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Lifting Operations Audit: A Deep Dive into GMI Construction’s No.3 Circle Manchester Project

GMI Construction is at the forefront of Manchester construction, with its No. 3 Circle Square project in the Knowledge Quarter setting new benchmarks in sustainable office space. This architectural gem, a 15-story building designed for Bruntwood SciTech, is a testament to the synergy of Manchester’s rich heritage and its commitment to a net-zero future, offering 267,000 sq ft of innovative workspace in the heart of the Oxford Road Corridor innovation district.

Our inspection agenda at RMT Solutions emphasises the criticality of a meticulous Lifting Operations Audit to guarantee the integrity and efficiency of the complex lifting equipment at the site. Adhering to our unwavering commitment to regulatory compliance and stellar safety management systems, we are pivotal in fortifying our reputation for operational excellence. Through the implementation of robust lift plans and method statements, we strive to uphold rigorous safety standards, ensuring every lifting operation—from hoisting with chain slings to manoeuvring suspended loads—is conducted seamlessly by a competent lifting team, replete with skilled signallers and lifting supervisors. Bearing in mind that our conscientious audit checklist not only aids in accident prevention but also serves as the cornerstone of quintessential safety management practices, we align our objectives with an aspiration to craft a legacy of construction efficiency and pinnacle safety.

Overview of GMI Construction and Bruntwood SciTech’s Collaboration

GMI Construction Group’s collaboration with Bruntwood SciTech on the £87m No.3 Circle Square project is a cornerstone of the Manchester Circle Square neighbourhood. We are integrating 267,000 sq ft of advanced workspaces into the fabric of Circle and Square, fostering a culture of innovation and teamwork across 15 stories. This development is a key part of the CircleSquare project, succeeding No.1 and No.2 Circle Square, which has become fully occupied due to the area’s demand for collaborative work environments.

Our partnership extends to include the Citylabs 4.0 development—a £42m specialist laboratory space. Spearheaded as the contractor for this ambitious project, we are tasked with the construction of a seven-storey edifice offering 125,000 sq ft to house enterprises in the high-growth sector of precision medicine. Notably, both No.3 Circle Square and Citylabs 4.0 stand as cornerstones of our joint vision with Bruntwood SciTech to cement Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor as a cradle of innovation.

As stewards of sustainability, we are committed to achieving net-zero carbon in the construction and operation of Citylabs 4.0. This commitment is illustrated through design foresight, calling for an impressive array of 2,200 sq ft of solar panels and aiming for an EPC A rating, manifesting our pledge towards a greener future. The synergetic venture between us and Bruntwood SciTech culminates in a shared aspiration to craft innovative and sustainable workspaces that lead the way in environmental stewardship and offer a hub of unparalleled research and development facilities. With the vision of Q1 2025 as the completion horizon, we stand steadfast in merging best practices in safety management systems with the pioneering spirit of Manchester’s innovative district.

Innovative Design and Sustainability at No. 3 Circle Square

GMI’s No. 3 Circle Square is a paragon of sustainable office space, where innovative design meets a strong commitment to green building standards. Our construction practices are designed to exceed the expectations of sustainability, reflecting our dedication to environmental excellence.

• Utilization of Renewable Energy Sources: We’ve incorporated an extensive network of solar panels expected to cover over 2,200 sq ft of the development’s roofing. This proactive measure underlines our effort to reduce dependency on non-renewable energy and bolsters our sustainable energy footprint.
• Advanced Building Materials: The selection of materials for No. 3 Circle Square was executed with sustainability at its core. We prioritised using materials with a low carbon footprint and top-tier insulation properties. By doing so, we facilitate better energy conservation and contribute to the edifice’s overall energy efficiency.
• Water Conservation Systems: Understanding the value of every drop, our development integrates cutting-edge water conservation systems designed to minimize wastage. Our plans include rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling technologies to serve non-potable water needs within the premises.

  In support of the green initiative, our lift plan incorporates eco-friendly lifting equipment, selected based on their energy efficiency and the manufacturer’s commitment to environmental standards. Every piece of lifting gear, from the chain slings to the lorry loaders, undergoes weekly inspections to ensure compliance with lifting operations regulations and good practices.

  Our Safety Management Systems extend beyond the hoisting of suspended loads, reflecting our broader accountability for environmental stewardship. We engage in daily briefings with our lifting team, comprising competent riggers, lifting supervisors, and signallers, to reinforce our mission for a conscientiously low-impact site.

  This venture seamlessly integrates aesthetics and functionality without compromising environmental integrity. Through a collaborative and holistic approach, every facet of No. 3 Circle Square has been meticulously designed to contribute to Manchester’s reputation as a frontrunner in innovation and sustainability.

