The National Construction Authority (NCA) has taken decisive action, ordering the immediate cessation of all construction activities at the onset of rainfall across the country.
This move, aimed at prioritising safety in the face of increased risks posed by heavy rains, was announced by the authority's Executive Director, Engineer Maurice Akech, in a directive issued on Saturday, May 4.
Engineer Akech stated, “When rainfall begins, all outdoor works should cease immediately, especially for tasks conducted at heights or in deep excavations. Workers should seek shelter indoors or in designated safe areas until the weather improves.”
Akech added, “Safety should always take precedence over work progress during severe weather conditions.”
In light of the potential dangers outlined by the NCA, including compromised foundation soil properties, increased risk of accidents, and lightning strikes, stringent flood mitigation directives have been issued.
Of notable concern is the heightened risk of lightning strikes posed by the abundance of metal on construction sites, especially near tall structures such as cranes and scaffolding. Such strikes could lead to electrocution, fires, or explosions.
Parents are urged to keep children and nonessential persons away from construction sites and suspected compromised structures.
Additionally, construction workers are being trained on safety protocols specific to rainy weather conditions, including the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency response procedures.
The NCA has issued a stern warning against working at heights or in deep excavations without proper safety equipment and precautions in place. Excavations must be closely monitored during rainy periods to prevent slope failures and cave-ins due to increased moisture content in the soil.
To bolster structural integrity, Kenyans are urged to regularly inspect and reinforce temporary structures like scaffolding and shoring, ensuring they can withstand heavy rains and strong winds. Furthermore, those with ongoing construction projects are advised to schedule concrete pouring during periods of low precipitation to maintain the quality of the concrete mix.
These directives come in the wake of recent tragedies, including a fatal incident in Ruaka, Kiambu County, where one person died and three others were injured after a perimeter wall collapsed due to heavy rains. Tenants in affected rental houses have been urged to vacate as a precautionary measure.
Similarly, in Nyamira County, several individuals were reported trapped in a multi-story building following a heavy downpour, pointing to the vulnerability of buildings and infrastructure to collapse during adverse weather conditions.
