A PROJECT REPORT ON MODERN AUTOMOBILE REPAIR WORKSHOP AT

MAIDUGURI BORNO STATE

(TOWARD ACHIEVING PROPER LANDSCAPE)

BY

SANUSI ISA WAKIRWA

2022/ND/ARC/072

SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGY,

SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, RAMAT POLYTECHNIC,
MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF ORDINARY NATIONAL DIPLOMA
(OND)

DECEMBER, 2024

i
 A PROJECT REPORT ON MODERN AUTOMOBILE REPAIR WORKSHOP AT
MAIDUGURI BORNO STATE
(TOWARD ACHIEVING PROPER LANDSCAPE)

BY

SANUSI ISA WAKIRWA

2022/ND/ARC/072

THE PROJECT IS SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL

TECHNOLOGY IN FUFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD OF
NATIONAL DIPLOMA (OND) IN ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGY.

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGY, SCHOOL OF

ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES, RAMAT POLYTECHNIC, MAIDUGURI, BORNO
STATE

DECEMBER, 2024

ii
 DECLARATION

I SANUSI ISA WAKIRWA Matriculation No: 2022/ND/ARC/072, hereby declare

this project is my authentic work and documentation of my design work. it has not been

accepted in any previous application for National Diploma and all the sources of information

are specifically acknowledging by means of references.

___________________________ _______________________
Signature Date

iii
 CERTIFICATION

I certify that this research project entitled MODERN AUTOMOBILE REPAIR

WORSHOP was carried out by I. SANUSI ISA WAKIRWA Matriculation No:

2022/ND/ARC/072 in the Department of Architectural Technology, School of Environmental

Studies (S.E.S) Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri Borno State, has been certified as meeting part

of the requirements for the award of Ordinary National Diploma (OND) in Architectural

Technology.

ARC. BABAGANA KHALIL

......................................... .....................................
Project Supervisor SIGNATURE/ DATE

ARC. FANTAMI ALI

......................................... .....................................
Project Coordinator SIGNATURE/ DATE

ARC. B.G HALIL

......................................... .....................................
Head of Department SIGNATURE/ DATE

........................................... .....................................
EXTERNAL EXAMINER SIGNATURE/ DATE

iv
 DEDICATION

This research work is dedicated to Allah (SWT) for his ceaseless mercies, unmerited

favors, guidance and protection upon my life, my lovely parents’ Hon. Isa I. Wakirwa and

Haj. Tako A. Mshelia and Aunty Hamsatu A. Brima, my lovely moms and dad. Lovely

siblings and friends who in one way or the other contributed for making it a success.

v
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I will start by expressing my deep and profound gratitude to Almighty Allah (S.W.T)

the giver of mercy and blessing to whom I put all my trust and hope and from whose wishes I

have no objection. I thank Almighty Allah for protecting me throughout my years of study.

I thank my project Supervisor (Mentor) Arc. BABAGANA KHALIL, His colleagues and

other lecturers for their countless support they rendered on the course of carrying out this

design project and project report May God bless you all abundantly (Amen).

I will start by expressing my deep and profound gratitude to Almighty Allah (S.W.T)

the giver of mercy and blessing to whom I put all my trust and hope and from whose wishes I

have no objection. I thank Almighty Allah for protecting me throughout my years of study.

Special thanks to my beloved parent Hon. Isa I. Wakirwa and Haj. Tako A. Mshelia

and Aunty Hamsatu A. Brima train and help me financially, spiritually and other wise during

the period of my studies.

Special recognition goes to my beloved sister Dr. Jamila I. Wakirwa and Uncle

Ibrahim I. Wakirwa, Idris I. Wakirwa, Yahaya I. Wakirwa, Abubakar, Fatima, Khadija, Aisha

and many more which am not able to exhaust May Almighty Allah richly bless you and

replenish all you offered me in hundred fold. Last but not the least; I appreciate those whose

materials I have cited.

My sincere gratitude goes to my Head of Department (H.O.D) and also my supervisor. Arc.

Fantami Ali for owing, me their time and also for his assistance without which this great

work will not be up to expectation.

I shall remain grateful to my lecturers for the knowledge impacted upon me and piece of

advice during academic years in the university.

vi
I would also like to appreciate my wonderful sisters and brothers you have been a source of

strength and encouragement to me, May Almighty Allah be with you and continue to guide

you all (AMEEN).

I will not forget to acknowledge my friends, colleagues, and well-wishers both at school and

home. Indeed, you inspired something valuable to my life. I am grateful to all of you. I

remain indebted to you all most grateful to humanity at large.

vii
 ABSTRACT

Effective Automobile layout is of paramount importance for setting up workshop facilities

and equipment in attaining minimum turnaround time. It also brings about increment in
productivity and profitability. Maiduguri, Borno State Automobile workshop does not
meet with the standard workshop layout; this implies the need to develop an improved
integrated workshop layout. In achieving the improved layout, standard workshop within
the country were visited (most especially Maiduguri, Borno State), literatures were
consulted and questionnaires were administering and considered. A new layout model
was developed in accordance with standard workshop which will give room for effective
automobile service delivery. The management needs to invest more in the procurement of
up to date machines and equipment, employment of more man power with different
specializations regarding automobile services and implement the application of the
developed layout model.
Keyword: Modern Automobile Repairing Workshop, Effective, Layout, Profitability,
Service and Workshop

viii
 TABLE OF CONTENT

TITLE PAGE……………………………………………………………………………….i

DECLARATION ................................................................................................................. iii

CERTIFICATION ................................................................................................................ iv

DEDICATION ....................................................................................................................... v

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT .................................................................................................... vi

ABSTRACT ....................................................................................................................... viii

TABLE OF CONTENT……………………………………………………………………ix
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction to Auto Repair ............................................................................................. 1

1.2 Project Definition ............................................................................................................. 3

1.3 Justification ...................................................................................................................... 3

1.4 Architectural Problems .................................................................................................... 4

1.5 Social Problem ................................................................................................................. 4

BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY ...................................................................................... 4

1.6 Statement of the Research Problem ................................................................................. 4

AIM AND OBJECTIVES...................................................................................................... 5

1.7 Aim of the Study .............................................................................................................. 5

1.8 Objectives of the Study .................................................................................................... 5

1.9 Research Questions .......................................................................................................... 5

ix
1.10.1 Limitations of Study ................................................................................................... 6

1.11 Significance of the Study/ Justification for the Study ................................................... 6

1.12 Study Area ..................................................................................................................... 6

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW ................................................................................................ 9

2.1 Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 9

2.2 Literature Review........................................................................................................... 12

2.3 Historical background of Automobile Repairing Workshop ......................................... 13

2.4 Workshop Layout........................................................................................................... 14

2.5 Repair Bays .................................................................................................................... 15

2.6 Diagnostic Centres ......................................................................................................... 16

2.7 Equipment Selection ...................................................................................................... 16

2.8 Vehicle Recovery Equipment ........................................................................................ 17

2.9 Case Study ..................................................................................................................... 18

2.9.1 Case Study 1 ............................................................................................................... 18

2.9.2 Case Study 2 ............................................................................................................... 21

