LSFA TECHNOLOGY VALIDATION GUIDE For Light Steel Frame Construction
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Technology Validation Guide
Contents Introduction .......................................................................................................... 3 LSF Systems ........................................................................................................ 3 Certification ................................................................................................................... 3 Testing ................................................................................................................................. 3 LSF Systems Overview ........................................................................................ 4 SFS Infill/Oversail Systems ................................................................................ 4 Panelised Systems ................................................................................................... 4 Modular Systems ...................................................................................................... 4 Sector and Parameters......................................................................................... 5 Sectors ................................................................................................................................ 5 Parameters ...................................................................................................................... 5 Regulatory Requirements ............................................................................... 6 Building Regulations ............................................................................................. 6 Approved Building Control Inspectors .................................................. 6 Certification Options ............................................................................................ 7 Overview .......................................................................................................................... 7 Service Providers ....................................................................................................... 7 Documents/Information Typically Required for Certification Applications ..................................................................... 9 Documents for submission .............................................................................. 9 Supporting Data for submission ............................................................... 10 Regulatory performance level ..................................................................... 10 Testing Required for Validation ............................................................... 11 Areas where testing will/may be required .......................................... 11 Overview of elements to be tested ........................................................... 11 Testing of key elements by area .................................................................. 11 Test Providers ............................................................................................................. 12 Warranty Providers ............................................................................................... 13 Overview ........................................................................................................................ 13 Warranty Providers ............................................................................................... 13 FAQ’s ....................................................................................................................................... 14 Glossary of Terms .................................................................................................... 15 Contact Information ............................................................................................ 16
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Introduction Light steel frame (LSF) technology is widely utilised throughout the UK construction industry and LSFA (Light Steel Frame Association) members have demonstrated that the construction method is a durable, highly efficient alternative to traditional construction methods. Whilst light steel frame systems are often seen as innovative or as a modern method of construction, they are actually a proven, established method with high levels of certification, backed-up by rigorous testing. This document outlines the certifications that can be obtained to validate system performance, the type of testing required and sets guidelines to help both those manufacturing and specifying systems. It has been deliberately set as a high-level overview and is intended to point the reader to places where further information is available.
LSF SYSTEMS LSF construction is used in various forms and the selection is determined by the structure which is to be developed. SFS Infill/Oversail Systems are where steel studs are used to create wall panels within a host structure formed from either loadbearing steel or concrete frame.
Panelised Systems are where wall panels and floor cassettes are combined to form a loadbearing structural frame. In these systems floors can also be formed as a composite concrete floor with a metal deck. The deck can either span from the wall panels or be supported on steel joists. Non-loadbearing walls can also be formed in these systems.
Modular Systems are where the structure is formed from wall and floor/ ceiling panels which are combined together to form a 3D volumetric modular unit. These are then stacked to form the structure.
Certification LSF systems can be validated by obtaining certification through approved bodies. In this document ‘validation’ is the term referenced to cover all types of independent certification and outlines the key providers together with an overview of the services provided. The types available vary and it should be noted that the LSFA does not advocate one body above any other. Refer to section ‘Certification Options’ on page 7 of this document.
Testing As part of the process of obtaining certification the system has to be validated by testing. Testing may be required for the structural elements along with building physics data such as fire, thermal, acoustic etc. The types of testing along with the organisations who can carry out this work are highlighted, along with the test standards relevant. Refer to page 12 - ‘Testing required for validation’ in this document. Structural elements follow standardised design principles which can be relied upon to determine structural performance.
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LSF Systems Overview The type of certification selected for LSF technology is determined by the type of system, the sector in which it is being used and the design parameters of the structures. Validation is provided by a variety of organisations, who carry out an assessment of the build system. There are numerous types of providers, and whilst the majority relevant to LSF construction are included here, it should be noted that there may be other providers who offer an acceptable level of validation. Certification is underpinned by supporting data which validates the system, the level of data is driven by the type of system used and complexity thereof. A high level overview of the certifications, warranties etc. in relation to the use of light gauge steel frame is given here in relation to the three main system types outlined below;
SFS Infill/Oversail Systems SFS Infill/Oversail systems generally require a lower level of certification and therefore validation through testing is less onerous as these are typically non-loadbearing elements of structure. That said these systems can benefit from achieving the majority of available certifications..
