A carpenter is setting up formwork for a 3.0 m high concrete wall. The concrete will be poured at a rate of 1.0 m per hour. Which of the following factors is most critical to consider when selecting and bracing the formwork system to prevent blowouts?

Question: A carpenter is setting up formwork for a 3.0 m high concrete wall. The concrete will be poured at a rate of 1.0 m per hour. Which of the following factors is most critical to consider when selecting and bracing the formwork system to prevent blowouts?

Answer options:

• Ambient temperature during the pour
• Colour of the formwork panels ✅ Lateral pressure exerted by the wet concrete
• Type of release agent applied to the forms

Correct answer: Lateral pressure exerted by the wet concrete

Explanation: The lateral pressure exerted by wet concrete, which is directly related to the pour rate and height, is the most critical factor in formwork design and bracing to prevent blowouts. Ambient temperature affects concrete setting time but not primary formwork pressure, while colour and release agent have negligible impact on structural integrity.