Each projection is achieved by
assuming a vantage point from which to see the place or object, and a type of projection. These
projection types are: parallel and perspective projection
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 A. Parallel projection
 Orthographic projection
 Multitier projection, including:
o Plan view or floor plan view
o Elevation, usually a side view of an exterior
o Section, a view of the interior at a particular cutting plane
 Axonometric projection, including:
o Isometric projection
o Diametric projection
o Trimetric projection
 Oblique projection, and
B. Perspective projection, including:
 One-point perspective
 Two-point perspective
 Three-point perspective


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 Fig. 1.27 : projection method

Projection Theory

The projection theory is used to graphically represent 3-D objects on 2-D media (paper,
computer screen). The projection theory is based on two variables: Line of sight and Plane of
projection (image plane or picture plane)

Line of sight (LOS): (LOS)is an imaginary ray of light between an observer’s eye and
an object. There are 2 types of LOS: parallel and converge

Fig. 1.2: Line of Sight (LOS)

Plane of projection (POP): is an imaginary flat plane which the image is created. The image is
produced by connecting the points where the LOS pierce the projection plane.

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 Fig.1.28 : plane of projection

Orthographic projection is a parallel projection technique in which the parallel lines of sight
are perpendicular to the projection plane.

Fig. 1.29: Orthographic projection

Orthographic view depends on relative position of the object to the line of sight. Two
dimensions of an object is shown. More than one view is needed to represent the object. That is
Multi view drawing.

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 Fig. 1.30: Orthographic view

Multi view drawing: Three dimensions of an object is shown.

Multi view Projections: Project an object from six principal directions (front, back, top, bottom,
right, left)

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 Fig. 1.31: Multi view Projections

Axonometric drawing:

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 Auxiliary Views: Used to show true dimensions of an inclined plane.

Fig. 1.32 : a) types of isometric drawing

Fig. 1.33 : Auxiliary Views

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 Isometric Drawing: Represent 3-D objects by a 2D view in the projection in which the
coordinate axes appear equally foreshortened. It is easy to understand the 3-D shape However,
the projection causes shape and angle distortions.

Fig. 1. 35 isometric drawing

Perspective drawing
The lines of sight converge to a point which is at finite distance from the plane of projection.
They are the most realistic in that they create a pictorial view that most resembles what the
human eye sees
Perspective is created through the arrangement of objects in two-dimensional space to look like
they appear in real life.
Perspective is a learned meaning of the relationship between different objects seen in space.
Is the dark rectangle in front of a circle, or beside a semi-circle?
Perspective adds realism to a visual image. The size of a rectangle means little until another
object gives it the size of a desk, or the size of a building. Perspective can be used to draw the

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 audience into a visual. Perception can be achieved through the use of relative sizes of objects,
overlapping objects, and blurring or sharpening objects

Perspective projection
Perspective drawing gives objects on a 2D surface a sense of three-dimensionality. There are two
types of perspective: linear perspective and atmospheric perspective.
One-Point Perspective

One of the best illustrations of single-point perspective is to imagine that you’re looking at a
straight road. All of the elements of the composition—particularly the road itself—will converge
at a single point on the horizon line.

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 TWO-POINT PERSPECTIVE

THREE-POINT PERSPECTIVE

Fig 1.36 One-Point Perspective

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 Unit Two Architectural symbols and abbreviations

This unit to provide you the necessary information regarding the following content coverage and
topics:
 Architectural symbols and abbreviations.
 Architectural symbols on drawing.
 Building construction terms.
This guide will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the cover page.
Specifically, upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 Identify architectural symbols and abbreviations.
 Apply Architectural symbols on drawing.
 Used building construction terms.

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 2.1. Architectural symbols and abbreviations.

Introduction
Some drawings need to convey a lot of information. To avoid confusion and to save space,
abbreviations and symbols are used. These are standardized and you’ll find that you soon
become used to interpreting what they mean. In this section you’ll be introduced to some of the
more common abbreviations and symbols.
2.1.1. Symbols & abbreviations
Abbreviations: can be created in different ways. In some cases the word is shortened. A list of
common abbreviations found on drawings or in general use in structural engineering,
architecture and construction.

Drawing abbreviations and symbols are used to communicate and detail the characteristics of
an engineering drawing. This list includes abbreviations common to the vocabulary of people
who work with engineering drawings in the manufacture and inspection of parts and assemblies.

Technical standards exist to provide glossaries of abbreviations, acronyms, and symbols that may
be found on engineering drawings. Many corporations have such standards, which define some
terms and symbols specific to them

 Architectural Abbreviation
HCB – Hollow concert block GIS – Galvanized iron sheet
T—Double shutter S—Single shutter
W—Window D—Door
CB—Concert Block FF—Floor Finishing
CIS-- Corrugated iron sheet AR= architectural
Symbols: the representation of actual object by some notation which convey the necessary
information. Symbols are used instead of words on drawings to save space. There are a lot of
them, but they’re standardized (drawn the same way) to avoid confusion, so don’t worry. Some
of them look a lot like what they represent

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 symbol meaning
Job datum level - indicates the altitude at a specific point,
relative to a universal reference point known as a 'datum'.
window and door references - a reference to specific window
and door diagrams (numbers indicate which diagrams

graduated scale - used to indicate the size and scale of objects

and structures in the diagram

compass - shows the orientation of the plan diagram and the

structures it depicts

title block - provides details about the project, the specific plan
revision you're looking at, the architect or designer, the date etc.

Window

single-swing door (90 degrees) single-swing door (180 degrees)

single double-acting door

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 pocket / cavity door - a sliding door that slides into the wall cavity

exposed sliding door

b if old / concertina doors centered on a track

b if old / concertina doors fixed to one side on a track

ramp - arrow points upwards

stairs - arrow points upwards

Fall / drainage - arrow points downwards, towards floor waste / drain.

Archway

Lintel

access hatch

Recessed object - an object recessed into a particular wall or surface.

Surface-mounted object - an object mounted directly on a wall or

surface.

Free-standing object - an object not connected to the adjacent wall or

surface.

Object mounted over - an object mounted over the area shown.

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 Object sitting above the plane of the depicted section - a surface
mounted object sitting higher than the plane of the diagram.

Shower stall - lines in the center of this diagram indicate drop for
drainage.

basin

vanity with basin

toilet

bidet

sink with two bowls

sink with one bowl

double tub or trough

single tub or trough

hotplates

Elevation view - doors and windows

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 symbol meaning

right-side hinged window side pivoted window

top and bottom pivoted window top hinged w

bottom hinged window

horizontal sliding window with fixed sash

vertical sliding sash window left hinged door

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 Table (2.1.)Electrical Graphic Symbols

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 2.2. Architectural symbols on drawing.

