RAAC – Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete – How to identify it and what to do about it

Do you have buildings constructed between the mid 1950s-80s?

Due to its light weight, fire resistance and thermal performance, RAAC was a commonly used construction material during this period and may well be present. Buildings constructed outside this period are unlikely to have RAAC present.

Artelia can offer a fast response RAAC remediation service: from identification survey to safe mitigation and removal.

What to do about RAAC?

RAAC IDENTIFICATION SURVEY:

• A physical inspection conducted by a specialist building surveyor is the best way to identify if a building is constructed using RAAC.
• This will identify the nature and extent of RAAC present and any urgent safety concerns.

DETAILED CONDITION ASSESSMENT & REMEDIATION PLAN:

• If RAAC has been identified, a detailed assessment of its condition and any dangers to building users is required.
  Drawing together structural, surveying and, if necessary, asbestos specialists and, in close consultation with you we will prepare a remediation plan to mitigate the long term risk.
• The remediation plan will consider practical issues specific to the site and the best way to remove or manage RAAC in the building, along with outline costs.

FAST RESPONSE SAFETY PRECAUTIONS:

• If RAAC is identified as being at serious risk of failure during the site survey or assessment e.g. cracking or deflection in panels is noted, Artelia can immediately assist with safety precautions, such as, procuring propping, signage, organising temporary accommodation.

REMEDIATION – RAAC FAIL SAFE WORKS:

• Whilst there is plenty of media hype around RAAC failure, much remains in good structural condition and any imminent danger can be managed through fail safe works, such as the installation of supporting beams.
• Through our RAAC expert partnerships we can design, cost and implement the works quickly and efficiently.

RAAC REMOVAL & RENEWAL:

• With a RAAC time expired life span of 30 years, removal and replacement is often required.
• With our partners we can design the most cost and time efficient solution to achieve this.
• Our ANG Artelia management contracting team can then procure and manage removal and renewal, ensuring safety and minimising disruption.
• We work on an open book basis so you have complete cost transparency.

PUBLIC PROCUREMENT – DIRECT CALL OFF

As a supply to Crown Commercial Service’s (CCS) Construction Professional Services framework RM6165 for Lot 2 and NHS Shared Business Services’ (NHS SBS) Healthcare Planning, Construction Consultancy and Ancillary Services (HPCCAS) framework, you can quickly and simply procure Artelia’s services.

For more information contact:

Colin Wood, Director

colin.wood@uk.arteliagroup.com