CROSS Safety Report
Wind damage to secondary elements
This report is over 2 years old
Overview
A period of storm force winds, with wind speeds approaching design levels, resulted in damage to secondary roofing and cladding elements.
Key Learning Outcomes
For construction professionals and design engineers:
-
The design and installation of secondary elements should be given the same degree of attention as the primary structure during both design and construction to improve safety, reliability and longevity
Full Report
Find out more about the Full Report
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.
A report from a client which owns a number of large industrial buildings says that a period of storm force winds, with wind speeds approaching design levels, resulted in damage to secondary roofing and cladding elements. The gross areas of roofing and wall cladding performed well. Certain secondary elements however did suffer damage in the extreme wind conditions. Inspections by the owner have shown that localised areas of secondary metal components such as flashings, trims, cappings and the like did become detached or distorted.
Investigations by the owner have also revealed that secondary elements may not attract the same attention in the design, installation and inspection process as do the main roof or wall areas. The detailing, fixing, and inspection of secondary elements must be rigorous to avoid potential damage in high winds and to avoid the resulting hazard of flying debris and any consequential weakening of the main areas of wall and roof coverings.
Submit a report
Your report will make a difference. It will help to create positive change and improve safety.
Our secure and confidential safety reporting system gives professionals the opportunity to share their experiences to help others.
Feedback
No feedback has yet been published for this page.
Expert Panel Comments
Expert Panels 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-UK Expert Panels page.
This emphasises the need for designers and contractors to be careful with the detailing and selection of fixings for secondary components. Fixings have been mentioned in previous reports and reports of items falling off buildings. The frequency and severity of strong winds are predicted to increase as climates change so more incidences of such damage may be expected.