Scenario
We were approached to partner in the delivery of HRRB works under the guidance of the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) on a contract valued at £2 million at a tenanted residential tower block at Whitton’s Mill Gainsborough. The contract included the provision of guidance and support on specifications, submission support, site programming, supply of specialist trades, organising mobilisation and workflows, and the supply of third party accredited sign off for the installations. We were selected due to previous work with the main contractor and our expertise in delivering FRA projects and construction works.
Task
We were tasked to assist under an SLE service level agreement and ensure that the FRA works were carried out in conjunction with the end user specification, while meeting all BSR requirements. In addition, we were tasked to ensure the following:
• Provision of compliance documentation.
• Liaison with the local authority building inspectors.
• Supply and contribution of social value measures.
The challenges we faced were new building safety regulator rules and logistical issues due to limited site space. We were also carrying the financial burden for over 90% of project implementation and delivery and whilst not acting as the main contractor, we nevertheless carried out most of the site delivery, mobilisation, and handover works.
Action
To overcome the challenges, we used our extensive knowledge of compliance works and industry to assist the clients delivery team in design hurdles, offering help and guidance to Client architects. To deliver the tasks we implemented the following approach:
• Client specification and site visits.
• Site measure and drafting of QA documentation to assist our delivery process for FRA works.
• Supply chain mobilisation.
• Compliance paperwork drafted in line with requirements under the BSR.
• Programs drafted that correspond with site install schedules and deliveries.
• Issue of schedules to supply chain and clients.
• Meetings with supply chains to ensure availability of products and services.
• The project team ensure sufficient man-power.
• Pre-start meetings held to ensure proposals are understood.
• Site work commences in line with the program.
• Work in progress visits carried out.
• Phased handover.
• Compliance documents drafted for handovers.
• Recorded in line with our reporting requirements for our Third-party accreditations.
• Phased handover documents sent to client.
In addition, we also assisted with the BSR submissions when issues arose, with Operations Manager, Martyn Shaw and Compliance Manager, Adam Outram, supplying guidance and documentation.
Outcome
Works were handed over with minimal issue and within the designated timeframe despite the logistical issues experienced due to the structured collaborative approach alongside a strong tried and tested process of delivery. We learned from the complexity and multifaceted nature of the BSR submissions that required a great deal of planning, that it is best that Clients do not rush to site with these submissions as this can lead to delays. We had positive feedback from both Client, end Clients, and residents, which was pleasing especially due to the complex nature of the installation.
