ACR-APR23-PG10.qxp_Layout 1 30/3/23 19:13 Page 1 In association with


SPECIAL FOCUS NEWS


Contractors’ Corner


N


ew technical guidance from the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) emphasises the importance of allowing adequate spacing between building services in projects using traditional approaches, modern methods of construction (MMC) and design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA). BESA Technical Bulletin (TB56/1.1)


  Group and provides a snapshot of guidelines, principles, and rules of thumb to be considered as early as possible in the design process for  It illustrates the importance of making sure the spatial provision of services, particularly key elements like ceiling void depths, distribution


routes, access and maintenance zones are validated and accurate by the end of RIBA Stage 3 as the building form and fabric will be largely set by that point. The free guidance, which was


 days after it was published, explains how designers and engineers should ensure that pinch points and spatial consideration are a consideration for all ‘rooms, routes and risers’ (the three R’s). It also gives project teams valuable rules of thumb for ensuring proper separation of services, spare capacity, and future service zones to allow for any potential changes during the lifetime of the building. “This technical bulletin is a


great example of the collaboration


between BESA, the industry’s leading MMC and DfMA manufacturers, and delivery companies. It is encouraging that all the parties were keen to share their combined knowledge and experience with the wider industry,”  Snell.  of concern that, unless considered at the earliest stages, can lead to multiple problems down the line and restrict our ability to achieve co-ordination of works at RIBA stage 4 and beyond. It can also leave end clients with a potentially expensive problem if they want to make changes to the building in the future.”


The technical bulletin is free to download and refers to relevant


industry guidance including BESA publications DW144 and TR19. It focuses heavily on best practice for managing service distribution using  void or through service tunnels to  that also supports future service and maintenance. It has sections on the


separation of services within voids,  and the location of life safety services amongst others. “An understanding of the client’s


spare/future capacity requirements is key to providing the right level of  making generic allowances,” said Mr Snell. “Void modelling should also take into account any likely future service requirements.”


Thermofrost 10 April 2023 • www.acr-news.com Download the ACR News app today


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