RAAC Options Appraisal
Find the most appropriate RAAC remediation option for your organisation using the industry’s first research-backed appraisal methodology.
We determine the best RAAC remediation option on a case-by-case basis
RAAC removal should always be the last resort. That’s why we’ve worked with Loughborough University, Expedition Engineering and our RAAC specialist structural engineers to create a multi-criteria decision framework that considers the following:
The latest research
We work closely with our specialists to translate the latest RAAC theory and research into practical applications
Panel and site condition
We incorporate the findings from our survey and structural assessment, to ensure that the choice of remediation option factors in the engineering based risk assessment and an understanding of any significant site conditions, or roof configuration.
Stakeholder priorities
We guide key stakeholders through a structured process to consider the relative importance of specific criteria, when defining the most appropriate form of remediation. Among other things, this includes effectiveness, cost, timeframe, disruption and sustainability .
Our approach is grounded in science
We work closely with the Loughborough University group leading research on RAAC in the UK and other specialist partners, to translate the latest RAAC theory and research into practical applications. This includes Professor Chris Goodier, who contributed to the formal guidance on RAAC and currently advises the UK Government.
What are your options for remediating RAAC?
Condition monitoring
Immediate intervention isn’t always necessary. In many cases, RAAC panels pose no immediate threat to buildings or their occupants, meaning ongoing monitoring and management is the most appropriate approach. This approach may include:
- The use of RAAC Track™ our remote condition monitoring solution.
- On-site assessments from our structural engineers at appropriate intervals.
- The implementation of a remediation solution if RAAC panel conditions worsen.
Interim safety measures
If our structural assessment indicates that RAAC presents a serious risk, we implement interim safety measures immediately to protect occupants and the wider building. Proposed interim safety measures may include:
- Acrow props
- Crash decks
- Internal scaffolding
- Other purpose built methods
Structural solution
We use non-intrusive, long-term structural strengthening solutions to remediate the structural failures of RAAC.
Proposed structural solutions may include:
- Timber struts
- Steel beams
- End bearing supports
- Specialist designed scaffold frameworks
RAAC Lift®
RAAC Lift® is a pioneering solution engineered to solve the challenges of RAAC plank deflection. It has been deployed in over thirty settings in the past twenty years and the earliest installations remain highly effective today, paying testament to its longevity. Its main advantages include:
- Low costs, which mean it’s typically no more expensive than steel beams but provides significant safety advantages in the context of deflected RAAC panels.
- A lightweight, modular construction, allowing for flexible installation in short bursts, including overnight.
- The removal of additional risk factors e.g. ponding.
- A one-and-done solution that precents panel failure rather than being a failsafe, meaning no further intervention or cost will be necessary.
RAAC Removal
Finding an alternative to removal and replacement may not always be possible. In those situations, we deliver a quick, efficient and safe RAAC removal service.
- Our team is highly experienced, having removed RAAC at a very wide range of sites across the country.
- Our proprietary, safety-first removal techniques cause minimal damage and disruption to the surrounding area.
- We manage and remove asbestos and other contaminants as part of the process.
Choosing the best solution to mitigate risk
Removing RAAC is rarely the best solution. We use a structured methodology for RAAC remediation options appraisal that’s based on the latest research and practical experience to determine the most appropriate and best-value-for-money option, on a case-by-case basis.
The benefits of our alternative approach are compelling:
- Reduced costs. Our remediation solutions mitigate the risks of RAAC in the most cost-effective manner possible.
- Faster delivery. We can implement our mitigation strategies quickly and efficiently without disrupting critical operations.
- Climate friendly. Our solutions have a much smaller carbon footprint compared to replacement or removal, helping you hit net zero targets.
Discover our success with RAAC options appraisals
We’ve helped hundreds of organisations across the country find a better way to mitigate the risk RAAC poses. Learn how our options appraisal methodology helps public and private sector clients mitigate risk effectively.
We deliver the industry’s only fully managed end-to-end RAAC solution
We help organisations at every stage of their RAAC journey. Select where you are below to find out more.
Discover if RAAC exists in your buildings with a fast and definitive survey by the country’s leading RAAC specialists.
Determine the condition of RAAC panels and plan an appropriate solution with a structural assessment by a team of highly experienced engineers.
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..
The RCS cost-saving promise
Our specialist testing, research and methods have enabled us to save several organisations millions on the cost of their RAAC remediation. We would be delighted to introduce you to our clients and share with you their experiences of working with RCS.
Angus Drummond - Partner