What is TWC?
When navigating the safety complexities of construction, you often encounter specialised roles that are critical for risk management. TWC stands for Temporary Works Coordinator, which represents one of the most vital, high-responsibility positions on any site where non-permanent structures are used.
These structures- such as scaffolding, trench supports, access platforms, and formwork- are safety-critical elements that, if not managed meticulously, can pose a serious risk of collapse or major incident. The Temporary Works Coordinator is the designated individual responsible for overseeing the entire procedural control system for these temporary structures. Today’s blog will break down the role, explain why the training is mandatory, and clarify the TWC’s indispensable function in modern construction management.
The Procedural Core of Site Safety
The Coordinator role is deeply rooted in procedural compliance, specifically based on the principles of BS 5975, the British Standard code of practice for temporary works procedures. The TWC is tasked with ensuring a systematic approach is applied to every piece of temporary kit on site. This involves checking that the structures are properly planned, that a design brief is prepared and checked by a competent engineer, and that the works are executed according to the approved design. The Coordinator needs to also oversee the safe removal or dismantling of the structures. This focus on verifiable procedure, rather than guesswork, is the foundation of the role.
TWC: The Link Between Design and Execution
The Temporary Works Coordinator acts as the crucial communication link between the structural design team (who create the plans) and the site team (who build the structures). This bridging function is vital for translating complex engineering requirements into actionable, safe instructions for site teams. They liaise with the principal designer, the project manager, and the subcontractors, making sure that everyone understands the approved method and any site-specific risks.
When issues arise or changes are needed, the Coordinator is the only individual authorised to manage and formally sign off on those deviations, ensuring that safety is maintained throughout the process.
Why Formal Training is Essential
While many managers oversee site operations, the Coordinator role requires specialised knowledge of the procedural documentation and legal liabilities associated with temporary works. The formal training course provides this essential expertise. It educates candidates on:
- Legal Duties: Understanding the specific responsibilities under the CDM Regulations 2015.
- Procedural Control: Mastering the BS 5975 documentation system, including the crucial Temporary Works Register.
- Risk Mitigation: Recognising the common causes of temporary works failures (e.g., inadequate foundations or incorrect loading) and implementing preventative measures.
TWC: Key Responsibilities and Authority
The key responsibilities of a Coordinator include:
- Appointment: Ensuring a competent Temporary Works Supervisor (TWS) is appointed to oversee daily work on the ground.
- Registration: Maintaining the site’s Temporary Works Register, a live document tracking all temporary structures.
- Permitting: Issuing formal Permits to Load and Permits to Dismantle, acting as the final sign-off before a structure is used or removed.
- Stopping Authority: Possessing the authority and knowledge to immediately stop any work that is deviating from the approved design, or poses an immediate risk of failure.
Conclusion: What is TWC?
The Temporary Works Coordinator is a vital and mandated role for anyone overseeing temporary structures in construction. The TWC course is a necessary qualification for any manager or engineer focused on legal compliance and site integrity.
If you still have any questions regarding the course, then do not hesitate to get in touch.
Phone – 020 3488 4472
