The Building Engineering Services Association (BESA) and Thermal Insulation Contractors Association (TICA) have warned that operatives, often working for multi-trade firms, are putting lives at risk by carrying out work beyond their competence.
The associations cited a recent project on which an unqualified multi-trade contractor installed ductwork with serious safety flaws. It featured poorly insulated ducting, which created condensation and mould growth.
Chris Ridge, TICA’s technical director, highlighted the incorrect use of flammable rigid insulation board on the project, which the two associations fear may be ‘the tip of the iceberg’ rather than an isolated example.
BESA and TICA stress that clients must verify competence and organisational capability before appointing contractors for safety-critical building services work.
‘Condensation can quickly allow mould to germinate. This growth then produces spores that spread to other damp areas, multiplying the issues,’ said Nathan Wood, BESA’s London & South East regional chair.
Awaab’s Law is due to come into force on 27 October, and will set strict deadlines for landlords to investigate and fix damp and mould. ‘Without properly trained and accredited contractors, it risks becoming a box-ticking exercise rather than a safeguard for residents’ health,’ said Wood.