The Future of Manchester’s Innovation District

The ID Manchester project, spearheaded by GMI, is a transformative venture that positions the district as a hub of innovation and research. In partnership with Bruntwood SciTech and The University of Manchester, this £1.7 billion project is a beacon of academic collaboration, promising to merge academic excellence with commercial innovation in a vibrant and economically thriving environment.

• Our anticipation builds as ID Manchester paves the way for the incitement of over 10,000 new job opportunities, aligning with our steadfast principle of enhancing local employment. The influx of diverse professional roles nurtures an ecosystem of talent and supports the overarching strategy for economic upliftment across the region.
• At RMT Solutions, ensuring the safety and efficiency of such an extensive undertaking is paramount. Our comprehensive lifting plans and schedules are integral to the infrastructural expansion within the ID Manchester site. Our team of competent lifting supervisors, signallers, and riggers will be at the forefront, ensuring the seamless execution of lifting operations in adherence to our rigorous safety management systems.
• The execution of our lift plan resonates with the ethos of innovation pervading the district. By employing the latest in lifting equipment and accessories and adhering to a stringent inspection checklist, we contribute to the broader landscape of progress. This foresight optimises operational flow and significantly contributes to accident prevention—core to our mission of meticulous oversight within the industry.

  As we lend our expertise to the ID Manchester narrative, intertwining our lift plans and audit checklists with the future of Manchester’s innovation district becomes ever more pronounced.

• The bespoke implementation of safe systems and weekly inspections of our lifting equipment, such as chain slings and lorry loaders, underscores our vigilance and dedication to upholding industry standards. By continuous daily briefings and reinforcement of good practices, we foster a culture of uncompromised safety and operational brilliance, positioning us as consultants and as custodians of construction efficiency and sustainability within Manchester’s thriving innovation ecosystem.

Why you should use RMT Solutions for your Site Lifting Operations Audits and Tower Crane Lift Plans

Opting for RMT Solutions for your crane operation needs ensures that safety, compliance, and technical expertise are prioritized in your lifting plan. Our services, including pre-use inspection and adherence to LOLER, are essential for maintaining safe lifting practices during site lifting operations and tower crane lifting.

As UK-based specialists in the realm of lifting operations, we at RMT Solutions pride ourselves on our comprehensive approach to safety and compliance. Our team not only holds the esteemed CPCS A61 Blue competent person card, but as qualified Health and Safety Consultants, we assure our clients that their operations are guided by individuals brimming with essential qualifications and the sort of expertise that can only be honed through years of dedicated experience.

When it comes to orchestrating lifting operations, efficiency and reliability are not mere buzzwords—they are critical components that when expertly managed, drive productivity, crunch unnecessary costs, and elevate safety to new heights. Our service offerings are laser-focused on optimizing these areas across various industries. From intricate lift plans that meticulously map every phase of a lift, to thorough training that imbues your team with the knowledge to conduct operations in line with the Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER), our commitment to reducing accident probabilities is unwavering.

Investing in RMT Solutions‘ services ensures the guiding hand at your site is that of an “appointed person” for lifting operations—a consummate professional charged with the oversight of safety, planning, risk assessments, and supervision. Our distinguished appointed persons are adept at navigating the nuanced requirements of LOLER regulations and are instrumental in orchestrating lift plans exuding operational excellence.

Our deliverables are designed to foster an ecosystem of impeccable safety and efficiency:

• Detailed Site Lifting Operations Audit Checklist: Our checklist encompasses a plethora of pivotal factors, including the inspection of lifting equipment, adherence to lifting operations regulations, and the vetting of method statements, thus cementing compliance and streamlined efficiency.
• Risk Management Tool (RMT): This proprietary offering equips businesses to manage workplace risks effectively, placing health and safety in the spotlight.
• Comprehensive Training and Certification: We empower your lifting team with the knowledge and official recognition required to execute their roles with expertise.
• Equipment Inspection and Documentation: Regular weekly inspections and meticulous record-keeping are part of our DNA, ensuring every piece of lifting gear is optimised for safe operations.
• Communication Systems and Daily Briefings: Our daily briefings and state-of-the-art communication channels guarantee a lifting team that is consistently abreast of safe systems and good practices.
• Weather Monitoring and Exclusion Zones: Proactive checks on environmental factors are embedded in our protocol, ensuring responsive and adaptive lift plans.

  Rest assured, aligning with RMT Solutions means your tower crane lift plans are not just a facet of your operations but a confluence of local expertise, an unfaltering commitment to safety, and an execution strategy that exemplifies operational dexterity.

