DEFECT CHARGES ARE BECOMING INCREASINGLY COMMON IN REINSTATEMENT PROJECTS. HERE ARE THREE TIPS ON HOW TO AVOID DEFECT CHARGES ON UTILITY CONTRACTS
Did you know, there are no legal requirements for companies to stick to specific colours when using spray paints on the road to show what pipes or cables are below the surface? But there are often requirements and pressures from Local Authorities on contractors to ensure that after a project is completed, the road surface is free from marks, otherwise contractors are likely to receive hefty defects fines. Here are three top tips to avoid defects charges.
1. USE TEMPORARY SPRAY AEROSOLS
To avoid these defect restoration costs, contractors are increasingly turning to biodegradable spray paints that fade over time. The markings deteriorate quicker the sunnier it is, through UV (UltraViolet) light, and can be washed away at the end of projects.
UV biodegradable aerosol sprays are fast becoming the norm for contractors looking to save money on defect costs. Meon has developed a range of temporary aerosol markers called Tempo TP, specifically designed for this purpose, that are instantly trafficable and come in a wide range of bright high-visibility colours.
One of the frustrations contractors have when making these ‘road-hieroglyphs‘ is that the spray tip breaks or fills up with gunk, or gets damaged in transit. Meon’s range of temporary road aerosols have an innovative safety cap system that is robust, protecting the can from accidental damage.
Image: Tempo TP aerosol marker after application
Image: Tempo TP aerosol marker 6 weeks after application
Enquire now for a free sample of TEMPO TP anywhere in the UK: bert@meonuk.com
2. ENSURE YOU HAVE ALL THE PRODUCTS REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THE TASK BEFORE BEGINNING!
It seems obvious, but don’t start projects without all of the materials required to complete it! With next day delivery (up until 3:30 pm ordering) from Meon, and the most comprehensive range of road repair products, make sure you are prepared.
Being prepared is key, as some contracts also have stipulations that state that as soon as any road is marked, the works must be completed within a certain time period. Make sure your team aren’t caught out by having the right kits available for them.
Meon have a wide range of all-in-one kits, specifically for immediate anti-skid repair, thermoplastic line repair, pothole repair, rapid set concrete and mortar repair.
Not sure what you need for a project? Get in touch with the team at Meon, who can give you advice on how to complete your next reinstatement project.
3. ENSURE YOUR TEAM HAS BEEN TRAINED ON THE APPLICATION OF THE PRODUCT
The highways industry is in an era of rapid innovation not seen in decades, with new solutions to age-old problems being developed all the time, unfortunately, with all these innovations, contractors are often left without any support to train their teams.
Furthermore, with increased budget cuts and the ‘do more with less’ mantra contracting teams are being pushed to use certain products without the training, ongoing support or knowledge. To avoid this pitfall, Meon offers free site toolbox training sessions at your depot or at our training area in Portsmouth. Many contractors find that there is a real lack of expertise within trade distributors, so Meon offers free site toolbox training sessions at your depot or at our training area in Portsmouth. It is increasingly important to get expert advice and training to support your team in getting it right first time, and to make sure you avoid defects costs.
Speak to us about having a toolbox talk at your site or a training session with Meon.
Alternatively, give Meon a call: 02392 200 606