Panelised Systems Walls in panelised systems can be either open or closed frame technology. In closed walls, this is a full through wall system which will include either the external or internal linings, or potentially both. The prospective certifications for both systems are the same, however the level of fire testing for validation purposes is higher for a closed panel system. Where the external façade is included as part of the system other areas of assessment such as weathertightness and loads imposed by the façade need to be taken into account. In panelised systems walls and floors are generally tested as individual, standalone elements.
Ayrshire Metals
Intelligent Steel
Modular Systems Certifications, testing etc. for modular build systems are similar to panelised systems and the same principles can be used. However, as the wall and floor/roof elements are formed as one structure in addition to separate wall and floor fire tests there are opportunities for fire testing of the whole module. EOS
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Sector and Parameters When assessing which validation method is to be pursued it is important to determine the sector the ‘system’ will be used in along with parameters of the structure, geographical location etc.
SECTORS LSF construction can be used in multiple sectors including Health, Education, MOD etc. however, this document covers residential and commercial bedspace only. Determining the application in advance of starting the process of obtaining certification plays a key part in the selection of the validation process to be used. RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL BEDSPACE
HEALTHCARE
EDUCATION
MOD
RETAIL
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BBA BOPAS* BRE – BPS 7014 KIWA BDA LABC Assured NHBC Accepts SCI-NHBC Stage 1 SCI Product Certification
* Whilst BOPAS is seen as a means of proving mortgageability it can be used to demonstrate the durability of the product and the viability of the system provider for all sectors.
PARAMETERS The parameters for the build system need to be set based on a number of factors. These factors should be considered at the outset of the process of setting the validation type.
Geographical location
Structural components used
The impact of windspeed, topography etc. are taken into account when designing a structure. The location within the United Kingdom has a direct impact on the structural performance requirements.
The profile, gauge and yield strength of the steel used determines the structural capability of the build system. i.e. storey height of the structures, spans of floors, height of wall panels etc. In addition to structural performance the height of the structures and component sizes are determined by the test data available in regard to fire. Requirements for fire performance levels vary by region and are reviewed regularly so should be assessed as part of the process.
Building Regulation requirements vary across the UK so the geographical location needs to be considered.
Use of Building The use and height of the structures should be determined as this has a direct impact on the disproportionate collapse class of the building.
The durability of LSF construction is impacted by the location, particularly in coastal environments so the galvanising of the components is to be considered.
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Regulatory Requirements BUILDING REGULATIONS Building regulations set standards for the design and construction of buildings to ensure the health and safety of people in or about those buildings. The Regulations vary across the UK and at the time of publication are as follows:
ENGLAND AND WALES The Building Regulations 2010 SCOTLAND Building (Scotland) Regulations 2004 NORTHERN IRELAND Building Regulations NI 2012
In England and Wales ‘Approved Documents’ provide an example of compliant details and philosophies, whereas in Scotland requirements are set out in ‘Technical Requirements’ documents. For Regulations in Northern Ireland the requirements are set out in Technical Booklets. It should be noted that other methods of compliance with Building Regulations are available. Building Regulations vary by region – as an example England and Wales Regulations currently allow structures under 18m to include combustible materials in the external wall build up, whereas in Scotland this is set at 11m. It is therefore important that regions that the LSF system will be used is identified in advance of creating the validation process. Each build system using LSF technology must comply with the Building Regulations for the intended location which have ever changing requirements. When looking at validation of a build system, wherever possible this should be future proofed through testing. Whilst Building Regulations compliance is essential the requirements of insurers need to be considered as they are typically risk averse. The insurer my take a lead from more onerous regulations or even in the case of external walls, mandate that non-combustible materials are to be used at any height. Reference should be made to the ‘employers requirements’ to ensure their specific requirements have been considered.
