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RAAC in Manufacturing FAQs
Yes. Where possible, works can be planned around production schedules to minimise disruption and maintain operational continuity.
All RAAC surveys, assessments and remediation works are carefully planned to minimise disruption. We coordinate closely with site teams to schedule works around production requirements, use phased or off-peak programmes where possible, and implement controls to maintain safety and access. This ensures that operations can continue while risk is managed effectively, and any necessary interventions are completed efficiently.
Yes. Many clients choose to align surveys, remediation or installation works with planned shutdowns or maintenance windows.
Our teams are experienced in working in operational industrial settings, with detailed planning, risk assessments and coordination with site safety teams.
Structural assessments consider imposed loads, plant, services and usage. Remediation solutions are designed to address these conditions safely and effectively.
Assessments consider panel condition, support arrangements, deflections, loading and environmental factors to develop an appropriate risk profile and solution.
RAAC in the NHS FAQs
Yes. We have experience working in live healthcare settings and plan works carefully to maintain patient safety and service continuity.
Works are planned in line with site-specific infection control requirements, with appropriate containment, access controls and cleaning regimes agreed in advance.
Yes. Surveys, assessments and remediation can be phased and programmed to avoid critical clinical areas where possible and minimise operational impact.
Our assessments focus on understanding risk in context. Any urgent safety concerns are communicated immediately, with clear advice on mitigation and management options.
In many cases, engineered remediation solutions can provide long-term risk management without the need to decant services, subject to detailed assessment.
RAAC in Schools FAQs
Yes. RAAC surveys and assessments can be undertaken during term time with appropriate planning and controls in place. We work closely with school leaders to minimise disruption and ensure safety.
Safety is our priority. Access arrangements, restricted areas and working methods are agreed in advance, and any immediate risks identified are communicated straight away with clear advice on next steps.
Where possible, RAAC remediation and installation works can be programmed during school holidays to minimise disruption to teaching and learning.
We plan RAAC surveys, assessments and remediation works to minimise disruption wherever possible. This may include careful programming, phased works, restricted access zones and undertaking works outside teaching hours or during school holidays. We work closely with school leaders to understand operational constraints and agree arrangements in advance.
If a significant risk is identified, we will notify you immediately and provide clear guidance on emergency measures, next steps and longer-term options to manage the risk safely.
In many cases, remediation or engineered solutions such as RAAC Lift® can allow buildings to remain in use without the need for full closure, subject to risk assessment and site conditions.
Yes. Our approach to RAAC in schools aligns with current DfE guidance and expectations. Our assessments and reporting provide clear, evidence-based information to support decision-making, compliance and funding discussions where required.
RAAC Lift® FAQs
RAAC Lift® is designed for rapid deployment thanks to its lightweight and modular construction. It can often be installed in short bursts, including during off-peak or out-of-hours periods where necessary to minimise disruption to building operations.
RAAC Lift® provides a long-term remedial solution to the structural issues associated with RAAC plank deflection. Installations carried out many years ago continue to perform effectively, demonstrating that the solution is durable and lasting, not a temporary fix.
RAAC Lift® addresses key structural risk-factors such as deflection and ponding by transferring load to a new support structure. Before installation, our structural assessment will consider internal panel condition, including corrosion, to ensure RAAC Lift® is appropriate; where necessary, additional remedial measures may be recommended as part of a tailored solution.
In many cases, RAAC Lift® can be installed without replacing the existing roof covering, as the system is engineered to work with the existing panels. Detailed planning and assessment ensure that any required access or weatherproofing arrangements are agreed with you in advance.
RAAC Lift® is developed in consultation with leading scientists and structural engineers and has a strong track record in practice. Installations are carried out under a comprehensive quality and safety regime. Specific warranty terms will be provided as part of your contract and will reflect the engineered design and installation scope agreed for your building.
RAAC Removal FAQs
RAAC removal is undertaken only when other remediation strategies aren’t feasible. Our team uses a proprietary, safety-first RAAC removal methodology developed through years of experience. Works are planned using detailed risk assessments and method statements, and carried out by experienced personnel to ensure controlled and safe removal.
Maintaining structural stability is part of the removal planning. Where RAAC panels are removed, appropriate temporary supports and sequencing are used to ensure the remaining structure is stable throughout. This protects both the building and those working on site.
RAAC removal is an intrusive construction activity, but RCS uses methods that minimise damage, dust and disruption to surrounding areas. Our experienced teams manage works carefully, with containment and housekeeping measures in place to keep sites as clean and controlled as possible.
