Reporting Success: A Case Study in HAZID-based Risk Assessment with Twinnedit and South Tyneside Homes
Gathering Expertise
The initial step of this project was pulling together the knowledge and resources needed to ensure all corners if the HAZID-based risk assessments were covered. South Tyneside Homes assembled a diverse team of experts from various departments to delve into the specific risks associated with these buildings. Experts in asset management, mechanical and electrical (M&E) systems, leasehold management, housing management, fire safety, fire engineering, and structural engineering came together to share their knowledge and insights.
Focused Discussions on Fire and Smoke Risks
Part of this workshop were dedicated specifically to analysing the risks posed by fire and smoke. The team engaged in detailed discussions covering various scenarios such as block, floor, floor-to-floor, and residential unit-specific risks, including electrical hazards and intentional ignition (arson). Through the deconstruction of existing measures and safeguards, the team identified areas for improvement and action plans to enhance safety measures.
Systematic Evaluation and “What If” Analysis
Nobody wants to speculate about potential failures, so a review of systems was a critical step which involved an in-depth “what if” analysis, evaluating the potential implications of system or component failures on resident safety and building integrity. This collaborative exercise allowed for comprehensive insights from each department, enriching the analysis and decision-making process.
Structural Considerations and Risk Profiling
Structural engineers were also on hand to provide valuable insights into the building makeup and likely reactions to scenario events and failures. The team scrutinised prevention and mitigation measures, examined drawings, and identified additional action areas for consideration and implementation.
Comprehensive Risk Assessment
Throughout the process, the team assessed various aspects, including fire and smoke spread, structural integrity, effectiveness of measures, process and policy adherence, performance monitoring, resident communication, and emergency response. These evaluations culminated in scores indicating the effectiveness of existing measures and overall risk profiles for the buildings.
Positive Feedback and Future Steps
The feedback from all participants, including external specialists, was overwhelmingly positive.
Ronnie Grey from South Tyneside Homes said “The team found the workshops extremely useful as it helped break down each of the potential safety issues in a systematic way. They were able to use the expert’s knowledge within the room to identify the correct control and mitigation measures and more importantly any gaps within our existing controls required to ensure the building remain safe.”
In conclusion, the partnership between Twinnedit and South Tyneside Homes demonstrates the power of collaboration in ensuring building safety. By harnessing expertise from diverse fields and engaging in structured risk assessments, the project sets a precedent for proactive risk management and continuous improvement in building safety standards.
