Washroom FF&E explained

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As if there weren’t already enough acronyms floating about in the industry, FF&E adds to the mix of terms commonly used when embarking on a new build or renovation project. So, what does FF&E mean?

Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment

Often, we get asked, “Does Dolphin supply FF&E washroom fittings?” and the answer is yes, we do. But, whilst working on projects with our Joinery contractors, we have also found that Mechanical and Electrical companies (M&E) are looking to us to supply products for the same project. A challenge arises because some of the items coincide with FF&E washroom accessories.

In this article, we will clarify our view of what types of washroom products classify as FF&E and M&E washroom fittings from our experience, how these fittings overlap, and why things get complicated for the main contractor when a Doc M pack is specified.

FF&E accessories and M&E products can overlap

As you can see from the products listed above, a number of these fittings are in the FF&E and M&E categories. A sensor tap, for example, falls under M&E because of its electrical and mechanical components, it also falls under FF&E because it is an accessory that is removable and not part of the structure of the washroom.

However, washroom products that belong under both categories have a reputation for creating confusion resulting in what could potentially be a messy situation for the main contractor.

What can go wrong if separate washroom Joinery and M&E subcontractors work on the same project?

Because there is a cross-over between M&E and FF&E washroom fittings, there can be a package duplication in the quoting process for both subcontractors working on the same project.

If this is not flagged before purchase orders are confirmed, the two subcontractors may find themselves onsite together with the same specified fittings ready for installation. The pressing questions are, who will rectify the situation and who will lose money because of this oversight?

There is also a significant challenge for contractors who specify Doc M packs from either a washroom Joinery contractor or an M&E contractor. If a contractor does not fully understand what a Doc M pack includes, it can lead to missing items from the pack resulting in a non-compliant accessible washroom cubicle.

What to consider when specifying FF&E washroom accessories

As we have already established, FF&E washroom fittings are washroom accessories that do not form part of the structure of a building, and most washroom companies, like Dolphin Solutions, offer these accessories. Some of these fittings overlap with M&E washroom products from other contractors, such as taps, automatic hand dryers, showers etc. thus, scrutinising quotes to avoid duplication is crucial.

If a Doc M pack is included within a subcontractor’s package, ensure they are aware of what a complete Doc M pack entails to avoid the risk of non-compliance with Document M regulations.

Read more about what a Doc M pack includes and what you can expect to be in your quote.