Working with contractors Laing O’Rourke, a comprehensive gas protection membrane system was installed at the development in Bridgwater, Somerset which supports the construction of the new Hinkley Point C nuclear power station.
Consisting of modular style accommodation blocks and a large amenity building, all accommodation buildings are designed as light weight prefabricated structures providing for safe and efficient construction and removal of the Campus. The buildings are designed to meet highest current environmental standards including BREEAM.
The site for the development was classified as a ‘moderate risk’ Characteristic Situation Level 3 for ground gas, under the gas membrane code of practice BS8485:2015, as it had high concentrations of methane and CO2 present. The very high insulation and efficiency standards for the buildings made it critical to install an effective gas protection system in order to meet the standards outlined in the BS8485 “Design of Protective Measurements for Methane and Carbon Dioxide Ground Gases for New Buildings” guide to ensure residents were protected.
Working with ASL Environmental to design the venting ensured Visqueen had the full calculations for the required vent systems that would be installed alongside the gas membrane. Visqueen’s Gas Barrier offered the ideal solution for this project, as it protects buildings against both methane and carbon dioxide gases.
SIG Construction Accessories became involved in the project when Visqueen and Laing O’Rourke approached the Bristol branch to supply the materials to the site. Having previously supplied Visqueen products to numerous projects before, the team at SIG CA were able to ensure they had the stock of the required products when they were needed on site.
Visqueen’s Gas Vent Mat, Bollards and other additional materials are also being used within the system which contractors Laing O’Rourke are installing along with the Gas Barrier membrane. To ensure the correct standard of installation operatives received training at Visqueen’s new Training Academy in Heanor.
Commenting on the project Anthony Goode, Visqueen’s Regional Sales Manager said “In order to ensure that the operatives had all the necessary skills and were confident installing the gas protection system we provided full training at our new Training Academy in Heanor. This provided practical, hands-on experience to all those involved and helped certify that all the protection measures are installed to the correct standard.”
The designs were put together in conjunction with AWW Architects, and AECOM, ensuring that the gas protection elements worked in conjunction with the rest of the building structure.
“Visqueen’s expertise in specifying suitable products for gas protection and providing training to our team has been invaluable,” commented Scott Palmer from Laing O’Rourke.
“Development of industrial sites can often be a challenge and ensuring we meet the legislative demands to protect buildings from potentially harmful gases is fundamental and its great peace of mind to know that the site is fully protected”.
Installation is currently taking place on site with ASL Environmental carrying out the verification and validation process in accordance with the codes of practice. The project is due to be complete in January 2019.
