Toolbox Talk – PRICE
26th October 2023
Today toolbox talk is focused on temporary works and their principles which play a significant role in construction projects, varying in their extent and purpose. Typically, they are installed temporarily and removed once the construction is complete. However, in some cases, they may become a permanent part of the structure.
Basic Temporary Works Working Principles:
- Commitment to safety on site – risk planning.
- Being efficient and cost effective but NOT taking short cuts.
- Only allowing trained personnel to work on site – correctly installing, using and
removing equipment whilst applying good practice principles within a safe
working environment. - Supervision on site by competent persons.
- Using equipment that is fit for use and fit for purpose.
- Working to Standards, Regulations & Specifications and approved designs &
drawings which have been compiled by competent persons, taking into
consideration equipment handling, ergonomics, the environment… - Good house keeping.
- Inspections and handovers by competent persons using the correct procedure/s
and documentation and in accordance with legislation such as the Construction
Regulations, 2014.
Definition and Role of Temporary Works
Temporary works encompass various structures and systems that are specifically designed to facilitate the construction of permanent works. These temporary structures serve essential functions throughout the construction process, ensuring the safety of workers, optimizing construction operations, and managing project costs.
One significant aspect of temporary works is falsework. Falsework refers to a temporary structure that combines formwork and support work. It provides crucial support until the permanent structure becomes self-supporting. Formwork involves the use of temporary or permanent molds to shape and hold wet concrete until it solidifies. Support work, on the other hand, is installed to provide support for formwork or the permanent structure until it can stand independently.
Another important type of temporary works is scaffolds. Scaffolds are temporary structures erected to facilitate access and provide support during construction activities. They ensure that workers can safely reach different parts of the construction site and perform their tasks efficiently.
Temporary works play a critical role in the construction industry, acting as a vital link between the design and construction phases of a project. In some instances, designing temporary works can present greater challenges than designing the permanent structure itself. These temporary structures are essential for ensuring the safety of construction personnel, allowing them to carry out their tasks in a secure environment.
Moreover, temporary works contribute to the optimization of construction processes. They provide the necessary support and access for construction activities, enabling efficient workflow and timely completion of tasks. By using temporary works, construction projects can be executed in a more organized and systematic manner.
Additionally, temporary works have a significant impact on managing project costs. They allow for the effective allocation of resources and materials, reducing wastage and unnecessary expenses. By employing temporary works, construction projects can achieve cost efficiency and maximize the utilization of available resources.
In conclusion, temporary works are indispensable elements in construction projects. They encompass various structures such as falsework, formwork, support work, and scaffolds, all of which play crucial roles in facilitating construction activities. Temporary works ensure worker safety, optimize construction processes, and help manage project costs, making them essential components of successful construction projects.
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