Air Tightness - Site Advice Visits

Air Tightness Info Pack

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HRS's on-site expertise was used to good effect by Laing O'Rourke on Swindon schools. The PFI contract specification included an item for them to achieve an air permeability rate of 10m³/h/m² at the final air test. By carrying out three site audits at critical stages of the construction programme, HRS enabled the air tightness specification to be met first time, with minimal disruption and extra costs.

Problem

LOR were already on-site and out of the ground on all the sites with sub-contracts placed for all the major packages of work. How could LOR ensure that the schools complied with the air tightness specification first time, without recourse to taking on any more sub-contractors, whilst retaining control and responsibility for the air tightness specification and final air tightness test result?

Solution

HRS visited all sites and liased directly with the LOR Project Engineer to carry out detailed Site Audits. First, a design review was carried out on-site with the LOR Project Engineer. Aspects of the design, specification and/or construction were highlighted if there was any significant risk of an air leakage path being created. Details were noted, photographed and recorded in an audit schedule, with recommendations made for remedial works. Subsequently, visits to site were made on dates arranged during the first visit to coincide with critical dates on the construction programme. All areas of concern noted in the schedule were inspected along with any new works that were complete. A new detailed schedule was built up and presented to the LOR Project Manager. HRS also provided attendance during the air tightness tests to ensure the tests were set-up and carried out correctly.

HRS Services Capabilities

HRS Services send experienced Contract/Operation Managers to inspect air sealing works at any stage of construction, even after an air tightness test if the result was poor. This can be the first stage in preventing or resolving a problem. Terms of reference may address the correct fitting of specified materials, omissions at design stage, problems with building technique or producing a schedule for remedial action. Reports are usually delivered in hard copy but, where speed is the priority, e-mail or CD are options.