Approved Building Control Inspectors Building Regulations compliance can be achieved by applying to the Local Authority for the district where the structure is to be built, but this can be a slow process if they are not familiar with the construction method being used. The use of Approved Inspectors should be considered here to simplify the application process. Approved Inspectors are businesses which work in the private sector as an alternative to Local Authority Building Control (LABC). They are registered with the Construction Industry Council. Approved Inspectors Register (CICAIR) to advise and assist clients in obtaining Building Regulations approval. Partnering with an Approved Inspector means that an inspector who is fully aware of and has assessed the build system can provide the Building Regulations approval. There are numerous providers of this service. For details refer to the register of approved inspectors at www.cicair.org.uk/approved-inspectors-register. However it should be noted that this will not be applicable to HRRB’s (higher risk residential buildings) once the Building Safety Act is in place.
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Certification Options OVERVIEW
SERVICE PROVIDERS
There are various types of certification available for validation of light steel frame construction, which cover everything from building physics through to erecting on the build site. Each includes the requirements to prove the system has been fully assessed in some or all of the following key areas:
The main providers for these services are noted here with a brief overview of the type of service provided. For further information refer to the URL noted below:
• • • • • • •
Structural integrity Fire performance Thermal performance Acoustic Airtightness Weathertightness Durability
Provided by British Board of Agrément in the form of an Agrément certificate for building products. www.bbacerts.co.uk
These certificates can be used to validate the build system and to provide the specifier with assurance that the system has been assessed and meets regulatory requirements. Each type of certificate is assessed by the approving body on a regular basis to ensure that they remain in line with the relevant laws and regulations relevant to the type of system. In residential schemes where standard houses are built, there is also the opportunity for housetype approval, which will include compliance with The Building Regulations.
Jointly delivered by BLP (Building Life Plans) and Lloyds Register, BOPAS certification assesses durability of the build system and the viability/ processes and procedures of the manufacturer. www.bopas.org
Provided by the BRE (Building Research Establishment) is a Standard for Modular Buildings for Dwellings. In addition BRE provide testing services. www.bregroup.com/services/testing
Provided by KIWA Ltd this is similar to a BBA certificate the KIWA BDA is an Agrément certificate for building products. www.kiwa.com/gb/en/products/bda-agrement
BTS Fabrications and EOS
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Technology Validation Guide
LABC Assured (previously Registered Details) is a one-off building regulations and standards assessment process for England, Wales and Scotland.
products-regulation-in-great-britain
It should be noted that LABC are no longer considering new applications and existing registrations will only remain in place until their expiry date. They will not be considered for renewal and will be subsequently removed from the LABC register/ website at the date of expiry. www.labc.co.uk/professionals/registrationschemes/labc-assured
Provided by the National House Building Council, a fast-track route for acceptance of LSF products and systems for use in homes covered by all NHBC Warranty and insurance policies www.nhbc.co.uk/builders/products-andservices/techzone/accepts
The steel Construction Institute provides a range of certification schemes which are applicable to LSF, including SCI Product Certification, Stage 1 Certificates and SCI Assessed. www.steel-sci.com/sci-certification-andassessment.html
Construction Products Regulations 2020 Provided by UK-based notified bodies who review the products and assign a ‘UKCA’ mark for products aimed at the UK market, which replaced CE marking. Note UKCA Marking is mandatory from January 2023. With regards to LSF technology the harmonised European standard that applies to structural metalwork is BS EN 1090-1:2009 +A1:2011. Under the requirements of the Northern Ireland Protocol products used market UKNI marking is required. www.gov.uk/guidance/construction-productsregulation-in-great-britain#construction-
Efectis
When validating LSF technology, ISO accreditations can be beneficial in demonstrating conformity. The principal certificates are noted below, with ISO 9001 being significant in regard to control of quality. Holding this certificate is a requirement of some bodies as it notes the standards and procedures they work to.
ISO Accreditations International Organisation for Standardisation develop International Standards but are not involved in their certification. This is performed by external certification bodies. These certificates show that a business has demonstrated that quality, environmental management and health and safety credentials have been independently assessed. Certificates are: ISO 9001 Quality Management System ISO 14001 Environmental management ISO 45001 Health and Safety management www.iso.org
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Information Typically Required for Certification Applications When validating a build system as part of the application for certification comprehensive supporting data for components or elements used is beneficial. To expediate the process quickly this data needs to be specific and where possible already having been reviewed i.e. through an accepted certification such as BBA or similar. This is particularly beneficial when looking at validation such as NHBC Accepts, as the NHBC generally require products which have been previously assessed by an accredited body to be included. To simplify the review process creating a suite of documents that outline the build system is beneficial. These documents may include System Manual, Business Process Manual, Structural Design Philosophy and Installation Manual. The requirement for the contents of these documents are broadly the same across the validation options outlined in this document.
