Hackney (Parliament Politics Magazine) – The government has confirmed that Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) has been fully removed from Homerton Hospital in Hackney.
Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC), a lightweight material utilized in construction between the 1960s and 1980s that has subsequently been recognized as a safety hazard due to its short lifespan, is no longer present in the structure.
The project is a part of a national initiative to remove RAAC from the NHS estate by 2035.
In order to remove the material and perform necessary improvements, the government is assisting Hackney hospitals throughout England.
Simon Corben, director of estates at NHS England, said:
“Keeping patients and staff safe is always our top priority, and we have been working closely with trusts to manage RAAC safely and ensure the continuation of services while this essential work is taking place.
The completion of these latest projects is a positive step, giving staff confidence that they can continue delivering care in safe environments – and we will keep working with trusts to complete the programme across the NHS estate at pace.”
What immediate safety checks followed the RAAC removal?
Professional structural assessments conducted by qualified structural engineers with respect to the content of the remaining concrete or aspects of the structure, along with structural safety concerns.
A regular monitoring and maintenance plan has been established so that structural harm can be identified, such as damage via cracking, water ingress, or corrosion that could threaten structural stability.
Risk assessments taken in relation to HSE (Health and Safety Executive) guidance, including references HSG 33 for fragile roofs; some plans may also propose temporary (or permanent) support structures, or reinforcement.
A risk management strategy – including a plan for inspection, a risk management strategy if remedial action is required, and a description of communication processes among owners, maintainers and engineers;