10.00 Welcome from Environment Analyst

10.05 Opening Remarks from the Chair:

Karen Thornton, Land Quality Service Manager, NHBC

10.15 NHBC Foundation Document: Hazardous Ground Gas - An Essential Guide for Housebuilders

Better assessment and management of ground gas risk ensures safe and efficient building of new homes. Following the six stage process and recognising the importance of competence at each stage will help housebuilders get it right first time and avoid potential pitfalls, saving time and money, whilst delivering homes safe from the potential risks of hazardous ground gas. 

The new guidance is essential reading for all those involved in ground gas risk assessment, protection design, installation and verification. The guidance helps housebuilders and their advisors to:

• recognise high risk sites and the appropriate action to take
• avoid unnecessary gas protection on low/minimal risk sites
• appoint appropriate competent professionals at the right stage
• complete the process of assessment, design, implementation and verification
• implement monitoring strategies suitable for the size, complexity and gas risk of sites

The report importantly addresses the current gap between the conclusions and recommendations of ground investigation reports and the structural design of buildings

Steve Wilson, Technical Director, Environmental Protection Group

Amy Juden, Associate, Environmental Protection Group

10.35 NHBC and Ground Gas - Changing Expectations for Ground Gas Risk Assessment, Gas Protection Design and Verification

This presentation will explore why updated guidance is needed to align with changing industry expectations.

Matthew Lennard, Principal Geo-Environmental Engineer, NHBC

10.55 Radon: Guidance on Protective Measures for New Buildings (BR211 2023 edition) -  Exploring What's New

• What is radon?
• Radon mapping and risk 
• Basic radon protection
• Full radon protection
• Inspection of work
• Advice on radon testing

Michael Jaggs, Associate Director & Principal Trainer, Building Research Establishment (BRE)

11.15 Detailing How the Off-Site Sector Addresses Ground Gas Protection

• Highlighting that design at an early stage is essential
• Balancing installing part of the volumetric system with on-site methods
• Outlining current available guidance for the Off-Site Manufacturers
• NHBC approach and considerations to ground gas risk in modular buildings
• Independent Verification and the challenges to the off-site industry
• Installation best practice and considerations
• Training awareness for on-site technicians

Justine Gray, Technical Services Manager, Galaxy Insulation

11.35 Panel Q&A Discussion

Questions will be invited from the audience.

12.00 Closing Remarks from the Chair and Event Close