The forthcoming TG20:13 document, now in preparation, is likely to impact on many workers in the construction industry and have a big impact on scaffolding design not only across the UK but also on an international level.
The finished document is not expected for another couple of months; spring 2013 is the stated publication date. Until then, no-one can say for sure what will be included in the document. However, there have been many signposts on what we can expect. It is understood that TG20:13 will adopt what is being described as a more user-friendly approach than its predecessor, with more explanatory pictures.
A common complaint about the last revision is that it is difficult to follow. All standard scaffolds detailed in TG20:13 will be fully designed and proven by calculation – and so no further design work will be necessary. It will include more scaffold types as standard designs. TG20:13 will be available electronically and to download as an application for smart phones, tablets and mobile devices. The guide will also demonstrate through a computer software system if a scaffolding system needs further design or not. Essentially, this means that there will be a lot more scaffolding that can be erected without additional design input.
While TG20:08 particularly benefitted designers, the revised guidance is supposed to be bringing scaffolding back into the hands of the scaffolders, rather than the engineers. This means that it will remove some of the burden for design that is currently experienced. Among the scaffolding designs that are expected to be included are: basic birdcages, towers, basic fans, loading bays, unit transoms, 3m lift heights, hop-up brackets, basic bridges and basic splays.
The document will offer more support for scaffolders, with detailed testing, calculations and advice on best practice to ensure that any scaffolding erected complies with the European standard BS EN 12811-1.
Although TG20:13 is guidance rather than legislation, and therefore not directly enforceable by law, it will provide scaffolding contractors with the means to discharge their duties under Schedule 3,Part 2 of the Work at Height Regulations. Although system scaffolding is preferred to tube and fitting in many overseas markets, TG20:13 is still expected to have global repercussions since the standards document that it supports, BS EN 12811-1, has international standing.
Simon Hughes, managing director of scaffolding safety specialist Simian Risk, says: “The UK remains the world leader when it comes to tube and fitting scaffolding, and the expat community working internationally in the construction sector is likely to adopt the latest revision of TG20:13 in much the same way as they did with previous revisions. “Indeed, Simian’s involvement in works in areas such as the Middle East and Asia for UK based multi-nationals invariably sees an insistence by them on adherence to the highest standards available.”
Hughes adds: “Blue chip companies such as Carillion, Shell, BIS and Layher all operate on an international scale with construction, oil and gas and infrastructure projects. The message coming from these businesses is that UK guidance will be used to get the best results both in the short and long terms.
“TG20:13 will go a long way towards strengthening the UK’s position as world leaders in the provision of safe access.”
Got a story? Email news@theconstructionindex.co.uk
