A safety notification regarding the correct installation process for vertical steel reinforcing.
Purpose
The purpose of this safety notice is to inform installers of the correct procedure for installing fixing kits in Interbloc precast construction blocks. This notice also highlights the safety risks associated with non-compliance with the correct installation procedure.
Background
The Interbloc precast construction system can be vertically reinforced using a combination of steel components which Envirocon refers to as ‘Fixing Kits’. Fixing kits are specifically designed by Envirocon to deliver speed of build without compromising safety. Fixing kits are threaded through reinforcing ducts cast into Interbloc blocks during manufacture and can be placed at 600mm or 1200mm centres.
Correct Installation Procedure
The correct procedure for installing fixing kits is as follows:
- Epoxy a short piece of steel bar into the underlying foundation.
- Build the wall.
- Insert the main, longer, length of the bar from the top of the wall and couple it with the starter bar.
- Tie off the fixing kit at the top with a washer and nut, using a torque wrench to achieve the required tension.
Safety Risks of Non-Compliance
Envirocon has been informed of an alternative approach to installing vertical reinforcing by casting the full length of the reinforcing bar into the foundation, with the intention of lifting the blocks over the top of the bar.
This approach is very dangerous and can lead to death and should never be attempted.
Key Risks
The lifting mechanism in an Interbloc block relies on gravity to maintain its grip on the lifting anchor. When weight is taken off the block it can disengage. When lifting a block over a cast-in, full length, vertical reinforcing bar, the block can catch on the bar taking the weight off the lifting mechanism and causing it to disengage. This approach is made more dangerous by the requirement that installers would need to be standing under the block during the manoeuvre to guide the vertical refinancing rod through the cast reinforcing duct in the block.
Recommendations
All installers follow the correct procedure for installing fixing kits in Interbloc precast construction blocks. Failure to do so could result in serious injury or death.
Only Envirocon supplied 'fixing kits' are used in the installation of a wall.
Envirocon is committed to the safety of its products and users. We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring that Interbloc precast construction blocks are installed safely.