Most of what I write focuses on people, process and values. This post is about the work itself, in the language of our industry. If you are involved in building, maintaining or refurbishing structures, I hope it's useful to you.
A structural fixing anchors one element to another - a bracket to a wall, cladding to a frame, ceiling supports to a concrete soffit. When you need to know how a fixing will perform in your base material or need confirmation of installation quality for project sign-off, testing gives you that answer.
Often called pull testing or anchor testing, test types include preliminary, ultimate and proof testing, in tension or shear, working to BS 8539 and Construction Fixings Association guidelines (we are CFA approved testers). Note: fall arrest / restraint / rope access anchor points carry different risks and are tested to different British Standards. We don't test these but do check your supplier adheres to best practice.
Lift shaft beams and runway beams are tested and certified to BS 2853 and LOLER, loaded to their safe working load and a proof (factored) load. Test methods can be adapted to fit around work patterns on site or obstructions in the way. A beam that passes is spray painted with its safe working load and issued with a test certificate and report.
Render, tiles and other bonded materials are pull-off tested on site. A small disc (a dolly) is adhered to a cored area and pulled off; the load and failure mode are recorded, so you understand which layers are performing and which might not be. Common standards include BS EN 12004 (tiles), BS EN 1542 (mortar systems) and BS EN 13144 (external wall insulation).
For prototype components or new installation methods, specialist test equipment and adaptors can be designed and fabricated. We can usually find a solution.
Testing is typically straightforward, conducted using handheld calibrated equipment. Work is quiet and completed in a few hours on site. If there are unknowns on your project, testing can surface them, and finding out early is always cheaper than late. A call costs nothing, so do get in touch if you think we can help.
Melanie Scholes, Co-founder, London Fixing Testing Ltd
