The old UK BIM (Building Information Modelling) standards became obsolete in 2018, yet we still see a lot of the construction industry using out-of-date terminology.  

If you’re still talking about BIM “level 1” or “level 2”, you might need bringing up to date on the latest BIM standards.  

But, don’t worry, we’re here to break it down for you in the first instalment of our BIM Basics series.  

Below, we outline some of the key differences between the old and latest standards, plus link to some resources that will bring your knowledge up to scratch.

But first, what is BIM?

Short for Building Information Modelling, BIM is an information management process.  

A common misconception is BIM is all about 3D modelling, but it’s so much more than that.  

In fact, our resident BIM expert Dave Peacock often explains it as “Better Information Management”.  

It’s about making the right information available to the right person at the right time. 

BIM is a process for defining, creating and delivering structured data and documentation. This allows everyone involved in the project access to the right information at the right time. 

From 2007, the UK adopted its own BIM standards (BS1192 and PAS1192), but this was replaced by a globally focused set of standards in 2018, known as ISO 19650.

The transition from the old UK BIM standards to the latest ISO standards reflects a shift towards global standardisation and collaboration across borders.  

The aim is to have a global framework that can be applied universally across different countries and regions.  

1. Structure – the structure and format of ISO 19650 are standardised to facilitate this worldwide adoption. 
2. Interoperability – the aim is to enable seamless information exchange, so the latest standards establish common principles, terminology, and methodologies.

This article explores how BIM can help building owners with Building Safety Act compliance.

The prioritisation of building safety has never been as big of a focal point as it is today. Ensuring our buildings are resilient for the future, protect human life and instil trust and confidence in their occupants is crucial as our population grows and more infrastructure is required.  

The Grenfell Tower disaster and the subsequent introduction of the Building Safety Act underscored the importance of building safety for building owners.  

But how can Building Information Modelling (BIM) help support building owners in complying with the Act?

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a smart process that changes the way we plan, build and take care of buildings and all kinds of infrastructure.   

Contrary to popular belief, it’s much more than a digital 3D model outcome. BIM uses all kinds of data about buildings and their zones, floors, spaces and more, in both graphical (I.e. the 3D BIM Model) and non-graphical (I.e. COBie data).   

The BIM process helps everyone who is involved in a project, and those responsible for the built asset beyond handover, to work together and share important information. This reduces project and lifecycle risks associated with time, cost, quality and safety.