Blog | CIBSE TM65

CIBSE TM65: Paving the Way Towards a Sustainable Future

In a bid to meet net zero targets, the construction industry has focused efforts on reducing the carbon emissions of buildings. Recently, increasing emphasis has been placed on the life cycle of MEP equipment and the greenhouse gas emissions produced as a result. However, these can be difficult to measure.

In 2021, the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers (CIBSE) published the Embodied carbon in building services: a calculation methodology (TM65). This document offers guidance on how to calculate the embodied carbon of building materials using the TM65 methodology when no Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) is available.

What is CIBSE TM65?

Building services engineers are continually looking for ways to reduce the carbon emissions of buildings. Efforts have been made to lower operational carbon emissions through implementing sustainable measures such as POE lighting and air source heat pumps. However, focus is now also turning towards lowering the emissions involved with the life cycle of building materials.

Embodied carbon refers to the greenhouse gas emissions of MEP equipment from manufacturing and transportation through to installation, maintenance, and disposal. If materials are not carefully designed, used, or disposed, the emissions from these can be significant.

EPDs offer insight into the environmental impact of a MEP product. While it is best practice for manufacturers to publicise information regarding the impact of their products, EPDs are often not available. It has been estimated that only 180 MEP products worldwide have declared EPDs. This makes it challenging to determine the embodied carbon of most products.

TM65 strives to solve this issue. Where EPDs are available this document offers guidance on how to use these. More commonly, when EPDs are not yet available, the TM65 methodology provides guidance on how to calculate the embodied carbon for these products.

How does it work?

Step 1: Consultant or Engineer checks with Manufacturer if EPD is available. If available, the EPD is used and process moves to step 3. If not, process moves to step 2.

Step 2: Manufacturer is provided with a ‘manufacturer form’.

Step 3: A ‘calculator tool’ is used to conduct the calculations. If only Section A is completed on the form, a basic calculation is used. If Section A and B are completed, a mid-level calculation is used.

Step 4: Users are encouraged to share their results with CIBSE at the end of the process. The manufacturer form and reporting form with the completed calculations are sent to CIBSE to be added to a product database to develop industry knowledge.

CIBSE TM65 is not attempting to replace EPDs but instead offer calculated estimations for MEP products until more EPDs become available. It also facilitates greater standardisation and consistency across the industry.

Summary

CIBSE TM65 plays an important role in reducing the carbon emissions of a building. This calculation methodology recognises the harmful environmental impact MEP equipment can have and encourages the construction industry to be considerate of the effects of their building project. By offering a standardised assessment format, this allows for greater consistency across MEP embodied carbon estimates. Sharing this research with CIBSE allows for a highly detailed product database to be created.

DARe-me Consulting Engineers can conduct CIBSE TM65 calculations for a wide range of building projects. To find out more, contact a member of our team today.

Current Job Vacancies

Our Current Vacancies ... to apply email your CV to jobs@dare-me.co.uk

Position: Senior / Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Location: Glasgow

Employment Type: Full time / Permanent

Experience: Minimum 5 years relevant design experience

Start Date: ASAP

Salary: Excellent / Dependant on experience

Qualifications: Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree in Building Services or Mechanical Engineering.

Chartered status: IMECHE/CIBSE is preferred or progression towards chartership.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Proficiency in AutoCAD with a working knowledge of Revit.

2. Technical proficiency, strong communication skills, effective time management, and a collaborative team approach.

3. Demonstrated ability to exercise financial control and project management skills would be advantageous.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct mechanical design and consulting tasks encompassing systems design, production, specifications, and scheduling.

2. Provide comprehensive reports and guidance to clients.

3. Coordinate with internal and external design team members, representing the company in meetings.

4. Serve as the primary contact for clients, ensuring their needs are met efficiently by leading or assisting consultants.

5. Foster effective collaboration with all stakeholders impacted by your work.

6. Demonstrate accountability in project management and actively mentor junior staff through training initiatives.

7. Monitor and adjust personal and team workload schedules regularly. Establish and update task priority lists accordingly.

8. Review the accuracy and completeness of documentation produced by colleagues.

9. Uphold adherence to all Quality System protocols.

10. Fulfill administrative duties including tracking project-related man-hour commitments and providing monthly reports on project fee details.

