When it comes to structural steelwork construction, companies need to be diligent to avoid any possible problems. No matter what type of construction and steelwork is ongoing in a project, there are several dangers involved in the process.
What Are The Risks Associated With Structural Steelwork Construction?
Lightweight constructions, for instance, can be especially vulnerable to fire, and the problem can be amplified even more if the bearings are made of cold-formed steel. That’s just one of the possible risk scenarios in relation to structural steelwork construction that contractors should be aware of. However, while some construction businesses share the opinion that structural steelwork construction is riskier than alternative techniques – such as brick and wood – statistics have shown that critical steelwork failures during construction are rare.
This being said, the process of steel fabrication itself, and the construction process can be hazardous. The main risks you should be aware of are:
Poor Quality Steel
Although steel is a reliable and sustainable material, incorrect storage conditions and other factors can significantly decrease its quality. A structural steel fabrication company that is CPR compliant and pays attention to detail doesn’t usually face any issues in this regard, although it is worth checking a business’s qualifications, accreditations and inspection process for complete peace of mind.
Poor storage conditions don’t just decrease the lifespan of steel but also work against the material’s strength. That’s where GLW Engineering excels. With our years of experience in steel fabrication and a dedicated team of experts, we provide high quality services, each and every time.
Inexperienced Engineers
Even the simplest task of manually handling structural steel in construction can pose a danger, if it is performed by an inexperienced worker. That’s why it’s important to go for a structural steel fabrication company that can provide trained staff.
Inexperienced labour poses a danger to the health and safety standards of the project. The absence of adequate experience in the processes involved will eventually affect the construction too.
Non CPR Compliant Engineering Methods
When you opt for professional steel fabrication services, you expect the best. The last thing you would want is a lawsuit on your hands due to substandard or illegal fabrication methods. There is only one way to avoid this; by hiring a structural steel fabrication company that provides quality and adheres to the highest standards of safety.
Since each steel frame fabrication company has to comply with a set of legally binding quality and safety standards, before hiring a company, you have to make sure they comply with CPR. Needless to say, using non CPR compliant engineering methods is bound to create problems and hinder the progress of the project.
CE Marked Material And Equipment
Even though CPR compliance isn’t necessary for every fabrication project, it is mandatory for structural steel jobs that are of a certain size – in practice covering all construction and civil engineering developments. It’s not enough to have the practices of the company complying with the CPR. The structural steel in construction should also be up to the set standards. One way to make sure that it does comply with the set standards is to look for the CE marking.
A CE Mark is the manufacturer’s declaration that the product meets the requirements of the applicable EC directives. If the company uses materials that are not marked, the foundation of the steelwork can be in danger if used for load bearing, structural purposes. At GLW we take no risks with safety standards on any steel component. We apply CPR standards and CE marking to all our fabrications, whether they are used architecturally or structurally.
Working With GLW Engineering
Issues with quality, storage and legal compliance are not things you will have to deal with when working with GLW Engineering. Our procedures comply with all the safety standards prescribed by CPR. Our team of engineers are highly trained and experienced in all types of structural steel fabrication, allowing us to meet the precise requirements of your project.
For more information, take a look at our eBook: How To Ensure Quality, Compliance & Lead Times When Working With Steel Fabrication Companies. You can download a free copy today by clicking here. To chat with one of our team, please give us a call on 01945 464 637.
