RAAC – Identification And Remediation

The presence of RAAC (Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete) in more than 150 schools, and identification of the safety hazard it now represents, has caused huge disruption just as the new school year gets underway. But as other buildings are inspected, it is becoming apparent that this issue won't be confined only to education establishments. Those responsible for buildings including hospitals, offices and court buildings, and even homeowners, will now be asking what they need to do to identify whether their building is affected and who is responsible for any necessary remediation work.

Identifying whether it may be present is the first step. RAAC is a lightweight, 'bubbly' form of concrete commonly used in construction between the 1950s and mid-1990s. It is predominantly found as precast panels in roofs (commonly flat roofs, sometimes pitched) and occasionally in floors and walls. RAAC panels are light-grey or white in appearance, and the underside of the