How to Choose a Temporary Works Contractor

In this post, we explore temporary works and why using a contractor is a great option for your next project.

What are temporary works?

Temporary works are required to enable the permanent works to be built. This may include scaffolding, shoring and excavation support. These aspects of the projects are removed after use. In some cases, temporary works are integrated into the permanent works.

There are often misconceptions that temporary works are less important than permanent works. However, they require the same consideration as permanent works processes and design. Temporary works are typically in place for a short period, but they are crucial to the success of a permanent works project. Without correct planning and design, temporary work issues could cause delays and safety risks.

Can our business organise temporary works in-house?

Temporary works are an essential part of a construction project. To ensure a streamlined and organised process, the organiser needs to have experience in this area. The person taking charge must understand the potential problems at each stage. Every aspect requires planning and risk assessment and involves a thorough and systematic approach.

The main elements of organising temporary works include:

• Design of temporary works
• Selecting appropriate equipment
• Appointing professional and experienced contractors
• Supervising work and managing people
• Quality check work carried out
• Authorising and monitoring the removal of temporary works

Each stage of temporary works projects requires consistent and precise planning and implementation. If you decide to take this on yourself, your business should be confident you have everything covered. A small error or omission in the process could cause significant delays to permanent works or potentially increase risk factors.

Why choose a temporary works contractor?

British Standards 5975 provides good practice guidelines for managing temporary works. This sets out a recommendation that a Temporary Works Coordinator should be used to oversee and manage temporary works projects. This job role is not legally required for projects. However, there is a legal requirement that the individual or party in charge ensure no risk to workers or the public during temporary works.

To ensure you have every base covered, a professional and experienced temporary works contractor is an excellent option.

Appointing a temporary works contractor

When choosing a suitable temporary works contractor, there are a few vital aspects to consider. The main areas include:

Experience in the field

Check the experience of a works contractor to ensure they understand your project needs. Professional contractors will display previous projects and learn the requirements and preferences you have.

Expertise and training credentials

Experienced temporary works contractors are well versed in the industry and have the training to back it up. Examples of training qualifications they may hold include CCDO and CPCS. Many works contractors are also members of established industry organisations such as the National Federation of Demolition Contractors (NFDC).

In-house Temporary Works Co-Ordinators

An established temporary works contractor can provide a coordinator for your project. This individual will oversee the design, organisation and management of the temporary works project as per the British Standards 5975 guidelines.

What services do temporary works contractors provide?

Every temporary works project is different. When researching a suitable partner for a construction project, think about the type of works required. Many contractors cover a wide range of temporary works solutions, including:

• Wall reinforcements
• Site hoarding
• Scaffolding
• Access infrastructure
• Fencing
• Stabilisation of properties
• Plus other remediation and demolition services

Within these areas, temporary works contractors also offer standard and tailored solutions for your project. For example, if you have a small-scale development, a standard solution may be suitable as pre-existing data is available for design and planning. However, in most cases, a tailored solution is required.

Using an experienced works contractor ensures careful consideration is made throughout the project. Everything from calculating equipment needs and foundation suitability to assessing conditions on site is covered. There are a variety of areas to establish to ensure the safety and success of permanent works. So these calculations are vital. Any issues or errors at this stage could delay a project or increase risk.

Choosing a works contractor to carry out these services also provides accountability at every stage of the project. That’s why it’s essential to have an experienced Temporary Works Coordinator to manage and monitor. It is also important to work alongside your contractor to understand the obligations and risks involved in any project.

What sectors do works contractors cover?

Temporary works are required in many sectors, including public and private. Many contractors cover a vast number of industries, and some opt to specialise in a specific area. However, most companies work across the board, including education, commercial, healthcare and industrial divisions.

When choosing a suitable works contractor, take a look at their previous projects in your sector. This can offer an insight into the type of services and works they provide.

How Weaver Demolition can help

Temporary works projects play a vital part in successful construction projects. To ensure you achieve maximum efficiency in a safe and streamlined way, we can help.

At Weaver Demolition, we have over five decades of experience in temporary works projects. Our CCDO and CPCS fully trained team are on hand to guide you through the process and consistently implement best practise for safety and maximum productivity. We also have in-house Temporary Works Coordinators for extra peace of mind throughout the job.

We work across many sectors and cover projects throughout the South West. Our temporary works services are also complemented by other remediation and demolition works as required.

This service is integral to permanent works projects, and we make the process as straightforward as possible.

If you are looking for professional temporary works solutions, don’t hesitate to contact the team today. Call us on 01761 452391 or email us at enquiries@weaverdemoliton.com.