This code provides guidelines for the design, fabrication, erection, and dismantling of proprietary formwork systems. It covers materials, design loads, structural analysis, safety procedures, and inspection criteria to ensure the temporary structure is robust, safe, and achieves the desired concrete finish.
Lays down guidelines for the design and construction of formwork using proprietary systems.
Quick Reference Values
Minimum imposed load on slab formwork2.0 kN/m²
Max vertical deflection for members supporting concreteSpan/360 or 5 mm, whichever is less
Max lateral deflection for vertical members (props/standards)Height/300 or 25 mm, whichever is less
Minimum horizontal load (for stability)2.5% of the total vertical load
Minimum striking time for props under beams over 6m span21 days
Max deviation from vertical for any member1/200 of its height
Key Formulas
Load combinations for limit state design: 1.5 (DL + LL), 1.5 (DL + WL), etc. as per Clause 6.3.1
Concrete Pressure: To be calculated based on established methods (e.g., CIRIA Report 108) considering pour rate, temperature, concrete density, and form height (Annex A).
Practical Notes
Always insist on the manufacturer's design manual and calculations for the specific system and configuration being used on site.
Strictly follow the erection and dismantling sequence provided by the supplier; unauthorized deviations are a primary cause of formwork collapses.
Before reuse, every component must be inspected for damage like dents, cracks, and corrosion. Damaged components compromise safety and must be segregated.