BCSA launches light-gauge steelwork specification to tackle housing crisis

Modern Methods of Construction are widely expected to prove invaluable in tackling the UK’s housing shortages over the coming years, and light-gauge steel will have a key role to play.

To support the more widespread use of cold-formed, galvanized light steel, the British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) has launched the first National Light-Gauge Steelwork Specification (NLSS).

The new Specification has been developed with input from the wider construction industry and the light steel manufacturing sector.

It is intended to be incorporated into construction contracts, giving clients, designers, contractors and manufacturers confidence that light-gauge steel is being produced and used to the highest regulatory standards.

BCSA Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Clemens said: “Light-gauge steel frame structures use galvanized cold-formed steel sections as the primary structural components, which can be assembled into prefabricated panels. It is an integral part of modular construction because it is strong, lightweight, durable and is becoming a more significant solution for residential buildings.

“The introduction of the Building Safety Act has focused the construction industry on competence and capability to ensure that building projects are robust and are designed and constructed to ensure the safety of those living and working in residential and office buildings.

“The NLSS sets out a framework of requirements to reassure designers, clients and contractors that the light-gauge steelwork industry is able to establish and maintain high standards in all areas of its operations.”

The NLSS will come into force from April 2025 and can be downloaded here:
https://bcsa.org.uk/resources/fabrication-technical-design/nlss/