Balcony and Balustrade Reporting
in
After a number of recent accidents involving people falling through balustrades and balconies collapsing, the local councils are saying that more needs to be done to ensure they're safe.
At QBM with a Balcony and Balustrade Report we can help identify which types of balconies and balustrades are high-risk; what standards they must comply to; and what you can do to ensure they are safe for all. Many Councils are now asking that the structural integrity of balcony balustrade be checked annually.
The safety and integrity of balconies can be compromised by numerous factors and these inspections should only be trusted to training professionals.
Not only will the inspection look for any visible signs of rust on the balustrade and/or fixings (E.g. rusted bolts or rivets), but concrete cancer, dry rot, poor workmanship, loose or inadequate fittings. If the balustrades are over 10 years old - there was little or no certification of balustrades until recently, so some many can constitute a serious risk.
What will be included for the handrails?
• Height of top rail, bottom rail and compliance of the balustrade configuration with Part D2.16 of the BCA
• Size, material and spacing of posts
• Fixing of posts (visual inspection)
• Size and material of railing and in-fills
• Condition of posts, railings, in-fills and fixings (visual inspection)
• Any other concerns regarding the handrails raised by the committee
QBM have highly experienced professionals to inspection balconies and handrails and will work with you to ensure their continued safety.