CHAPTER THREE
3.0 BRIEF HISTORY OF PROJECT LOCATION AREA................................................. 24

3.1 History of Borno State ................................................................................................... 24

3.2 Locational Description ................................................................................................... 25

3.3 Locational-Map .............................................................................................................. 25

3.4 Study Area ..................................................................................................................... 25

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3.5 Site Analysis / Inventory................................................................................................ 25

3.6 Geographical and Climatic Data .................................................................................... 26

3.6.1 Climate ........................................................................................................................ 26

3.6.2 Temperature ................................................................................................................ 26

3.6.3 Rainfall ........................................................................................................................ 26

3.6.4 Geography ................................................................................................................... 27

3.6.5 Topography ................................................................................................................. 27

3.6.6 Soil Condition ............................................................................................................. 27

3.6.7 Wind Direction............................................................................................................ 27

3.7 Criteria for Site Selection............................................................................................... 28

CHAPTER FOUR
4.1 Design Criteria ............................................................................................................... 29

4.2 Site Component/ Function ............................................................................................. 29

4.3 Design Scope/ Component ............................................................................................. 30

4.4 Research Methodology .................................................................................................. 30

4.5 Observations .................................................................................................................. 30

4.6 Commercial/ Workshop ................................................................................................. 31

4.7 Space Schedule .............................................................................................................. 31

4.8 Construction Methodology and Materials ..................................................................... 32

4.9 External Work ................................................................................................................ 33

4.10 Presentation of Results................................................................................................. 34

4.11 Concise Interpretation of Raw Data ............................................................................. 34

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TABLE 2: Type of Vehicle Worked on .............................................................................. 36

TABLE 3: Workshop Floor Space ...................................................................................... 36

TABLE 4: Number of Workers/People in the Workshop ................................................... 36

TABLE 5: Floor Space for Storage ..................................................................................... 37

TABLE 6: Access to the Workshop from the Outside ........................................................ 37

TABLE 7: Number of Machines in the Workshop ............................................................. 37

TABLE 9: Tools Available in the Workshop ...................................................................... 38

TABLE 10: Evaluation of Number of Jobs Carried out Per day in the Workshop ............. 38

TABLE 12: Vehicle Brands Worked on ............................................................................. 39

TABLE 13: Available Workshop Equipment/Facilities ..................................................... 39

4.12 Current Automobile Workshop of the Maiduguri ....................................................... 40

4.13 Proposed Model Layout ............................................................................................... 41

CHAPTER FIVE

5.1 Conclusion ..................................................................................................................... 42

5.2 Recommendations .......................................................................................................... 42

REFERENCE .................................................................................................................... 44

APPENDIX…………………………………………………………………………….....45

xii
 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Introduction to Auto Repair

The men and women who pioneered the development of the automobile 100 years

ago could never have imagined how the automobile would revolutionize the world. In those

days long ago, automobiles were rare, luxurious ―toys‖ owned only by the wealthy. Today,

auto- mobiles are owned by ordinary people everywhere and are generally considered to be a

necessity of life. Unless you live in a major metro- Politian area with a large public

transportation system, you probably rely on an automobile to get to work, school, the local

shopping mall, and just about everywhere else. The use of the automobile is so wide- spread

that today, in the United States, there are approximately 185 million registered automobiles

on the road (Figure 1). This is an average of about 1.07 cars for every licensed driver!

What do these statistics mean to you? Well, think about all those auto- mobiles, and

then think about all the people who depend on those cars to get them to work, school, and to

stores. Since most people don’t work on their own cars at home, this means that they’ll rely

on you, the auto technician, to keep their vehicles in running order.

Auto repair shops are regularly filled with customers who need the services of skilled

technicians. Every one of those 185 million vehicles will require regular maintenance as well

as frequent repairs. Proper maintenance is so important to a vehicle’s operation that,

typically, an auto manufacturer’s warranty won’t apply to a car unless the owner performs

the recommended maintenance. Therefore, even if we lived in a perfect world where no part

ever failed and no car ever broke down, there would still be abundant servicing opportunities

1
for trained auto technicians. Of course, in the real world, cars break down every day, and

these repairs represent still more earning opportunities for you.

The average person spends about $1,400 per year on fuel, maintenance, and insurance

for his or her car. A large part of that $1,400 goes directly to an auto repair technician to pay

for maintenance and re- pairs. When you multiply that amount by the current number of

licensed drivers, you can quickly see that auto repair is a huge business. Auto technicians are

seldom out of work, and excellent career opportunities are available to highly trained and

skilled technicians.

The better your education and professional qualifications are, the better your chances

will be to advance rapidly in this lucrative industry.

The automotive repair field is not only big—it’s continually growing. It provides an

opportunity to earn a good income and offers many chances for personal advancement. You

can work at the automotive repair trade in any area, 365 days a year—there are no seasonal

or regional restrictions on the job. Professional auto technicians enjoy the benefits of job

security, interesting work, and a wide variety of different employment opportunities. If you

enjoy fixing things and working with your hands, you’ll find personal satisfaction in the

ability to re- pair vehicles on which others depend. A check of the classified ads in your local

newspaper will no doubt indicate the many job opportunities available for skilled auto repair

technicians in your area.

Remember, your customers will place their trust in you, the person who keeps their

vehicles safe and reliable. For this reason, talented auto repair technicians are always in

demand and are respected by everyone who owns or operates a vehicle.

You may have noticed that we prefer to use the job title ―automotive repair

technician‖ instead of ―automotive mechanic‖ when referring to the professionals who repair

2
vehicles. What exactly is the difference between these job titles? Well, the answer is

simple—the difference is the image that they represent. For many years, the people who

repaired automobiles were referred to as mechanics, and are often still referred to that way.

However, unlike the automobiles of the past, today’s vehicles are far more technologically

advanced. Modern vehicles contain computerized and electronic control systems, emission

control systems, and advanced diagnostic equipment.

Sincetoday’smechanicsarerequiredtolearnveryhigh-techskillsaswell as the more

traditional mechanical repair techniques, many service people now prefer to call themselves

―automotive repair technicians‖ to reflect the wider scope of their jobs(Figure2). In addition,

most automobile manufacturer sand parts supplier Sal souse this new entitle. The job title

you choose to uses entirely up to you—there’s certainly nothing wrong with being called a

mechanic. However, if you prefer, why not call yourself an automotive repair technician?

This new retitle more accurately describes the type of repair work you’ll do, and it can help

you reflect a modern professional image.

1.2 Project Definition

A comprehensive Automobile Workshop is large establishment /workshop where

automobiles are repaired and maintained by auto mechanics and technicians.

academic activities. Inadequate information and call up from places of case studies.

1.3 Justification

The outcome of this study will highlight the importance of comprehensive

Automobile Workshop and will provide an in-depth guide for various persons and groups

involved in automobile repairs in Nigeria. The proposed design of a comprehensive

3
automobile Workshop will reflect today’s trends of architectural design as well as the use of

Green Architecture.

1.4 Architectural Problems

The architectural problem being undertaken here is to design a functional Automobile

Workshop, dealing with the Harmonization of repair and maintenance activities, and the

separation of non-technical activities from the administrative functions. Space and circulation

within the workshop during repairs is also considered.