Architectural drawing symbols form an important role in any architecture drawing and help to
define elements such as floor levels, lighting types and service locations. Electrical layouts in
particular, require many different items and abbreviations, and accompanied by a key, symbols
provide a clear and tidy method of identifying their placement, type and use.
 The drawing of an architectural working drawing requires knowledge of the symbols and terms
commonly used in the design and construction industry
 All architectural working drawing must communicate in a clear and concise manner to the
builder
 In order to simplify the details on a drawing and to speed drawing time it is necessary to use
architectural symbol
 Many symbols are designed to approximate the appearance of an item or the material from which
it is constructed
 Some symbols however, many have no graphic resemblance to the material or item that they are
to represent
2.2.1. Symbols
Blueprint drawings are generally used to show how a building, object, or system is to be worked. One of
the main functions of graphic symbols on construction drawings is to reference other drawings within
the set.

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 2.3. Building construction terms.
Make no mistake about it, the construction industry is complicated, with thousands of terms and
jargon that are tough to grasp for anyone new to the industry.

If you’re just getting involved in construction management, or are trying your hand at your own
home project, it’s helpful to understand some of the basic terms used by the industry.

We’ve put together this handy construction glossary that identifies some of the most common
terms you’re likely to encounter as you get to work on your construction project.

1. Aggregate: A particulate material which is made up of sand or crushed stone. Aggregates are
used in materials such as concrete and are a fundamental part of building foundations.

2. Backfilling: The process of refilling trenches or holes created during excavation, especially
around foundations.

3. Beam: Beams run horizontally along the main walls of a building at ceiling level, supporting
the structure.

4. BIM: BIM (building information modeling) is the process of creating a computer model of a
building that includes all of the details of that structure, from its basic layout to the smallest
measurements.

5. BOQ: The bill of quantities is a contract document that contains a list of materials and
workmanship involved in a construction project. It is necessary for properly pricing a project.

6. CAD: CAD (computer-aided design) refers to using architecture software to create detailed
models of buildings to speed up the design process, allow for more creativity, and ensure greater
accuracy in measurements.

7. Caulking: A flexible, rubbery type of material that is used to seal gaps in a joint.

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 8. Ceiling joist: Parallel framing members that support ceiling loads and are themselves supported
by load-bearing walls.

9. Circuit breaker: A switch in the electrical panel that shuts off power to certain parts of the
building.

10. Concrete: A building material created by a hardened mixture of cement, gravel, sand, and
water. It is used for slabs, columns, and other types of structures.

11. Construction management software: This software is designed for construction managers to
help them more efficiently run a construction project; it can include features to manage accounting
and financials, documentation, and team workloads.

12. Dimension: A dimension is used in the planning stage and refers to a measure between two
points.

13. Drywall: A panel made from gypsum plaster that is wrapped in cardboard. It is commonly
used as a fundamental material for framing a building.

14. Ducts: Piping that carries air throughout a structure.

15. Egress: A way of exiting a structure, such as a window or door. Laws require a certain number
of egress windows in certain parts of a home.

16. Field measure: Taking measurements within the structure itself rather than relying on
blueprints.

17. Floor plan: The floor plan refers to the layout of the building. It is a drawing of the horizontal
section that shows how the different spaces relate to each other.

18. Girder: The main horizontal support of a structure that supports smaller beams.

19. HVAC: An abbreviation that stands for heat, ventilation, and air conditioning.

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 20. I-beam: A beam that has a cross-section that looks like the capital letter I. Girders often have
an I-beam cross-section.

21. Insulation: Material that’s designed to prevent heat from leaving or entering a building.
Insulation material is placed within the walls, ceiling, or floor of a structure.

22. Joist: The location where the surfaces of two components are joined.

23. King stud: A framing member that runs from the bottom to the top of a panel or sheet.

24. Lath: A metal wire on the frame of a building that serves as a base for laying down stucco or
plaster.

25. Load-bearing wall (partition): A partition or load-bearing wall carries the load of the
structure above it. As a result, they cannot be removed without compromising the integrity of the
structure.

26. Mortar: In masonry, mortar is the paste that is used to bind stones, bricks, and other similar
types of units used to construct the walls of a building. Mortar can be made up of a variety of
things, such as asphalt, pitch, or clay.

27. Particle board: A substitute for plywood that is composed of sawdust mixed with resin.

28. Plywood: A panel of wood that is made from multiple layers of veneer, compressed together.

29. PVC: Short for polyvinyl chloride, this common plastic is used most commonly for water
pipes and sometimes for flooring.

30. Rafter: A series of roof frame pieces that are connected to the supports and hold up the
roofing and sheathing.

31. Reinforced concrete: Concrete that is strengthened by adding steel bars or mesh within the
concrete.

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 32. Section: This is a drawing or model that shows what it would look like if you sliced vertically
through a building and were able to see its various components or layers, showcasing exactly how
a building is constructed top to bottom.

33. Skirting: Material that covers up the joint between the floor and a wall in the interior of a
building, for aesthetic purposes.

34. Stucco: A material made from aggregates, a binder, and water. It is often used as a decorative
coating on walls and ceilings.

35. Trim: The materials used to provide a clean finish of the building, such as moldings around
window and door openings, or the baseboards in rooms, for example.

36. Veneer: A very thin sheet of wood. It is typically a finer wood that is used as a decorative
cover for lower-quality wood.

37. Warping: A distortion of material, which can be a sign of water damage.

38. Zoning: A government regulation that involves restricting how a property is used. For
example, industrial buildings cannot be constructed in areas zoned solely for residential.

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 Self-Check--2

Test-1chooes
1. ----------is a formal and written guarantee issues by a third party, assuring that the work performed
will be performed in-line with the contract.

A. Bid bond C. CAD

B. Bill of material D. Cost validation

2. -----is outlines in a list, the materials required to deliver a project (or part of a project).

A. Bid bond C. CAD

B. Bill of material D. Cost validation

3. The computerized model of a building in multiple dimensions, allowing digital and hypothetical
changes in plans.

A. Bid bond D. Cost validation

B. Bill of material E. none
C. CAD

4. One of the most common construction estimating terms, referring to any type of computer assisted
drawing, which similar to BIM, allows for digital modeling and estimating.
A. Bid bond
B. Bill of material
C. CAD
D. Cost validation
Part 2: Write short answer
1. Draw and explain the function of arcthectural symbols?
2. Write the difference between symbol and abbreviations?
3. Explain the varation bid bond and bill of matr

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 Operation Sheet 1

1.1 identifying types of plans and drawings in the construction sector

Topic: Draw types of line plan by fire hand

Procedure:-

Step1: Prepare yourself for the work

Step2: Prepare all materials, equipment and tools which are needed for the work.

Step3: design the building plan

Step4: locate all site plan Symbols in the site plan paper in proper position

Step5: connect the types of line symbols

Step6: Check your drawing

Step7: Submit you’re drawing to the supervisor

Lap test 1

Practical Demonstration

Instructions: Given necessary templates, tools and materials you are required to perform the
following tasks with in 4 hour.
Task 1. For Free hand sketch types of Line.

