Transport, storage, and logistics of reinforcement on the construction site

Reinforcement Storage

The first phase in planning the storage of reinforcement is choosing an appropriate location. The location should be easily accessible and protected from weather conditions. Ideally, the storage area should be close to where the reinforcement will be used to reduce transportation costs and time.

Consideration should be given to the space needed to store different sizes and types of reinforcement, as well as space for handling and transporting within the storage area. Ensuring enough space for organized storage and easy movement of reinforcement is crucial for efficient management. A significant portion of projects that NS Drafter works on are located in urban, city areas, so the issue of reinforcement storage receives special attention.

Methods of Reinforcement Storage

Horizontal storage involves placing the reinforcement on a flat surface, using supports or pallets to lift it off the ground and protect it from moisture. This method is suitable for longer pieces of reinforcement.

Vertical storage is used for shorter pieces of reinforcement, which are placed upright in specialized racks. This method saves space and makes it easier to search and select the required elements.
Storing reinforcement in enclosed spaces, such as warehouses or containers, provides the best protection against weather conditions and corrosion. This is especially important for projects that require long-term storage of materials.

All reinforcement, both individual bars and meshes, should be labeled and sorted according to dimensions, types, and specific projects they are intended for. Labeling helps in quickly finding the needed pieces and reduces search time.

Maintaining accurate inventory records is essential for ensuring continuity in work. Using information systems to track inventory can significantly improve organization and reduce the risk of shortages or overordering materials.

Reinforcement Logistics on the Construction Site

The delivery of reinforcement should be carefully planned in accordance with the construction phases to minimize storage time on the site and ensure that the material is available when needed. This requires good coordination between procurement, suppliers, and contractors.

Successful logistics depend on close collaboration with suppliers. Timely and accurate deliveries ensure that the construction site has the necessary materials without unnecessary delays.
Planning optimal routes for moving reinforcement within the construction site can significantly increase efficiency. Consideration should be given to the location of storage areas, transport routes, and installation points to minimize transport time and costs.

Proper handling and moving of reinforcement are crucial for worker safety and material preservation. Using appropriate equipment, such as cranes, forklifts, and manual hoists, reduces the risk of injuries and reinforcement damage. All workers should be trained in the proper handling and transport of reinforcement. Providing appropriate protective equipment and conducting regular inspections of transport equipment further enhances site safety.

Challenges in Reinforcement Storage and Logistics

Reinforcement is susceptible to corrosion, especially when exposed to moisture and adverse weather conditions. Outdoor storage requires additional protective measures, such as covering with waterproof materials or treating with anti-corrosion coatings.

Construction sites often have limited space for material storage. Efficient planning and organization of space are crucial for optimal use of available space and reducing work delays.
Reinforcement waste and damaged materials must be properly managed and recycled when possible. Implementing policies to reduce waste and promote recycling can contribute to the environmental sustainability of the construction project. We also addressed this significant topic in one of our previous blogs, “Use of Recycled Materials in Modern Construction.”

From a Case Study

Analyzing specific examples of successful reinforcement storage and logistics management can provide valuable insights and guidelines for future projects. Examples such as large infrastructure or residential complexes in dense urban areas can illustrate best practices and lessons learned.

We proudly highlight the best practice example achieved in the field of reinforcement logistics and storage on the De Pulse project. The De Pulse residential-commercial complex is a significant structure with a notably small free space around it, as it is bordered by a highway on one side, existing buildings on two sides, and another building under construction on the fourth side. This required top-level planning, logistics, and reinforcement storage, with a special emphasis on ensuring that reinforcement arriving at the site was not held for more than 24 hours before installation.

To achieve this, a Progress Nets system was implemented, along with the use of modern software for tracking reinforcement, which ensured that the set requirements were fully met.