1.5 Social Problem

There is exist the problem of paucity of comprehensive Automobile Workshops for

residents of Maiduguri and its environs to repair their faulty cars. There by necessitating

those desirous of such services to travel far distances into the city to obtain high end car care

services. With the presence of the care center residents will be able to repair their cars

according to their manufacturers schedule and at affordable rates

BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

1.6 Statement of the Research Problem

Parking lots and vehicular movement are major challenges faced by the Nigeria

Automobile repair workshop sector. With the constant increased in customers (Automobile

technician) for the sole aim of well design workshop and parking spaces, it is pertinent to

create adequate parking spaces, vehicular movement and pedestrian movement from the

design stage. This design aspires provide innovative ideas of solving the above stated

problem. The number of parking spaces available near your Modern Automobile Repairing

Workshop can influence the number of customers who enter your establishment. Some

Automobiles-goers, including families, are more likely to travel by car, and a lack of parking

can mean losing their business. That’s why your workshop needs to come up with solutions

4
to solve its, limited parking lot problems. Parking space is often sparse and expensive to gain

in metropolitan areas. Many Automobiles, as a result, must make do with the parking they

have available, whether that’s a small lot, a nearby parking garage, or a few spots on the

street.

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

1.7 Aim of the Study

The aim of this research project to design a well Modern Automobile Repair

Workshop in Maiduguri, Borno State is to serve as springboard for harnessing measures for

financial and economical safety.

1.8 Objectives of the Study

1. To provide a self-sustaining, reliable, and efficient Automobile Workshop facility

2. To create a functional and aesthetically conscious parking lots as part of effort to

control vehicular parking.

3. To provide a safe financial institution for the reawaking economical outburst of the

host community.

1.9 Research Questions

1. What are the design modalities taking so far, to create a functional and aesthetically

appealing design most importantly as regards landscape and safety of people?

2. How will the siting of this facility validate the economical vibrancy of the host

community?

3. How effective will the use of landscape control vehicular parking?

5
SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS

1.10 Scope of the Study

1.10.1 Limitations of Study

Access to some local case studies to source for detail information was quite security

tight except, with the help of letter of identification.

1.11 Significance of the Study/ Justification for the Study

This project has been considered practicable with the reasons:

 Modern Automobile workshop functions for marking effective savings, repairing, and

technical fault and also cater for customer’s immediate services.

 The Modern Automobile Repair Workshop will stand as a structure that will improve

the urban imagery of its environment which is an aspect of urban development.

 It will boost the development of governmental and private establishments in the

environment. Such as shopping malls, security companies, fire fighters etc.

 It will lead to mutual communal interaction between people from varying race and

culture. Hence, the study will ensure effective and efficient design to provide

function, vehicular parking areas designed in such a manner as to be functional,

aesthetically pleasing and safe for motorists and pedestrians.

1.12 Study Area

The British established Maiduguri (MMC)as a military outpost in 1907: The British

selected Maiduguri as the Capital of Borno Emirate in 1907. The city was built on the site of

a village called Maiduguri that had been around since the 16th or 17th century. The British

built a residency in Maiduguri in 1908, and it became the capital of British Bornu. Role in

Nigeria after Nigeria gained independence from Britain in 1960, Maiduguri became the

6
capital of Borno State in 1960. Location, Maiduguri is located in northeastern Nigeria along

the seasonal Ngadda (Alo) River, the waters of which disappear in firkin (―black cotton‖)

swamps of Lake Chad, northeast of the city. It’s the capital and largest city in Nigeria. Other

facts Modern Maiduguri actually comprises the twin towns of Yerwa and Maiduguri. In 1907

Yerwa was founded on the site of the hamlet of Kalwa and was named by Shehu (―Sheikh‖ or

―Sultan‖) Bukar Garbai as the traditional capital of Kanuri people (replacing Kukawa, 80

miles [130km] north-northeast, the former capital of the Bornu Kingdom [see Kanem-

Bornu]). Meanwhile, just to the south, was selected by British to replace nearby Mofoni

(Maifoni, Mafoni) as their military headquarters, and, in 1908 they built a residency in what

then became the capital of British Bornu. The combined city-locally called Yerwa-was

divided into the urban district of Yerwa and the rural district of Maiduguri in 1957, but

outside Borno both political units are now known simply as Maiduguri.

The arrival of the railwlay in 1964 reinforced Maiduguri’s importance as the Chief

commercial centre of northeastern Nigeria. Livestock (mainly cattle but also goats and

sheep), cattle hides, goatskins and sheepskins, finished leather products, dried fish (brought

from Lake Chad), and gum Arabic are the city’s chief exports, and there is also local trade in

sorghum, millet, corn (maize), peanuts (groundnuts), and rice. There is a large cattle ranch at

nearby Gombole, and there is poultry farming in the surrounding countryside. The Monday

market at Yerwa, a tradition brought from Kukawa, is the largest in the state.

Maiduguri’s population consists mainly of Muslim Kanuri and Shuwa peoples with a

admixture of Christain Nigerians from the south. Since the mid-1960s the city has become an

important industrial and educational center for Borno state. Besides food-processing

facilities, its industries manufacture leather goods, wooden and metal furniture, nails, and

aluminum and steel structural products.

7
 Educational facilities include the University of Maiduguri (1975), Ramat Polytechnic,

Borno State College of Legal and Islamic Studies, and Kashim Ibrahim College of Education.

The university operates a teaching hospital, and there is also a general hospital in the city.

The Lake Chad Research Institute is located in Maiduguri.

The city is dominated by the palace and adjacent mosque of the shehu of Bornu, and

important traditional Muslim leader in Nigeria. The city lies astride the historic pilgrim route

from Senegal to Mecca. It is the terminus for the main railway line linking northeastern

Nigeria to Port Harcourt. Served by the main highway system, it is a hub for secondary

highways serving the state. There is an airport located 5.5 miles (9km) west of Maiduguri.

While Islam is the most practiced religion in the area.

8
 CHAPTER TWO

2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

Layout is the arrangement of departments and equipment in a plant to efficiently

produce a product. Although a company should always consider facility layout to be top

priority when the company first start its business or when it is moving to a new location, a

new facility layout may sometimes be needed when a company decides to purchase new

machinery or to develop a new product. A poorly designed layout could result in bottlenecks,

increased overall production time per unit, increased transportation costs, increased number

of accidents and decreased inventory space (Sherali et. Al. 2003; Ram and Prashant, 2012).

Automobile workshop layout can be defined as follows: it is the arrangement of automobile

workshop equipment such as crane, pit, etc. to allow free flow of both personnel and

vehicle/tools in the workshop (Ejiko et. al., 2009). It may be defined as a technique of

locating machines, processes and plant services within the workshop so as to achieve the

right quantity and quality of output at the lowest possible cost of manufacturing. It involves a

judicious arrangement of production facilities for effective workflow.

Plant layout refers to the arrangement of physical facilities such as machinery,

equipment and furniture. Within the factory building in such a manner so as to have quickest

flow of material at the lowest cost and with the least amount of handling in processing the

product from the receipt of material to the shipment of the finished product (Tompkins, 1980;

Abdullah and Lash, 2014).