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Unit Three: Key features on a site plan

This learning guide is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the
following content coverage and topics:
 Building site location.
 Key features of the site plan.
 True north and building orientation
This guide will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the cover page.
Specifically, upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 Identify building site location.
 Identify key features of the site plan.
 Identify true north and building orientation

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 3.1 Building site location.
A site layout plan shows a detailed layout of the whole site and the relationship of the proposed works
with the boundary of the property, nearby roads and neighboring buildings. Most applications should
include an existing site layout plan and a proposed site layout plan.
Construction Staking, also known as a Site Layout Survey, is the process of interpreting construction
plans and marking the location of proposed new structures such as roads or buildings. Construction
staking is performed to ensure a project is built according to engineering design plans.
A location plan: location plan provides an illustration of the proposed development in its
surrounding context. This enables the planning authority to properly identify the land to which the
application refers, and is typically based on an up-to-date Ordnance Survey (or similar) map.
A location plan should use an identified standard metric scale, typically 1:1250 or, for larger sites,
1:2500, and generally fits onto an A4 size sheet when printed. It is important that the plan indicates the
direction of North, to make its orientation clear.
The plan will typically illustrate the following:
 Roads and/or buildings on adjoining land.
 The site boundaries.
 Land necessary to carry out the proposed development (outlined in red).
 Any other land owned by the developer that is close to or adjacent to the site (outlined in blue).
A location plan is different to a site plan which is specifically focused on providing more detail of
the development within the site boundaries, or a block plan which may give a slightly wider illustration
of the immediate area surrounding the site.
Sketch: - this can be defined as a draft or rough outline of an idea; it can be a means of depicting a
Three-dimensional form in a two-dimensional guise.
Site Plans :– used to locate site, buildings, define site levels, indicate services to buildings, identify parts
of site such as roads, footpaths and boundaries and to give setting-out dimensions for the site and
buildings as a whole. Suitable scale not less than 1: 2500
Floor Plans: – used to identify and set out parts of the building such as rooms, corridors, doors,
windows, etc. Suitable scale not less than 1:100
Elevations: – used to show external appearance of all faces and to identify Doors and windows. Suitable
scale not less than 1: 100

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 Sections: – used to provide vertical views through the building to show method of construction.
Suitable scale not less than 1: 50
Component Drawings: – used to identify and supply data for components to be
to form elements. Suitable scale range 1: 20 to 1: 5
3.1.1. How to Choose a Building Location
When growth forces your company to move to a bigger or second location, there’s a lot that needs to be
done. The first step is to choose a new location to build on. To do this, there are a few obvious
considerations like traffic, ease of access for customers, and the commute for employees, but there some
other factors you may not be aware of. These other factors will have a big impact on the long-term
success of the new building.
3.1. 2. Site Survey
When you find a site you think might be a winner, check the following criteria to see how it stacks up.
 Grade of the site- will there need to be a lot of dirt work to get the site ready?
 Load capacity- how much weight cans the soil support?
 Dimensions- are the site big enough for your project?
 Environmental Factors- is the site located in a flood plain or high-wind zone?
Site; The lands and other places, on, under or through which the works are to be executed or carried out,
and any other lands or places provided by the ’Company’ for the purposes of the ’Contract’ together
with such other place as may be specially designated in the ’Contract’ as forming part of the site.

Site plan must be should show:-

1. Property lines length side direction.

2. Adjoining building streets sidewalks parking curbs parkways
3. Existing structure & proposed structure
4. All utility lines ( sewer, Electric Telephone)
5. Contours existing & new contour elevations
6. Dimension
7. Fences structural retaining walls, area ways to property line
8. North arrow or North star
9. Drainage lines
10. All Existing paved ground whether to remain or be removed, new paving, parking lots,
platforms, play fields, fountains, etc…

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 11. Trees, shrubs if exist.
12. Legend showing all symbols & material used on the site.
Contour lines: is a line that connects points of equal level on the surface of the earth.

Fig [Link] lines

 Orientation: when the site and requirements of a house have been finalized. The next step is
orientation of the house which means fixing the direction of the building in such a way that is
derives maximum benefit from the sun, air and nature. We know that means health and
happiness are influenced directly by this environment.
 Datum: is a reference surface of constant potential, called as a level surface of the earth’s
gravity field, for measuring the elevations of the points. One of such surfaces is the mean sea
level surface and is considered as a standard datum. Also, an arbitrary surface may be adopted as
a datum.
 Site Plan: is the top view of a building which show the location of the house on the site together
with information on terraces walks driveways, contours, elevation & utilities.

3.2 Key features of the site plan

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 A site plans sometimes called a plot plan is an architectural document that functions as readable map of
a building site, giving you all the details you need to know about how the structure will be oriented on
the lot. A builder or contractor will create a diagram that shows the plot of land and its property lines,
along with its landscape features, structural elements, setbacks, and driveway
Utility poles and power lines, fencing and on-site structure
3.2.1. Location Plan and situation
The location plan identifies where the land is located. A location plan must have the following:
 North Arrow;

 Location of a major road in relation to the site;

 Indicate the closest DOMLEC pole number;
 Descriptions of neighboring buildings or features;
 Can include names of home or land owners;
 Clearly demarcate site and access to it
3.2.2. Site Plan
A site plan shows how the building is placed within the boundaries of the site. A site plan must have the
following:
 Footprint of the building
 Front, rear and side setbacks from the boundary
 Septic tank and soak away or sewage disposal method along with distances from boundary line
and house
 Direction of slope
 Contour lines if necessary

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 Fig [Link] Plan

Good site plan must include

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  Block identification. When land is subdivided, each block is given a lot number. The street number
is allocated later.
 Boundary. The boundary is the imaginary line that defines the block of land. At each corner is a
small wooden peg with the numbers of the adjacent lots stamped onto a metal plate. If a boundary
changes direction, a peg is located at that point too.
 Road identification. The name of the road shows where the front of the block is.
 Verge. The verge is the area of land between the block and the road. It is not part of the block and
must not be built on (apart from a crossover) or damaged in any way. It usually has services running
beneath it (water, telephone, etc).
 North point. The direction of north is shown to assist in orientating the drawing with the block
when on-site.
 Proposed building. The location of the proposed house is shown, just as an outline.
 Finished floor level. The level of the finished floor of the house is given.
 Adjacent properties. The adjacent lot numbers are shown, and sometimes indications of existing
structures are given.
 Existing fences. Any existing boundary fences should be shown.
 Easement. It is a part of the land over which another party has some sort of legal right. So, a strip
near the rear of the block is an easement for a council storm water line to be laid. It still belongs to
the landowner but the council has the right to lay and maintain a storm water pipe there, so no
structure is allowed to be built over this area.
 Existing trees. If there are any features on the block that are to be left undisturbed, they are clearly
indicated.

 Contour lines. These are imaginary level lines that indicate the shape of the land (you might have
seen these on maps.) In this site plan, they indicate that the land slopes down from the north corner
to the south corner.
 Contour level. This indicates the ‘reduced level’ of the contour (reduced levels are explained in
Section 3 Dimensions of this guide). In this case, they are shown at one-meter intervals, but this
varies depending on the steepness of the land.
 Datum. This is a point on or near the block that all heights for the project are measured from. It is
explained more fully in Section 3.

