With The Future Homes Standard under review, the changes proposed to take effect in the not too distant future and will significantly transform the construction of new homes across the UK.
The primary objective of The Future Homes Standard is to protect the environment and increase energy efficiency when constructing new homes and non-domestic properties, taking into consideration the following goals:
The updated Future Homes Standard aligns with the government's aim to construct 1.5 million homes in the next four years, which breaks down to approx. 300,000 homes annually.
Although this presents a challenge for the construction sector, it can be accomplished by utilising modern construction techniques and the most eco-friendly building material, including prefabricated timber frames.
Combined with using more sustainable best practices including the use of Safe Access Systems such as those developed by Oxford Safety Components for Timber Frame and Traditional House builds, that not only improve construction site safety, but have also been proven to help reduce build times, costs and environmental impact.
Timber frame construction has seen rapid growth in recent years, fuelled by its environmental benefits, reduced build times, and cost-effectiveness.
1. Sustainable: Timber is a sustainable resource, making it an environmentally friendly option for construction
2. Energy Efficient: Timber frame buildings provide outstanding insulation, enabling homeowners to heat the property comfortably, while lowering energy usage and costs.
3. Faster Construction: Timber frame structures can typically be built more quickly than conventional brick-and-mortar houses. The use of prefabricated parts facilitates faster on-site assembly, reducing build times and costs
4. Flexibility: Timber frame allows a considerable amount of flexibility when it comes to design, enabling housebuilders to offer a range of properties that appeal to their varying needs and lifestyle of their customers.
Like all construction sites, timber frame house build projects continue to be hazardous work environments.
Falls from height consistently remains the leading cause of workplace accidents and more worryingly fatalities in the UK.
Maintaining construction site safety on timber frame projects is an ongoing commitment that requires consistent training, thorough inspections, and regular updates to safety protocols. Implementing effective safety measures, performing comprehensive risk assessments, and following industry best practices can greatly reduce the hazards linked to timber frame building.
By ensuring effective safety measures are in place, construction firms can safeguard their workforce, enhance operational efficiency, and prevent expensive accidents and project delays.
Determined to make a difference, our founders developed a range of innovative safety systems specifically designed for Timber Frame and Traditional construction to not only to reduce incidents, but as a solutions that would be robust, efficient and easy to install.
Now widely recognized as an industry standard amongst housebuilders, our comprehensive range of safe access fall prevention products have been engineered to seamlessly integrate with all phases of the build process and industry standards, enhancing on-site safety without compromising efficiency or progress.
Coversafe on the roof trusses, StairSpan Bridge before the stairs, StairSpan on the stairwell and CoverSafe Spark for loft works.
1. Sustainable: Our systems are reusable and can be relocated to other properties and sites due to their durable, lightweight and portable design.
2. Time and space saving: Due to the XSpan technology our systems can be installed quicker than alternative solutions, that require delivery on larger vehicles and installation by specialist teams. When not in use, our systems are compact and take up minimal space on site.
3. Faster Construction: Whilst our systems are in place, access and visibility are maintained which means work can continue above and below, enabling tradespeople to work simultaneously, reducing build times and costs.
4. Flexibility: Our systems can be adapted to different sizes and configurations of property, making them extremely versatile, whilst still providing a safe access work platform and fall protection solution.
Oxford Safety Components has built its reputation on a foundation of innovation, reliability, and a deep understanding of site safety. With more than 30 years of experience in the construction trade, they have witnessed first hand the devastating impact of falls from height.
Their goal: to make high standards of safety accessible and practical across the construction industry.
Working closely with housebuilders we can provide comprehensive advice, site audits, safe access systems, training and ongoing system maintenance to support and help deliver existing and future Timber Frame and Traditional build projects, whilst maintaining compliance with industry regulations.
Timber Frames Industry | Minimise Risks & Improve Work Safety
For further details on how we can support your projects with our range of fall prevention solutions, contact the team on 01869 323282 or email: sales@oxfordsafety.com
