Product category:
Structural Fixings and Fasteners
News Release from: Halfen | Subject: Components for precast product lifting systems
Edited by the Buildingtalk Editorial
Team on 13 September 2007
Precast concrete - could safety be
compromised?
Paul North from Halfen draws attention to potential HandS problems by using low quality, imported components for precast product lifting systems.
Despite the increased use of precast pods and modules, the number of reportable accidents associated with lifting systems has remained low However, despite the aim of Concrete Targets 2010 to reduce incidences still further, there are those who feel there may be grounds for potential concern
This article was originally published on Buildingtalk on 22 Mar 2004 at 8.00am (UK)
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Among those voicing apprehension about the implications of poorly engineered components and unreliable loading specifications, Halfen's Sales Manager for Precast Products - Paul North commented "Halfen has always been dedicated to manufacturing high quality lifting and fixing systems and as an Associate Member of the British Precast Concrete Federation, we are committed to the aims of the Concrete Targets 2010 scheme".
"However, given the sustained growth of precast, we foresee products and components from outside the EU, not designed to the same exacting standards, finding their way into the UK.
We are concerned that this may compromise the safety of lifting systems if manufacturing of key components is driven purely by cost".
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"This is why manufacturers such as Halfen set such store by DIN EN ISO 9001 accreditation".
"It covers both design and manufacturing processes, enabling meaningful tests to be established for minimum safety factors on, for example, working loads for lifting clutches".
"The manufacturing process of our lifting systems is scrutinised from the delivery of raw materials throughout the entire production process".
Halfen is highlighting the potential problems that such untried components can cause in a new publication 'Precast Concrete Lifting - Safety and Best Practice'.
This follows earlier publications of a similar nature on subjects such as Thermal Bridging of Concrete Cantilever Balconies and Health and Safety Issues in Concrete Construction.
Precaster Bell and Webster added further weight to these concerns.
Operations Director Patrick Sexton commented: "We find Halfen's Frimeda range to be an efficient and flexible lifting system with strong technical background and support".
"As a precast manufacturer we have a responsibility to ensure lifting systems are fit for purpose, and don't mix component sources, even when they are offered as like-for-like".
"We are pleased to see a major manufacturer raising the overall issue of component quality in this way".
The brochure is available by PDF from the website, by phoning 08705 316300 or by e-mailing info@halfen.co.uk.
It will be followed up soon by an online training module. Request a free brochure from Halfen ...
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