Procedure - Block Making

Block Making Procedure

Section: Human Resource Procedure
Policy Owner: Ignition633 Ministries Nigeria Human Resources  
Policy Name: Block Making Procedure 
Origination Date: September 2024 

Blockmaking is a crucial task in construction, especially in creating concrete blocks used in building walls, foundations, and other structural elements. The procedure typically involves several key steps that construction laborers follow to ensure quality and uniformity in block production, such as mixing cement, sand, and water and pouring the mixture into a mold. After compacting it, remove the block once it is partially set and allow it to cure. 

Purpose
This procedure outlines the step-by-step process for producing high-quality concrete blocks at Ignition 633 Nigeria construction. It ensures that all blocks are made consistently and meet the safety and strength standards required for building projects. The procedure aims to maintain efficiency, improve production quality, and promote safety in the workplace.

Scope
This procedure applies to all personnel involved in the block-making process, including machine operators, laborers, and supervisors at the Ministry's construction site or block-making facility. It covers all stages from material preparation, mixing, molding, compaction, curing, storage, and quality control of concrete blocks. This procedure is designed to ensure uniformity, compliance with industry standards, and safety for all workers at the ministry.

Mixing
-The sharp sand and plaster are stored outside in piles. The cement is stored outside in large vertical silos to protect it from moisture.
-As production starts, the required amounts of sand and plaster are turned into a wheelbarrow to be measured for one bag of cement.
-The dry materials are mixed using a shovel.
- A small amount of water is added after the dry materials are blended.

Molding
-Once the load is thoroughly mixed, the operator moves the sand to the block mold and vibrates it twice. Then, the mixing cycle begins again for the next load. The molds consist of an outer mold box containing several mold liners. The liners determine the block's outer shape and the block cavities' inner shape.
-The vibration compacts the sand in the block mold and binds the constituents together. After the vibration, the vibrator is raised, and the carrier takes the block to the block field.

Curing
-The pallets of blocks are conveyed to the reservoir and watered immediately before being watered again and ready for use.
-The block takes two days to dry. During these two days, it will be watered every morning and evening.
-Your block is ready for sale.

Cubing
-In construction, cubing typically involves determining how many cubic units a space or structure occupies. This is useful for estimating material quantities, such as concrete, or organizing and stacking physical blocks to fill a specific volume.

Block Measurement and guidelines
Follow the following measurements for mixing elements to make a block:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This procedure will be reviewed annually and is subject to change. Any changes will be communicated to all employees promptly. 

For any questions or further assistance regarding this procedure, employees should contact the HR department at hr.nigeria@ignition633.org.