Despite being nearly four decades old, Report 108 remains the primary reference for formwork design in the UK and is widely respected internationally. This article explores the science behind the report, its key formulae, and why it remains indispensable in an era of advanced concrete technology.
Apply reduction factors where appropriate: For slower placement and mixes that set quickly (or when using accelerators), designers may apply pressure-reduction factors based on empirical curves or charts (as provided in the report) that relate casting rate, concrete properties, and time since placement to lateral pressure. ciria report 108 concrete pressure on formwork
Importantly, the report states that pressure never exceeds the (ρgh ≈ 24 × height in kN/m²), and it sets a minimum pressure for low rates or high temperatures. Despite being nearly four decades old, Report 108
In the world of construction, few forces are as misunderstood—or as dangerous—as fresh concrete pressure on formwork. Every year, projects face blowouts, bulging forms, and even catastrophic failures because engineers and contractors underestimate the liquid-like pressure exerted by newly placed concrete. For decades, the industry struggled with inconsistent guidelines until a groundbreaking document changed everything: Importantly, the report states that pressure never exceeds
P_max = 1.2 × 24 × 2 × 2 = 115.2 kN/m²
