Safety, Security & Fire Protection
MODULAR BUILDING / FIRE AND SAFETY PROTECTION Modular construction is not a new concept, but it is growing in popularity as its full potential and benefits become clearer with the advancement of technology. In particular, modular technology has proven itself to be an extremely efficient and safe option, with some products offering enhanced fire protection when compared to traditional materials. The UK’s construction sector is a major part of the national economy, representing approximately 8% of GDP, almost 10% of employment and £150bn of annual investment according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). The sector provides direct economic benefits from construction as well as enabling the growth of the wider economy by providing the homes, offices, other buildings and warehouses that are the foundation of our lives and businesses. However, one of the biggest problems faced by the sector and the economy at large is the need for scale and the rapid development of new buildings. The current market-led solutions have not been able to meet demand, and so it has become vital to research and develop new, modern methods of construction (MMC) and the products, which enable them.
construction industry can adapt successfully to the climate emergency and become a positive factor in that fight rather than a negative one. Modern methods of construction are proving themselves able to provide all of the above benefits as well as increased safety. For example, the UK Green Building Council notes that,
67% less energy is required to produce a modular building and up to 50% less time is spent onsite when compared to traditional methods, resulting in up to 90% fewer vehicle movements, which is less disruptive for the local community and reduces carbon emissions. For these reasons and others, we can see that modular approaches to construction are transforming the sector and making it fit for the 21st century. While we should be careful to note that MMC will not fix every issue the construction industry has, there is no doubt
Using modular technology can vastly increase the efficiency of construction in the UK at all stages. Products are built offsite in mass-produced, factory-assembly conditions that speed up the process and increase the quality of the final product. This helps to eliminate mistakes and wastage as much as possible, all while delivering the product faster. Another critical factor is the need to achieve this in a sustainable manner so that the
that the techniques and products in the sector can make huge, positive changes on a short timescale if the investment and will to do so are present. One area where MMC can have an immediate impact is walling systems. Advanced wall systems in construction are one of the most important parts of any development. Modern methods of construction – most notably off-site manufacturing – are rapidly changing the landscape and providing superior alternatives to traditional wall systems. A great example of this is Specwall, which offers major advantages over traditional wall systems like blockwork, plasterboard, and SFS. Off-site manufacturing means that Specwall panels are delivered to site and then installed as single pieces with all acoustic, insulation and fire ratings inherent to them – in the case of the latter, Specwall is A1-rated and cannot contribute to a fire at any stage, making it an ideal fire-safe option for all types of buildings. This means that only a single-visit construction process is required, cutting down on build time, cost and more when using Specwall, giving you all the advantages of modern methods of construction for your development. Further to the above, Specwall is also resistant to damage from water and mould, which cuts down on waste during construction, and means the panels can be installed or stored in wet conditions before the building is watertight – providing further benefits when it comes to programme time. Specwall is also a more sustainable wall system than traditional wall systems as it is 100% recyclable, including any dust generated during construction. Even the off-cuts can be used on site as construction continues, and panels can be reused in situ at a later date if required. As the world of construction continues to rebuild itself to suit 21st century needs, Modern Methods of Construction and modular developments will continue to come to the fore. They are faster, more cost efficient, more environmentally sustainable and often safer, as is the case with Specwall.
To learn more about MMC and how Specwall can help you, get in touch with our team today on 0161 511 4790 or visit www.specwall.com
46 Construction UK Magazine - August 2022