Safety considerations for handling pre-finished steel roof and wall cladding sheets

Pre-finished steel cladding sheets and, in particular, composite panels can be large, heavy and awkward to handle. All operatives must be trained in handling heavy and awkward loads a 12 m composite panel can weigh approximately 125 kg.

Cladding sheets or panels may be secured by straps or bands. These should not be used for lifting as they may cause eye or other injuries when the tension is released. Care should also be taken when removing any straps or bands as the bundle may spring apart. There may be sharp edges that could cause lacerations so suitable protective equipment should be worn and the systems of work should be designed to take account of any hazards arising from this type of risk.

Packs of cladding sheets or panels can be lifted using a fork lift truck (using a spreader beam if necessary). Specialist vacuum lifting equipment is now also available for lifting and positioning individual sheets and panels. Where possible cladding packs should be lifted onto a roof where they are less vulnerable to damage. For specific information on safe positioning, a structural engineer should be consulted.

When installing roof and wall cladding sheets or panels, special care should be taken when handling long lengths, particularly in windy conditions. Should work be interrupted for any reason, all loose sheeting and incomplete sections must be adequately secured against possible movement by wind and gravity.