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  Angle of boundary intersection. This indicates at what angle the boundaries meet. It is not always
shown, especially if the block has square corners.
 Location of power connection. This indicates to the electrician where the electrical connection will
be made. In this case, the block has underground power, but if overhead lines pass the block, the
nearest power pole may be shown.
 Boundary length. This indicates the length of each boundary.
 Setback. This is the distance from the front boundary to the nearest part of the building. A minimum
distance for this is set by the local authority (council) and varies depending on the zoning of the
land.
 Offset. Similar to the setback, the offset indicates how far from the side boundary the building is to
be. There are by-laws regulating the minimum distance for this, mainly to minimize the spread of
fire.
 Driveway. This indicates where and how wide the driveway should be.
 Crossover. This is the continuation of the driveway across the verge.
 Path. Any paving included in the contract is shown.
 Clothes hoist. The position of the clothes hoist is indicated.
 Lot Line. A lot line is the boundary of that land. Many buildings, constructed for maximum size, are
built all the way to their designated lot lines.
The difference between a Site Plan and a Location Plan
Most planning applications require both a site plan (also known as a block plan) and location plan and
our service have the ability to provide a map bundle containing both.

Site Plan
 Sometimes called a 'block plan’, a site plan shows the proposed development in relation to the
property boundary
 Site plans are typically submitted at a scale of either 1:200 or 1:500
 Site plans should include the following:

 The size and position of the existing building (and any extensions proposed) in relation to the
property boundary
 The position and use of any other buildings within the property boundary
 The position and width of any adjacent streets

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  Choose from 2 scales:
 1:200 Site Plan: perfect for a close-up of a small area and areas within 32x32
 1:500 Site Plan: for close-up of particular area and areas within 80 x 80m
Location Plan
 A location plan shows the proposed development in relation to its surrounding properties
 It must be based on an up-to-date map and at an identified standard metric scale (typically
1:1250 or 1:2500)
 The site of the proposed development needs to be outlined in red and any other land owned by
the applicant that is close to or adjoining the site needs to be outlined in blue
 Choose from 2 scales:
1. 1:1250 Location Plan: for urban areas and small properties within 200 x 200m
2. 1:2500 Location Plan: for rural areas and large properties within 400 x 400m

Fig. 3.3: Location plan

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 Fig. 3.4: 3D location plan

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 Fig [Link] site plan

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 Fig. 3.6 typical site plan

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 Fig. 3.7 Plot plan.

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 Fig. 3.8 site plan for simple house

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 Fig. 3.9 : Site Plan with Roof plan

3.2.4. Access and egress

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 Safe access to the site and safe access to all site activities and locations should be planned at the design
stage. The designer should be aware of, and assess the risks from, the following principal hazards.
3.2.5. Hazards and risks
 Falls from height caused by inadequate or unsafe access to places of work or unsafe working
platforms.
 Contact with moving vehicles caused by non-separation of people and vehicles.
 Struck by moving plant or machinery; inadequate visibility, height, clearance, width for moving
and maneuvering plant and machinery.
 Struck by falling objects; lifting, lowering, slewing, slinging of loads in confined space.
 Hazards of working in confined spaces caused by poor access.
3.2.6. Considerations
Describe any restrictions and precautions that should be taken with regard to the method of pedestrian
and/or vehicular access to the site and any confined spaces. Consider that a safe means of access must be
provided to places of work and this includes access for construction workers to carry out work in what
may have been identified as hazardous areas of existing structures. Be aware that workers can fall
through fragile floors / roofs so it is necessary to identify such areas in order that they can be made safe.
Consider access for site traffic across or around existing roads, structures, or pavements. Will access
routes change as construction progresses.
3.2.7. Possible design options to reduce hazards
 Maintain emergency access to the site
 Ensure phased construction maintains access routes
 Design to facilitate repair and maintenance of the structure
 Identify and display services isolation points
 Consider site perimeter security in the design
 Design construction sequences to facilitate access to work positions
 Consider likely space requirements for safe construction
 Ensure space and provision for welfare facilities

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 Fig 3.10 Access and egress

3.3. True north and building orientation

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 3.3.1. North.
A plan was, and still is today, usually arranged so that north was as near as practicable at the top of the
sheet. But the precise direction was indicated by a north point.

If the proposed building was just too long in the north-south direction, the convention of putting north at
the top might be ignored. If the building was skew to the cardinal points it would still be drawn with its
main lines parallel with the sides of the sheet, and then the north point might have had to be rotated up to
45° in either direction. The site plan however might not be orientated in exactly the same way, which
makes it more important to have a north point on every plan sheet.

North points take many forms from an elaborate design to a simple arrow, and are sometimes so
decorative as to be difficult to recognize (there are stories about a north point that was colored red, as for
brickwork, so the builder actually constructed it).

3.3.2. Orientation of Building

The orientation of the building is the term used to define the setting or fixing the direction of the layout
plan of building respect to the direction of north. The orientation of building refers to the direction of
normal to the normal to the long axis.
Proper orientation means setting or fixing the direction of the directions of the plan of the building
which allows the inmates of the house or building to enjoy the almost whatever is good and to avoid
whatever is bad in respect of comfort in the elements of nature.
Good orientation means proper placement of room in relation providing convenient access both to the
street and back-yard.

Fig3.11 Orientation of building

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 3.3.3. For optimum orientation
 A building should receive maximum solar radiation in winter and minimum in summer.
 In hot climates, verandahs or sum breakers may be provided. Hospital school, drawing office,
the library should be located on North Side i.e. long sides of these should face north whereas
south side and west side should be protected by verandahs.
 Verandahs should not be provided on north facing.
 To reduce the intensity of sun rays.
 The tall tree is may be planted on the sunny side.
 Walls of the minimum area may be provided on East and Westside.
 Rooms which are occupied through the day are placed on North, whereas bedrooms may be
located on West or in direction of prevailing wind.
 For ventilation point of view, the height of a house should not be more than twice the width of
the street.
 No part of the building is allowed of the project beyond the setback distance.

Self-check-3

Choose the best answer

1. ------- is the way architects like to lay out a plan on a sheet that long side in the
Long direction.

A. True North C. Access road

B. Site plan D. Site location plan

2. ------- is the top view of building which show the location of the house on the site together with
information on terraces, walks, driveways, contours, elevations and utilities.
A. True North

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 B. Site plan
C. Access road
D. Site location plan
3. It shows the means of reaching the site road and the means of reaching the site.
A. True North
B. Site plan
C. Access road
D. Site location plan
4. Windows which face north never get sunlight coming through them.

A. Site plan C. North Facing Windows

B. Access road D. Survey beacons

5. The concrete pillars located at principal corners of the site and at every change in the direction of
boundaries. They define the boundary and area of the site.

