The Consequences of Ignoring ISO 19650, BSRIA BG 6, and RIBA Stages in Construction Projects

Introduction

In our previous blog posts, we discussed the benefits of incorporating ISO 19650, BSRIA BG 6, and RIBA stages into the Building Information Modelling (BIM) process for MEP design, coordination, construction, and handover. However, failing to adhere to these guidelines and best practices can result in numerous difficulties and issues in construction projects. In this blog post, we will explore the potential consequences of not following ISO 19650, BG 6, and RIBA stages, and the challenges it presents for project stakeholders.

1. Poor Communication and Collaboration

One of the primary benefits of adhering to ISO 19650, BSRIA BG 6, and RIBA stages is the improvement of communication and collaboration among project stakeholders. When these standards are not followed, project teams may experience:

• Ambiguity in roles and respon­sibi­lities, leading to confusion and inefficiencies.
• Inconsistencies in information exchange, causing misun­der­stan­dings and delays.
• Difficulty in coordinating between disciplines, increasing the risk of errors and conflicts.

2. Increased Risk of Coordination Issues

BSRIA BG 6 and RIBA stages help to streamline coordination among various disciplines, including MEP, architectural, and structural design. Without adhering to these guidelines:

• Clashes between different building systems may go undetected, leading to costly rework and project delays.
• Design changes may not be effectively communicated or implemented, resulting in inconsistencies and errors.
• The lack of a clear framework for design coordination can cause confusion and inefficiency, impacting project timelines and quality.

3. Inefficient Project Management

The RIBA Plan of Work provides a structured approach to project management, dividing construction projects into stages with specific tasks and respon­sibi­lities. Ignoring this framework can lead to:

• Poor planning and scheduling, resulting in delays and cost overruns.
• Insufficient oversight and control, increasing the risk of errors and omissions.
• Difficulty in monitoring progress and performance, hampering decision-making and risk mitigation.

4. Non-Compliance with Industry Standards and Regulations

ISO 19650 sets out an international standard for information management in BIM projects. By not adhering to this standard:

• Projects may not comply with industry best practices or regulatory requirements, increasing the risk of non-compliance penalties.
• The lack of a standardised approach to information management can lead to inconsistencies and inaccuracies in the project documentation.
• Stakeholders may encounter difficulties in exchanging and interpreting project data, impacting collaboration and decision-making.

5. Compromised Handover and Facility Management

Failing to follow BSRIA BG 6 and ISO 19650 during the handover process can result in:

• Incomplete or inaccurate handover documentation, causing delays in transitioning to facility management.
• Difficulty in accessing and using asset information for maintenance and operations, impacting the long-term performance of the building.
• The potential for disputes and claims due to discrepancies between project documentation and actual building conditions.

Conclusion

Ignoring ISO 19650, BSRIA BG 6, and RIBA stages in construction projects can lead to a multitude of challenges and issues, ranging from poor communication and collaboration to non-compliance with industry standards. By adhering to these guidelines and best practices, project stakeholders can minimise risks, optimise project outcomes, and ensure long-term value for their built assets. It is crucial for industry professionals to recognise the importance of these standards and implement them in their projects to avoid the potential pitfalls associated with non-compliance.