BAM’s modular response to Covid-19

BAM Ireland, selected by developer Marlet as the main contractor on the One Lime Street residential development in Dublin’s docklands, says it will use modular construction techniques on the project to aid social distancing.

The project will see the construction of a block of 216 one- and two-bedroom apartments, plus leisure and retail facilities on the ground floor and more than 1,200m² of landscaped communal area.

BAM Ireland’s CEO Theo Cullinane said, “Moving forward with Marlet on One Lime Street is particularly exciting considering all the challenges the industry, and indeed the country, has faced in recent times.

“BAM will utilise off-site prefabrication techniques to deliver this project. The superstructure, bathrooms and balconies will be manufactured and finished off-site. Advantages of off-site construction include a reduced construction period, less operatives on site, better environment for social distancing and minimal disruption to local residents.”

He added, “BAM is firmly committed to the safety of our workers and we believe these additional measures to aid social distancing demonstrate this.”

Marlet has also introduced modifications to the scheme to reduce the risk of spreading the virus during the construction process. These include the use of microbicidal paint on washroom and shared-area walls, antibacterial door hardware, touch-free building access, and what the company calls a ‘top-of-the-range’ ventilation strategy.

In terms of long-term adjustments to the development itself, the company said features such as a large entrance court and reception to avoid congestion at peak times, increased lift sizes to allow for social distancing, and home-office areas to facilitate working from home will also be incorporated.

Construction work at the site will begin later this month, with completion expected by the second quarter of 2022.