GUIDELINES FOR CALCULATING THE COST OF ONE INTERLOCKING BLOCK Because of the different players in production of ISSBs, training on optimization of cost, quality, marketing and construction methods should be emphasized. BASIC KNOWLEDGE 1. One ton of soil should produce 100 –125 blocks per cubic metre depending on the size of the mould. 2. Available moulds in the market measure 290mmx140mmx115mm which weighs 8kg and 230mmx220mmx115mm which weighs 10kg. 3. When measuring out the mix it is important to ensure the wheelbarrow being used or buckets are leveled every time, ensuring the same quantity of soil and cement is being used. 4. Cost will be incurred through purchase of soil, cement, water, used oil and casual labour used during the manual process. Calculation done on the basis that: 1. 1 ton of soil costs Kshs 1,000.00 in Nairobi. 2. 1 ton of soil will produce 125 interlocking blocks. 3. 1 cement bag retails at Kshs 700. 4. 5 liters of used oil costs Kshs 180 and will not be exhausted during the production. 5. 20 liter jerry can of water costs Kshs 10. 6. Labour per block will be paid at Kshs 8. 7. Transportation of soil to site is not included. 8. Site belongs to owner so no rent cost is incurred. TOTAL EXPENSES WILL BE KSHS 2,890.00 Therefore dividing total cost by 125 blocks: 2910/125 gives Kshs 24 as the cost of a single block. POINTERS: 1. After 6 months it will be possible to reduce cost by buying soil, used oil in large quantities and trying to reduce the labour cost through experience, bargaining and providing regular employment to the youth. 2. The more people you train the cheaper your pool of labour becomes. 3. Piped water is much cheaper. Harvest rain water or sink your own well. 4. Experience will allow you to produce better quality blocks.
Posted on: Wed, 10 Sep 2014 07:52:24 +0000
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