BUILDING SYSTEMS STEEL FRAMING
Design professionals urged to join SASFA Industry association, the Southern African Light Steel Frame Association (SASFA) argues that by joining its ranks, architects, engineers and design professionals may tap into the growing light steel frame building (LSFB) knowledge base and market, staying abreast of new trends and technologies in a very affordable and practical way. SASFA is a member association of the South African Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC). SASFA was established in 2006 by interested parties as an industry representative association. Southern African Light Steel Frame Association
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rofessionals in the industry - from building and construction contractors and sub-contractors to designers, power tool manufacturers, architects and engineers - find value in SASFA membership, in what is undeniably a challenging time of economic constraint and change for the construction, steel and building sectors locally. The active demand for LSFB in South Africa is one of the most exciting developments in recent times,’ says John Barnard, Director of SASFA. ‘While this method of building has been used in the United States, Europe and Australia for decades, it was only relatively recently introduced to our shores. The speed of construction, accuracy, excellent thermal properties, logistical cost advantages and design flexibility are all factors which have made LSFB the building method of choice for a growing number of construction projects. ‘Today, the Association embodies the collective wisdom of its members and serves as a valuable reservoir of knowledge for professionals and practitioners in the industry. SASFA’s management of codes and standards, its strategically neutral and advocacy role as an industry voice across many construction-related industries
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John Barnard, Director of SASFA.
Milestones achieved The Association has achieved many significant milestones since inception. For example, it has drafted the SASFA Building Code for LSFB in South Africa and taken the Code through the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) certification process, to form the national code SANS517 for Light steel frame building. SASFA also obtained acceptance of LSFB from the South African banks for bonding of LSF houses; and acceptance from the NHBRC for enrolment. The Association has arranged awareness-raising seminars in the major centres of South Africa, involving several overseas speakers and obtained representation on the relevant SABS committees.
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