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Embracing prefab I
n recent years, we have seen a big increase in the use of prefabrication in the construction industry. In fact, it was revealed at the beginning of September 2017 that construction giant Lendlease had picked an offsite specialist to assist with the prefabricated design of Google’s new Headquarters in London. According to the Building Engineering Services Association (BESA), offsite construction is now used in 90% of UK projects and accounts for 3-4% of the total construction market. With leading companies such as Google and Crossrail choosing to use it in their landmark projects, we can expect these numbers to continue to rise. However, whilst there are obvious benefits, many clients have concerns that pre-building large parts of projects offsite could result in sizing errors, a reduction in quality and can make deliveries even more complex than they already are. As a key supplier to the industry we are keen to help address these concerns and enable our customers to gain maximum competitive advantage from this new trend.
Challenges
There are valid concerns about using prefabricated components in a project. The first is the inability to react to unexpected changes during the installation process. It is impossible to predict what can happen on a fast-moving construction site. Normally, workers will prepare for unforeseen changes, such as additional corners, as they occur. However, if the component is assembled offsite and then a problem arises, the sub-contractor would either have to return the product and wait for a replacement, or attempt to fix it. This can then cause delays and result in fines for the sub-contractor.
Another key consideration is the increasingly strict delivery restrictions. There are specific rules that delivery companies must comply with before they are allowed on site. Many require vehicles to be FORS accredited, which promotes best practice in terms of safety, efficiency and environmental protection. I have also known delivery drivers to be turned away if they are wearing shorts rather than trousers due to health and safety regulations. Similarly, if a product isn’t packaged properly it can become a safety risk and the site manager won’t accept the delivery. Pre-assembled components are much larger and therefore more complex to transport. It is imperative that suppliers and their delivery services are aware of these regulations and take steps to avoid a failed delivery.
Benefits
However, there are a number of benefits for using prefabrication on a project. One of the biggest is cost saving as it requires fewer people, takes less time, and potentially reduces risk of delays. It is no secret that there is a skills shortage in the construction industry. Large numbers of Eastern European workers have returned home, partly due to the weaker pound, but also because of the uncertainty surrounding Brexit. This, combined with fewer young people choosing plumbing and other manual jobs as careers, has resulted in a dramatic decrease in the number of skilled workers. However, utilising prefabrication simplifies the installation process as workers only need to fit the component rather than cut it to size. As a result, not only does it reduce the amount of labour needed on a job, but also the time it takes to install. In addition, some argue that it improves the
With increasing costs and time pressures and a continuing skills shortage, many companies see prefabrication as a potential solution to these problems. Managing director of Fixmart Carl Ghinn has some advice about how to make the most out of prefab
quality of the products being used as they are being measured and fitted in a controlled environment. This reduces the risk of delays due to faulty or ill- fitting products. As many sub-contractors operating on sites are working to strict margins and timeframes, the slightest delay can be the difference between a loss and profit on a project. Utilising prefabrication can provide peace of mind.
Solution
As a supplier, we are able to do a number of things that will help our clients embrace prefabrication and use it to their advantage. These include offering bespoke solutions which are designed to help customers save time and labour on site such as pre-cutting channel and ductwork to exact requirements and assembling products before they are delivered to site. Delivery vehicles are modified to enable delivery of larger and longer products. In my opinion, it is important to build trust with clients by ensuring every product you provide is of a high quality and fit for purpose. I would also advise finding a supplier that offers flexible delivery solutions, such as timed delivery slots, as well as one that understands the complexities of delivery regulations.
With the big names beginning to embrace and explore prefabricated construction it is only a matter of time that it becomes the norm on projects across the UK.
Carl Ghinn
NATURALLY INSPIRED EFFICIENCY
Y
built for speed
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www.heatingandventilating.net February 2018
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