What is RAAC concrete?

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete is a form of lightweight concrete used within construction of many buildings constructed between the 1950s and 1990s.

Is is largely aerated with subsequent material properties differences to the usual, conventional concrete. Used often within roofs, sometimes floors and walls.

What is the problem with RAAC concrete?

In the 1990s, structural engineers began to realise the concrete wasn’t lasting its supposed lifetime, seeing weakening of the material due to its ease of moisture absorption. The steel reinforcements within also began to corrode with this test of time due to the build up of moisture.

Now due to recent report of a roof collapse in a UK primary school, the UK Government property agency declared “RAAC is now life-expired and liable to collapse”.

What does RAAC mean for schools?

Schools that were constructed within the 1950s and 1990s are those at higher risk and there is a more likely chance of RAAC being present within their structures.

At least 214 schools across the UK have been affected in some way by RAAC. Many schools having to shut completely or partially close facilities affected by RAAC. Delays in term start dates have also caused disruptions, leading a lot of schools and their management to find sufficient solutions to this disruption.

What can schools do about RAAC?

Guidance about RAAC is available at here

Some schools are having to consider their options due to substantial and unsafe amounts of RAAC found within their structures. The UK government has assigned all settings known to contain RAAC a dedicated DfE caseworker to support the situation and provide individual solutions to these areas.

The Government guidance claims “All schools where RAAC is confirmed will be provided with funding for mitigation works that are capital funded where needed, such as propping and temporary accommodation on site.”.

Who else is affected by RAAC?

There have been multiple reports of Hospitals, restaurants, chapels, office buildings and various other buildings affected by the discovery of RAAC.

How can Fews temporary buildings help with RAAC?

Fews have proposed specialised temporary structures ideal for temporary building solutions. We take extreme care within the quality of our structures as well as ensuring all safety aspects are up to standard, as well as being accredited to work within educational sites or government sites.