Officially the design codes in most African countries that are members of the Commonwealth are probably based on UK (BS Standards). What obtains in reality is another matter.
In situations where they can get away with it, engineers typically use codes they are familiar with. German trained engineers use DIN standards, local and UK trained engineers use BS standards and so on. For the most part, dimensions in plans are in SI units.
If you will be working in Sierra Leone, you may have to be registered with the Professional Engineers Registration Council (PERC).
What is it like working there? Like working in any developing nation, it could be great and it could be hell on earth-depends on a host of factors too numerous to enucleate. If I were you, I'd contact the embassy/High Commission/ministry dept. /etc. If you are from the UK check this link out below
Finally, discuss with people who have worked there. A lot of American and British citizens once served as volunteers under the Peace Corps and VSO programs respectively. They visit, have associations such as Friends of Sierra Leone (for former Peace Corps). I am sure, they’d be more than willing to provide you with some valuable tips.
My first overseas project was in Ghana, design codes were Britiah Standard. I was on the coast and it was a good place to live and work. Later I worked in the oil producing area of Nigeria, not so good.
Are you going to be working on the coast or upcountry? On site or in an office?
