Connect With Us
When the Hub carried out an analysis of the various quality assurance processes in the construction sector, there was a gap when it came to the use of a standardised change control process. This is a big risk, with changes to products and systems not necessarily fully documented and understood throughout the supply chain and with the end occupier.
Change control is a major part of risk prevention in many manufacturing-led industries. With construction moving to an offsite-based and platform-focused future, it should be an essential part of any construction product and system manufacturers processes.
A change control management system is a set of procedures, processes and documents that control and record any changes that occur which alter the final product in fit, form and function.
These changes may be the result of product innovation, a change in customer requirements or a change to the manufacturing process. They can happen at any stage during the project lifecycle.
There is no standardised method for Change Control within manufacturing in construction. The Hub’s guidance in this area ensures that any changes to a product or system are introduced in a controlled way.
This allows manufacturers to identify the moment that a change is made and to consider any consequences that the change might have. For example, if a fault or defect is introduced to the system because of a change to one component, it will be easy to identify where the problem arose and take steps to solve it. This significantly reduces risk as it provides an effective means of highlighting problems and where intervention is needed.
Change Control also includes the addition of a feedback mechanism to highlight any changes and their impacts. This creates full traceability within the manufacturing process for products, components and systems.
This is particularly useful when analysing potential product failures as it makes it easier to identify where the problem may have occurred and the possible reasons for it.
The Hub’s work to develop a Change Control process is part of a wider quality assurance project.
Change Control complements, CPQP which sets out a Quality Assurance framework for new construction products. It means that any changes to a building’s design, specification or manufacturing process are documented as part of a formal change control process.
This is an important part of creating a Golden Thread for high-risk buildings and complying with the Building Safety Act.
It also supports the creation of platform and offsite manufacturing solutions as described in the Government’s Construction Playbook.
Find out more about research showing how the CPQP framework helps support duty holders in creating Building Safety Cases.
with
Connect With Us