STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS 53
Fit for the job, or forget S
ince BS 8102 was first published in 1990 it has been raising standards in the design of waterproofing below ground structures and ensuring they provide an environment that is suitable for the intended use. When revised in 2009, the document became recognised as the industry standard, and the latest revision in March this year sets to clarify key areas – one being the selection criteria for a waterproofing specialist on projects. Giving a clear indication of those responsible for the overall waterproofing design, BS 8102:2022 makes it clear from the onset that a waterproofing specialist should be appointed as early as possible, especially when it is imparted as a contractual process. Alternatively, a waterproofing specialist may develop an outline design, which is later adopted as part of a client’s requirements and developed by a suitably experienced and qualified waterproofing specialist as a Contractor’s Designed Portion.
What makes a waterproofing specialist?
In section 4.2 of the standard, it states that a waterproofing specialist should be appointed as part of the design team so that an integrated waterproofing solution is created. Many waterproofing manufacturers, contractors, etc. deem their employees to be suitably qualified for this role when achieving a qualification such as Certified Surveyor of Structural Waterproofing (CSSW). However, BS 8102:2022 states that the waterproofing specialist should be suitably qualified and experienced, commensurate with the type and size of the proposed project. This is where many manufacturers, contractors and specialist installers do not fulfil the requirements. For example, an employee who is new to the waterproofing industry and has recently passed their CSSW would not be recognised in the standard as a specialist. Among other things, they lack necessary ‘live’ site experience and an understanding of
ADF JULY 2022
Steve D’Arcy of Visqueen examines how revised guidance around waterproofing make it vital to appoint a ‘fit for the job’ specialist as part of the design team – a crucial factor for avoiding pitfalls down the line
construction forms and sequencing. Similarly, where a contractor has spent 20 years in the refurbishment sector, predominantly focusing on basement conversions, they lack the experience needed to design and install a large-scale new build carpark basement requiring potentially various grades of waterproofing. In addition, a waterproofing specialist should be capable of devising solutions that accommodate the various project constraints and needs with an understanding of construction forms and sequencing. Finally, they should be able to provide the design team with information and guidance that assists with and influences the design, installation and future maintenance of the waterproofed structure. As such, BS 8102:2022 has become more prescriptive regarding appointing a waterproofing specialist. For some, it has not gone far enough – many would like to see an example time frame of industry experience or a demonstration in their experience with example projects in a portfolio. The document could be more
BS 8102:2022 states that the waterproofing specialist should be suitably
qualified and experienced, commensurate with the type and size of the proposed project
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