RAAC in schools
Don’t let RAAC inhibit educational activities. We help schools identify, assess, mitigate and remove the presence of RAAC quickly and effectively.
We deliver an end-to-end, fully managed solution to schools, colleges and universities
We make it easy for schools to access leading RAAC experts. Our dedicated end-to-end solution helps you mitigate the risk of RAAC and maintain levels of attendance.
Discover if RAAC exists in your buildings
Through a comprehensive, rigorous and non-intrusive assessment, our surveyors can definitively determine whether RAAC is present in your buildings.
- A right-first-time philosophy
- Fast non-intrusive assessment
- A full report detailing findings and next steps
Determine the condition of RAAC and plan an appropriate solution
We deliver a rigorous multi-point assessment that determines the condition of RAAC, the level of risk it presents and the best possible remediation solutions.
- A nuanced approach to RAAC structural assessments
- In-depth structural analysis to check for signs of failure
- A detailed report explaining the condition and risks posed
Find the best-fit RAAC mitigation option for your organisation
We determine the best RAAC remediation option on a case-by-case basis using a multi-criteria decision framework that considers the following:
- The latest research
- Panel and site condition
- Stakeholder priorities
Implement a safe and optimal RAAC remediation strategy
RAAC removal is the last resort. We look at the broadest range of solutions possible to deliver the best-fit and best-value-for-money remediation option, which may include:
- Interim safety measures
- Monitoring
- Minor works
- Structural solutions
Remove RAAC quickly, efficiently and safely
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.
- A highly experienced team that has removed RAAC from dozens of sites
- Proprietary removal techniques that reduce damage and disruption
- Management of asbestos and other contaminants as part of the process
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.
Professional affiliations and key relationships
We reduce disruption and manage costs
We use an objective science-backed approach to assessing and mitigating the impact of RAAC in school buildings.
Thanks to partnerships with the country’s leading research scientists and structural engineers, we’ve developed a framework that schools can use to mitigate the risks in a faster, less intrusive and more cost-effective manner:
- Minimal disruption. Our remediation and removal techniques cause minimal damage and disruption to the surrounding area.
- Cost-effective solutions. Our framework helps organisations choose the best fit and best value-for-money remediation method.
- Faster outcomes. We deliver mitigation efforts in a fraction of the time compared to full-scale RAAC removals.
- Environmentally friendly initiatives. Our remediation efforts reduce the need for replacement and contribute significantly to your sustainability and climate change goals.
Discover our success with RAAC structural assessments
We’ve delivered structural assessments to hundreds of RAAC-affected buildings across the country. Learn how our assessments help public and private sector clients mitigate risk and plan a way forward that is practical and highly cost effective.
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.
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