The requirement to manage temporary works is not just restricted to large, complex, multimillion pound projects. Across all canal restoration projects we undertake temporary works of varying scales which must be managed appropriately.

WHAT IS TEMPORARY WORKS?

Temporary works are the parts of a construction project that are needed to enable the permanent works to be built and which are usually removed after use. British Standard 5975 describes temporary works as an engineering solution used to:

• Support or protect an existing structure or the permanent works during construction.
• Support an item of plant or equipment (e.g. craning platform for installing lock gates).
• Support an excavation.
• Provide access.

There are a wide variety of temporary works on a canal restoration project – from installing a steel formwork for a new accommodation bridge or using a wooden falsework for a culvert arch to using a scaffolding tower for access or erecting
shuttering for a concrete pour. Excavation supports, edge protection, scaffolding and propping systems are also classed as temporary works. Even setting up your site compound, creating material stockpiles and fencing is classed as temporary works.