Introduction
India’s construction industry is evolving rapidly, demanding spaces that are efficient, functional, and compliant with safety and insurance regulations. For Construction Project Management Consultants (CPMC), each project offers a chance to demonstrate foresight, precision, and risk mitigation through proper fire protection systems.
This blog shares insights from Project A, a manufacturing and office facility built in Punjab, India, for client ABC. During execution, a lapse in specified interior specifications by the designers caused major insurance compliance issues—emphasizing the need for proactive project management.
Project Overview: Basic Details
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Project Name: Project A
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Client: ABC (Two internal business units)
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Location: North India
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Built-Up Area: 50,400 sq. m.
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Structure Type: RCC and PEB (Pre-Engineered Building)
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Special Feature: Integrated cable tray racking supports within the PEB frame
The team constructed infrastructure for two separate business units under ABC. While they delivered the core structures efficiently, a different requirement of fire protection specifications in one of the units delayed insurance approvals.
The Compliance Challenge: Fire Safety and Interior Specifications
The initial design specified Boiling Waterproof (BWP) plywood partitions finished with laminates and PVC conduits inside rock wool-insulated walls across both office blocks. Key Issues Identified
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One office block lacked fire sprinklers, making BWP partitions a fire hazard.
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PVC conduits failed to meet fire safety standards required for insurance.
During inspection, insurers flagged these elements as non-compliant. As a result, the insurer denied coverage for the sprinkler-less office block, and the team had to revise the conduit material and use Fire proof Gypsumboards to meet standards.
Solution: Redesigning for Insurance Compliance
By the time the issue surfaced, the team had already built two of the three floors using non-compliant materials. Fortunately, they had not yet installed the laminate finishes—creating an opportunity for corrective action.
Corrective Measures Taken
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The team removed all PVC conduits and replaced them with fire-rated metallic conduits.
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They replaced the planned laminates with 12mm thick fire-rated gypsum boards over BWP partitions.
Though these changes led to rework and additional cost, they helped the team deliver an insurable and compliant office facility that met both safety and operational expectations.
Key Lessons for Construction Project Management
1. Understand End-User Requirements Thoroughly
Don’t assume similar specifications work across business units. Each unit may have different risks and regulatory requirements. Engage all stakeholders to develop tailored solutions.
2. Prioritise Insurance Compliance During Design
Treat insurance compliance as a design-phase priority—not a post-construction formality. Review fire safety specs with insurers and regulatory advisors early.
3. Never Compromise on Fire Safety
Combining combustible materials like BWP plywood and PVC conduits in spaces lacking fire suppression systems significantly increases risk. Use fire-rated materials and active suppression systems in all commercial interiors.
4. Audit Specifications Before Execution
Conduct early-stage audits for fire safety, electricals, and interior specs—even if reused from past projects. Each project context demands a fresh compliance review.
5. Stay Flexible in Managing Changes
Unforeseen challenges can arise. A responsive project team must act quickly and confidently. In Project A, the team’s swift corrective action minimized delays and maintained client confidence. For more comprehensive guidance on implementing For more comprehensive guidance on implementing safety compliance best practices in your construction projects, explore our detailed protocols and methodologies. in your construction projects, explore our detailed protocols and methodologies.
Conclusion
Project A’s ABC office block experience reinforces a core principle: compliance isn’t an afterthought—it’s a critical part of execution strategy.
At AN Prakash Construction Project Management Consultants, we embed compliance, safety, and risk-awareness at every stage—ensuring our projects aren’t just delivered on time, but built to last.