Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC)
What is Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC)?
RAAC is a lightweight form of concrete used in the UK from the mid-1950s to the late-1980s, although recent examples date back to the 1990s. RAAC has been found in a wide range of buildings, which can be found in both the private and public sector.
The material was often most used in the construction of roofs and floors and is known to be less durable than other forms of concrete, particularly where it has been damaged by water or where it was not formed correctly during the original fabrication.
The position in NHS Lanarkshire
There has been a lot of media reports about the presence of RAAC in public sector buildings.
We understand that the presence of RAAC might be a concern for many. We want to reassure our patients, visitors and staff that their safety and well-being are our top priority.
In 2019 Heathcare Facilities Scotland (HFS), now NHS Assure, provided NHS Boards with guidance that some of our buildings may contain the use of RAAC and asked us to provide information on properties built within a certain time period with flat roofs.
In 2021 we commissioned structural surveys across a number of our buildings which fit the criteria set out in the guidance and at that time Biggar Health Centre roof was identified as a location which contained RAAC. Inspections made clear that the roof was in good condition.
We continue to regularly inspect Biggar Health Centre to ensure there has been no deterioration and most recent survey we undertook in September 2023 has confirmed this is still the case.
NHS Scotland Survey Programme
In 2022 NHS Assure issued additional guidance and having completed a DESK TOP EXERCISE has identified 18 buildings within Lanarkshire that are to be surveyed as part of a national programme. These are buildings identified as having a medium and high likelihood of containing RAAC and are noted as follows:
- Abronhill Health Centre
- Alison Lea Medical Centre
- Biggar Health Centre
- Central Health Centre
- Coathill Hospital – Laundry and Sewing Room
- Condorrat Health Centre
- Douglas Street Clinic
- Greenhills Health Centre
- Muirhead Clinic
- Townhead Clinic
- Wester Moffat Hospital
- University Hospital Monklands –Â Workshop & Joiners Workshop
- University Hospital Monklands –Â Estates Office
- University Hospital Monklands –Â Boilerhouse & Plant Room
- University Hospital Monklands –Â Outpatients Extension
- University Hospital Monklands –Â Pathology
- University Hospital Monklands –Â Day Surgery
- University Hospital Monklands –Â Main Hospital
NHS Assure will begin the surveying of our 18 buildings on week commencing 23 October 2023. An update of the results of survey will be published on this page. Only two of the buildings were not included as part of our 2021 programme.
Keeping you informed
Updates will be shared on this dedicated NHS Lanarkshire web page which will include:
- The outcome of the surveys being undertaken by NHS Assure
- Details of any measures being taken as a result of the surveys.
Updates for staff will also be made available via NHS Lanarkshire’s intranet FirstPort and for the public via our news channels.
Further information can be found on the NHS Assure web pages:
Frequently Asked Questions
 Q1. Will my service manager be advised of the dates and outcomes of the NHS Assure Survey?
Once we have the survey schedule, site leads will be advised of the date. Verbal feedback will be given on the day. Once the full report is received this will be posted on this webpage.
Q2. What will happen if RAAC I found?
Based on the surveys completed to date, only Biggar HC has been identified as having a roof with RAAC which is in good condition. If the NHS Assure survey identifies RAAC in a building the condition of the RAAC will be assessed and appropriate action commenced immediately with local teams being briefed.
Q3. Does RAAC need to become treated in the same way as Asbestos?
No, there is not a statutory requirement however guidance is being continually reviewed nationally. Where RAAC is identified in good condition, periodic surveys are recommended to ensure it is in good condition.
Q4. Have buildings where NHS Services are provided but are not owned by NHS been considered?
No National Guidance has been received on this topic as yet. NHS Lanarkshire have contacted the property owners of our leased premises for an update on RAAC. As information becomes available this will be posted on the webpage.
Q5. Regarding independent Contractors (GP’s, Opticians, Pharmacies) requiring support to review their properties who will do this?
This is not a Board responsibility. Annie Watson (email: annie.watson2@nhs.scot) who is based in NHS Assure is available to speak to anyone who needs advice on what is required and type of surveys that are needed.