A. True North C. Access road

B. Site plan D. Survey beacon

Part 2: write short answer

1. Explain the following component of site plan terms?
i. Survey beacon
ii. Elevation
iii. Utilities
iv. Accesses road
v. Physical feature
vi. Site orientation

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Unit Four: key features on drawings

This learning guide is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the
following content coverage and topics:
 Key features of drawings.
 Architectural key features.
 client request variations
This guide will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the cover page.
Specifically, upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 Identifying key features of drawings.
 Identifying architectural key features.
 Identifying client request variations

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4.1. Key features of drawings.
Watch as we explore key features for drawings in Structures look at drawing performance
improvements and make use of the Document manager’s new functionality to show General
Arrangement drawing views in the 3D model space. This allows us to get a clearer understanding
of exactly where a drawing view is located within the 3D model, the view direction, and the 3D
extents of that view. We’ll also explore the new Contextual toolbar that comes along with this
feature. Finally, we’ll talk you through how to use the new drawing Layout editor; the whole
process for editing drawing layouts has been completely revamped!
4.1.1. Section drawing
A section is a cut-through of a space that will show more of the room’s features. It also allows
you to show some structural detail. A section line can be cut from any part of the space,
depending on what you would like to show.”
A ‘section drawing,’ ‘section,’ or ‘sectional drawing’ shows a view of a structure as though it
had been sliced in half or cut along another imaginary plane.

Fig [Link] drawing

4.1.2. Elevation

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An elevation is a view from the side of an object when drawing interior elevations; this would
represent one of the walls. This would include any windows or doors as well as any built-in
furniture that is in direct contact with the wall.”
The term ‘elevation’ refers to an orthographic projection of the exterior (or sometimes the
interior) faces of a building, that is, a two-dimensional drawing of the building’s façades.”

Fig [Link] drawing

4.2.3. Detail section
Detail drawings provide a detailed description of the geometric form of a part of an object such
as a building, bridge, tunnel, machine, plant, and so on. They tend to be large-scale drawings that
show in detail parts that may be included in less detail on general arrangement drawings.

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Detail drawings may be used to demonstrate compliance with regulations and other
requirements, to provide information about assembly and the junctions between components, to
show construction details, detailed form, and so on, that would not be possible to include on
more general drawings.
They may include dimensions, tolerances, notation, symbols and specification information, but
this should not duplicate information included in separate specifications as this can become
contradictory and may cause confusion.

Section views cut through a small segment of a building and drawn with enlarged scale
A. Window and door section
B. Stair section
C. Chimney section
D. Structural detail section

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 Fig 4.3. Detail drawing

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.
4.2 Architectural key features.

The characteristics that distinguish a work of architecture from other built structures are

(1) the suitability of the work to use by human beings in general and the adaptability of it to
particular human activities,

(2) The stability and permanence of the work's construction, and

(3) The communication of experience.

Architectural feature means any construction attendant to, but not an integral part of, the sign,
which may consist of landscape, building or structural forms that enhance the site in general;
also, graphic stripes and other architectural painting techniques applied to a structure that serve a
functional purpose, or when the stripes or other painting techniques are applied to a building,
provided that such treatment does not include lettering, logos or pictures.

Fig [Link] key features

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4.2.1. Features of Plans
 Format
Plans are often prepared in a "set". The set includes all the information required for the purpose
of the set, and may exclude views or projections which are unnecessary. A set of plans can be on
standard office-sized paper or on large sheets. It can be stapled, folded or rolled as required. A
set of plans can also take the form of a digital file in a proprietary format such as DWG or an
exchange file format such as DXF or PDF.
Plans are often referred to as "blueprints" or "blue lines". However, the terms are rapidly
becoming an anachronism, since these copying methods have mostly been superseded by
reproduction processes that yield black or multicolor lines on white paper, or by electronic
representations of information.
 Paper sizes
It’s obviously not practical to draw a building at full size, so a suitable scale and paper
Size must be chosen..
 Scale
Plans are usually "scale drawings", meaning that the plans are drawn at a specific ratio relative to
the actual size of the place or object. Various scales may be used for different drawings in a set.
For example, a floor plan may be drawn at 1:48 (or 1/4"=1'-0") whereas a detailed view may be
drawn at 1:24 (or 1/2"=1'-0"). Site plans are often drawn at 1" = 20' (1:240) or 1" = 30' (1:360).
In the metric system the ratios commonly are 1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:50, 1:100, 1:200, 1:500, 1:1000,
1:2000 and 1:5000

4. Planning approach
There is no universal standard for sheet order, however the following describes a common
approach:
 General Information: The first sheets in a set may include notes, assembly descriptions, a
rendering of the project, or simply the project title.

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 Site: Site plans, including a key plan, appear before other plans and on smaller projects may
be on the first sheet. A project could require a landscape plan, although this can be
integrated with the site plan if the drawing remains clear.
 Specific plans: Floor plans, starting with the lowest floor and ending with the roof plan
usually appear near the beginning of the set. Further, for example, reflected Ceiling Plans
(RCP)s showing ceiling layouts appear after the floor plans.
 Elevations: Starting with the principal or front elevation, all the building elevations appear
after the plans. Smaller residential projects may display the elevations before the plans.
Elevation details may appear on the same sheets as the building elevations.
 Sections: Building sections that describe views cut through the entire building appear next,
followed by wall sections, then detail sections.
 Details: Details may appear on any of the previous sheets, or may be collected to appear on
detail sheets. These details may include construction details that show how the components
of the building fit together. These details may also include millwork drawings or other
interior details.
 Schedules: Many aspects of a building must be listed as schedules on larger projects. These
include schedules for windows, doors, wall or floor finishes, hardware, landscaping
elements, rooms, and areas.
Where additional systems are complex and require many details for installation, specialized
additional plan drawings may be used, such as:
Structural: While smaller projects may only show structural information on the plans and
sections, larger projects have separate sheets describing the structure of the building.
 Mechanical: Mechanical drawings show plumbing, heating ventilation and air
conditioning systems, or fire protection systems.
 Electrical: Electrical plan drawings may include equipment and cable tray layout,
lighting and power, grounding, telephone, local area network, special communications or
signal systems, or a reflected lighting plan.

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4.2.2. Interpreting scaled drawings
You should always use the written dimensions when getting sizes from drawings, unless there’s
a very good reason not to.
On a well-drawn set of drawings, all the sizes the builder needs will be written somewhere on the
drawings. Occasionally, however, if a required dimension is not written, the tradesperson will
need to ‘scale’ from the drawing. This means that a scale rule is used to measure directly from
the drawings.

4.2.3. Using a scale rule

Scale rules are usually white and made of plastic. They have a different scale printed along each
edge. Some have a single scale per edge, and others have two scales combined on one edge.
Different brands may vary in the way the scales are grouped. A scale rule can be triangular
shaped or flat, like a standard ruler.
On the top edge of the rule below, the scales are 1:1 and 1:100, so the dimensions they show
differ by a factor of 100.

Fig. 4.5: a) Scale ruler

Another scale rule edge is shown below. In this case, the dimensions differ by a factor of 10
(1:50 is 10 times larger than 1:500).

