Civil Works for Heat Pump Installation for Local Primary School

Client: Primary School

Objective

Logan Bruce was appointed to undertake civils works to support the installation of four air source heat pumps and one chiller heat pump installation at a local primary school. The scope included excavation and construction of a reinforced structural concrete slab, installation of approximately 60 metres of open-cut trenching through a playground, and preparation of the route for three pre-insulated flow and return pipes and electric ducts between the slab and the boiler house. The completed installation was to be enclosed within acoustic wooden fencing to minimise noise impact.

The project required careful coordination to ensure the works were delivered safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to the school’s daily operations.

Project Objectives

Excavate and construct a compliant structural concrete slab to support heat pumps and chiller equipment.

Install 60 metres of open-cut track for pre-insulated heating pipework.

Maintain a safe working environment within a live school setting.

Minimise disruption to pupils, staff, and visitors.

Coordinate effectively with multiple contractors working within the same area.

Complete works in line with programme, quality standards, and client expectations.

Challenges

Working within an operational primary school playground and adjacent car park.

Restricted working hours due to school operations and safeguarding requirements.

Shared worksite with other contractors installing heating ducts.

Extensive underground services in the work area.

Cold weather conditions restricting concrete pours and curing.

Solution

Planned Working Times for the heat pump installation: Agreed restricted working windows where no machinery, vehicle movements or deliveries were permitted, aligned with school schedules.

Segregation and Security: Work within a secure fencing area with clear signage to segregate the work area from pupils and staff.

Communication: Regular communication with the client and other contractors to coordinate sequencing, access, and working areas.

Safe Digging Practices: Use of Cable Avoidance Tools (CAT & Genny), review of utility records, trial holes, and hand digging around services.

Permit and RAMS Compliance: All works carried out in line with approved Risk Assessments and Method Statements, with daily briefings and toolbox talks.

Weather Management: Monitoring forecasts and adjusting programme to ensure concrete pours were undertaken only when temperatures were within acceptable limits, with protective measures used where required.

Traffic and Pedestrian Management: Controlled access routes, banksman support, and clear demarcation of vehicle and pedestrian zones.

Health, Safety, and Quality Focus

Zero harm approach throughout the heat pump installation project.

Site inspections and supervisory checks.

PPE compliance and site-specific inductions for all operatives and visitors.

Quality checks on excavation depths, formation levels, reinforcement placement, and concrete finish.

Project Outcomes

Structural slab successfully installed to specification.

60 metres of trenching completed and handed over ready for pipe installation.

Works completed without injury, incident, or service strike.

Minimal disruption to school activities.

Positive feedback received from the client and stakeholders.

Benefits

Safe delivery of complex civils works within a live school environment.
Effective collaboration between multiple contractors.
High standard of workmanship and compliance with design requirements.
Demonstrated Logan Bruce’s ability to manage sensitive sites with strong safety and communication practices.

Conclusion

This heat pump installation project highlights Logan Bruce’s capability to deliver challenging civils works safely and professionally within operational and sensitive environments. Through strong planning, communication, and a proactive safety culture, the team successfully met all project objectives and provided a high-quality outcome for the client.