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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?
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.
