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From Scaffolding to Shoring: The Essential Role of Temporary Works

Monday, November 04, 2024
Temporary works are an essential aspect of construction, providing the necessary support and protection to ensure the safe and efficient completion of permanent structures. These engineered solutions are designed to facilitate the construction process and can include a variety of structures such as props, shoring, hoarding, scaffolding, edge protection, façade retention, formwork and cofferdams.

What Are Temporary Works?

Temporary works are structures that are required during the construction process but are not part of the final permanent structure. They are used to support and protect both existing structures and the new permanent works during various stages of construction, modification or demolition. These temporary structures can be removed once the permanent works are self-supporting, or they may remain in place for an extended period, depending on the project requirements.

Key Functions of Temporary Works
  • Supporting and Protecting Structure - temporary works provide essential support to existing structures or the permanent works during construction. This includes propping, shoring and façade retention to ensure stability and safety.
  • Stabilising Permanent Structures - during construction, pre-weakening or demolition, temporary works offer stability to the permanent structure. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the construction site and preventing accidents.
  • Earthworks and Excavation Support - temporary works include provisions for earthworks or slopes to an excavation, supports to the side or roof of an excavation, and supports or diversions to a watercourse during construction operations. These measures ensure the safety and stability of the excavation site.
  • Providing Safe Work Platforms - structures such as jetties, scaffolding, edge protection, and towers are used to create safe platforms for work activities on land or water. These platforms are essential for the safety of workers and the efficiency of construction operations.
  • Controlling Environmental Factors - temporary works also involve measures to control noise, dust, debris, fumes, air quality, groundwater, and site discharges during construction. These controls are vital for maintaining a safe and compliant work environment.
  • Site Security and Access - temporary works can include hoarding, haul roads, fencing, and stairs to secure a site and provide safe access for workers and equipment. This helps in segregating pedestrians and vehicles, ensuring a safe and organized construction site.
  • Supporting Plant, Materials, and Equipment - temporary structures are used to support or restrain plant, materials, or equipment, including the stability of water-borne craft. This support is crucial for the safe handling and storage of construction materials and equipment.
  • Protecting Services and Facilitating Testing - temporary works provide protection or support to services and facilitate various types of testing, such as pressure testing pipes, pile testing, pre-demolition testing, and floor load capacity testing. These tests are essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of the construction process.

The Importance of Following BS5975:2019

BS5975:2019 is the British Standard that provides recommendations and guidance on the procedural control of temporary works in construction. It is a critical document that outlines best practices for the design, implementation, and management of temporary works.
  • Ensuring Safety and Compliance - following BS5975:2019 ensures that temporary works are designed and managed according to the highest safety standards. This reduces the risk of accidents and failures, protecting both workers and the public.
  • Standardising Procedures - the standard provides a consistent framework for managing temporary works, ensuring that all stakeholders follow the same procedures. This standardisation helps in maintaining quality and safety across different projects.
  • Enhancing Communication and Coordination - BS5975:2019 emphasises the importance of communication and coordination among all parties involved in temporary works. This collaborative approach is essential for identifying and mitigating risks effectively.
  • Improving Risk Management - the standard includes detailed guidance on risk assessment and management, helping construction professionals to identify potential hazards and implement appropriate control measures. This proactive approach is crucial for preventing incidents.
  • Supporting Legal Compliance - adhering to BS5975:2019 helps construction companies comply with legal requirements and industry regulations. This compliance is essential for avoiding legal issues and maintaining a good reputation in the industry.

Legal Requirements and CDM Regulations

Respecting the law and adhering to the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) is paramount in managing temporary works. The CDM Regulations are designed to improve health and safety in the construction industry by ensuring that all parties involved in a project are aware of their responsibilities and take appropriate measures to manage risks.
  • Health and Safety Legislation - the CDM Regulations require that health and safety considerations are integrated into the planning and management of construction projects from the outset. This includes the design, installation, management, and removal of temporary works.
  • Roles and Responsibilities - the CDM Regulations outline the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders, including clients, designers, contractors, and workers. Each party must ensure that temporary works are planned, designed, and executed safely.
  • Risk Management - under the CDM Regulations, a thorough risk assessment must be conducted for all temporary works. This involves identifying potential hazards, assessing the risks, and implementing control measures to mitigate those risks.
  • Coordination and Communication - effective coordination and communication are essential under the CDM Regulations. All parties must work together to ensure that temporary works are managed safely and efficiently, with clear lines of communication and coordination.
  • Documentation and Compliance - proper documentation is required to demonstrate compliance with the CDM Regulations. This includes maintaining records of risk assessments, design briefs, inspection reports, and any modifications made to temporary works.
Temporary works are a fundamental component of the construction process, providing the necessary support and protection to ensure the safe and efficient completion of permanent structures. By understanding the various functions and applications of temporary works, and by following the guidelines set out in BS5975:2019 and the CDM Regulations, construction professionals can better manage the risks and challenges associated with these essential structures. Whether supporting existing structures, stabilising new builds, or providing safe work platforms, temporary works play a critical role in the success of construction projects.