Building Temporary Works

Quantity Survey · Level 6  ·  4 Chapters

■ Where this takes you

Understanding how to build temporary works like trench timbering and formwork is a valuable skill that opens doors to many opportunities in Kenya’s vibrant construction and infrastructure sectors. These skills are the backbone of safe and successful building projects, and professionals who master them are always in demand.

  • Construction Sites & Real Estate Development: Major contractors in Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, and fast-growing towns rely on skilled workers to install and dismantle formwork and trench supports for new buildings, bridges, and roads. Companies like China Wu Yi, Epco Builders, and local developers hire both permanent staff and casuals for these tasks.
  • County Government Works: County public works departments need skilled artisans for road, drainage, and market construction projects. Your expertise in temporary works is essential for safe, quality infrastructure.
  • Jua Kali Sector: Many small contractors and fundis in the informal sector handle residential, commercial, and small civil works. With these skills, you can earn as a self-employed fundi, forming your own team for local building projects.
  • Large Infrastructure Projects: Organizations like KenGen, Kenya Railways, and KURA require formwork and trenching experts for power plants, railway lines, and roadworks. These are well-paying opportunities, often with room for growth.
  • Entrepreneurship: With experience, you can start your own business supplying and installing formwork or trench supports, renting out equipment, or training others in safe construction practices.
  • Safety and Compliance: Mastering the safe use of PPE and proper procedures makes you valuable to employers who want to reduce accidents and meet NCA (National Construction Authority) and DOSHS (Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services) standards.

Every building, bridge, or road you see started with temporary works. By mastering these skills, you’re not just building structures—you’re building a strong, secure future for yourself and your community.

Chapters

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Practise this unit

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Beyond the syllabus