COURSE OVERVIEW

 This practical and highly-interactivecourse includes various practical sessions and exercises. Theory learnt will be applied using the simulators “Empirical Equation for Flexible & Rigid Pavement” and “Pavement Analysis and Design”. 

 

The successful completion of any road construction project is heavily dependent on the sound planning and development of works and resource programs reflecting the detailed specifications or desired outcomes. Equally as important is the need to rigorously monitor and maintain the programs throughout the project life, particularly programs associated with quality, financial and contract management. 

 

The course provides information on the necessary planning and management of road construction, together with an overview of the resources required. This aspect is supported with an overview of the necessary elements required in planning and managing investigation works prior to commencement of major site works in road construction. 

 

In this course, participants will learn about characterization and mechanical properties of road materials. Similarly, they will understand pavement failure mechanisms, causes and rehabilitation techniques. Furthermore, participants will acquire knowledge about mechanistic design, construction, maintenance, and rehabilitation of flexible pavements. The course also focuses on pavement evaluation, management systems, cost analysis, quality control and contracts. 

 

 

Preliminary site investigations are essential prior to road construction to ensure that any impediments to construction activity are identified and managed. Understanding these aspects and thorough site investigation and subsequent informed management processes will minimize the potential for major problems or conflicts to arise which can result in construction delays and additional costs. 

 

In addition, the course looks at the construction of a road to the alignment, gradient and cross falls selected by the designer, that often involve a considerable amount of earthworks. The necessary operations for the setting out, and control of earthworks operations are described and elaborated on together with a brief outline of the elements involved in geometric design. Note that the establishment of control lines and bench marks are specialized survey operations that are not covered in this course. 

 

The course provides an understanding of the operations involved in the loosening, removing and depositing of earth, soil and rock and information on the construction of earthworks and the preparation of pavement foundations subsequent to the construction of a pavement structure. 

 

The aspect of roadsides is also covered as they provide an important range of functions including access for the construction and maintenance of the road, control of surface water drainage, the provision of underground drainage, the provision of safety barriers, signs and lighting for the safe operation of the road. Worked examples and case studies are used throughout to facilitate practical learning.