It is well known that early stage optioneering through Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) improves projects outcomes by enhancing productivity and reducing costs. Yet, despite recognition of its value, too many critical design decisions are still made in isolation. This inadvertently locks in inefficiencies before specialist input from the supply chain is considered. And, while cost saving is often the primary aim of ECI discussions, its role in reducing embodied carbon is just as crucial.
As the industry transitions to a Net Zero future, this kind of collaboration is more important than ever. Without it, we risk over-engineering solutions through the use of excessive materials and sequencing challenges that inflate both costs and carbon emissions. The question is, does pre-construction collaboration currently provide scope for specialist input? Are we designing with the most likely methods, materials, and equipment in mind. Or, are we defaulting to assumptions that limit efficiency from the outset?
At MGF, we deliver thousands of temporary works designs each year. We see the value of early engagement first-hand. When engaged early, our expertise in temporary works systems and buildability can drive more efficient solutions. But, when engaged too late (with critical design decisions locked in), it is much more difficult, or even impossible, to optimise solutions. This limits opportunities to simplify construction, reduce plant movements and material usage, and achieve safety, cost & carbon benefits.
A common example of this is in the design of temporary propping systems for deep basement construction. Modular hydraulic propping systems are widely used due to their availability, ease of installation and adaptability. Compared with welded steel systems, they offer faster installation, reduce labour requirements, and significantly lower embodied carbon. However, these benefits can be eroded early through a Ground Movement Impact Assessment assuming propping stiffness based on a welded steel frame. This overlooks the highly likely use of a less stiff hydraulic system.
Temporary Works Designers are forced to develop designs with closely spaced props to meet conservative stiffness requirements. This leads to inefficient construction sequences, higher material usage, and unnecessary costs and carbon emissions.
On collaborative projects – where these assumptions are challenged and revisited – we have been able to significantly reduce the number of props required. This has doubled working room between props, making construction safer, more cost-effective, and reduced carbon emissions. Yet, increasingly, there is a reluctance to reassess design parameters, pushing projects down a path of complexity, cost, and increased embodied carbon.
As an industry, we need to renew our focus on early engagement and collaboration. Permanent works engineers, specialist subcontractors, suppliers, and designers must be working together from the earliest stage to ensure projects are safer, more cost-effective, and as sustainable as possible.
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