  Reach out to us, and together, we will elevate your site lifting operations to the pinnacle of industry standards, underlined by a promise of safety, efficiency, and regulation compliance.

Conclusion

In summary, GMI Construction’s No.3 Circle Square project exemplifies environmental stewardship and innovative design within Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor. RMT Solutions’ crane lift plan and safety lifting protocols have been instrumental in reinforcing the project’s commitment to safety, compliance, and net-zero targets that are shaping Manchester’s reputation as a leader in sustainable urban development.

As we move toward the anticipated completion in Q1 2025, it is evident that the synergy between cutting-edge construction and meticulous safety oversight will continue to drive the industry forward. The significance of our findings and the dedicated application of stringent safety standards underscore the broader implications for the field—championing sustainable growth and robust infrastructure. With the future set on further enhancing the innovation district, RMT Solutions reaffirms its role as a key player in fostering a safe, efficient, and environmentally conscious built environment.

FAQs

• What is the project?
  No.3 Circle Square is a landmark construction project set to deliver a 15-story office building encompassing approximately 267,000 sq ft of versatile workspace. It will feature a blend of ground-floor retail and leisure spaces, a communal lounge, event space, and a captivating roof terrace. This initiative is at the forefront of GMI Construction Group’s portfolio, demonstrating a commitment to creating cutting-edge workspaces within Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor innovation district, with sustainability and net-zero embodied carbon during its construction being key priorities.
• Where is the location and who is the constructor?
  The project proudly stands at Circle Square, Manchester, strategically located on the corner of Brancaster Road and Princess Street. Our team at GMI Construction Group, renowned for our expertise and successful delivery of complex projects, are the constructors behind this ambitious endeavour.
• Key features and expected completion date?
  With an unwavering focus on sustainability, the project aspires to achieve BREEAM Excellent status, an EPC A rating, and a NABERS 5 Star rating, reflecting the pinnacle of sustainable design. The project’s strides towards a greener future are evident, and we anticipate celebrating its practical completion in Q1 2025.
• Have there been updates or changes?
  Progressing beyond its initial plans, No.3 Circle Square has expanded from the proposed 215,000 sq ft to now offering 267,000 sq ft of office space. With sustainability credentials enhanced and an enriched public realm, the project keenly adapts to the evolving demands of modern construction.
• How to get more information?
  For detailed insights and updates, access is available to application number 134288/FO/2022 on the Manchester City Council’s planning portal. Our commitment to transparency and regulatory compliance ensures that all stakeholders are informed and engaged as we advance in our lifting operations audit and execution.

  Our commitment at RMT Solutions extends beyond the robust audit checklist and meticulous inspection of lifting equipment used in our lift plan, such as chain slings and lorry loaders. The safety management systems devised for No.3 Circle Square are tailored to optimise safety and efficiency, with ongoing training for the lifting team reinforcing our adherence to good practices. The lifting operations regulations guide our procedures, and regular weekly inspections cement the trust placed in our competent riggers, lifting supervisors, and signallers. Through tailored method statements and proactive daily briefings, we solidify our mission of accident prevention and uphold the highest standards in managing suspended loads and site lifting activities for projects like No.3 Circle Square.

UK External Links

1. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) – Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER)

• URL: https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/loler.htm
• Description: This link leads to the UK’s Health and Safety Executive page on LOLER. It outlines the regulations, guidance for compliance, and resources for conducting safe lifting operations. The HSE is the UK government body responsible for enforcing workplace health, safety, and welfare legislation, making it an authoritative source for information on lifting operations within the UK.

2. Lifting Equipment Engineers Association (LEEA)

• URL: https://leeaint.com/
• Description: The LEEA is recognized globally, with a strong presence in the UK, as the leading representative body for all those involved in the lifting industry. Their website offers resources, training, and guidance on best practices for lifting operations, including audits, equipment inspection, and safety standards. As an established authority in the field, LEEA’s resources are invaluable for ensuring operational excellence and compliance within the UK context.

3. Construction Industry Research and Information Association (CIRIA) – Lifting Operations Guidance

Lifting_operations_guidance.aspx

• Description: CIRIA, a UK-based independent association, provides research and advice for the construction industry. This resource offers detailed guidance on lifting operations within construction projects, including planning, execution, and audit processes. It’s an excellent tool for anyone in the UK looking to ensure safety and efficiency in their lifting operations and audits.

These links offer comprehensive information from regulatory compliance and safety practices to professional advice and industry standards, making them highly relevant and useful for those interested in lifting operations audits within the UK.

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