DOCUMENTS FOR SUBMISSION System Manual System Manual is a document which outlines the build system and notes the level of performance achieved. The data generally includes: • System overview including build-ups of the key elements in the build system • Technical data for components required to complete a structure • Design processes and procedures • Building physics data • Safety in use • MEP principles • Demonstration of conformity Reference can be made to structural performance but this would only be at high level if a Structural Design Philosophy document is part of the supporting data.
Structural Design Philosophy Structural design philosophy documents are intended to outline the engineering principles which need to be applied when designing a structure using a build system. These documents would be used by the structural engineer creating the calculations and would typically include: • • • • • • • • •
Intended use Engineering/design approach Structural integrity and robustness Structural components used Section properties Loads implied including wind loads Serviceability limits for floors and walls Resistance to overturning/anchorage Accuracy and tolerances
Business Process Manual Business Process Manuals give an outline of the processes and procedures required to deliver a quality product. The BPM would include items such as:
• • • •
Context of the organisation Management Performance evaluation Continuous improvement/non-conformances ISO certificates
Installation Manual These manuals give an overview of the process and are particularly important where the installation is carried out by a third party/subcontractor. Installation manuals typically include the following: • • • • • • •
Quality control and reporting Risk identification Critical safety considerations Sequence of operations Lifting Testing and commissioning Inspections and handover
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SUPPORTING DATA FOR SUBMISSION Supporting data for a submission is key to an efficient and successful application for approval. In this instance it is the quality and relevance of the data rather than the quantity which is important. Referenced supporting data is required which will typically include the following; Structure:
Example calculations based on the structural design philosophy Test data for racking etc. if referenced in the calculations
Structural Materials:
Specification of all materials used to form the structure
Secondary Materials:
Materials that are added to create the element i.e. lining boards etc. including external finishes if relevant to the build system
Additional elements:
Windows and doors
Ancillary items:
Stairs, lifts, canopies, balconies etc.
Performance:
Building physics data including – Fire, thermal, condensation risk analysis, airtightness, acoustic and weathertightness
Data sheets:
Product data sheets, certificates etc. with declared values
Standard details:
Details of the key junctions of the building
This is not intended to be a complete list but more an indication of the type and level of data that will need to be submitted. It should be noted that this supporting data required to achieve certification forms part of a system manufacturers IP, so does not necessarily have to be passed to third parties using the system.
Regulatory performance levels When obtaining data the performance levels that are to be achieved should be considered. Performance levels for the building physics elements will need to be in line with the Building Regulations with variations across the United Kingdom, as such the performance levels are not noted here. However, these can be found on the relevant government websites: England www.gov.uk/government/collections/approved-documents Intelligent Steel
Scotland www.gov.scot/policies/building-standards/monitoringimproving-building-regulations Northern Ireland www.buildingcontrol-ni.com/regulations
Meeting the requirements of the Building Regulations is essential for demonstrating compliance, however, Warranty providers may have more onerous requirements. Building Regulations compliance is not always included in the validation process so should be considered alongside the requirements of the Warranty and insurance providers. Sigmat
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Testing Required for Validation Testing options for validation are extensive and the use of test results are prescriptive, in that deviation from materials testing is generally not accepted, so the build system, and components to be used in the manufacture need to be determined. To ensure best utilisation of the testing available, the materials to be used should be agreed prior to any testing work being commissioned. It is recommended that a testing plan be created at the outset of any review to ensure all testing requirements have been captured.
