Labour-based construction was pioneered by Carifro Consulting Engineers inSouth Africain the field of township electrification. Projects are designed, planned and built to provide employment and training opportunities for unskilled and semi skilled members of the local community. The emphasis in Labour-Based construction is on employment and the enthusiasm induced by self-employment ensures the success of the small contractor from the outset. We at Carifro Consulting Engineers manage the entire process and provide the following services:

Feasibility Reports

The main objective of the feasibility report is to determine the following:

• Material procurement and control
• Advice, support and instruction to the contractors
• Overall co-ordination
• Payment and financial responsibilities
• Acceptability of the community with regards to type of service and construction methods
• Availability of skill within the community
• Suitability of the project for labour based methods

Material Management

The materials handling and management systems will be adapted to suit the particular needs of the client. The method of distribution and storage will be discussed prior to the implementation of the project. The client is provided with a variety of proven methods to choose from.

Contract Documentation

Contract documentation is discussed with the client and adapted to suit the contract.

Recruitment and Screening of Contractors

Once contractors have been chosen they are invited to attend a pre-tender training course to learn how the tender documents should be completed. They would also attend a training course to obtain the necessary skills that will be required for the contract. We would provide our own training or, where specifically requested, arrange for accredited courses.

On site Training

On site training is carried out by our project managers and will cover the following areas:

• Basic hand tool skills
• Setting out and pegging
• Excavation methods
• Pole planting
• LV ABC Construction methods
• Testing, Commissioning and handing over