Investigating the Effect of Adverse Weather Conditions on Paved Road Construction Productivity in Kampala.

Abstract

The effect of adverse weather in the paved road construction is a major problem that deserves increased attention and organized efforts to reduce its impact. . This research was conducted to investigate effect of the adverse weather conditions that affect paved road construction productivity in Kampala. This was determined by carrying out questionnaire surveys to determine the adverse weather conditions and to what extent they affect paved road construction . These adverse weather conditions include heavy rainfall, hot temperature, relative humidity, earthquakes, fog and frost. The effects of adverse weather are not uniform on all items of paved road construction. The impact of the above listed aspects of weather affect different stages of work differently. For instance during placement of subgrade, heavy rains increase moisture content and may stop work for days until the materials placed have reduced moisture content or may lead to complete removal of placed gravel consequently leading to increased costs of materials. It is the responsibility of the contractor to identify items of work that may or must be continued or completed during the winter months and to specify the controls and conditions to be observed. The contractor must quantify the extra cost of performing work during adverse weather and organize and equip the organization as necessary. The actual productivity issues during paved road construction projects are significantly related to adverse weather conditions which included include work stoppage, time overrun, budget overrun, effect on material and workmanship.