Refurb' accident highlights safety issue
A recent fatal incident involving a shopfitting contractor has highlighted the need for clients, designers and contractors to be aware of the structural condition of existing works.
Prior to refurbishment work commencing it may be necessary to carry out structural inspection and assessment. It may also be necessary for temporary support to be designed and in position before dismantling work begins.
A fatal incident occurred in a covered, multi-storey shopping mall where a typical retail unit was being refurbished. Above the main entrance to the retail unit was a long fascia panel carrying the shop name. This was to be retained. Beneath this the shop front superstructure incorporated a series of timber display units with glazing. Steel hanger brackets extended from the concrete floor soffit above the retail unit.
The overhead fascia panel was partially fixed to these brackets. However the fascia panel was also partly supported by the floor level display units. The steel hangers and the fixing points both to the concrete ceiling above and into the fascia were visible above a false ceiling. At the time of the incident the false ceiling had been removed and the shop front including the display units below the fascia panel had been dismantled. Without warning a 10 metre long section of the overhead fascia panel weighing over 500kg detached at one end and fell to the ground.
A worker who was underneath as it fell suffered fatal injuries. This incident shows the importance of exposing and correctly assessing the condition of large, heavy items and how they are supported and fixed. Where there is any doubt additional fixings should be designed and installed, or alternative means of supporting a vulnerable item should be designed and installed.
Structural inspections, assessments and design work needs to be carried out by a competent person to take account of all foreseeable loadings and existing support systems.
A structural engineer should be available to help with the structural assessment and design of new or temporary supports and to advise on the sequencing of work. It is also important that planning for intrusive works - including those necessary to carry out structural assessment - should take into account the possible presence of asbestos containing materials. Asbestos should not be disturbed unless proper control measures are in place. This may require assistance from a trained asbestos surveyor. Removal of asbestos containing materials may require the services of a contractor holding a licence to work with asbestos.
19th Nov 2011
ID: 1427