Equipment layout optimization is a foundational question of floor improvement

activities, its rationality effects directly the field of production capacity, work efficiency and

production cost (Tompkins et. al., 1996). Tompkins (2010) pointed out that operation cost of

9
unreasonable equipment layout account for 20-50% of the total manufacturing costs, and

superior equipment layout can reduce the cost by 10-30%; Superior equipment layout can

also speed up the materials handling efficiency, reduce the residence time of articles being

processed, reduce the capacity of work piece buffer, reduce the occupied space of

manufacturing system and reduce the manufacturing cost.

According to Riggs, (2014), ―The overall objective of layout is to design a physical

arrangement that most economically meets the required output – quantity and quality‖. Ram

and Prashant (2012) stated that layout ideally involves allocation of space and arrangement of

equipment in such a manner that overall operating costs are minimized. Maheer et al., (2015)

stated that an ideal layout should provide the optimum relationship among output, floor area

and manufacturing process. Layout facilitates the production process, minimizes material

handling, time and cost, and allows flexibility of operations, easy production flow, makes

economic use of the building, promotes effective utilization of manpower, provides

employee’s convenience, safety, comfort at work, maximum exposure to natural light and

ventilation (Wiyaratn and Watanapa, 2010). This is also important because it affects the flow

of material and processes, labor efficiency, supervision and control, use of space and

expansion possibilities.

In modern days, the initial planning of a facility layout requires substantial

investments. It involves long term commitment into planning the type of products to produce,

the number of departments, the constraints of the company size and possibility of future

expansion (Saif et al., 2002). The decisions made during the planning could make a large

impact on the operations. An optimized facility layout not only improves production

efficiency, but it also provides a safer environment for the workers. For examples, a

shortened walking time between department could reduce accidents, allow easier

communication and even allow forklifts to travel less. Moreover, a better layout could help

10
the company comply to changes in environmental and legal regulations. For example,

realigning the production streamline could reduce the need of production transfer across

departments and reduce emission of CO2, also, different types of productions would have

different types of layout. In general, there are different types of layout: process layout,

product layout, and fixed position layout. These layouts all have their advantages and

disadvantages. This report discusses how facilities decide on which layout to use and also

analyze other integrated layouts. As mentioned before, planning a layout is a long term

process. However, improved software technology has allowed companies to forecast

outcomes of various possibilities and shorten the planning process. These software models

allow users to simulate real time scenarios to better see the effect of the layout. Automobile

can be described as a road vehicle, typically with four wheels, powered by an internal

combustion engine or electric motor and able to carry a small number of people. A developed

automobile workshop is required to have good floor space, ventilation, advanced

technological equipment, proper lighting etc. The under study automobile workshop lacks

properly arrangement of equipment, Roof leakages, pit too deep, water coming out from the

pit, improper flow in and out of vehicles etc. which now calls for development of an

improved integrated layout for effective service delivery.

The reason for developing improved equipment integrated layout for effective

automobile service delivery is to meet new technological standard with improved automobile

equipment and improve the service offered to customers. In this work and improved

equipment integrated layout for effective automobile service in the Maiduguri, Borno State

was developed. The specific objectives of this project work are to make general overview of

the State Mechanical Workshop, develop questionnaire and administer, collect and analyze

data obtained from questionnaire understudy, design an improved workshop layout for

effective service delivery based on ii, and make recommendation for practical application of

11
the findings in iii. It also seeks in long run to correct defects in some existing motor vehicle

repair workshop, proper and efficient utilization of available floor space and allow high

machine or equipment in the workshop.

2.2 Literature Review

The present layout and the operation process of each section have been investigated.

The problem in term of material flow of each operation section was identified. The result

showed the disassembly surface finishing and inspection sections should be allocated to make

the good material flow. The suitable of new plant layout can decrease the distance of material

flow, which rises production (Anucha, et. al., 2011). Saifallah and Mehdi (1997) present a

formulation of plant using a problem where the objective is minimizing work-in-process by

designing layout using a queuing-based model can be very different from those obtained

using conventional layout procedures. Amine and Henri (2007) proposed various formations

of the facility layout problem and the algorithms for solving the problem as it known to have

a significant impact upon manufacturing costs, work in process, lead times and productivity.

A good placement of facilities contributes to the overall efficiency of operations and can

reduce until 50% the total operating expenses (Tompkins et. al., 1996). Simulation studies are

often used to measure the benefits and performance of given layout. Stefan and Kai, (2007)

proposed an integrated approach which allows a more detailed layout planning by

simultaneously determining machine arrangement and transportation paths. Facilities to be

arranged as well as the entire layout may have irregular shapes and size. By assigning

specific attributes to certain layout subareas, application-dependent barriers within the layout

and making mathematical calculations new layout design made to improve transportation

path.

In order to obtain a competitive level of productivity in a manufacturing system,

efficient machine or department arrangements and appropriate transportation path structures

12
are of considerable importance. By defining a production system’s basic structure and

material flows, the layout determines its operational performance over the long term. By

design plant layout structures, gives integrated approach which allows a more detailed layout

planning by simultaneously determining machine arrangement and transportation paths, this

approach supports a detailed mapping of irregular, but fixed machine shapes. Laura et. Al.,

(2010) study the stability of a Virtual Layout (VL) along with an existing functional layout

(FL) of an industry and Classical Layout (CL), if considered for implementation. A Genetic

Algorithm (GA) based on inter-cell formation procedure and cellular layout design.

Taho, (2007) explores the use of multiple-attribute decision making methods MADM

approach in solving a layout design problem. The proposed methodology is illustrated

through a practical application from an IC packaging company. Two methods are proposed in

solving the case study problem: Techniques for order preference by similarity to ideal

solution (TOPSIS) and fuzzy TOPSIS. Empirical results showed that the proposed methods

are viable approaches in solving a layout design problem. TOPSIS is a viable approach for

the case study problem and is suitable for precise value performance ratings. The proposed

model will enable the decision maker of a manufacturing enterprise to analyze a layout in

three different aspects, based on which they can make decision towards productivity

improvement. As with any other layout, the workshop area depends entirely on the work

anticipated and in the case of an exciting service station, the work already being done, the

volume and type of work to be done in the repairs workshop determines whether the layout

should be Single-Speed Bay, Flow Line, Single- Speed Bay Service Layout or Flow Line

Service Layout.

2.3 Historical background of Automobile Repairing Workshop

Automobile workshop and its machinery are involved with the task of servicing and

carrying out repair on vehicles. Workshop are set out to serve this purpose, and over the
13
years, as technology have been on the high rise, so also has workshops evolved to meet the

latest trend in vehicle technology. Technology has been on the high rise, an improved

equipment integrated layout is very essential for free flow of vehicles and equipment’s in the

workshop. The smallest unit of the workshop can be seen in the individual garages in our

homes. This is closely followed by the smaller roadside mechanics, whose scope of business

is limited on-the-job experience. Modern motor vehicle maintenance workshops, both small

and large are virtually capable of solving most vehicle problems, since they were designed

for the just that purpose.

