Loading of materials onto decking prior to concreting should be avoided wherever possible. Where it is necessary to store materials or equipment on the decking, the loads should be placed directly over supporting beams.  The decking should never be point-loaded, instead, timber spreaders should be used to distribute local loads over a number of ribs.

Prior to concreting, typical decking can support distributed loads of 3 to 4 kN/m2. A barrel of studs can weigh up to 200kg.  Material should never be loaded onto single span decking sheets.

Materials should be lowered gently onto the timber spreaders to prevent impact damage. If damage to the decking occurs, the whole sheet should be replaced.

Further information:

Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association, (www.mcrma.co.uk).

BCSA Code of practice for metal decking and stud welding, 2004.

This message can be stuck onto the bundles of decking or onto the barrels of shear connectors at the factory.  Additionally, it can be stuck onto the columns on site. 

Messages should be printed on A5 size laminated synthetic labels with a permanent adhesive backing.

This message has been approved for use by the Metal Cladding and Roofing Manufacturers Association.