Development of a national code of practice for structural masonry – the Ghanaian approach

The problems and constraints faced by most developing countries, particularly Ghana, in developing codes of practice for structural masonry are highlighted. The steps that must be undertaken through the coordinated efforts of the National Standards Boards, Research Institutions, Universities and Professional Bodies in the con-struction industry to formulate technical specifications and standards aimed eventually at the development of a national code of practice for structural masonry are also outlined. Education and training of brick and block lay-ers, and local manufacturers of masonry units have been identified as key measures needed to ensure high quali-ty masonry products in Ghana. A proposed format of draft code of practice is also presented. (Journal of Applied Science and Technology: 2001 6(1-2): 46-50