• NCA said the construction workers must always be informed about weather forecasts and potential hazards, such as flash floods, to make informed decisions regarding work activities and site operations.
• "Safety should always take precedence over work progress during severe weather conditions," the NCA said in a notice seen by the Star.
Image: EZEKIEL AMINGÁ
The National Construction Authority (NCA) has halted all new construction works as heavy rains persist across the country.
In new measures announced to protect persons and property, NCA said this will apply to construction works near waterways.
The authority further directed the cessation of all ongoing construction works whenever it rains.
"When rainfall begins, all outdoor works should cease immediately, especially for tasks conducted at heights or in deep excavations. Workers should seek shelter indoors or in designated safe areas until the weather improves.
"Safety should always take precedence over work progress during severe weather conditions," the NCA said in a notice seen by the Star.
NCA said that the heavy rainfall levels have led to flooding in many areas and that preparedness and proactive planning by all parties in the sector is key in minimising the impact of the heavy rains.
In additional measures, the authority said children and non-essential persons must be kept away from construction sites, boundary walls and suspected compromised structures.
It said construction workers must also be trained on safety protocols specific to rainy weather conditions, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency response procedures.
"Do not work at heights or in deep excavations without proper safety equipment and precautions in place;
"Monitor excavations closely during rainy periods to prevent slope failures and cave-ins due to increased moisture content in the soil. The correct excavation methodology must be applied at all times to ensure the safety of the site, construction workers and neighbouring properties," NCA added.
It further called for regular inspection and reinforcement of temporary structures like scaffolding and shoring to ensure they can withstand heavy rains and strong winds, and scheduling of concrete pouring during periods of low precipitation to avoid issues with water-cement ratio and ensure the quality of the concrete mix.
NCA said the construction workers must always be informed about weather forecasts and potential hazards, such as flash floods, to make informed decisions regarding work activities and site operations.
"The Authority has been carrying out enhanced quality assurance activities on all ongoing constructions across the country since the onset of the rainy season.
"The Authority is also collaborating with other government agencies to respond to emergencies and map out flood-prone and riparian areas."
NCA has also called on members of the public to check buildings and boundary walls after heavy rains or floods for any signs of structural damage such as cracks, water intrusion, electrical hazards, leaning structures and debris blockage on drainage structures, and alert the relevant authorities for inspection or advice.
So far, 229 people have lost their lives over flooding.
Thousands of others have been forced to move from their homes over flooding.
Several buildings have also been reported sinking and people have been evacuated.