2.4 Workshop Layout

The layout of any workshop will depend upon the work anticipated. Smaller workshops

usually have a bench at the closed end of a workshop with one pit to enable work to be

carried out underneath a car. In this modern workshop, it demands sophisticated equipment

to both rapidly diagnose faults as a means of quality control following repair. Firstly, to

ensure a profitable workshop, floor space must be used to the utmost, thus all spaces offices,

bays and other equipment must be such that at no time should they due to the design obstruct

the movement of materials, cars and staff, so that time is fully utilized. The need to keep cars

moving as repairs and servicing is completed is obvious. Apart from this, customers usually

require a car as quickly as possible as a car off the road means loss earning to them. A

modern workshop, area with painted lines on a slope of 60o makes it easier to run in and back

out. Bench with steel tops and bench vices constitute the basic equipment for repair work.

Repair jobs requiring use of a life will move into the work area where lifts are part of

standard equipment in the repair bays. At this point it should be noted that wheel free lifts are

to be preferred and pits are to be avoided. The reason is that many serious accidents have

occurred with the pits when fumes have accumulated and caused serious poisoning. Other

accident has occurred when petrol has spilled into the pits and has gone unnoticed until a

14
naked flame eventually ignited the vapor with terrible results for mechanics working

underneath vehicles. This leads to the aspect of why the body repair shop and spraying

should be excluded from the main workshop. The operations involved with body repair i.e.

panel beating, filling, grinding, and washing raises dust that can be harmful to fellow

mechanics should it be done in an enclosed space like the workshop; besides this, there is

also the danger of sparks welding operation igniting fuel vapor. For this reason, it is

advisable that these operations be done in the courtyard with a provision of roofing to protect

the workers from harsh weather conditions.

2.5 Repair Bays

Repair bay must be so situated or arranged inside the workshop such that the job it is

meant for is carried out without difficulties to the mechanics and also to ease supervision by

the foreman. The workshop should be broadly divided into the mechanical and electrical

sections for easy supervision and repair. This should be so, such that vehicles for each of

these problems can be easily directed to the bay for work. The engine room should be close

to the repair bay so that engines can be easily removed and taken there to work on. On the

other hand, the battery charging room should be close to the electrical repair bay. Another

important aspect of the workshop is the quick service bay, where routine servicing can be

carried out. This should be situated on the court of the shop. Only vehicle with major repairs

should be allowed into the interior of the shop. The repair bay required the provision of

power plugs with 13Amp and 15Amp fuse, an airline connection, an inter-communications

connection of the bench for speaking direct to the stores for spare parts. This later item

enables a mechanic to order parts and have them brought to him without moving from the

car. This speeds up a repair job and save the mechanic valuable time. Low powered 24

sockets are also required for pressurized safety inspection lamps. Alternatively, a bare head

wire system with movable leads can be used as an inspection lighting method.

15
 The bench is of steel with good size drawer capable of holding tools belonging to a

mechanic. It should also have a second under space to hold units while repair is going on; for

example, gearbox housing or cylinder blocks. This helps in preventing accidents from tools

and units that are left lying about. All general tools and equipment that is necessary for all

repair bays should be kept in a centralized area so that a mechanic can use them and replace

them immediately after use. These include portable cranes, hydraulic stands, wheel braces,

special extractors, stock, dies, amongst others. Finally, a good workshop should have good

lighting, ventilation, drainage system, easy access to special tools, plug points, inspection

lamp point, intercommunication system to stores, airline point, ample working space, a cloak

room for workers to change their cloths before and after work and above all, sufficient safety

devices should be provided and kept at easily accessible places.

2.6 Diagnostic Centres

This is a center where faults are diagnosed and also used to check work done on a

car as a means of quality control in the workshop; this latter aspect is often referred to as

Pre Delivery Inspection (PDI). Diagnosis is made by performing inspection to discover

what parts of a vehicle will require adjustment or repair. This is necessary in obtaining

customers goodwill. The usage of diagnosis equipment serves as a means of quality

control, such that any repairs executed are tested to ensure that the finished job is satisfy

and operation is within certain limits.

2.7 Equipment Selection

The equipment for any type of workshop (large or small) depends on the capita at

hand, workshop size and the amount of work expected. No workshop can be efficiently

managed without suitable tools and equipment. Therefore, the Capital (Maiduguri, Borno

State) has to decide on which equipment is necessary as an aid to efficiently and

16
profitability in a workshop. Amongst the numerous equipment available, the following

are very essential, which are Lifting jacks of various sizes, Portable cranes for lifting

engines, Engine stands for suspension of engine, Oxygen, acetylene and metallic welding

equipment, Gas soldering iron with bits, Soldering iron electrical repairs, Air compressor,

Tyre pressure gauge, Tyre servicing and repair equipment, Brake servicing equipment,

Bench vices, Portable grinding machines, Electrical testing equipment for starter,

dynamo, local lamps, circuits and ignition timing, Wheel alignment gauges, Hand drilling

machines, Bench drilling machines, Shock absorber extractor machines, Battery charging

machine, Hydraulic puller, Electrical computation system unit (Diagnostic equipment)

and Fire extinguishers for various grades (classes) of fire.

2.8 Vehicle Recovery Equipment

One way of generating profit for the workshop is by providing a vehicle

breakdown recovery equipment to assist in extending services to a customer with a

problem on the highway. This is essential as vehicles do often breakdown on the road and

have to be moved as quickly as possible so that obstructions on the road is reduced to a

minimum either by towing or by prompt attention on the spot. Consequently, mechanics

going out for a recovery of vehicle must be fully experienced and be able to use all the

recovery equipment, and be prepared to pull a vehicle of ditches, tow wrecked vehicles

and complete a host of repairs to get the vehicles back to the workshop.

A recovery should be equipped with the following Winch, Crane, Slings,

Shackles, Towing bar, Fire extinguishers, Sledge hammer, Ropes, Jack (of good

capacity), Locking clamps for steering wheel (when a car is towed backwards), Flashing

beacon to indicate a breakdown, a suitable ―ON TOW‖ notice board for attaching to the

vehicle, A spare holder for attaching to the breakdown vehicle for rear illumination and

normal mechanic tool kit.

17
2.9 Case Study

Case Study is a research method involving in an up-close in-depth and detailed

examination of a subject of study as well as its related contextual conditions.It involves a case

study of existing structures that are similar to the proposed one. This is very essential if a

definite and appreciated improvement in view design is to be made. It helps to highlight some

of the problems in the existing structures. In most case studies a lot of design errors are

detected. It also affords the opportunity to be in direct contact with the user of such existing

building is question as they present themselves.

Case study as a way of finding solution to any design problem this is also based on

deducing solution from existing Automobile workshop at other State. The sole Aim of the

procedure to subject each of these Case studies to critical analysis in terms of the following

 Functionality

 Flexibility of the design built up area

 Merits and demerits of the qualities of building and the built environment

SELECTED CASE STUDIES

2.9.1 Case Study 1

BORNO MECHANICAL AUTOMOBILE WORKSHOP (EST. 1976)

Location: Alone Baga road Maiduguri, Borno State

HISTORY

This Automobile Workshop is located at Baga. Road founded in the year 1976 by

the German people and they specialized on automobile repair such as brakes, mufflers and

exhaust systems, transmissions, body parts, automobile electrification, and others.

