Clause 17.5.3 Tolerance on Position of Reinforcement and Tendons

AS3600-2009 Clause 17.5.3, provides the basis for reinforcement placing
tolerances.

The position of reinforcement and tendons may differ from that specified as
follows where a ‘+’ value indicates that the cover may be greater than specified
and a ‘-’ indicates the cover may be less.

(a) Where the position (mm) is controlled by the minimum design cover, eg, all
round ties and stirrups, the cover at ends and from surfaces in walls and slabs.

(i) Beam, slab, column, wall.....................................................-5, + 10 mm
(ii) Slab on ground .................................................................... -10, + 20 mm
(iii) Footing cast in ground....................................................... -10, + 40 mm

(b) Where the position is not controlled by the minimum design cover, for
example on-

(i) The position of the ends of a main bar ............................ 50 mm
(ii) The spacing of parallel bars in a slab or wall, or spacing of fitments 10% of specified spacing or 15 mm, whichever is greater