BSRIA updates Handover and O&M manuals
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
BSRIA has published a guide on the topic of Handover and O&M Manuals. The guide is part of BSRIA’s continuing effort to improve the built environment by researching and publishing technical guidance and other knowledge intended to promote best practice across the industry.
Colin Goodwin, BSRIA Technical Director, said, “This guide comes at an important time and is a significant step to improving the flow and quality of handover information from the construction team to the end client and building operators, and in essence supports the 'golden thread' for building services related information and documentation.”
[edit] Importance of operations
It is essential for buildings to operate in a safe, energy-efficient and cost-effective manner, supporting the aims of the business and the wellbeing of the occupants. However, the effective operation of a complex asset such as a building relies on the availability of accurate information about the asset itself.
Much of the information about the asset is delivered at handover of the construction project to the client. All too often, the information that the facilities management team is provided with is incomplete, inaccurate or poorly assembled, so it’s hard to find the information that’s needed. By following a clear process of identification and route planning, the client, designers and constructors can work together to produce a building that’s in much better shape from handover.
BSRIA’s guide, BG 79/2020, covers the various documentation delivered and activities carried out at handover of a building, with particular focus on operating and maintenance (O&M) manuals. The O&M manual is the key part of the information needed during operation of a building, and as such is discussed in the guide in detail.
The guide also covers other handover deliverables such as record drawings, certificates and BIM models, with a focus on legislative requirements and the need for handover documentation to reflect the O&M strategy of the building.
[edit] Soft Landings framework
This version of the guide replaces BG 1/2007 Handover, O&M Manuals and Project Feedback. It no longer includes guidance on the topic of Project Feedback; instead, it refers extensively to the Soft Landings process and in particular BSRIA guide BG 54/2018 Soft Landings Framework 2018.
The guidance is provided in an easy-to-follow format, making use of diagrams and checklists where possible. Editable versions of the appendices of the guide, including a model specification for O&M manuals and a checklist for documentation, can be downloaded by users of the guide for use on their projects.
BG 79/2020 was authored by BSRIA staff with the assistance of technical experts, and was supported by industry sponsors. The guide is available to download from the BSRIA Bookshop.
This article originally appeared under the title, 'BSRIA publishes updated guidance on Handover and O&M Manuals' on the BISRIA website. It was published in September 2020.
--BSRIA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- BSRIA articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BSRIA guidance on project information process BG 78/2021.
- Building owner's manual.
- Building users guide.
- Facilities management.
- Handover.
- Handover construction site to the client.
- Maintenance, repair and operations procurement.
- Soft landings.
[edit] External resources
Featured articles and news
UK Infrastructure: A 10 Year Strategy. In brief with reactions
With the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA).
Ebenezer Howard: inventor of the garden city. Book review.
The Grenfell Tower fire, eight years on
A time to pause and reflect as Dubai tower block fire reported just before anniversary.
Airtightness Topic Guide BSRIA TG 27/2025
Explaining the basics of airtightness, what it is, why it's important, when it's required and how it's carried out.
Construction contract awards hit lowest point of 2025
Plummeting for second consecutive month, intensifying concerns for housing and infrastructure goals.
Understanding Mental Health in the Built Environment 2025
Examining the state of mental health in construction, shedding light on levels of stress, anxiety and depression.
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.