Temporary services on construction sites
Before work can begin on a construction site, whether a big or small project, a number of services must be temporarily set up. This is in addition to the permanent services that will be required for the completed development and temporary site facilities that are required for the welfare of workers.
The development of temporary site services should be part of the site layout plans. These are prepared by contractors as part of their mobilisation activities before work on site commences. See Site layout plan for more information.
These services might include:
- A constant and reliable electricity supply. Fitness for purpose and safety must be ensured by fully testing and certifying electricity installations. Site offices and welfare units are likely to require a high concentration of electricity supply, but other, perhaps more isolated areas of a site may also need supplying.
- Water distribution and drainage. The CDM Regulations stipulate that sanitary conveniences, washing facilities and drinking water must be provided on a site.
- In order that construction work can continue effectively and safely in periods of insufficient natural light, it is important that a site is supplied with suitable artificial lighting. Lighting can be used internally for general movement and working on the site itself, externally for illuminating entry, storage and circulation areas, and can also be an effective form of deterrent for trespassers. Depending on the requirements of the site, an appropriate lighting plan should be drawn up. For more information, see Lighting of construction sites.
- If the site is big enough to require site offices, there will need to be an internet connection, WiFi, a local area network, telephones and so on.
- Perimeter security may include electric fences, buried cable detection systems, alarms, closed-loop systems, CCTV, microwave, infrared or radar sensors and so on.
It may be necessary to locate and connect to or divert existing services on the site.
It may be necessary to arrange for the supply of services with utilities companies.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed
22 leading businesses from across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.
Government unveils Skills England strategy
Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth.
New Government Hub for York Given Planning Green Light
For up to 2,600 civil servants, due for completion by 2028.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards
July update on Professionally Qualified and Academically Qualified Person Cards.
BSRIA Briefing 2024, November 22
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
The CLC on driving competency in the retrofit sector
Previously published roadmap on skills for net zero.
The first labour government King's speech in fifteen years
Construction industry reactions, support and some concern.
CIOB Retrofit of Buildings Technical Information Sheet
What retrofit is, the approach to be taken and processes to be followed.
Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency
Historic England advice note 18, free download published.
10 retrofit projects revisited 10 years after completion.
Information orders, building liability orders and SPVs
Key BSA terms and how they impact special purpose vehicles.
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.