Blog | BREEAM Assessments

What is BREEAM?

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is used to determine best practice sustainable building design, construction, and operation. Today, this methodology is applied in over 70 countries across the world. This number is expected to further increase in a bid to tackle climate change.

This guide explores what this assessment is, what it measures, and why it is beneficial to conduct these assessments for your building project.

What is BREEAM?

With buildings currently responsible for 40% of the UK's total carbon emissions and the UK government committed to meeting net zero carbon targets by 2050, increasing pressure is being placed on the construction industry to make a change.

It was first launched in 1990 by the Building Research Establishment and is now the leading method used to assess the overall sustainability of a building. It measures the performance of new developments and can also be used to evaluate existing buildings (eg for refurbishments and renovations). This process begins at the design stage of a project and continues through to the construction and operational phases.

It is an effective way of certifying a building’s performance by evaluating how sustainable the building is as well as how comfortable an environment it is for occupants. These certified ratings can also make buildings more attractive to future investors.

What is measured?

This methodology assesses the sustainability of a building across a variety of performance benchmarks. Efficiency is evaluated across a range of categories including:

Energy
Water
Health and wellbeing
Land use
Transport
Pollution
Materials
Ecology
Waste
Management

Each of these categories carry different weightings dependent on their importance. Scores are provided in relation to the criteria for each of these areas, with a building’s overall rating evaluated at the end. The assessor will also offer suggestions on how to improve a building’s rating. Ratings range between:

Rating	Score
Unclassified	<30%
Pass	>30%
Good	>45%
Very Good	>55%
Excellent	>70%
Outstanding	>85%

What are the benefits?

1. Cost-Effective

Though there are initial costs involved in implementing energy efficient measures within a building and conducting this assessment, these are offset by the large savings that are made over time.

Features such as energy efficient heating systems and efficient lighting can considerably reduce a building’s running costs. In addition, by installing some of these measures some businesses may be eligible for government subsidies to help with costs. With energy costs currently soaring, now more than ever is the time to think about adopting energy efficient measures within your building.

Moreover, certified rated buildings offer enhanced marketability compared to non-certified properties.

2. Improve health and wellbeing of occupants

Opting for more energy efficient measures can create a more comfortable environment for a building’s occupants, making it more attractive for companies to locate to.

3. Meet regulations

These assessments can help achieve compliance with government regulations. The UK Government’s Construction Strategy requires all public projects to carry out an environmental assessment. Undergoing a BREEAM assessment helps meet these regulations.

4. Positive image

This certified rating demonstrates a sustainable approach in construction, which can generate positive publicity for the design team and developers.

Summary

BREEAM determines how sustainable a building is, giving it a rating and offering ways to improve this. Undergoing these assessments can improve the marketability of a building, ensure compliance with building regulations, and can result in positive publicity for a building’s developer.

DARe-me Consulting Engineers are highly experienced in conducting BREEAM assessments within a range of industries including industrial, commercial, education, fit outs and refurbishments, and more. If you are interested in finding out more for your building project, 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

Core Values

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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Get in Touch

83 Old Castle Road, Glasgow, G44 5TG

Glasgow: 0141 374 2965

Edinburgh: 0131 235 2965

London: 0208 087 2965

enquiries@dare-me.co.uk

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