Lean Construction for Time Saving and Improved Ventilation Project Outcomes

Lean Construction for Time Saving and Improved Ventilation Project Outcomes

By Ruth MacEachern

Product Manager

What is lean construction and why is it essential for the successful implementation of ventilation projects? How can the lean construction method benefit you?

Lean construction techniques execute the seamless, cost and time-efficient delivery of building projects. The process maximises the value for both the customer and the construction company.

The concept reduces unplanned rework due to inspections and ensures all aspects of the project contribute directly to the desired outcome.

In terms of ventilation, it seeks to eliminate unnecessary processes and select the best equipment for the building.

Good to know

LEAN stands for leadership, eliminating waste and acting now. This translates into successfully managing a construction project, minimising physical and non-physical waste (such as time) and doing things better immediately.

Lean construction management constantly reviews the project and looks for improvements. This is the opposite of working in a certain way 'because we've always done it like that'. Lean construction questions the normal and seeks out better ways of doing things.

The challenge of combining fast-tracking with quality

Construction companies are under constant pressure to meet deadlines whilst maintaining quality and meeting standards. In new-build projects if the contractor hands over the project on time the developer can benefit from early occupancy. Likewise, prompt delivery of a refurbishment means potential cost savings.

Within this scenario is the installation of the ventilation system. Successful lean construction techniques align closely with efficient project management.

Whilst it can be tempting to cut corners to complete projects, this can lead to problems in the future, for example:

• Inadequate installation causes inefficient airflow and wastes energy
• Poor quality indoor air produces health problems
• Expensive repairs and maintenance costs

In addition, do you want to damage your professional reputation and lose existing and potential clients?

Good to know 

Lean construction fuels economic growth, not only for the building industry but for the country as a whole. The Office of National Statistics confirms this, reporting, "The value of construction new work in prices in Great Britain in 2022 increased 15.8% to a record high of £132,989 million." (most recent figures available).

Lean construction in ventilation projects

The installation of a ventilation system cannot be compromised. An expert project manager understands how to fast-track and achieve positive results.

The key components of lean construction techniques in ventilation include:

• Ensuring the initial design is accurate to avoid costly changes and extra time, which could delay the start of the project. A set of accurate design plans are also more likely to be approved first-time by the local authority.
• Selecting the right equipment for the project from a reputable supplier. This may include self-sealing systems that eliminate the need for applying tape or sealant, leading to faster installation and reduced labour costs.

Using qualified employees with industry knowledge. For example, an experienced technician versed in the advantages of a self-sealed system can advise on its benefits compared to natural ventilation.

• Optimising everyone's time, from designers to installation engineers. This can be supported by efficient scheduling that blends everyone's timelines.

• Minimising materials which includes reducing waste by reviewing cutting plans, and reusing existing ductwork by incorporating new components such as fans.

• Enhanced quality focusing on continuous improvement, which leads to better quality control in ventilation projects. This can result in no leaks, proper airflow, and a system that functions as intended.

• Clear communication – a project management skill that ensures all relevant stakeholders liaise with each other, from the initial design to the final handover.

All of the above lead to cost savings, which benefit everyone involved in the project. 

Good to know

Lean construction is also known as 'kaizen', which is the Japanese word for continuous improvement. This term is used in construction as kaizen is the base on which to improve quality, costs and scheduling.

How to implement lean construction practices for efficiency 

The implementation of lean construction techniques in ventilation adds value to the overall project. Every employee in the chain has a responsibility for the benefits that can be achieved through lean construction.

Scheduling

Before the project begins the project manager will work with the various stakeholders to schedule it from start to finish. This is a key part of lean construction, as the objective is to plan the project in as much detail as possible.

This critical path is a rolling document that may change due to unforeseen circumstances, for example, late delivery of components. It allows everyone involved in the project to see what is happening in real-time and make adjustments to their own schedules accordingly.

Equipment selection

It is important to have an in-depth understanding of the various ventilation systems available to select the right one for a project. For example, being aware of the benefits of MEV (Mechanical Extract Ventilation) compared to PIV (Positive Input Ventilation) can make a major difference to a project.

Material ordering and storage

Equipment delivered and installed within a short timeframe is more profitable than if it sits in a warehouse at the contractor's cost.

Effective communication

Clear communication between relevant parties means no confusion. Regular meetings with the right people at the right stages of the project ensure everyone is up to date. 

Modern technology such as a company Intranet allows remote workers to attend meetings and communicate with colleagues with no time lost travelling. Additionally, a focused critical path accessible online to relevant parties means stakeholders stay informed at all stages of the installation process. 

Continued professional development (CPD)

Skilled staff contribute to the lean construction process by sharing their expertise both up and down the chain through their continued professional development. This saves research and query time. 

Lean construction is a key benefit in ventilation projects, maximising teamwork, efficiency and sustainability. This strategy has the ability to transform the way construction productivity is managed, to anticipate and solve rather than react to issues that may arise. 

In summary, lean construction is a forward-thinking approach that enhances efficiency across all stages of a project. To maximise its impact, there are three crucial points to keep in mind: first, lean construction is driven by a commitment to continuous improvement, ensuring that every process evolves for the better; second, open communication and strong teamwork are essential to achieving the seamless execution of this methodology; and third, long-term planning is vital to preventing short-term setbacks, allowing for smoother project delivery and more reliable outcomes.