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CROSS Safety Report

Facade failure

Report ID: 63 Published: 1 February 2007 Region: CROSS-UK

This report is over 2 years old

Please be aware that it might contain information that is no longer up to date. We keep all reports available for historic reference and as learning aids.

Overview

Large pieces of granite fell without warning from a second floor opening.

Key Learning Outcomes

For building owners and managers:

  • Regular inspections and maintenance can help keep a structure safe and identify any obvious safety issues that may need addressing

  • Be aware that safety critical defects may be hidden behind linings

Full Report

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The Full Report below has been submitted to CROSS and describes the reporter’s experience. The text has been edited for clarity and to ensure anonymity and confidentiality by removing any identifiable details. If you would like to know more about our secure reporting process or submit a report yourself, please visit the reporting to CROSS-UK page.

 

The building in this report is a church built as a composite masonry structure with granite cladding on the front façade. Steel RSJs are used as lintels behind the door and window openings. The steel has corroded over the years and the expansion had pushed the cladding material off. Large pieces of granite fell without warning from a second floor opening.

Image
Figure 1: repaired defective lintel

Expert Panel Comments

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