The new Uniclass2 classification system, which provides a logical platform for Building Information Modelling (BIM), has been launched for use and review in live projects.

Freely available to construction professionals from the BIM Task Group website,(http://www.bimtaskgroup.org/uniclass2) Uniclass2 offers a searchable application that provides unified tables for structured information at key levels including complexes, activities, spaces, entities, systems and work results. Tables for other information sets will be added.

Replacing the current UK standard classification Uniclass, which was first introduced in 1997, Uniclass2 has been developed, with full industry consultation, by the Uniclass working group of the Construction Project Information committee (CPIc). Construction Project Information (CPI) brings together representatives of the major construction related bodies to provide guidelines on construction information and collaboration, and to ensure best practice in the UK construction industry.

CPI is encouraging users to provide feedback on and suggest improvements to the new system.

Uniclass2 features increased scope, depth and consistency of information covering all aspect and disciplines of the built environment, including infrastructure and process engineering.

The new system is based on proposals by NBS, which were accepted as the basis for consultation by the Uniclass working group. NBS was then commissioned to deliver the first tranche of unified tables that is now being launched.

The Chairman of CPIc said “For the first time ever, the UK has a unified classification system that can structure how construction project information is accessed, developed and maintained. We want to ensure the system is constantly improved so if people can’t find what they are looking for, we want to know.”