Change Management

The construction industry in the UK operates under strict regulations to ensure safety, durability, and compliance, BS 8539:2012+A1:2021 Code of practice for the selection and installation of post-installed anchors in concrete and masonry serving as a vital standard for specifying and using construction fixings, including correct change of. specification procedures. The introduction of the Building Safety Act (BSA) has further amplified the need for rigorous change management, especially when changes occur after Gateway 2—a critical milestone in a project's lifecycle.

At fischer, we understand the significant role that proper change management plays in ensuring safety and compliance. Clause 10 of BS 8539, Change Management – Alternative Anchors, outlines the processes for managing changes to specifications effectively, a practice that directly intersects with the BSA’s provisions.

What is Clause 10 of BS 8539?

Clause 10, Change Management – Alternative Anchors, specifies how to approach changes to a fixing's specification. These changes may arise from updated requirements, material availability, or design amendments. Change of specification shall be carried out by the original anchor specifier or an engineer who has access to the original design data and who assumes the role and responsibilities of anchor specifier. Key considerations include:

  • Ensuring the change is assessed for suitability in the new context, completing the full selection procedure as outlined in Clause 5 of BS8539.
  • Documenting the rationale and testing evidence for the change.
  • Communicating with all stakeholders involved in the project to maintain clarity and compliance.

This systematic approach ensures that any deviation from the original specification doesn’t compromise the structural integrity or safety of the project.

 

The Building Safety Act and Changes to Specification

Under the BSA, for high risk buildings changes to a project's specification after Gateway 2 are subject to a more rigorous oversight process, reflecting the Act's commitment to high standards of safety throughout a building’s lifecycle. These changes are classified into three categories:

  1. Major Changes
    1. Significant adjustments that can impact safety, such as structural modifications or changes to fire safety measures.
    2. These require formal approval from the Building Safety Regulator before implementation.
    3. Approval can take up to six weeks, creating a potential delay to project timelines.
  2. Notifiable Changes
    1. Moderate changes, such as substituting materials or altering fixings, that might influence performance but not directly affect critical safety elements.
    2. These must be reported to the Regulator, who will review and respond within two weeks.
  3. Recordable Changes
    1. Minor changes with negligible impact on safety or performance, such as minor adjustments to non-load-bearing components.
    2. These must still be documented and logged for the building's safety file but do not require direct Regulator oversight.

The Impact of Approval Timelines on Projects

One of the most critical aspects of managing changes under the BSA is the time required for regulatory approvals. For Major Changes, the Building Safety Regulator can take up to six weeks to provide a decision, while Notifiable Changes may take up to two weeks.

These timeframes, while necessary to ensure safety and compliance, can introduce significant delays to construction projects, particularly if changes are unforeseen or arise during critical phases. Such delays can increase costs, disrupt schedules, and impact stakeholder expectations. This highlights the importance of thorough planning and early engagement with all parties involved in the specification and approval process.

At fischer, we believe in raising awareness of these potential challenges to help our clients navigate the regulatory landscape effectively. Proper technical support and proactive communication are essential to minimise delays and keep projects on track.

Why Change Management Matters

Changes made without proper assessment can have serious implications, potentially jeopardising safety and exposing all parties to legal or financial risks. The BSA emphasises transparency, and companies like fischer are well-placed to assist in navigating these changes related to post-installed or cast-in anchors or systems supplied responsibly.

By aligning change management processes with Clause 10 of BS 8539 and adhering to the BSA’s gateways and timelines, construction projects can proceed with confidence, ensuring compliance and prioritising occupant safety.

Final Thoughts

The integration of BS 8539 with the Building Safety Act highlights the evolving landscape of construction regulations in the UK. At fischer, we are committed to supporting our clients with reliable solutions and expert guidance in navigating these regulatory frameworks. By understanding the potential for delays and planning accordingly, we can work together to build safer, more compliant structures for the future.

For more information or assistance with your project, or arrange CPD on this subject, contact the fischer Technical team on technical@fischer.co.uk or via technical Helpline 01491827920.

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