Cladding
Designers Knowledge Base
Introduction
The designer should be aware of, and assess the risks from, the following principal hazards in the installation, maintenance and cleaning of external cladding.
Some hazards and risks
- working at height: during erection, cleaning, maintenance and repair
- falling objects during erection, cleaning, maintenance and repair
- handling and transportation at many stages during the installation process. Cladding sections are usually of a size and shape to make safe transport and handling difficult
- glazing including accidental breakage during transportation, installation, replacement, cleaning etc
- hazardous substances such as paints, sealants, insulation materials
Some design considerations to reduce or eliminate hazards
- design cladding details to incorporate lifting and handling measures
- design jointing details that permit safe and easy installation
- design elements which can be cleaned and replaced easily
- incorporate restraints for cleaning and maintenance equipment into the design
- ensure the design incorporates adequate access for installation, cleaning, and repair
- co-operate with the designer of the structural frame to ensure primary fixings are safe and easy to install