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 Fig. 4.5: b) Scale Rule age
To measure something to scale, put the zero mark on the left-hand edge of what you are
measuring, and read the length at the right-hand edge, as shown below.

Fig. 4.7 c) Scale reading

Occasionally you may need to draw something yourself in order to explain part of the
construction to an employee or subcontractor. Knowing how to use a scale rule will enable you
to do it accurately.

4.3. Client Request variations.

Clients: have a major role to play in the promotion of a systematic approach to the management
of health and safety in construction. They will set the tone of the project and make decisions
crucial to its development. The client is the person for whom the project is carried out
A Request: for Quote (RFQ) is commonly used when a requestor knows what they want but
need information on how vendors would meet the requirements and/or how much it will cost.
A Request: for Proposal (RFP) is the most formal and intensive of the three for both the
requestor and the vendor.
4.3.1. Identifying variation
A variation (sometimes referred to as a variation instruction, variation order (VO) or change
order), is an alteration to the scope of works in a construction contract in the form of an addition,
substitution or omission from the original scope of works.

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Almost all construction projects vary from the original design, scope and definition. Whether
small or large, construction projects will inevitably depart from the original tender design,
specifications and drawings prepared by the design team.
This can be because of technological advancement, statutory changes or enforcement, change in
conditions, geological anomalies, non-availability of specified materials, or simply because of
the continued development of the design after the contract has been awarded. In large civil
engineering projects variations can be very significant, whereas on small contracts they may be
relatively minor.
 Variations may include:
 Alterations to the design.
 Alterations to quantities.
 Alterations to quality.
 Alterations to working conditions.
 Alterations to the sequence of work.
Variations may also be deemed to occur if the contract documents do not properly describe
the works actually required.
 Variations may not (without the contractors consent):
 Change the fundamental nature of the works.
 Omit work so that it can be carried out by another contractor.
 Be instructed after practical completion.
 Require the contractor to carry out work that was the subject of a prime cost sum.
In legal terms, a variation is an agreement supported by consideration to alter some terms of
the contract. No power to order variation is implied, and so there must be express
terms in contracts which give the power instruct variations. In the absence of such express
terms the contractor may reject instructions for variations without any legal consequences.
Standard forms of contract generally make express provisions for the contract
administrator(generally the architect or engineer) to instruct variations (for

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example, FIDIC Clause 51.1). Such provisions enable the continued, smooth administration of
the works without the need for another contract.
Variation instructions must be clear as to what is and is not included, and may propose the
method of valuation.

4.3.2..Valuation of variations
Variations may give rise to additions or deductions from the contract sum.
The valuation of variations may include not just the work which the variation
instruction describes, but other expenses that may result from the variation, such as the impact on
other aspects of the works. Variations may also (but not necessarily) require adjustment of
the completion date.
 Variations may be valued by:
 Agreement between the contractor and the client.
 The cost consultant.
 A variation quotation prepared by the contractor and accepted by the client.
 By some other method agreed by the contractor and the client.
Valuations of variations are often based on the rates and prices provided by the contractor in
their tender, provided the work is of a similar nature and carried out in similar conditions. This is
true, even if it becomes apparent that the rates provided by the contractor were higher or lower
than otherwise available commercial rates.
4.3.3. Client Request
The process of selecting consultants might involve the preparation by the client of a 'request for
proposals' (RFP) which is sent out to each prospective consultant. Consultants respond by
submitting 'consultant's proposals' to the client.
The request for proposals describes the nature of the project, the nature of the appointment and a
description of the information required from the consultant.
 The request for proposals might include:

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  The strategic brief.
 The management structure.
 The scope of consultant services required and how fees should be quoted and broken
down against stages of the project.
 The project programmer.
 The construction budget (without contingencies and VAT).
 The intended method of procurement (or a request for options if the procurement
route has not been chosen yet).
 The form of agreement and conditions of engagement (such as step-in
rights, warranties, a model enabling amendment making a BIM protocol part of
the contract documents, and so on).
 The level of professional indemnity insurance required.
 The selection criteria that will be used.
 The procedure that will be followed.
 If building information modeling (BIM) is being used, the Employer's Information
Requirements (EIR).
 Targets for post-occupancy evaluation.
 It might request consultant's proposals including:
 A list of key personnel to be allocated to the project, their role in the project, CVs of
staff and a description of relevant experience on similar projects.
 Hourly rates to be applied to any work outside the proposed scope of services.
 Identification of any sub-consultants the candidate intends to use.
 A broken-down payment and resource schedule with trigger dates against work stages.
 Evidence of professional indemnity insurance.
 A list of recently completed commissions with referees and detailed of
other consultants involved.
 A statement of design intent based on the brief.

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If the request for proposals involves significant design work from the consultant, it is good
practice for the client to offer payment for the work involved in preparing these designs. This
will encourage the consultant to prepare their proposal more carefully, and will also demonstrate
to them that the client is serious about the project and is likely to treat them fairly.

4.3.4. Building variations expensive

There are several reasons that variations to contracted work cost so much. The first is that a
building contract is a legal document and to get it changed may require the services of a lawyer.
Other things that can contribute to costs in variations are:
 Cost differences between specified work / products and updated requirements
 Pre-agreed penalty clauses for variations
 Extra material costs (especially if materials have already been bought)
 Added labor or work costs - particularly if work has already started, if variations require
alterations to completed work or plans, or if there’s a need to call back tradespeople to
the site
 Added engineering, drafting or approval expenses – especially for revisions to structural
work, which can easily cost three or four times more than just materials and labor
A bit of variation wiggle room’s usually necessary on a project as big as building a house, but if
there is a scope of allowed variations, it’ll also need to have its limits and conditions. To be
clear, builders often need to request variations too, where original plans mightn’t turn out to be
the best, most practical or most sensible option.
4.3.5. How to properly manage variations
If you want to request variations to what’s in your contract, your builder will usually provide a
quote for the cost of the variations. It’s then a matter of:
 agreeing to changes and costs (in writing),
 negotiating a different solution

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Insist that prices and all the details of variations required are put in writing and signed off by
both parties before work is done.
There’s a difference between being friends with your builder, and having a good professional
relationship.
4.3.6. Why do client need to request variations?
When it comes to project owners, the need for variations is usually the result of
miscommunication, misunderstanding or rushing in without being thorough enough with
contracts.
Disputes often arise over what’s been agreed upon, and whether or not what’s being asked
actually constitutes a ‘variation’, or a fair interpretation of what’s stated on the contract.…
 The more common variations people request include:
 variations in design
 variations in quantities
 variations in models and styles of products
 variations in quality
 variations in the order in which things are constructed
And as we’ve already mentioned, sometimes it’s the builder who needs to request variations,
perhaps because there’s an issue with the original plans, or an unforeseen issue with the site.
Make sure your contract’s very clear about the need for the builder to submit detailed requests
for variations in writing, along with any changes to proposed costs.
4.3.7. How to avoid variations
The best way to avoid expensive variations is to be well prepared. Be very thorough, careful and
involved when it comes to planning – and never sign a contract until you’re certain it’s
absolutely specific about everything you want.
 This means making sure your contract includes things like:
 Brand and model names for things like toilets, taps, power points, door handles,
locks, range hoods, light bulbs etc.

