Overview of Mode of Measurement as per IS 1200

IS 1200, also known as "Method of Measurement of Works of Civil Engineering", is an Indian Standard published by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It is a comprehensive guideline used for the measurement of civil engineering works to ensure consistency and accuracy in cost estimation, contract administration, and financial transactions in construction projects. This standard outlines the methods for quantifying the various components of construction works such as earthworks, concrete works, masonry, plumbing, and more.

The mode of measurement as per IS 1200 is essential for quantity surveyors, contractors, clients, and other professionals involved in construction to ensure that there is a uniform approach to measurement and that no work is overlooked or overestimated. This standard ensures that the Bills of Quantities (BOQ) and other contractual documents reflect the correct measurements of materials and labor for each type of construction activity.

Key Components of Mode of Measurement in IS 1200

General Principles:
- IS 1200 lays down the general principles for measurement in construction. It provides guidance on how to measure different works and determine their quantities. The standard emphasizes the importance of clarity and consistency when describing and measuring items of work.
Units of Measurement:
- The standard specifies the units of measurement for different construction activities, such as cubic meters for excavation and concrete, square meters for plastering and painting, linear meters for the length of walls or beams, etc. Consistency in using the correct unit ensures proper cost estimation and payment calculation.
Measurement of Earthwork:
- Earthworks, such as excavation, filling, and embankment construction, are typically measured in cubic meters. IS 1200 provides specific guidelines for measuring the depth and volume of excavated materials and defines how to handle over-excavation and under-excavation.
Measurement of Concrete Works:
- For concrete works, IS 1200 defines how to measure the volume of concrete poured for foundations, walls, columns, beams, slabs, and other structural elements. Measurements are typically expressed in cubic meters (m³), and the standard outlines how to measure the quantity of reinforcement in concrete elements.
Measurement of Masonry Works:
- Masonry works are measured in cubic meters or square meters depending on the type of work. IS 1200 specifies how to calculate the quantity of bricks, stones, or other masonry materials required, considering the type of masonry and mortar used.
Measurement of Roofing and Cladding:
- Roofing and cladding works are measured in square meters or linear meters depending on the type of construction. The standard defines how to measure roof area, including the area of tiles, sheets, or other materials used in the roof.
Measurement of Finishing Works:
- Finishing works such as plastering, painting, and flooring are measured in square meters or square feet, depending on the area covered by the work. IS 1200 provides detailed instructions for calculating quantities based on the surface area and thickness of the material applied.
Measurement of Plumbing and Electrical Works:
- Plumbing and electrical works are measured in linear meters or numbers of fittings or installations. The standard includes the measurement of piping, cabling, and installations such as water supply lines, drainage systems, electrical conduits, and wiring systems.
Measurement of Structural Steel:
- The quantity of structural steel is measured in kilograms or tons based on the weight of the material used. IS 1200 specifies how to calculate the weight of steel used in the construction of various components, including beams, columns, and trusses.
Exclusions and Clarifications:
- IS 1200 outlines the items of work that are excluded from measurement. It provides clarifications on how to deal with elements like temporary works, shoring, scaffolding, and mobilization that are not typically measured in the same way as permanent works.

Purpose of Mode of Measurement in IS 1200

Standardization:
- By establishing a clear and standardized method of measurement, IS 1200 ensures consistency across various projects, ensuring that the same unit and method are used for measuring similar types of work. This standardization helps prevent misunderstandings or disagreements between contractors, clients, and quantity surveyors.
Accuracy in Estimation:
- Accurate measurements are essential for preparing reliable cost estimates and Bills of Quantities (BOQs). IS 1200 helps quantity surveyors perform precise measurements that reflect the true scope of work, ensuring that all required materials and labor are accounted for in the estimation.
Effective Contract Administration:
- The use of standardized measurement methods simplifies contract management, ensuring that payments are made based on accurate quantities. It helps prevent disputes and enables effective monitoring of progress during construction.
Cost Control:
- Accurate and consistent measurement enables better control over project costs. By using IS 1200 guidelines, quantity surveyors can track and compare actual costs to budgeted costs and take corrective action if required.
Dispute Prevention:
- Using the IS 1200 method for measurement helps prevent disputes over quantities between contractors and clients. Clear and consistent measurements provide a solid basis for contract pricing, change orders, and claims.

How Bhadanis Online Training Helps with IS 1200

For professionals looking to master measurement techniques as per IS 1200 and improve their skills in quantity surveying, billing engineering, tendering, and construction contracts management, Bhadanis online courses provide specialized training. These courses equip civil engineers and quantity surveyors with the knowledge and skills required to apply IS 1200 effectively in their projects.

Suggested Bhadanis Online Courses:

Quantity Surveying:
- Learn the accurate techniques for measuring construction works, preparing BOQs, and applying IS 1200 for cost estimation.
Billing Engineering:
- Understand how to manage construction billing, payment certificates, and track quantities as per IS 1200.
Tendering Engineering:
- Gain expertise in preparing tender documents, evaluating bids, and managing the measurement and costing aspects of the tendering process.
Construction Contracts Management:
- Learn how to manage construction contracts, including change orders and dispute resolution, ensuring that work is measured and paid correctly.
Construction Projects Management:
- Learn to manage project schedules, resources, and costs using MSP, Primavera, and AutoCAD in line with IS 1200 guidelines.

Software Skills Covered in Bhadanis Training:

AutoCAD:
- Master AutoCAD for construction drawings and site plans, which are essential for accurate quantity take-offs and BOQ preparation.
Microsoft Project (MSP):
- Learn MSP for project scheduling, cost control, and resource management, integrating the measurement and cost estimation processes.
Primavera P6:
- Gain proficiency in Primavera P6 for large-scale construction projects, focusing on scheduling, cost management, and resource optimization.

Conclusion

The mode of measurement as per IS 1200 is critical for ensuring consistency and accuracy in the measurement of construction works. It provides a standardized approach to calculating quantities for various activities such as earthworks, masonry, concreting, and plumbing. By following the guidelines in IS 1200, professionals can prepare accurate BOQs, create reliable cost estimates, and manage construction projects more effectively. Bhadanis online training offers in-depth courses on quantity surveying, billing engineering, and project management, helping professionals master IS 1200 and other essential aspects of construction management.

Sun Jan 26, 2025