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CROSS Safety Report

Potential overload on buildings

Report ID: 2 Published: 1 November 2005 Region: CROSS-UK

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Overview

A reporter raises concerns after a crowd in a city centre greeting a successful sporting team gained access to the roofs of buildings and were densely packed around perimeters overlooking the streets.

Key Learning Outcomes

For building owners and managers:

  • During such events as mentioned in the report, access to rooftops and unsafe points should be prevented as there is a risk of overload

Full Report

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A crowd in a city centre gathered to watch an open top bus tour by a successful sporting team. People gained access to the roofs of buildings and were densely packed around perimeters overlooking the streets. Fortunately, there were no incidents but there was the potential for the collapse of roofs or parapets due to excessive loading for which they were not designed.

Expert Panel Comments

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An Expert Panel comment on the reports we receive. They use their experience to help you understand what can be learned from the reports. If you would like to know more, please visit the CROSS-AUS Expert Panel page.

A similar situation could be seen when the England cricket team toured London after winning the ashes this summer. It should be part of the risk assessment for such events that access to unsafe viewing points is considered. There may also be a responsibility on building owners. This issue will be progressed.

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