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  Specific detail on the number of coats of paint to be used, texturing / application
preferences etc.
 specific colors, shades and products to be used

Self-check-4

Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Use the Answer sheet provided in
1. The more common variations people request include
A. Variations in design
B. Variations in quantities
C. Variations in models and styles of products

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 D. Variations in quality
E. Variations in the order in which things are constructed D. all
2. The request for proposals might include:
A. The strategic brief.
B. The management structure.
C. The scope of consultant services required and how fees should be quoted and
broken down against stages of the project.
D. The project programmer.
E. The construction budget (without contingencies and VAT). F. All
3. Variations may be valued by:
A. Agreement between the contractor and the client.
B. The cost consultant.
C. variation quotation prepared by the contractor and accepted by the client.
D. By some other method agreed by the contractor and the client. All
Part 2: write short answer
1. Write the difference between longitudinal section and cross section?
2. Explain the function of interior elevation and exterior elevation?
3. Write the main idea of floor plan?

Operation sheet 1: prepare building drawing

 Operation title: Procedures of building drawing

 Purpose: To practice and demonstrate the skill, knowledge and attitude required to
prepare building drawing.

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  Instruction: Use the given tools and equipment prepares building drawing including the
finishing construction field. For this operation you have given 3Hour each drawing and
you are expected to provide the answer on the given table.
 Tools and requirement:
1. Ruler,
2. Scale
3. Pencil
4. Set square
5. Fixer
6. This operation sheet
 Precautions: when sketching the drawing clear and neat and use drawing rules.
 Procedures in doing the task
Step 1-selects appropriate drawing instrument.
Step 2-prepare drawing title board with A4 paper.
Step 3-sketch free hand site plan, floor plan, foundation plan, elevation drawing section plan and
detail drawing with Owen your idea.
Step 4-clear the drawing table surface .
Step 5- start draw on the drawing table use appropriate instruments.
Step 6-transfer your free hand sketch on your title bored and using dimension.
Step 7- finally summit your drawing for your teacher.

LAP Test Practical Demonstration

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Name: _____________________________ Date: ________________
Time started: ________________________ Time finished: ________________

Instructions: Given necessary templates, tools and materials you are required to perform the
following tasks within 2 hours each drawing.
Task 1: Sketch up building drawing

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Unit five: read and interpret drawings, and Specification

This learning guide is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the
following content coverage and topics:
 Customer variations specifications.
 Interpretations of essential elements.
 Building Code of Ethiopia standards
This guide will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the cover page.
Specifically, upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 Identifying customer variations specifications.
 Apply correct interpretations of essential elements.
 Identifying Building Code of Ethiopia standards

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5.1. Customer variations to standard specifications

5.1.1. Customer variations

Variation in construction means modification of design, changes in quality, quantity of work
including the alteration of standard of materials or goods to be used in the work and the removal
from site any kind of material not in accordance in the contract. In our country, Variation order
has become major issue in the construction industry. This had resulted in cost overruns, delay
and in some contracts d dispute, between parties.
The aim of this paper was to identify the root causes of variation; effects of variations on projects
in Ethiopia and the means of reducing the impact of variation order. The method of the study
involved literature review, primary data collection, interview and closed - ended- questionnaires.
The study revealed that most causes of variation were change of design by client and inadequate
working details. Establishment of oversight project management committee and flow of
information were identified as means of controlling variations during project administration.
5.1.2. Standard specification
A specification is a written description of the building to be constructed. It supplements the
information on the drawings and, like the drawings; it is a legal part of the contract between the
client and the builder. A specification might only be a few pages long for a small project such as
an addition to a house, or it might be a multi-volume set of bound books for a big project such as
a shopping mall or high-rise building. For a large commercial or industrial project there may be a
specification for the architectural features, and additional specifications for the plumbing,
electrical and mechanical requirements of the job.
Standard specifications are written for a small group of specialized structures that must meet
rigid operational requirements. Standard specifications are referenced or copied in project
specifications, and can be modified with the modification noted and referenced.

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5.1.3. The purpose of a specification
Drawings are the best way to convey most of the information required for a building project, but
a specification is needed to explain anything that cannot be included clearly in the drawings.
Specifications are commonly used to communicate the following.
 Fixture and fittings to be used, where things like dimensions, color or model number are
important
 To provide instructions to the builder or mason for how something is to be done. For
example, drawings might show that internal walls are to have a plaster finish, but it is the
specification that tells the plasterer how – ‘bring walls to a reasonable flat surface by the
application of a cement render float coat while the plaster is setting’’.
 To provide instructions to the builder about things that may not be part of the finished
building but that nevertheless need to happen during the project – for example, safety
barriers, disposal of rubbish or protection or adjoining properties.
Specifications usually include a clause about making good any damage to, parts of masonry,
footpaths, fences and any other amenities in the vicinity of the project.

5.1.4. Layout
The specification for a house is divided into sections that each deal with a specific trade that will
be involved in the project. The sections are usually arranged in the same order that the job will
be done in starting with basement, concreter and bricklayer through to painter, floor coverer and
landscaper at the end. Each section may contain detailed descriptions specific to that job or it
may just contain general instructions about workmanship, quality and so on. In that case, it will
refer to a schedule at the end of the specification. The schedule will have details for a particular
job; for example, sizes of building materials, paint finishes, types of doors, and so on. A section
called ‘preliminaries’ at the start of the specification deals with general things, such as the extent
of the work, temporary services, the job sign, site sheds and toilets, temporary fences or
hoardings and access for the client during construction.

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5.1.5. Changes
Sometimes changes, called amendments, might be made to the specification. Amendments could
relate, for example, to changes to materials or products used or methods of carrying out specified
work. They should be clearly marked so that everyone who needs to notices them. Amendments
usually have to be signed or initialed by both the builder and the client to show them both agree.
On rare occasions, the specification may conflict with the drawings. For example, the
specification may call for the front door to have a glass panel in the top half, yet the elevation
may show no glass in the door. In this case, the builder should contact the architect or client and
ask for clarification.
5.1.6. Costing
A section in the specification will deal with ‘provisional sums’ and ‘prime costs’. Provisional
sum items are such things as the construction material like, block, brick, binding agent and so on,
which may not have been selected by the time the contract is signed. When these items are
eventually selected by the client, the contract price will be adjusted up or down according to the
actual cost. Prime costs are those costs that the builder can’t reasonably be expected to put an
exact figure on when tendering for the job.
1.2. Interpretations of essential
elements
5.2.1. Essential elements of specification
Specifications broken into sections such as:
 Introductory Section
 Statutory Requirements
 Owners Obligations
 Plans, Permits, Fees
 Site Works
 Footings

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And many other sections covering specific trades such as Carpentry, Joinery, Roofing,
Bricklaying and the like.
 Many elements of construction are held within the Specifications only
 Builders need to identify and interpret these elements for quoting and
construction purposes
 Builder needs to ensure client is aware of these elements.
 Builder needs to ensure supervision on and off site covers these elements.