18
Merits
1. Adequate lighting from large windows

2. Easy accessibility

3. Good parking spaces

4. Well equipped with machineries

5. Well secured

Demerits
1. Poor landscaping

2. No painting unit

3. Some units are lacking i.e. Electrical, panel beaten etc.

Plate 5: case study 3 showing the front view of: Borno State Mechanical Workshop

19
 Figure 2: Good parking spaces

Figure 4: well equipment but poor maintenance

20
2.9.2 Case Study 2

BORNO EXPRESS AUTOMOBILE WORKSHOP MAIDUGURI, BORNO STATE

(EST. 1973)

Location: Opposite Ramat shopping complex. Maiduguri.

BRIEF HISTORY

The Borno Express Automobile Workshop Maiduguri was established since

1973 to render services in roads, highways and transportation system in North-East

region. A large number of vehicles were procured for the ―North-East line‖ to ease

transportation from Maiduguri to other parts of the region. These vehicles need

servicing and repairs hence the idea of creating this particular workshop located at

opposite Ramat shopping complex. Maiduguri was initiated and they rendered good

services for customer and provide effective services to the people’s automobile

vehicles.

Merits

1. It is well equipped with electric

2. It is easy to access and l functional

3. it is well secured

Demerits

1. it is not a standard automobile workshop because some unit are not available

2. Inadequate conveniences

3. No demarcation for parking

4. It has poor landscape

5. Poor Admin unit

21
Figure 6: Showing the front view of Boron Express. Case study Two in Maiduguri, Borno
State

Plate 3: Poor Landscape. Borno Express Maiduguri, Borno State

22
Figure 3: Poor Administration and Maintenance

23
 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 BRIEF HISTORY OF PROJECT LOCATION AREA

Maiduguri, Town. Borno, State. In the northeast Nigeria with a rich history that

includes the Kanem-Boron empire, the Boron emirates, and the British and French colonial

periods. This empire was the center of the Kanuri speaking royal empire and lasted from

1380 to 1898.

3.1 History of Borno State

Borno State is a state in 1967 and was carved out of the former northeastern state in

1976. In 1991 the western part of Boron was seprated to form Yobe state. The vegetation in

Boron state is mainly of the sudan savanna type which include the acacia( a source of gum

Arabic), baobab, locust bean , shea butter, dum palm, and kapok trees; however, there is a

region of Sahel savanna, mostly thorn scrub and with sandy soils, in the north. Prominent

physical features include the Bornu Plains, the volcanic Biu Plateau, and the firki (―black

cotton‖) swamps south and southwest of Lake Chad. Most of the state is drained by seasonal

rivers flowing toward Lake Chad. The far south, however, is drained by the Gongola River, a

tributary of the Benue.

The Kanuri are the dominant ethnic group, but the area also contains clusters of other

peoples. The growing of sorghum, millet, peanuts (groundnuts), onions, corn (maize),

sesame, acha (―hungry rice‖), cotton, and indigo and the herding of cattle are the chief

occupations, with fishing significant around Lake Chad. The lake is connected to Maiduguri

by a road from Baga, a town on a peninsula extending into the lake. The Lake Chad

Commission, established (1964) by Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria, is charged with

regulating the use of the waters of the lake and the basin for the development of livestock,

crop, fishery, and water resources. Nigeria also has established a Chad Basin Authority.

24
 Maiduguri is the state capital, its main industrial centre, and by far its largest city. Biu

and Bama also are sizable market towns. Maiduguri has an airport and is served by a railway

to Bauchi and the south, as well as by trunk roads to Potiskum, Bauchi, Yola, and Ndjamena

(Chad). Pop. (2006) 4,151,193.

3.2 Locational Description

The side is located at Old GRA Behind GRA secondary school oppsite Sultan

Mubabak, Maiduguri, Borno State.

3.3 Locational-Map

3.4 Study Area

Maiduguri, town, Borno state, northern Nigeria.

3.5 Site Analysis / Inventory

A site can be defined as an open space bounded at the sides by a defined boundary

marks and surrounded by natural features such as hill, trees, water bodies and man-made

features or artificial structure, the Site chosen for this project has a very gentle slope. It is a

25
site that has never been develop in the past Thereby causing it to be filled with the growth of

shrubs, grasses and Some natural trees.

It is also observed that during the course of the inventory that some of the trees are to

be removed as that could obstruct the construction of the project while some are to be

retained or preserved to help in controlling the adverse effect of wind storm (i.e. wind

breaker) in the environment

3.6 Geographical and Climatic Data

Here is some geographical and climatic data for Maiduguri, the capital city of Borno

State, Nigeria:

3.6.1 Climate

Maiduguri is in the Sahel Savanna climatic region, which is semi-arid and hot year-

round. The city has two distinct seasons: a rainy season from July to October and a prolonged

dry season for the rest of the year.

3.6.2 Temperature

The average temperature in Maiduguri is 84°F, with a high of 109°F and a low of

57°F. The hottest month is May, with an average high of 103°F and low of 79°F. The coldest

month is January, with an average low of 59°F and high of 92°F.

3.6.3 Rainfall

The average annual rainfall in Maiduguri is 1,807 mm. The mean annual rainfall

during the rainy season is 647 mm.

26
3.6.4 Geography

Borno State has several prominent physical features, including the Bornu Plains, the

Biu Plateau, and the firki swamps. Most of the state is drained by seasonal rivers flowing

toward Lake Chad, but the far south.

The shading devices through the conservation and preservation of the existing natural

features will surely reduce and combat the effect of this heat emission and transmission at the

Automobile Workshop.

3.6.5 Topography

The site is relatively a gentle slope towards the western, cardinal of the site. During

construction, cutting and filling will essentially take place. For it to be suitable for the

proposed project (Automobile), some parts will be graded to normal level while some will be

utilized as it is.

3.6.6 Soil Condition

The soil condition in state consists of sandy soil, loamy soil and clay soil. The loamy

soil which is the vegetative soil on top layer of this site will be removed in the course of

construction.

The layer consists of the sandy and laterite type of soil which is capable of carrying

the load of the upper structure, strip foundation will therefore be used in transmitting the load

of the structure into a wide area of soil.

3.6.7 Wind Direction

In Maiduguri, the wet season is warm, oppressive, and overcast and the dry season is

hot, muggy, and partly cloudy. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies

from 65°F to 89°F and is rarely below 59°F or above 94°F.

27
3.7 Criteria for Site Selection

The site selection is based on sound geological, geophysical, hydro-geological and

geotechnical considerations. Where such landfill is constructed on or within unsuitable

Materials, leach ate may leak into the environment thereby impacting on the biophysical

environment and the ecology of the surrounding area.

Constraint map for landfill site selection can easily be used for the location of safe

landfill site in urban areas, Maiduguri Metropolitans inclusive. Such constrain map can be

developed using Geographic Information System (GIS). GIS is a set of software tools that is

used to input, store, manipulate, analyze and display geographic information. It combines

spatial data (maps, aerial, photographs, satellite images) with the other quantitative,

qualitative and descriptive information databases (Choududhury and Das, 2012). Authors

who have worked on the use of GIS, Remote Sensing, geological, geophysical, hydro

geological, and soil types for the selection of landfill site includes (Olayinka and Olayiwola

2001; Baban and Flnnagan 1998; Nishanth et al., 2010, Choududhury and Das, 2012; and Al-

Hanball et al., 2011.

