4.1 Tarps, tents & kits

There is a standard IFRC repair kit but care should be taken to ensure that the contents meet the needs of the families and that the contents are culturally appropriate. The standard kit (see link below) contains:

  • Tools (shovel, hammer, handsaw, hoe, shears etc.),
  • Fixings (nails, tie wire etc.)
  • Two tarpaulins (6mx4m) and rope.

While the tarps and rope may be suitable for distribution at a household level, the tools may be lower priority and could be shared between a number of families. Most items, apart from the tarps, will probably be available in the local market and feasible to be sourced locally and in-country. Specifications for all items listed in the shelter repair kit are available on the IFRC emergency items catalogue and on the emergency shelter kit guidelines.

Other building materials such as CGI sheeting, timber and bamboo are frequently included into the contents of the Emergency Shelter Kit.

http://procurement.ifrc.org/catalogue/overview.aspx?volume=1&groupcode=111&familycode=111001

http://www.ifrc.org/PageFiles/95526/publications/D.03.a.07.%20IFRC%20shelter-kit-guidelines-EN-LR.pdf

Shelter fixing kit

Galvanised nails, roofing nails and tie wire are often among the most requested items as they allow families to rebuild using salvaged materials. These can be collected into a ‘fixing kit’ that complements the tools in the Emergency Shelter kit. Critical items that allow the family to comply with key build-back-safer messages – such as cyclone strapping – should certainly be considered.

The CARE UK shelter team can advise on suitable items and quantities to be included in the fixing kit.

General considerations on sourcing of shelter and NFI items

As part of the EPP process, the CO may have pre-identified suppliers and this should be checked in the EPP in use. A rapid market survey should be conducted to evaluate the capacity of local/national vendors prior to considering the international procurement options. However, local procurement is often not feasible in emergency contexts due to limited availability or poor quality of shelter and NFI items, and a combination of sources will be required to achieve the right quantity, quality and speed of delivery.