Ensuring that specifications actually ‘work’ on site

How much true understanding is there in the architectural and contractor healthcare community of specifying products correctly to meet the demands laid out in the Healthcare Building Notes? This very question was raised to me by an architect during a recent CPD presentation. The specifier wanted to know how it could specify an IPS system and ensure that the installation not only met the stringent requirements set out in HBN guidance, but also ensured an aesthetically pleasing installation with completely hidden plumbing. 

For CS Medical, this was a common query. We support clients, architects, and contractors, to ensure that projects are accurately specified, well-designed, and, most importantly, are specifications that will work when installed on site. In part the problem arises in understanding the products being specified. While the term ‘IPS’ is recognised as a general description for panel systems, it actually refers to an ‘Integrated Pre-plumbed System’, which includes sanitaryware which is pre-mounted to the panel system off site. In fact, often the contractor will not purchase such a pre-plumbed system, and most will revert to the installation work being undertaken on site. This more traditional installation method means the specification cannot easily control all the works performed on site, which can result in a poorer quality install. 

NBS Specification classification