Rules concerning tile battens need to be fully understood, The Timber Trade Federation (TTF) has warned after a case where a builder fell from a roof during construction work.
The TTF is urging its roofing supplier members, as well as contractors, to remind themselves of the rules of slating and tiling practice, especially because of a recent amendment to the BS 5534: 2003 Code of Practice for slating and tiling (including shingles).
Several TTF members have asked for an explanation of the changes.
The TTF has emphasised that one of the key parts of the code remains unchanged – that the marking BS 5534: 2003 on the product (or in relation to the product) represents the manufacturer’s declaration of conformity that it meets recommendations of the standard.
Otherwise battens need on-site grading which has to be done by a competent grader on behalf of the roofing contractor during installation.
The TTF said accident liability for a failed batten rested not just with the contractor but also with the product supplier.
An amendment to Annex C permits knots or knot holes of less than 5mm to be ignored, with no distinction to be made between knot holes, dead knots or live knots.
For a full summary of changes to the code see www.ttf.co.uk.
