Creating comfortable, functional, and safe site accommodation is essential for any construction project.
At Relocatable Building Systems, based in Derby, we specialise in designing and installing bespoke modular buildings and relocatable buildings that meet the diverse needs of building sites across the UK.
Here’s our guide to creating site accommodation that is not only highly functional but also safe and compliant with industry standards.
Safety is paramount on any building site, especially when it comes to site accommodation. It’s essential to ensure that your relocatable buildings adhere to all health and safety regulations, providing a secure environment for your workforce:
● Risk Assessment: Before installing any site accommodation, conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential hazards, such as fire risks, electrical issues, and safety around construction equipment.
● Fire Safety: Equip each building with fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and clear emergency exit routes. Design the layout to minimise fire hazards, especially in areas where flammable materials may be present.
● Secure Foundations: Ensure that your site accommodation is installed on stable ground and secure foundations, especially if the units will be in place for extended periods. Proper anchoring prevents movement due to high winds or other environmental factors.
With Relocatable Building Systems, you’ll benefit from fully compliant buildings that incorporate essential safety features from the design stage.
The layout of your site accommodation can make a significant difference in your team’s comfort and productivity. A well-organised space ensures smooth operations and creates a more pleasant work environment:
● Separate Workspaces: Where possible, provide separate rooms or sections for different functions—such as office space, rest areas, and storage. This helps to reduce distractions and keeps the working environment organised.
● Adequate Space for Storage: Make sure that you allocate sufficient space for storing tools, personal belongings, and other essential equipment. Dedicated storage areas keep clutter to a minimum and improve the overall safety and functionality of the space.
● Designated Break Areas: Give your team a comfortable space to rest. Including seating areas, coffee stations, and even small kitchenettes can make breaks more relaxing, boosting morale and productivity.
● Noise Reduction Zones: To create a quieter, more focused environment, consider designating specific zones within the accommodation for high-traffic or noisy activities, such as meeting areas or tool storage.
We offer a range of bespoke modular building options to accommodate varying needs, ensuring that every unit is purpose-built for optimal functionality.
Weather conditions can have a significant impact on the comfort and functionality of site accommodation. Effective heating, cooling, and ventilation systems ensure that the space remains usable and comfortable year-round:
● Heating & Insulation: During colder months, proper insulation and heating systems are vital. Without adequate warmth, morale and productivity can suffer. Incorporate energy-efficient heaters and consider insulated modular building designs.
● Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is necessary to ensure a steady flow of fresh air and to prevent the build-up of humidity, which can lead to mould or condensation issues. At Relocatable Building Systems, our modular buildings are designed with ventilation options that can be tailored to your needs.
● Air Conditioning for Hotter Months: In warmer weather, air conditioning or fan systems can keep the space comfortable. Temperature regulation improves well-being and makes working conditions more bearable, particularly during summer.
Lighting is a crucial factor for any site accommodation. Poor lighting can lead to eye strain, discomfort, and even accidents:
● Natural Light Maximisation: If possible, position your relocatable building to take advantage of natural light. This not only creates a pleasant environment but also reduces reliance on artificial lighting, conserving energy.
● Task-Specific Lighting: In work areas, make sure that lighting is adequate for tasks requiring high attention to detail. LED lighting provides bright, consistent illumination and is energy-efficient.
● Emergency Lighting: Install emergency lighting, particularly in hallways and exits. In the event of a power failure, emergency lighting ensures that workers can safely navigate the area and access exits.
Our bespoke modular building solutions allow for custom lighting options that meet safety standards and enhance comfort.
Providing accessible site accommodation is essential, particularly for team members or visitors with mobility challenges. Accessible accommodations are also a requirement in certain cases to comply with legal standards:
● Ramp Access & Wide Doors: For wheelchair accessibility, install ramps and wide doors that meet regulatory guidelines. This ensures that everyone can move freely and safely.
● Easy Navigation: Design a straightforward layout with clear signage to help employees and visitors find their way. Colour-coded zones or directional signs improve navigation, which is particularly helpful for large construction sites with multiple buildings.
● Portable Accessibility Solutions: If you’re using relocatable buildings that may need to be repositioned, consider portable accessibility solutions like adjustable ramps and portable handrails.
Relocatable Building Systems offers bespoke modular building options that can include accessibility features to ensure that all workers and visitors can comfortably navigate your site accommodation.
Security is a top concern on building sites, especially where valuable tools and equipment are stored. Secure site accommodation helps prevent unauthorised access and theft:
● Locks & Alarms: Equip your modular buildings with secure locks and alarm systems. Access control solutions, like keycard or keypad entries, provide an additional layer of security.
● Surveillance Cameras: CCTV cameras can be installed to monitor site activity, acting as a deterrent to theft and vandalism. Cameras with remote viewing capabilities allow you to monitor the site even when off-site.
● Secure Storage: For valuable items, consider including a secure storage area within the accommodation unit. Lockable cabinets or safes can be added to keep sensitive items secure.
Our site accommodation units can be customised with advanced security features, ensuring your assets and personnel are well-protected.
Once your site accommodation is in place, regular maintenance and inspection are essential to keep it in optimal condition. This includes both structural and functional maintenance to prevent wear and tear from affecting your building’s performance:
● Scheduled Inspections: Conduct routine inspections of all key areas, such as HVAC systems, lighting, and electrical outlets. Catching minor issues early can prevent larger problems and costly repairs.
● Cleaning & Sanitisation: Regular cleaning, particularly of shared spaces like restrooms and kitchens, is essential for hygiene and comfort. This is especially important for long-term accommodation solutions.
● Safety Equipment Checks: Ensure that all fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and emergency lighting systems are tested regularly and remain in good working order.
Our team at Relocatable Building Systems offers support to help you establish a maintenance plan for your modular buildings, ensuring they remain safe and functional throughout their use.
Creating high-quality, compliant site accommodation requires expertise in both design and safety. Consulting with a professional modular building provider, like Relocatable Building Systems, allows you to benefit from years of experience in providing safe, functional, and bespoke modular buildings for construction sites.
When you work with the professionals, you can benefit from:
● Customised Solutions: Every site has unique needs, and our team can tailor modular buildings to meet specific requirements, from safety features to layout and accessibility.
● Compliance Assurance: As a trusted provider, we ensure that every aspect of your building meets safety and compliance standards, giving you peace of mind.
● Streamlined Project Management: Working with an experienced provider also means you’ll benefit from streamlined project management, reducing the time and complexity of coordinating different aspects of the build.
● Future-Proofing & Flexibility: A professional modular building provider can design site accommodation that anticipates future needs, offering flexible options for expansion or relocation as your project evolves.
Effective site accommodation not only supports your team’s needs but also contributes to a safer, more organised working environment.
At Relocatable Building Systems, we provide high-quality relocatable buildings designed to meet the demands of busy construction sites. Whether you need bespoke modular buildings for temporary or permanent use, our expert team is here to help.
Contact us today to discuss your requirements and get started on creating secure, functional, and efficient site accommodation for your next project.