Application Of Quality Management Systems in The Production of Concrete in Abakiliki and Afikpo, Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research examined the application of quality management systems in the production of concrete with a view of ensuring that quality of concrete is increased. Purposive sampling technique was used to deliberately select 91 respondents among construction professionals to whom questionnaires were administered. The research results showed that, carrying out daily inspection (RII = 0.88); on- site testing of concrete (RII=0.88); use of quality management system checklist (RII=0.88) ranked highly significant, as mostly used existing methods of increasing quality of concrete. The research established that conformance to quality standards and statutory regulations; adequate compaction with appropriate tools; engagement of qualified personnel are among the most important factors in increasing quality of concrete. Whereas, award of contracts to unqualified contractor; noninvolvement of concerned professionals at the design stage; lack of adequate supervision and inadequate technical knowledge, highly hinder implementation of quality management systems in the production of concrete. However, the research recommends for increased sensitization and retraining of Builders on the key elements of quality management systems, for effectiveness in the use of the existing methods of ensuring increased quality of concrete.