When roof panels containing RAAC are removed, weather protection - such as a temporary roof covering - is often needed to protect the building until permanent reinstatement works are complete. The exact solution depends on the extent of removal and the project plan agreed with you.
No. RAAC removal is a specialist service requiring experienced personnel and a rigorous, engineered methodology. RCS only undertakes removal where necessary and does so using proprietary techniques that reduce disruption and risk. Our team has successfully delivered RAAC removal projects across a wide range of sectors.
RAAC Remediation FAQs
The time required for RAAC remediation will vary depending on the specific solution agreed. Some interim safety measures and monitoring solutions can be implemented quickly following a structural assessment, while more substantial structural remediation works may take a number of weeks. The programme will be planned with you in advance to align with your priorities and operational needs.
Yes. Where appropriate and agreed in advance, RAAC remediation works — particularly interim safety measures or installation of engineered solutions — can be planned outside normal working hours to minimise disruption. We coordinate closely with clients to ensure works fit operational schedules.
RAAC remediation solutions are selected based on the condition of the RAAC and the risk profile of the building. Some engineered structural solutions, such as strengthening or support systems, are designed to restore structural integrity for the planned lifespan of the building. While short-term measures focus on risk management until a permanent solution is implemented. All options are evaluated against expected performance and future needs.
Yes. A key principle of our approach is to consider sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Where possible, RCS finds alternatives to full panel removal, using solutions that extend the life of existing structure, reduce material waste and support your organisation’s climate goals. This science-backed approach often results in lower embodied carbon and a smaller environmental footprint compared with wholesale removal and replacement.
RAAC Appraisal FAQs
An options appraisal will typically take 3-weeks, although this can vary, and includes a structural assessment, a programme to understand site conditions and work with stakeholders to determine their priorities.
Our methodology to identify the most appropriate and cost effective option is based on proprietary research conducted by RCS and its academic and engineering partners. As such, our interpretation of the data and our experience leads to a more nuanced understanding of what is possible.
As part of the appraisal we will work with you to identify key stakeholders. This could include facilities, capital projects, building managers, finance, health & safety and building users or operators.
The solution(s) will be identified using our ‘Options Appraisal’ methodology, which ranks options based on engineering data and interpretation, site conditions and stakeholder priorities.
Typically the output will include a presentation to key stakeholders and a detailed report..
RAAC Assessment FAQs
This is heavily dependent on the size of the building, the access required in order to undertake the inspection and the quantity of panels. We typically aim to inspect at least 10% of the panels to develop the engineering data required to make a risk assessment. Typically on site work is 1-2 days with data and calculations and final reporting following a week later.
The engineer leading the assessment will want to establish the bearing length ( how far the end of the panel sits on top of a wall or steel). There are several methods for determining this, which may include making a small hole. Occasionally, we may drill a small hole in a panel to determine if the metal inside is present over the bearing. This work is conducted under the supervision of our lead engineer.
The engineers follow the IStructE guidance to determine the risk classification. This includes looking for signs of water leaks (both present and past), cracking, inadequate bearing lengths, deflections, corrosion and signs of spalling (bits falling off).
RCS will work with you to understand if a risk of asbestos is possible and can support you in deciding how best to manage it.
It is very helpful to have someone that knows the history of the buildings and has keys to all areas. We will ask for any original construction drawings, asbestos reports, floorplans and any existing survey reports. We will work with you in advance to understand if any support with access is required. Depending on the use of the building we may need to restrict access when the assessment is underway.
This will be dependent on the scale of the buildings but typically reports are issued within two weeks. If needed, a verbal dynamic risk assessment will be given if the lead engineer believes an urgent safety issue exists. We will work with you to present emergency options and support you in managing the risk.
If needed, a verbal dynamic risk assessment will be given if the lead engineer believes an urgent safety issue exists. We will work with you to present emergency options and support you in managing the risk.
RAAC Survey FAQs
Time will be spent researching and reviewing the property in advance. Typically we will be on site for 1 day with a further day for detailing our findings in a comprehensive report
We try to avoid making any intrusions if possible. On occasion, we will need to make a small hole in plaster finished ceilings to determine what is behind the finish.
Our specialist surveying team has extensive experience in identifying RAAC. Testing is not normally required.
RCS will work with you to understand if a risk of asbestos is possible and can support you in deciding how best to manage it.
It is very helpful to have someone that knows the history of the buildings and has keys to all areas. We will work with you in advance to understand if any support with access is required.
Typically individual reports are issued within one week. If a surveyor identifies RAAC which presents a risk you will be notified immediately and we will work with you to manage the risk and next steps.
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