Finally, the site have relevant approval of the relevant Automobile workshop

authority for the use of the proposed Automobile Workshop the following are the criteria

factors;

1. The site accessibility

2. The site proximity

3. Topography

4. Soil texture

5. Climate factor

28
 CHAPTER FOUR

4.1 Design Criteria

The studies and observation revealed that from rigidity, therefore to achieve an

Automobile workshop that would attract the public and call the interest of people to itself, it

is necessary that rigidity in design and the use of common symmetrical form in the planning

of the structure for the workshop would be at minimum.

Contemporary architecture is best appreciated when form is incorporated into space.

The design concept for the Automobile Workshop is that function follow form concept.

Facilities are combined together into activities and one that has the same function is merged

together. And the landscape environment creating a sense of continuity of the whole design.

4.2 Site Component/ Function

Technical function
Structural and mechanical systems are crucial to the function or architecture. These

systems in turn respond to the constraint of the site program and available building of

physical processes that is why Omanis embraces technologies and innovation and design.

Joining architecture with engineering and construction site supervision. The company is well

practiced in optimizing technical functionary.

Environmental function
Architectural function can also be considered from the outside in as a response to the

environment and context. A buildings enclosure system act to modulate the effect of sun rain

dust and other elements. A sophisticated building envelope can reduce the amount of energy

needed to maintain a comfortable interior and owner’s cost for maintenance in this sense,

functional design aligns with sustainable design.

29
4.3 Design Scope/ Component

The design shows the relationship between the facilities by the location. It covers the

central common facilities and the workshop.

ADMINISTRATIVE
1. General Manager’s office

2. Secretary office

3. Files and invoicing offices

4. Clinic

4.4 Research Methodology

The methods and procedures used in the conduct of this study. The objectives of

this work were achieved by observing the Maiduguri, Borno State automobile workshop

and comparing it with standard workshop from literature and established ones within the

country. Questionnaire was design, produce and administer to the populace for their

contributions and assessment. The information gathered from the questionnaire coupled

with the literature survey lead to the design of an improved workshop layout. the

presentation and analysis of the data (findings) of this study. The analysis so made would

also be discussed.

4.5 Observations

In the course of getting information from available standard set-up automobile

companies within the suburb of Maiduguri, Borno State, it was observed that few companies

were willing to give out needed information, and the few companies that responded to the

questionnaire were carried out by their bosses. These challenges created limitation in getting

enough variety of devise view from workers or administrative officials. With this

development the information gotten is what the result and discussion is based on. Information

was collected from Automobile companies such as Borno Express Workshop, Laffbart

30
innovation ltd and Loco Auto mechanic, located in Maiduguri, Borno State why some data

were collected by visual inspection from other automobile outlets. The data collected

bothered on company performance and not individual work performances. Also, the

information gathered under the length of service signifies that 70% of the respondents have

been established or been with the company from five years and above, while 30% shows that

they have been established or been with the company for four years and below.

4.6 Commercial/ Workshop

This comprises of where service is being done

4.7 Space Schedule

ADMIN BLOCK
S/N UNIT AREA PER SQUARE NUMBER
METER [M²] OFUNIT
1 Entrance 3.1 1
2 Reception and Waiting Room 18.36 1
3 Secretary Offices 11.88 1
4 Manager Offices 17.28 1
7 Clinic 37.44 1
8 Store 4.95 5
9 W/C 2.52 12

WORKSHOP
S/N UNIT AREA PER SQUARE NUMBER
METER [M²] OF UNIT
1 Mechanical Unit 20 1
2 Vulcanizing area 20 1
3 Store 5.1 5
4 Panel Beaten 20 1
5 Painting Unit 20 1
6 Electrical Unit 20 1

31
4.8 Construction Methodology and Materials

Building Construction

Various buildings in the Automobile Workshop are constructed on already leveled

ground with appropriate foundation types strip is mostly used. Term academy is used

extensively for the workshop, the pavilions are of light steel trusses with long span aluminum

roofing sheets, the walk ways and footpath are mainly of flat stone finishes Special glasses of

various thickness are used tinted glasses are used against solar rays especially in the terminus

buildings.

Material

The influence of building material on construction works in Maiduguri Borno State

and its environment is similar to what prevails in the middle belt of the control blocks in

rectangular standard of 225mm, 150mm and 100mm thickness the choice of material

Services

These are to give various desired design consideration to satisfy the intended need of

the occupants.

Circulation

Adequate care is taken in ensuring that the circulation routes within the entire

building are well planned. There will be a clear definition of the Automobile Workshop and

Reception routes on the sites.

Ventilation

The planning for adequate ventilation involves provision of adequate and sufficient

number of opening at reasonable sizes and heights, this improves the comfort ability as a

result of air circulation which is at a bearable limit.

32
Lighting

Lighting is to be property controlled through the combination of natural and artificial

means. The most important place requiring special lighting effect is the factory where

transparent roofing sheets are to be used. A courtyard will be introduced to throw in light in

some parts of the building.

Plumbing and Electrical Installation

Plumbing services requires on site would include;

1. All sanitary facilities

2. All drain and draining system

3. All disposal system

4. All water supply and disposal system

Electrical services include:

1. All electrical devices.

2. All lighting devices and fittings.

3. Locks and locking devices where applicable

These are to be fitted or constructed to meet the standard of workmanship

Sound Acoustic and Vibration Protection

Acoustic reverberation times are adjusted with an electronic system since there is an

adjustable orchestra pit and proscenium which can be varied in height and width Acoustic

ceiling used especially in worship offices.

4.9 External Work

All concrete work shall be done in accordance with British standard of workmanship.

So applies to all other construction works.

33
 1. Stability

2. Strength

3. Durability

The structure fringe work (arid) adopted allow a large open space which can be

divided with removable partition these made the building to be flexible

Materials

A similar analysis of the technical gaps identified in the discussion of materials

demonstrates that the most significant barriers to progress in implementing light weighting

materials in light-duty vehicles are also common to several materials.

4.10 Presentation of Results

In the presentation of result, there are 12 questions for respondents to answer, some of

it are: response on company type of work/service carried out, type of vehicle worked on,

workshop space, number of workers, available machine, machines working condition and

location of the workshop.

4.11 Concise Interpretation of Raw Data

Several tables were presented indicating the responses to the questions in Table 1, 2,

and 3, to establish were modification are required. Table 1 shows that the highest percentage

is servicing and maintenance with 28% compare to other types of services of 22% for body

repairs and diagnosis. Table 2 shows that the highest percentage of vehicle worked on are

Medium/light vehicle (SUV’s, Van, Sedan etc.) which amounted for 56%, this implies that

more services are required of the light and medium category of vehicles. Findings on the

workshop floor area in Table 3 show that 80% of the respondents believe that the space is

sufficient compare to 20% that disagree, which implies the area was manageable. Table 4,

shows that the 70% of workers working in the workshop are of age 11-20 while 20% are less

34
than 10 years and 10% amounting to over 20 years of age. This implies that most youth

majorly teenager are plying the job, a motivational program and scheme will be required to

build their skills in auto mechanics early in life. Table 5 shows that all the respondents

believe that there is enough floor space for storage, the implication is that extra space will not

be required during modification. Table 6, shows the analysis of access road to the workshop

from outside, the findings implies there were no indirect route. The indirect route is important

when there are cases of emergency. Table 7 shows that the numbers of machines in the

workshop were sufficient and in case of less performance enlightenment on the machine

application will be required for greater efficiency. Table 8 shows that the condition of

machines available in the workshop was excellent which may not likely be the true state.

