The Precast Flooring Federation (PFF) has updated its best-practice document on the safe installation of concrete flooring.
The new and revised ‘Code of Practice for the safe installation of precast concrete flooring and associated components’ has been expanded to cover a number of new aspects.
For example, in recognition of the fact that the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992 incorporate occupational noise and vibration duties, the Code includes information relating to exposure limits. The Code also refers to guidance on silica dust.
On the subject of design, specific provisions cover the installation of precast concrete flooring on to steelwork. Installation of the same flooring on masonry also includes guidelines for thin-joint construction, with specific measurements for when thin-joint masonry is used.
Section 10 of the Code has been considerably modified in regard to lifting equipment. Guidance is provided on planning the lifting operation, including risk assessments and method statements, while the selection and duties of personnel are clearly defined.
Operating machinery near overhead cables carries many risks and the Code now includes details of such hazards. Also included are notes on other lifting devices and additional guidelines on barring and jacking when moving components.
Prepared with the support of the HSE and the Major Contractors Group, the PFF’s new Code is the third version, having been launched in 2001 and first revised in 2007. It is available as a free download from the PFF website, www.precastfloors.info
