CIBSE members will be well aware of the concerns about reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (Raac) that have been reported recently, following the closure of several educational settings.
Building services engineers may be asked about Raac by clients with concerns, and may encounter material that they suspect to be Raac in the course of their work.
The Institution of Structural Engineers has produced a statement and FAQs (www.istructe.org/resources/news/istructe-statement-reinforced-autoclaved-aerated-c/), and issued clear guidance for the assessment of suspected Raac (www.istructe.org/resources/guidance/reinforced-autoclaved-aerated-concrete-(raac)-inve/).
CIBSE advises anyone who has questions or concerns relating to Raac to seek advice from a structural engineer who has specialist knowledge about the specific characteristics and behaviour of the material.
Collaborative Reporting for Safer Structures UK (CROSS-UK) has set up a theme page with further information. CROSS is a confidential reporting system that allows professionals working in the built environment to report on fire and structural safety issues.
These are then published anonymously to share lessons learned, create positive change, and improve safety. Visit: https://bit.ly/CROSSReport