Safety in Occupied Buildings

Protecting the people around the work

In a school, clinic, office or retail space, the people near the work did not choose to be on a construction site. We plan for that. Tenants, staff, patients, children and visitors all need a clear separation from the work area and clear paths in and out.

We walk the space with the client early, note the people and operations affected, and set rules for access, parking, deliveries and communication before the work starts.

Hoarding, dust and noise

Physical barriers keep the public out of work areas. Hoarding is built to suit the space, and dust control measures keep debris within the work zone. Noisy tasks are scheduled with the client so they do not interrupt operations.

Our mechanical crews also manage ventilation, so dust and fumes are kept from drifting into occupied areas.

• Solid barriers and signage at work areas
• Dust containment and cleaning at the end of each shift
• Planned routes for materials and waste
• Quiet hours for sensitive spaces

Fire protection during construction

Existing fire alarms, sprinklers and exits must keep working during a renovation, or the building must have a clear interim plan. Our low voltage team handles alarms, and our mechanical crews deal with plumbing and HVAC, so we can coordinate impairments of those systems ourselves and keep the client informed.

Exits remain clear, extinguishers are in place and hot work is controlled.

After-hours work

Some tasks are best done at night or on weekends, such as shutdowns, noisy work and tie-ins. Crews working after hours follow the same rules as in the daytime, with extra attention to lighting, communication and who is in the building. We agree on access and contact arrangements with the client beforehand.

Our office answers calls and email 24/7/365, so there is always someone to reach if a concern arises.