Overview of IS 1200 Code Book

The IS 1200 is a comprehensive set of Indian Standards that provides guidelines for the method of measurement for various construction works. These standards are primarily used by quantity surveyors, contractors, and engineers in the construction industry to ensure uniformity, consistency, and accuracy in estimating and measuring materials, labor, and other resources required for a construction project.

The IS 1200 Code Book is divided into various parts, each of which deals with different aspects of construction measurement. These parts cover the measurement of civil works, including earthwork, masonry, concrete, plumbing, electrical systems, roads, drainage, water supply, and more. The code book is an essential reference for construction professionals involved in cost estimation, tendering, and project execution, as it ensures that all measurements and calculations align with the standards required by the Indian government and industry norms.

Key Components of the IS 1200 Code Book

1. Part 1: Earthwork:

   • Covers the measurement of earthworks such as excavation, backfilling, and embankment construction. It defines the proper methods for measuring quantities like cutting and filling for road construction, foundations, trenches, and other earthworks.

2. Part 2: Concrete Works:

   • Details the method for measuring concrete works including plain concrete (PCC), reinforced concrete (RCC), and various mix designs. It includes measurement of materials like cement, aggregate, and reinforcement steel.

3. Part 3: Masonry Works:

   • Describes the measurement for brickwork and stone masonry, including the correct procedures for measuring units, work volume, and material quantities used in construction.

4. Part 4: Flooring and Finishing Works:

   • Provides guidelines on measuring flooring works such as tiles, marble, granite, and finishing works like plastering, painting, and putty work. It outlines how to measure quantities in various finishing materials.

5. Part 5: Roofing Works:

   • Covers the measurement of roof construction, including materials used for roofing, shuttering, and waterproofing.

6. Part 6: Plumbing Works:

   • Details the measurement of plumbing works such as water supply, sewage systems, drainage, pipework, and fixtures.

7. Part 7: Electrical Works:

   • Provides the method of measuring electrical installations, wiring, lighting systems, cable laying, and other related electrical components.

8. Part 8: Road Construction:

   • Covers the measurement of works related to the construction of roads, highways, pavements, and related infrastructure such as curbing, drainage systems, and sub-base layers.

9. Part 9: Drainage Works:

   • Focuses on the measurement for stormwater drainage systems, culverts, drains, and sewage systems, detailing the calculation of quantities for materials and excavation.

10. Part 10: Bridge Construction:

    • Outlines the measurement of bridge construction works, including foundation works, superstructures, abutments, and decks.

11. Part 11: Miscellaneous Works:

    • This part covers various other works, including temporary works, scaffolding, formwork, and other miscellaneous civil engineering tasks that may arise during construction.

12. Part 12: Pre-Engineered Building (PEB):

    • Provides guidelines on the measurement of PEB construction projects, which involve prefabricated components assembled on-site.

13. Part 13: General Specifications:

    • Outlines general measurement and calculation methods, including the standard units of measurement, rounding off of figures, and other generic construction-related measurement principles.

Why IS 1200 is Important in Construction?

1. Standardization:

   • IS 1200 ensures that construction quantities are measured in a standardized manner, providing consistency across different projects, contractors, and regions. This standardization is critical for cost estimation, tendering, and billing processes in construction.

2. Cost Control:

   • By following the measurement methods in IS 1200, construction professionals can ensure that costs are estimated accurately, leading to better budget management and avoiding underestimation or overestimation of materials and labor.

3. Legal Compliance:

   • The IS 1200 code book is often referenced in contractual agreements, ensuring that projects adhere to the correct measurement standards set by the Indian government and industry regulations.

4. Transparency and Dispute Resolution:

   • IS 1200 promotes transparency in the measurement and billing process, as it sets clear guidelines for the quantities of materials, labor, and equipment. This reduces the likelihood of disputes between clients, contractors, and suppliers.

5. Accuracy in Measurement:

   • The code book provides precise guidelines for measurement that help ensure accurate quantity take-offs, which are essential for budgeting, resource allocation, and payment certification.

How to Use IS 1200 Code Book

• Quantity Surveying: IS 1200 is primarily used by quantity surveyors to determine accurate material quantities, labor, and cost estimates for different types of construction work.
• Cost Estimation: Engineers and cost estimators use the code to break down project costs into measurable units to create accurate budgets and financial reports.
• Project Management: Project managers use the code book for ensuring that construction work is progressing according to the measured quantities and that financial resources are being used efficiently.

Conclusion

The IS 1200 Code Book is an essential reference for anyone involved in quantity surveying, construction estimation, and project management. It provides detailed guidelines for measuring a wide range of construction activities, from earthwork and concrete works to road and bridge construction, ensuring accuracy, standardization, and consistency in cost estimation and billing processes. By adhering to the IS 1200 standards, professionals can ensure that construction projects are carried out smoothly, efficiently, and within budget.

Sun Jan 26, 2025