Reusing timber formwork: importance of workmen’s efficiency and attitude

A framework for identifying factors that may help in increasing the reuse of timber formwork was developed and 15 sub-factors were identified. A survey was conducted among formwork contractors to gauge whether these factors have significant impact on the reuse of timber formwork. Data were collected via mailed standard questionnaire. It was found that the three sub-factors that had impact on the reuse of timber formwork are (a) working attitudes of workmen, (b) efficiency of workmen, and (c) formwork stripping process. It is recommended that to increase the reuse of timber formwork, contractors should concentrate their efforts in improving the workmen.