Areas where testing may be required As part of the validation process, the key areas where testing may be required are as follows: • Structural Resistance (inc. racking) • Fire Performance Testing • Thermal Performance (inc. condensation risk analysis) • Acoustic Testing • Airtightness Testing • Façade/Weathertightness Testing
Overview of elements to be tested As part of the testing plan the elements that will be subject to testing need to be identified. These are dependent on the build system, as more testing will be required for a full volumetric modular system compared to an LSF system. Elements to be tested are:
• W alls - Loadbearing/elements of structure • F loors – Noting loads for apartments are higher than in housing. Composite concrete floors do not need to be tested. • Services penetrations through walls and floors • Cladding/façade • Doors and windows including any curtain walling • Lifting points • Connections between elements etc. (particularly important in modular construction)
TESTING OF KEY ELEMENTS BY AREA Different types of testing are required based on the key areas explored below:
Structural Resistance (inc. racking) Structural testing is largely related to structural resistance of the system – i.e. the ability of structural elements to provide their design loadbearing capacity. In many cases structural resistance can be determined from calculation rather than testing but this is not always the case and testing may be required e.g. racking resistance from boards. Some certification/warranty providers will allow the amount of bracing within the walls and noggins within joisted floors. Bracing in walls is formed from either ‘W’ or ‘K’ type bracing stud sections in the steel zone or by ‘X’ bracing fixed to the face of the steel. Some certification/warranty providers will allow the amount of bracing to be reduced by the use of sheathing boards for racking. Use of racking boards is not standard practice in the UK and will need to be reviewed with the structural engineer and the selected accrediting body.
Fire Performance Testing The approach for testing the fire performance needs to be assessed and agreed, as there are three potential options for loadbearing tests. These options should be reviewed to ascertain the best approach. Option 1 - Test the floor and wall components as individual items. i.e. a loadbearing test is carried on the wall and floor panels as stand-alone items. Option 2 - Carry out a ‘Bespoke test’ of the junction between the floor and wall components i.e. a loadbearing test is carried on the wall and floor panels, set within the test rig. Option 3 - A full-scale test of a part of a building or combined modules. Test standards for fire performance are noted below: Walls – External/internal/separating Test standard: EN1365-1:2012 Upper floors Test standard: EN1365-2:2000 Service penetrations Test standard: EN1366-3:2009 Cavity barriers around windows Test standard: General principles of BS EN 1363-1: 2012
Facades Test standard: BS 8414-1:2020 (Applied to masonry) BS 8414-2:2020 (Applied to steel frame)
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Thermal Performance (including Condensation Risk Analysis) Assessment is required for the elements of structure, floor, walls, roof, and windows with U values required for the performance of the element, together with an assessment of the linear junctions and details for thermal bridging etc. known as Psi values. This data is used to demonstrate the performance of the fabric and is used to develop the SAP calculations required to comply with The Building Regulations. Test methods and procedures: • Calculations for U values and condensation risk analysis to be carried out according to BS EN ISO 13788:2002. • Methods and procedures given in BS EN ISO 1211-1, BS EN ISO 13370 and BR497 to be used to assess the thermal modelling and calculation procedures when preparing Psi values.
Acoustic Testing Acoustic performance of the separating walls and floors (dividing wall or floor between rooms of separate occupancy) needs to be demonstrated to meet the requirement of The Building Regulations.
Airtightness Testing Airtightness testing (measured as m³h/m² at 50 pascals) is the recognised method used to measure the total air lost through leaks in the building fabric. With the introduction of tougher regulations, building designs may consider airtightness early in the construction process to ensure compliance. An airtightness test is completed towards the end of the construction process, in order to meet Building Regulations/Standards. The results of the test are used within SAP calculations and can influence a new buildings overall energy rating.
Façade/Weathertightness Testing Testing for the external cladding (including weathertightness) will be driven by the façade system selected. Data (which may be held by the cladding supplier) should cover the following: • • • •
Hygrothermal performance Wet/freeze/thaw characteristics Water absorption capillary test Hard body impact tests
Tests can be carried out on a particular build system if required or the façade supplier does not have test data, but that is not explored here.
Insitu/on site testing of completed projects for the separating wall junctions is required to demonstrate airborne sound performance. Testing for the separating floor junctions is required to demonstrate airborne and impact sound. • Airborne Sound Insulation tests to be conducted in accordance with BS EN ISO 140-4:1998 and rated in accordance with BS EN ISO 717-1: 1997. • Impact Sound Insulation tests to be conducted in accordance with BS EN ISO 140-7:1998 and rated in accordance with BE EN ISO 717-2: 1997.
