TICA highlights dangers of assuming competence on higher-risk buildings

TICA has received “multiple complaints” regarding non-specialists installing thermal insulation to pipework and ductwork on HRBs, with reports of flammable products being used instead of specification-compliant materials and sub-standard workmanship causing overheating and condensation issues.

As a result, the Trade Association is preparing to launch TICA Assured: a new independent certification body that will deliver UKAS-accredited audits for thermal insulation contractors, thereby helping TICA members in demonstrating competence to their supply chain.

One recurring concern is that some M&E contractors are undertaking thermal insulation works in-house without engaging appropriately qualified specialist contractors.

For its part, TICA states that the growing use of polyethylene pre-insulated pipework in communal areas of HRBs is of particular concern as there’s “a lack of clarity” concerning the reaction to fire testing and certification for many products on the market.

Case for compliance

Chris Ridge, technical director at TICA, explained: “The client, principal designer and principal contractor all have duty holder roles on HRBs. For the duty holder, the case for compliance is only as strong as the weakest specialist sub-contractor employed on a project.”

Ridge continued: “All too often, M&E contractors are assuming their own organisational capabilities when it comes to the selection and installation of thermal insulation. In many cases, this has led to the selection of flammable products instead of specification-compliant ones, not to mention poor workmanship leading to issues such as overheating and condensation.”

Further, Ridge stated: “We should expect better for our residential sector. Initiatives like the BESA Pledge show us that there’s a way forward. Leading M&E contractors are beginning to appreciate the value of managing competence within their own supply chain. This needs to be recognised by their clients as well.”

Checking process

TICA is clear that responsibility sits with the duty holder to verify organisational capability across the supply chain, including thermal insulation specialists. The organisation asserts that the duty holder should also check the skill cards for all workers on site.

“With the exceptions of domestic plumbing (in dwellings) and commercial refrigeration using flexible foams,” noted Ridge, “all thermal insulation should be carried out by a thermal insulator with the appropriate TICA Construction Skills Certification Scheme skills card, not by a labourer and not by someone with a card appropriate to plumbing, ductwork or any other trade.”

In conclusion, Ridge informed Fire Safety Matters: “There’s a reason why large multi-occupancy buildings have been designated as HRBs. We can do better than this, but we need to start with greater collaboration between duty holders and the various construction sector specialist Trade Associations. Let’s work together to pave a better way forward.”