Modern Building Services

18 MODERN BUILDING SERVICES MARCH 2022 FEATURE WORKING BUILDINGS WORKING BUILDINGS F igures from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) revealed that the UK’s construction output in November 2021 was 1.3% (£197 million) above the February 2020 pre-COVID-19 level.1While it’s great news for the industry, the additional work that is contributing to the uplift means contractors are looking for newways to achieve hassle-free installations across tight timeframes. Commercial construction projects, whether it’s an office building, a hotel or a block of luxury apartments, will be subject to various contractors coming and going. The risk of installations getting damaged – and needing to be replaced along the way – can be high. Damage limitations Meeting expectations on a job, both in terms of time and quality, can be a stressful experience for contractors. This can be made even more difficult if products need to be reordered and reinstalled after being damaged on site. Most contractors will be obligated to fix or replace any damaged installations, so finding ways to minimise potential issues is key to an on-time, on-budget project completion and client satisfaction. Decorativewiring deviceswith chrome, brass ormatte black finishes can be susceptible to damage during construction. Multiple trades and tradespeople can beworking in the same space at the same time so it’s farmore likely that sockets and switcheswill encounter people, materials and equipment, such as ladders and power tools, that increase the potential for scrapes, scratches or other cosmetic damage to the decorative finish. Wiring devices that provide a two-step installation solution - a functional module which can be installed initially and a frontplate which can be fitted over the functional module during the final staging process – can help both contractors and project managers. By separately installing the final frontplate, it can be protected from the knocks, scrapes, plaster abrasion and paint splatter which can often occur on a busy site, potentially saving cost and time to replace the product. Separate installations, separate deliveries A common problem with wiring devices that come as two parts is that they usually come packaged together. Whilst the functional module may be successfully installed, the frontplate can be easily damaged or misplaced between delivery and final fit. This can be especially problematic for frontplates with decorative finishes selected primarily for aesthetics, particularly with finishes such as brushed stainless steel and matte black, where scrapes and scratches are more noticeable. Specifically designed to be modular, the clip-on frontplate and functional modules in the MK Dimensions range are individual component products with separate part numbers. Unlike many other two-piece solutions, this means that components can be ordered, delivered and installed separately to align with the project schedule, removing the potential for loss or damage during fit out. This provides contractors with the flexibility to install the functional module to align to the build schedule and continue working without concern that the frontplates will be mislaid or damaged. Additionally, the option to order the frontplate at a later stage in the project allows for any last-minute changes to the design brief, such as the colour or material used for the front of the socket or switch. The ability to order the functional module and frontplate as individual components also gives project managers more budget flexibility. With parts on order at different times this can help to keep track of accurate spend. It’s feasible that by the time you need to order the frontplates, you will have a clearer picture of the quantity needed and the finish required, with the need for replacements significantly reduced. Making the functional, functional Installing the functional module of a wiring device towards the beginning of a project can supply power for tools and equipment needed on site whilst the build continues. With other two-part products, the socket alone often cannot be used as it may not meet British Standards without the frontplate. This can be frustrating for contractors who then need to find an alternative power source for their tools and equipment, whichmay be metres away from the working area. It can also create additional safety concerns for project managers, as extension cables will need to be tested and taped down to avoid trip hazards and site workers made aware of the out-of-use sockets. Our functional module is designed to meet British Standards, so it is fully operational once installed. It is provided with a recyclable, clear plastic, protective cover plate so you can continue to get the job done without any concern about damaging the integrity of the device. Not only are you able to use the socket for tools and equipment but you can also sand, plaster and paint around the socket, safe in the knowledge that it is protected by the plastic cover. A flawless finish Whilst functionality is something installers always look for, it’s important not to lose sight of the overall look and feel of a project and achieving the client’s vision. The demand for stylish finishes and fixings is constantly growing. Hassle-free installation on busy sites Neil Brown , offering manager at MK Electric, looks at what electrical contractors and project managers can do to help streamline installations to help save costs and increase pro- ductivity on site.