Formwork system is permanent or contemporary molds which use to hold and shape the concrete. During a long time using, the stable formwork system may also cause some accidents. But do you know what causes the failure of the formwork system?

Formwork failures are the cause of many accidents and building failures that occur during concrete construction, usually when fresh concrete is being placed. Generally, some unexpected event causes one member to fail, then others become overloaded or misaligned and the entire formwork structure collapses. The main causes of formwork failure are:

1. Improper stripping and shore removal;

2. Inadequate bracing;

3. Vibration;

4. Unstable soil under mudsills( A plank, frame, or small footing on the ground use as a base for a shore or post in formwork), shoring not plumb;

5. Inadequate control of concrete placement;

6. Lack of attention to formwork details.

ADTO’S safety rules on Formwork System

Formwork must be:

1.Strong to carry the full load and side pressure from freshly placed concrete, together with construction traffic and equipment.

2.Sound (made of good quality, durable materials)

Important factors in design are:

1. Safety (the structure doesn’t fall down)

2. Serviceability (how well the structure performs in term of appearance and deflection)

3. Economy (efficient use of materials and labor)