BCSA publishes new guide on lifting accessories.

The British Constructional Steelwork Association (BCSA) has published a new publication titled Design and Fabrication of Lifting Accessories.

This publication provides guidance in the application of the appropriate European Regulations that apply to all lifting accessories, e.g. spreader beams, lifting beams, and lifting lugs, where steelwork contractors manufacture and use their own lifting accessories or allow their sub-contractors to use them. The guidance also applies to lifting accessories that are purchased on the open market, are bespoke one-off items, or are commissioned by other manufacturers.

The Regulations require steelwork contractors to ensure that the applicable essential health and safety requirements are satisfied for the lifting accessory, that the Technical File is compiled and made available, and provide information on its safe operation. Steelwork contractors also have to follow the Conformity Assessment Procedure, draw up a Declaration of Conformity, and affix the CE or UK marking to the lifting accessory when they are placed on the market for the first time or put into use.

BCSA Technical Director Ana Girão Coelho said: “This new publication provides steelwork contractors with guidance on the design and fabrication of lifting accessories. It includes practical recommendations based on the relevant British Standards, recognised engineering principles and good practice in construction.”

The Guide (BCSA Publication No 64/20) is available in PDF format only and can be obtained from www.steelconstruction.org (Free for BCSA members and £20 for non-members).