11. Oversee project management activities, including the coordination of junior staff and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

12. Adhere to security protocols and maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive commercial information.

13. Fulfill any additional responsibilities required to support the company's core objectives as directed by the Directors.

14. Contribute to compliance with relevant ISO standards and national regulations in all operational activities.

Our Current Vacancies ... to apply email your CV to jobs@dare-me.co.uk

Position: Associate Electrical Design Engineer

Location: Glasgow

Employment Type: Full time / Permanent

Experience: 10+ years relevant design experience

Start Date: ASAP

Salary: Excellent / Dependant on experience

Qualifications: Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree in Building Services or Electrical Engineering.

Chartered status: IET/CIBSE is preferred or progression towards chartership.

Skills and Abilities:

1. Generate electrical design drawings, conduct calculations using software such as Amtech, Hevacomp, IES, Relux, and Dialux, and prepare reports, specifications, and schedules.

2. Play a role in achieving BREEAM or equivalent regulatory compliance.

3. Contribute to compliance with Building Regulations Part F, Part L, or Section 6 through modeling efforts.

4. Participate in witnessing tests for the proving and commissioning of final installations.

5. Aid in the training and development of junior engineers.

6. Adhere to internal and external project timelines efficiently.

7. Adhere to the company's Quality Assurance management systems.

8. Provide support to Directors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Conduct mechanical design and consulting tasks encompassing systems design, production, specifications, and scheduling.

2. Provide comprehensive reports and guidance to clients.

3. Coordinate with internal and external design team members, representing the company in meetings.

4. Serve as the primary contact for clients, ensuring their needs are met efficiently by leading or assisting consultants.

5. Foster effective collaboration with all stakeholders impacted by your work.

6. Demonstrate accountability in project management and actively mentor junior staff through training initiatives.

7. Monitor and adjust personal and team workload schedules regularly. Establish and update task priority lists accordingly.

8. Review the accuracy and completeness of documentation produced by colleagues.

9. Uphold adherence to all Quality System protocols.

10. Fulfill administrative duties including tracking project-related man-hour commitments and providing monthly reports on project fee details.

11. Oversee project management activities, including the coordination of junior staff and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

12. Adhere to security protocols and maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive commercial information.

13. Fulfill any additional responsibilities required to support the company's core objectives as directed by the Directors.

14. Contribute to compliance with relevant ISO standards and national regulations in all operational activities.

DARe-me Consulting Engineers

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Technical Excellence

Our commitment to quality service extends beyond external interactions with clients, designers, contractors, and industry stakeholders. Internally, we foster a collaborative environment where teamwork is paramount. Our aim is to be the dependable choice for clients and fellow team members alike. Upholding a consistently high level of service is essential in maintaining our reputation as trusted partners.

Excellence in Deliverables

Renowned for delivering superior end-products, we prioritise the continuous development of our workforce. We meticulously review and refine our methodologies, processes, and outputs to ensure unparalleled quality. Our focus on people development drives our relentless pursuit of excellence. We embrace innovation and adaptability to remain at the forefront of our industry, consistently exceeding expectations as the consultant of choice.

Innovation

Innovation lies at the heart of our operations, and we leverage advanced technologies such as the latest computer software and even drones for surveying to enhance our services. By integrating drones into our surveying process, we achieve greater efficiency, accuracy, and safety standards. This innovative approach not only sets us apart but also ensures that we deliver exceptional results to our clients, reinforcing our position as industry leaders.

Empowerment and Growth

Central to our values is the empowerment and growth of our staff. We invest in their professional development through robust technical support and training programs, instilling confidence in their abilities. Additionally, we prioritise streamlining processes to promote a healthy work-life balance, enabling our team members to thrive personally and professionally. Our comprehensive benefits package underscores our commitment to their wellbeing, health, and financial security.

Sustainability and Social Responsibility

We are dedicated to sustainability and social responsibility in all aspects of our operations. From minimising our environmental footprint to actively contributing to community and charitable initiatives, we strive to make a positive impact. Our sustainable practices not only align with our core values but also reflect our commitment to creating a better future for generations to come.

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83 Old Castle Road, Glasgow, G44 5TG

Glasgow: 0141 374 2965

Edinburgh: 0131 235 2965

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enquiries@dare-me.co.uk

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