Data showing spiking humidity levels on construction sites are a growing concern for electrical contractors working in the sector, according to a new report from temporary power company, Aggreko.
The report reviews data from World Weather Online to compare mean relative humidity levels in the UK’s construction hotspots, showing an average of around 76% – well above the recommended levels of between 40-60% on a construction site.
With a rise in humidity comes a rise in moisture which is infamously known for causing issues on electrical installations. With this pressing concern in mind, Aggreko’s new campaign, ‘The Hidden Cost of Humidity on Site,’ is aiming to generate awareness of issues surrounding temperature and moisture control.
Those managing electrical risk during refurbishment work are being alerted to the fact that if the atmosphere on site is not controlled effectively, moisture, in the form of water vapor, can find its way into the smallest areas and spaces of any components. This in turn can leave corrosive deposits behind that continue to cause damage after drying.
Over recent months the business has seen a sharp increase in enquiries to help solve humidity issues in construction, particularly for luxury residential developments and historical buildings. However, Ryan Stanley, a moisture control expert at Aggreko who is spearheading the campaign, is concerned that a number of misconceptions and incorrect information exists across the market that are causing further damage to sites.
Stanley explains: “Moisture is inevitable in buildings and on construction sites, and its correct removal is a serious challenge. However, many companies that are tasked with the drying of a site do not make all of the necessary considerations to remove the moisture problem entirely. These incorrect processes can result in irreparable damage and huge costs for all stakeholders, not to mention risking reputations for years to come.
“What may seem the quickest and easiest solution at the time could cause changes to the composition of materials within a building, resulting in longer term damage and large delays for reparation work.
“As we know, 2020 has completely turned the industry on its head, which has resulted in pressure mounting for contractors to get back on schedule, minimise risk and reduce overheads. This is why I’m really keen to work with industry to help inform and educate so that we can expose and solve the hidden costs of humidity.”