Amrose Associates was appointed as Temporary Works Coordinator (TWC) for safety-critical RAAC propping works at Liverpool Crown Court.
Project Summary
Following the identification of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) within the building structure, a material now recognised as presenting an elevated risk of sudden and progressive structural failure, urgent remediation measures were needed. The priority was to manage this risk effectively while allowing the court to remain fully operational.
Working in close collaboration with HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS), EQUANS, and specialist temporary works designers, Amrose Associates provided comprehensive temporary works governance and coordination. This ensured that all risk mitigation measures were implemented safely, compliantly and without disruption to court proceedings.
Services Provided:
- Temporary works coordination
- Structural risk management
- Design assurance
- Construction phase oversight
- Health and safety integration
The Challenge
The works were undertaken within a live Crown Court environment, where continuity of service was critical and disruption was not an option. The presence of ageing RAAC panels introduced a heightened structural risk that required immediate and carefully controlled intervention.
Compounding this were significant physical constraints, with much of the work taking place within restricted ceiling voids, alongside stringent security protocols and safety requirements typical of a high-profile judicial building. The challenge was to introduce temporary structural support swiftly and safely, while maintaining the highest standards of assurance and governance.
Our Role
As Temporary Works Coordinator, Amrose Associates was responsible for establishing and managing the temporary works process in full accordance with BS 5975. This began with the development and implementation of the project-specific Temporary Works Procedure, providing a clear framework for governance, accountability and control.
We managed the Temporary Works Register throughout the project, ensuring that all temporary works were correctly identified, categorised and tracked. Competency of those undertaking temporary works roles was verified and formal processes were maintained for design approval, inspection and change management.
A key aspect of our role was the technical review and coordination of the specialist RAAC propping designs. This involved close liaison with designers and contractors to ensure all proposals were appropriate for the structural risk and buildable within the confines of the building and its ongoing use. Formal acceptance of designs was undertaken prior to installation, providing assurance that risks were fully understood and mitigated.
During the construction phase, Amrose Associates maintained active oversight on site. We carried out inspections of installed temporary works, verified compliance with approved designs and method statements and continued to coordinate interfaces between all parties. This proactive presence meant emerging issues were addressed promptly and safety and compliance were maintained at all times.
The Outcome
The temporary works were delivered successfully, stabilising the structural risks associated with RAAC and providing assurance to all stakeholders. The works were fully compliant with BS 5975 and the agreed project procedures and, critically, were completed with no disruption to court operations.
The project demonstrates the value of robust temporary works coordination in complex, safety-critical environments, particularly where buildings must remain live and operational throughout the project.
If you’d like to discuss how Amrose Associates can support temporary works coordination, structural risk management or design assurance on your next project, we’d be happy to talk. Ask Amrose: Email enquiries@amroseassociates.com or call 0113 391 9840
