LONDON: The Timber Trade Federation (TTF) is urging its members to ensure they fully understand the rules concerning tile battens following an incident which caused a builder to fall from a roof during construction.
The TTF is encouraging roofing suppliers and contractors to remind themselves of the rules on slating and tiling contained in the Code of Practice.
These rules state that 'Marking BS 5534:2003 on or in relation to the product represents the manufacturers declaration of conformity – a claim by or on behalf of a manufacturer that the product meets the recommendations of the standard'.
In all other cases, the batten will need grading on site, which must be done by a competent grader on behalf of the roofing contractor during installation.
In the case of an accident, the liability for a failed batten can rest not only with the roofing contractor but also with the supplier if the batten has been incorrectly marked.
TTF chief executive John White said: “Where health and safety is concerned we must go the extra mile. Members must ensure their batten is correctly marked, and also make it clear to the contractor what they know about the batten Standard, and what they must do to comply with it.”