Etex Group
TEST PROVIDERS There are numerous test houses and building physics consultants who can carry out the testing and assessments required. Test houses can have significant lead times based on the type of testing required, so test houses outside the UK may need to be considered. Validation providers generally expect any tests to be carried out in a UKAS (United Kingdom Accreditation Service) accredited laboratory or a national equivalent i.e. COFRAC for test houses in France. UKAS is a signatory of the EA (European Accreditation) Multilateral Agreement (EA MLA) which is a signed agreement between the EA Members whereby the signatories recognise and accept the equivalence of the accreditation systems in their countries. Refer to details of the test houses on the back page of this document.
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Warranty Providers OVERVIEW Developers and contractors are liable for any issues with their work through the defects-liability period, but a Building Warranty is also required. This is a comprehensive insurance policy which offers peace of mind that the building has been constructed to a standard set by the Warranty provider. Property owners look for the reassurance of a Warranty, particularly in new build dwellings. It is normally a condition of most mortgage providers that a Structural Warranty is in place and it can be difficult to sell the building without a Warranty, if the build is less than ten years old. Each provider’s policy varies dependent on the Warranty and building type but generally a Warranty will cover structural damage, defects to walls, roofs and foundations, as standard in line with the details outlined in the policy. Whilst a residential Warranty will last for circa ten years there may be different levels of protection in the earlier years of the policy. Policies can be extended to 12 years or beyond although this may come at a premium. Some policies commence immediately upon completion whereas other policies may start at the end of the builder’s own Warranty period.
Warranty Providers There are a number of Warranty providers operating in the residential sector which include:
Note: Some Warranty providers have a minimum contract value which is a pre-requisite of the Warranty being provided, so this should be checked prior to selecting the provider.
Warranty providers have standards that need to be complied with which are published to outline their requirements. These documents include the NHBC Standards, Premier Guarantee Technical Manual etc., so gaining an understanding of these standards assists in the validation process. Seeking the advice and input of a consultant experienced in certifications can simplify the process and ensure that the validation meets the required standards.
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FAQ’s Q. Which type of certification is most suitable for light steel frame construction? A. This varies from system to system and application. The LSFA does not advocate one certifier above any other.
Q. How do I select the best validation provider for my requirements? A. The provider is determined by the sector where the build system is to be used. Refer to the matrix and parameters of the system outlined on page 5 of this document.
Q. How can the validation be future proofed? A. Regulations are updated regularly, so future proofing is not an exact science. Reviewing Building Regulations consultation papers, gives an indication of future trends.
Q. Which sectors can light steel frame be used in? A. LSF construction can be used in multiple sectors including Health, Education, MOD etc. however, this document covers residential and commercial bedspace only.
Q. What are the timelines for achieving certifications? A. The time taken to achieve any certification is subject to the level of data held by the applicant. Time lines typically range from 6 to 18 months but can be longer if bespoke testing is required.
Hadley Group
Q. Can fire assessments still be carried out in lieu of testing? A. Fire assessments are still accepted by the majority of assessment organisations. However they need to be carried out by a suitably qualified Fire Engineer.
Q. What is a testing plan and why should one be created? A. A testing plan outlines all the options relevant to the system and should be created at the onset of any review to ensure all testing requirements have been identified.
Q. Do tests have to be carried out in UKAS accredited labs? A. No, it may be acceptable to use data from tests carried out at other establishments but the requirements of the validation provider need to be checked first.
Q. Is data from test houses outside the UK acceptable for validation of a build system? A. Yes, certification bodies will generally accept test data from facilities that hold the UK equivalent of UKAS in their country.
Q Is testing for Modular Systems different to panelised and SFS systems?
Sandgate Pavilions, Ayrshire Metals
A. The same principles for testing can be used. However, as the wall and floor/roof elements are formed as one structure in addition to separate wall and floor tests there are opportunities for testing of the whole module.
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Glossary of Terms BBA
ISO
British Board of Agrément – certification provider.
International Organisation for Standardisation, ISO certificates provide evidence of business conformity.