Based on Table 9 the available tools in the workshop are sufficient. Table 10 reveal the

evaluation of the jobs carried out per day in the workshop is good which can still be

improved upon by modernizing and proper integration of the facilities. Table 11 shows that

most of the work were carried out outside the workshop floor this either limits the workshop

floor or implies the layout is not properly established. Based on the Table 12 shows that

Toyota brand of vehicle has the highest percentage of vehicle work upon, therefore priority

should be given to training in the work men on Toyota vehicle repairs skill. Based on the

analysis carried out on Table 13 using Relative Important Index (RII), it was observed that

the highest rank is Work bench, Compressor pump, Store room, fire extinguisher, engine

crain, floor jack and jack stands, rest room, offices, first aid kits, OBD scanner, laptop

computer, battery charging machine engine diagnostic equipment’s with 8.5 ranked value

followed by hydraulic lift, grease pump tool box trolley, dust removal system, stand smoke

detectors followed by transmission stand followed by wheel balancer (digital) and wheel

alignment.

35
 TABLE 1: Table analysis according to type of vehicle repairs/services carried out.

Types of Services Frequency Percentage (%)

Body repairs 8 22

Servicing 10 28

Maintenance 10 28

Diagnosis 8 22

TABLE 2: Type of Vehicle Worked on

Type of Vehicle Worked On Frequency Percentage (%)

Heavy duty vehicle (truck, articulated vehicle and 8 44

lorry)

Medium/light vehicle (SUV’s, van sedan etc.) 10 56

TABLE 3: Workshop Floor Space

Workshop floor area space Frequency Percentage (%)

Enough 8 80

Manageable 2 20

Total 10 100

TABLE 4: Number of Workers/People in the Workshop

Number of Workers Frequency Percentage (%)

1-10 2 20

36
 11-20 7 70

21-30 1 10

TOTAL 10 100

TABLE 5: Floor Space for Storage

Is there floor space for storage? Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 10 100

No 0 0

TABLE 6: Access to the Workshop from the Outside

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Direct 10 100

Indirect 0 0

TABLE 7: Number of Machines in the Workshop

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Enough 10 100

Average 0 0

Fair 0 0

TABLE 8: Condition of Machines Available in the Workshop

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

37
Excellent 8 80

Good 2 20

Fair 0 0

Poor 0 0

TABLE 9: Tools Available in the Workshop

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Enough 10 100

Average 0 0

Fair 0 0

TABLE 10: Evaluation of Number of Jobs Carried out Per day in the Workshop

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Yes 10 100

No 0 0

Table 11: Work carried out Outside the workshop floor

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Excellent 2 20

Good 7 70

Fair 1 10

Poor 0 0

38
 TABLE 12: Vehicle Brands Worked on

Response Frequency Percentage (%)

Honda 6 15

Mercedes 5 12.5

Toyota 12 30

Peugeot 5 12.5

Lexus 2 5

All vehicle makers 10 25

TABLE 13: Available Workshop Equipment/Facilities

Response
Equipment/Facilities
Yes No MEAN RII RANK

Hydraulic Lift 9 1 9.5 0.95 7

Work bench 10 0 10 1 8.5

Dust removal system 7 3 8.5 0.85 4.5

Compressor pump 10 0 10 1 8.5

Store room 10 0 10 1 8.5

fire extinguisher 10 0 10 1 8.5

stand smoke detectors 7 3 8.5 0.85 4.5

Transmission stand 6 4 8 0.8 3

Engine Crain 10 0 10 1 8.5

Floor jack and jack stands 10 0 10 1 8.5

Rest room 10 0 10 1 8.5

39
Offices 10 0 10 1 8.5

first aid kits 10 0 10 1 8.5

OBD scanner 10 0 10 1 8.5

Laptop computer 10 0 10 1 8.5

Wheel balancer (digital) 4 6 7 0.7 1.5

Wheel alignment 4 6 7 0.7 1.5

Grease pump tool box trolley 8 9 0.9 6

Battery charging machine engine 10 0 10 1 8.5

diagnostic equipment’s

Source: Field

4.12 Current Automobile Workshop of the Maiduguri

Fig. 1: Plan view of the existing workshop layout

40
4.13 Proposed Model Layout

The limitation experience in Fig 1 and Plate 1 shows a high restriction to

movement of vehicles. The arrangement of the pit and route for passage implies that only

a vehicle can be worked upon on the work floor at a time. The extra services done outside

the wok floor area will come to a hold during the rainy and sun shine period. The work

shop layout capture in Fig. 2 and 3 will give room for vehicle to work on in two routes,

thereby allowing 4 vehicles to be worked upon at the same time that is two per route. The

passage to the third door gives room for the repaired vehicle to be taken out been hinder

by the vehicles being repaired behind. The vehicles behind when repairs are completed

will easily be evacuated. Most facilities are positioned toward the wall to free the passage

at the work floor. The equipment in used are expected to be mobile so as to applied them

at any given point in time, this will go a long way to minimize the turn around and set up

time thereby improving the render service efficiency.

41
 CHAPTER FIVE

5.1 Conclusion

The Maiduguri, Borno State automobile workshop is a solution provider in

automobile services and the satisfaction of customers can be maintaining and improved

through efficient service delivery with the aid of an integrated equipment layout, the

automobile workshop needs improvement in workshop layout and man power

investments. The Maiduguri, Borno State automobile workshop does not meet with the

standard auto mobile workshop set up requirements, though it carries out servicing and

maintenance but it lacks sufficient machine/equipment, man power, suitable working

conditions and arrangement of machines. Consequently, the development of an effective

integrated equipment workshop layout and addition qualitative man power will bring

about staff encouragement, increase patronage and improved service delivery.

5.2 Recommendations

In order to attain quality a defective service delivery at The Maiduguri, Borno

State automobile workshop, the management need to invest more in the procurement of

up to date machines and equipment, employment of more man power with different

specializations and applied the developed workshop layout model. Though the workshop

has some workers, but there is a need to have well-structured personnel with a head of

department at each units of service delivery, the available floor space area seems not

enough which means its limited to one or two service delivery point at a time. This can be

solved by proper utilization of the available space and there is need for proper

illumination of the workshop. However, if these recommendations as suggested above

can be implemented by the management of The Maiduguri, Borno State the service

delivery of the automobile workshop will be greatly improved.

42
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APPENDIX

SITE PLAN

SITE LAYOUT

FLOOR PLAN

45
 ROOF PLAN

SECTION X/Y

FRONT & BACK ELEVATION

46
 RIGHT & LEFT ELEVATION

INTERIOR PERSPECTIVE

47