Forewarned is Forearmed

 

Technical Consultant’s comments – Patrick England

The Council for Aluminium in Building (CAB) technical team of Patrick England and Martin Ford is very actively involved in the changing standards and regulations in the UK which keeps members up to date with compliance. Regular communication with CAB members also gives businesses a real advantage in an ever competitive market.

A little known change to the Building Regulations was communicated to members back in July regarding the changes which were to take place with the ‘Competent Person Scheme’ (CPS).

The amendment which affects the current Building Regulations 2010, AD L 2B, has been extended to cover the replacement installation of doors, windows and roof windows in non-dwellings. This amendment will allow scheme operators to inspect installations in non-domestic buildings rather than the contractor or installer going through Local Authority Building Control (LABC). At present there are two authorised CPS scheme operators, BM Trada and Fensa.

It is important to note that the amendment does not apply to glass which is load bearing or structural that forms part of glazed curtain walling, a revolving door or a display window.

This amendment should enable commercial replacement fenestration to be installed and inspected quicker for companies that are registered with the CPS scheme. It should also encourage more commercial installers to join one of the CPS schemes currently available.

CAB actively supports the use of aluminium in building and can offer specifiers guidance and support in its correct use in the external envelope.

For guidance on the use of aluminium please contact CAB on 01453 828851. For more details on CAB and membership contact Julie Harley at julie.harley@c-a-b.org.uk or visit the website at www.c-a-b.org.uk

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