The Thermal Insulation Contracting Association (TICA) has urged tighter scrutiny of specialist contractors on Higher Risk Buildings (HRBs).
The association has warned that competence across the supply chain is still too often assumed instead of verified.
TICA said it has received multiple complaints regarding non-specialists installing thermal insulation to pipework and ductwork on HRBs. It cited reports of flammable products being used instead of specification-compliant materials, and substandard workmanship causing overheating and condensation issues.
As a result, the association is preparing to launch TICA Assured, a new independent certification body that aims to deliver UKAS-accredited audits for thermal insulation contractors. TICA noted that a recurring concern is that some Mechanical & Electrical contractors are undertaking thermal insulation works in-house without engaging appropriately qualified specialist contractors.
The association said the growing use of Polyethylene pre-insulated pipework in communal areas of HRBs is of particular concern. This is due to the lack of clarity concerning the reaction to fire testing and certification for many products on the market.
Chris Ridge, technical director of TICA, said: “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.
“All too often Mechanical & Electrical 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 products, and poor workmanship leading to issues such as overheating and condensation.
“We should expect better for our residential sector. Initiatives like the BESA Pledge show us that there is a way forward. Leading Mechanical & Electrical Contractors are beginning to appreciate the value of managing competence within their own supply chain. This needs to be recognised by their clients also.”
TICA stated that responsibility ultimately sits with the duty holder to verify organisational capability across the supply chain, including thermal insulation specialists. It said that the duty holder should also check the Skill Cards for all workers on site.
Chris added: “With the exceptions of domestic plumbing (in dwellings) and commercial refrigeration using flexible foams, all thermal insulation should be carried out by a Thermal Insulator with the appropriate TICA CSCS Skill Card. Not by a labourer. And not by someone with a card appropriate to plumbing, ductwork or any other trade.
“There is a reason 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.”
