Cliff Shepherd, senior project engineer at Altrad RMD Kwikform, discusses the best approach to formwork and other temporary works for major civils projects
TEMPORARY works are a fundamental aspect of large-scale civil engineering projects, ensuring structures are safely and efficiently built. From bridges and tunnels to high-rise buildings and infrastructure developments, the right approach to temporary works can significantly impact project timelines, cost-effectiveness, and safety.
When looking at best practice for temporary works, there are several elements to consider. These include focusing on the benefits of reusing modular equipment, hiring vs buying, adopting an agile approach, ensuring open communication and collaboration, prioritising health and safety, and leveraging digital tools.
Reusing modular equipment
In an industry increasingly focused on sustainability, the reuse of modular equipment plays a critical role in reducing environmental impact and driving cost and time efficiencies. Modular falsework systems are designed for repeat use, making them highly adaptable to different major projects.
By standardising modular components, construction teams can streamline logistics, minimise waste, and ensure a faster turnaround between projects, providing flexibility while meeting high safety and performance standards. This approach not only reduces material consumption but also enhances project efficiency by ensuring the availability of pre-engineered, proven systems.
Hire vs buy
One of the critical decisions in temporary works management is whether to hire or purchase equipment. Each approach has distinct benefits depending on the project scope, budget, and long-term needs.
Hiring equipment is often the most cost-effective option, as it eliminates the high initial investment required for purchasing, allowing funds to be allocated elsewhere in the project. It also provides flexibility, enabling contractors to access the right equipment for each specific project without long-term commitments. Additionally, hiring eliminates the need for long-term storage and logistics, as equipment can be returned once the project is complete.
However, for some large-scale civils projects, purchasing equipment can lead to long-term savings. Owning equipment ensures immediate availability when needed, reducing potential delays caused by supply chain constraints.
It also allows for customisation, as purchased equipment can be modified or adapted to meet specific project needs without restrictions from rental agreements. In addition, suppliers are often open to the option of buying back the material. This means that the cost of purchase can be offset and the material gets re-furbished and put back into the suppliers fleet. Not only a good financial move, but another sustainable angle when running a major project.
An agile approach
Large-scale civil engineering projects often encounter unforeseen challenges, from ground condition changes to design modifications. An agile approach to formwork and other temporary works enables teams to respond to these dynamic conditions with flexibility and efficiency.
Agility in temporary works means adopting systems that can be quickly adapted or reconfigured as project requirements evolve. Modular solutions support this adaptability by allowing incremental changes without the need for a complete redesign. With some large-scale civils projects lasting several years, continuous assessment ensures that temporary structures remain optimal throughout the construction phase.
Collaboration and communication
The success of temporary works depends on seamless collaboration and communication between all stakeholders, including engineers, contractors, site teams, and regulatory bodies. Effective coordination ensures that temporary works align with the permanent structure’s requirements while maintaining safety and efficiency.
Early engagement is crucial – by involving temporary works specialists at the planning and design stage, potential issues can be identified and resolved before construction begins. Digital collaboration tools allow design models and construction updates to be shared in real-time, reducing the risk of miscommunication and project delays.
Health and safety
Ensuring the safety of workers and the public is also paramount in civil engineering projects. Temporary works must be designed, installed, and dismantled with stringent safety protocols in place to mitigate risks. The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) highlight the importance of thorough risk assessments, competency requirements, and clear accountability in temporary works planning.
Key safety measures include comprehensive risk assessments, identifying hazards related to structural stability, load-bearing capacity, and environmental conditions. Training and competency are also key, ensuring that site personnel are adequately trained in the safe erection and dismantling of temporary works. Regular inspections and maintenance are also essential, conducting frequent checks to identify potential weaknesses or damage in temporary structures.
Utilising digital tools
Advancements in digital technology have transformed the planning and execution of temporary works. Tools such as AutoCAD, Building Information Modelling (BIM), and digital twins allow for enhanced precision, collaboration, and predictive analysis.
AutoCAD and 3D Modelling tools enable engineers to visualise and refine temporary works designs before implementation, reducing errors and optimising material use. BIM Integration allows for collaboration by providing a shared digital representation of the project, ensuring that temporary and permanent works are fully integrated. Digital Twins create a real-time digital replica of a construction project, allowing for continuous monitoring and scenario analysis, improving decision-making and efficiency.
Ultimately, the approach to temporary works in large-scale civil engineering projects must be strategic, sustainable, and above all safety focused. By reusing modular equipment, adopting agile methodologies, ensuring collaboration, prioritising health and safety, and harnessing digital tools, construction teams can drive efficiency while minimising risk.