5.2.2. Estimating tasks

Construction Estimators are estimating work of particular projects. The estimation of
work can be done by gathering proposals, blueprints, specifications, and related
documents.
In addition, they estimate labor, material, and time requirements in order to be able to
compute the overall cost of the project.
In order to attract Construction Estimator that best match your needs, it is very
important to write a clear and precise Construction Estimator job description.
Construction Estimator duties and responsibilities include:
 Explore documentation to gain a deep understanding of the project
requirements
 Select, measure and track important metrics
 Visit sites, warehouses and other venues necessary to do the estimate
 Perform complex analysis of collected data and metrics
 Prepare relevant and reliable forecasts
 Conduct complex risk analysis activities
 Create and present reports to upper management
 Analyze and evaluate offers
 Build and maintain long-term relationships with the key vendors

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 5.2.3. Planning tasks
Planning is the pre-production activity in Civil Engineering and any technical
construction project. It involves drawing up construction plans, financing, recruiting staff,
safety, preparing materials, plant and workers as well as getting rights and permission
to build or construct. Planning involves:
 the choice of technology
 the definition of work tasks
 the estimation of the required resources and durations for individual tasks

5.2.4. Supervising tasks

A Construction Supervisor oversees the construction activities that take place on the
worksite. They are heavily involved in planning, organizing and controlling projects.
Construction Supervisors are responsible for supervising the contractors and staff while
maintaining a safe work environment.
A Construction Supervisor oversees the construction activities that take place on the
worksite. They are heavily involved in planning, organizing and controlling projects.
Construction Supervisors are responsible for supervising the contractors and staff while
maintaining a safe work environment.
The construction foreman acts as a project manager. They are responsible for the
projects from beginning to end, including staffing, budgets, maintaining policies, keeping
the site safe and maintaining a set schedule.
The construction supervisor job description is optimized for posting on career sites and
job boards and is easily customizable for your company.

 Key Requirements:
 A positive attitude and willingness to encourage co-workers
 Excellent communications skills
 Experience in supervising construction projects

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  The ability to set priorities and exercise flexibility where necessary
 Ability to read and understand blueprints, schematics, and construction
documents
 Understanding of proper safety procedures and recognition of hazards
 Responsibilities:
 Hiring, training and general management of all employees on the project
 Monitoring performance of sub-contractors and staff
 Monitoring project budget

 Accomplishing project by defining the scope and resources required

 Allocating resources, materials, sub-contractors and other staff
 Maintaining a safe, secure and healthy work environment by adhering to
and enforcing safety codes

5.3. Ethiopian Building Codes and Standards (EBCS)

Virtually all residential construction must adhere to comprehensive building codes and standards
governed by local and state laws. Because of the cost and complexity of developing and
maintaining such codes, state and local governments typically adopt nationally recognized model
codes, often amending them to reflect local construction practices, climate and geography.
Most countries and communities adopt internationally recognized Codes for this purpose.
The Codes address all aspects of single- and two-family as well as multifamily construction,
including structural elements and the electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation and air
conditioning systems, and energy conservation requirements as well as the overall construction
elements of the sector. All domestic building materials productions, constructions and
installations are affected by EBCS
Ethiopian Building Codes and Standards (EBCS) include:
 EBCS 1: Actions on structures

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  EBCS 2: Design of concrete structures
 EBCS 3: Design of steel structures
 EBCS 4: Design of composite steel & concrete structures
 EBCS 5: Design of timber structures
 EBCS 6: Design of masonry structures
 EBCS 7: Geotechnical design
 EBCS 8: Design of structures for earthquake resistance
 EBCS 9: Plumbing service of building
 EBCS 10: Electrical installation of building
 EBCS 11: MVAC in buildings
 EBCS 12: Building spatial design
 EBCS 13: Fire protections during building construction design, works & use

Self-check-5

Test I: Choose

1.__ is a written description of the building to be constructed.

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 A. specification B .Change C capital cost .D. drawing

2.__is called amendments might be made to the specification.

A. specification B .Change C capital cost .D. drawing

3.__is essentially the expenditures affiliated with establishing a facility.

A. specification B .Change C capital cost .D. drawing

4._is the amount per hour paid to skilled craftsmen.
A. specification B .Change C capital cost .D. Labor rate
5. One of the following is not Architectural Design Phases
A. Research & Data gathering B. Solution creation C. Testing solution D. None
Test II: short Answer writing
Instruction: write short answer for the given question. You are provided 3 minute for each
question and each point has 5Points.
1. What is Ethiopian building Codes and Standards (EBCS?

2. Write key requirements supervising task?

3. What is the difference responsibilities and supervising?

Part III: Short answer writing

Direction: Give short answer to the following questions. Time allotted for each item is 2mniut
and each question carry 4 point.

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 1. EBCS 6
2. EBCS 7
3. EBCS 8
4. EBCS 9
5. EBCS 10
6. EBCS 11
7. EBCS 12
8. EBCS 13

Note: Satisfactory rating – above 60% Unsatisfactory - below 60%

You can ask you teacher for the copy of the correct answers

Reference

1. [Link]
2. [Link]
3. [Link]
4. [Link]

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 5. [Link]
6. [Link]
7. [Link]
8. [Link]
9. Architectural Drawings: a Manual: October 2018
10. Architectural and Building Drawing Practice A.S. No. CA.25 – 1955 (Standards
Association of Australia, Sydney 1955)
11. Kicklighter, Clois E., Ronald J. Baird, and Joan C. Kicklighter. Architecture:
Residential Drawing and Design. South Holland, IL: Goodheart-Willcox, 1995.
12. Working Drawings Handbook, Fourth Edition, Keith Styles and Andrew Bichard, 2004.
13. Read And Interpret Plans And Specifications, Certificate Ii In Building And
Construction (Pathway – Paraprofessional) Cpcccm2001a, Learner’s Guide, 2012.
14. Engineering working drawing basics, Lecture note by: Dr. Ala Hijazi, 2013.
15. [Link]

Textbook of, Engineering Drawing, Second Edition, K. Venkata Reddy, 200

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 Participants of this Module (training material) preparation
No Name Qualific Field of Study Organi Mobile E-mail
ation zation/ number
(Level) Institut
ion
1 Derbabaw mulaw A(MSC) Construction management 0967593066 Derbabawmulaw2020@gmail.c
om
2 Habtamu Wendmagegn BSC Civil engineering ETHIO- 0948284573 Wendmagegnhabtamu@[Link]
ITALY m
3 Remodan BSC Construction management harar 0974720826 Mohamedremedan82@[Link]
mohammed m
4 Seblewengel bekele Construction management Bishoft 0934916466 Seblewenegelb4@[Link]
u
5 Tibebneshe Construction management sidama 0916116049 Tibebneshg1@[Link]
G/Mchale

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Page 115 of 115 Ministry of Labor and Read and interpret plans and Version -1
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