BLP Building Life Plans – BOPAS/Warranty provider.
KIWA
BOPAS
Keuringsinstituut voor WaterleidingArtikelen – Certificate provider.
Build offsite Property Assurance Scheme – providing assurance of mortgageability and a durability assessment.
LABC Local Authority Building Control.
BPM
Modular Systems
Business Process Manual – outlines the processes and procedures followed.
Combination of wall panels and floor cassettes used to form a three-dimensional unit/module.
BRE
NHBC
Building Research Establishment – Test house.
National House Building Council – Warranty provider.
Building Control Approved Inspector
Panelised Systems
Businesses which work in the private sector as an alternative to LABC.
Wall panels and floor cassettes used to form a structure.
Building Warranty
Denoted by the Ψ symbol), Psi values are a measure of heat loss along a meter of junction between two thermal elements of the structure.
Comprehensive insurance policy for building works.
CICAIR
Psi values
Construction Industry Council Approved Inspector Register. Lists providers of Building Regulations Approved Inspectors, who offer an alternative to Local Authority assessments.
SAP rating
Commercial bedspace
SCI
Refers to buildings such as hotels, care homes and student accommodation.
Steel Construction Institute - Certificate provider, consultancy and technical information provider.
CRA
SFS Infill Systems
Condensation Risk Analysis, required to ensure there is no risk of condensation build up in the structure.
Use of studs as a replacement for the blockwork inner leaf of a wall. In infill systems the steel sits between the structural elements.
EA MLA
Calculation that is required in order to produce a Predicted Energy Assessment and the Energy Performance Certificate.
European Accreditation Multilateral Agreement – principles for testing carried out outside the UK to be used.
SFS Oversail Systems
Fire Engineer
UKAS
Person qualified at degree level in fire risk engineering and recognised by the Institution of Fire Engineers.
United Kingdom Accreditation Service which is the national accreditation body for the United Kingdom, appointed by the government.
Hygrothermal performance Referenced in weathertightness hygrothermal refers to the movement of heat and moisture through buildings. Repeated wetting, drying, freezing and thawing of the fabric of a building can cause problems such as damp, condensation, mould growth and loss of thermal performance.
Use of studs as in infill walls but where the steel is fixed to the face of the structural element.
UKCA UK Conformity Assessed – UK product marking that is used for goods being placed on the market in Great Britain.
U Value Used in thermal assessments are the rate of transfer of heat through a structure.
You can contact the LSFA and our members:
CONTACT INFORMATION BBA - Assessment/Certification Body www.bbacerts.co.uk BLP Insurance - Warranty and BOPAS Provider www.blpinsurance.com BRE - Fire Test House and Acoustic Laboratory www.bregroup.com Build Zone - Warranty Provider www.build-zone.com Checkmate - Warranty Provider www.checkmate.uk.com Cogent Consulting Ltd - Offsite Construction Consultants 1 www.cogent-consulting.co.uk Efectis - Various Locations Including Belfast and Lyon – Fire Test House www.efectis.com Exova Warringtonfire - Warrington and High Wycombe – Fire Test House www.warringtonfire.com KIWA - Assessment/Certification Body www.kiwa.com/gb/en/products/bda-agrement LABC Assured - Building Regulations Compliance www.labc.co.uk/professionals/registration-schemes/labc-assured LABC Warranty - Warranty Provider www.labcwarranty.co.uk LSFA - Light Steel Frame Association www.lsf-association.co.uk Lucideon Ltd - Building Physics Test House www.lucideon.com/construction NHBC - Warranty Provider www.nhbc.co.uk Premier Guarantee - Warranty Provider www.premierguarantee.com/contact SCI - Steel Construction Institute 2 www.steel-sci.com Vinci Technology Centre - Airtightness, Acoustic, Structural Weathertightness Testing www.technology-centre.co.uk 1
Cogent Consulting Ltd have authored this guidance document on behalf of the Light Steel Frame Association and can provide further guidance if required.
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SCI are technical partners of the Light Steel Frame Association and can also provide further guidance if required. Image courtesy: Frameclad
www.lsf-association.co.uk VERSION 2 - MAY 2022
