FrameWorks Solution was launched to help housebuilders address site health and safety issues in using engineered timber floor systems. The initiative provides up-to-date practical and theoretical training to help drive cost leaks out of the build process while making site safety the top priority. “Doing it right … Safely” is the central theme.
Since its launch more than 180 staff from national developers such as George Wimpey Group, Taylor Woodrow and David Wilson Homes have attended the courses held at the Construction Industry Training Board‘s (CITB) National Construction College at King’s Lynn. The courses are residential and free of charge to the builder and subcontractor. They are covered under the Construction CPD Certification Service, fully CITB-certified and include a half day of theory and one day of practical training.
Commenting on his company’s participation, Dave Braunton, senior buyer for George Wimpey’s south-west region, said: “Trus Joist’s course is an excellent means for our site managers to learn more about the requirements of the new Part E and Part L Building Regulations in terms of how they relate to structural flooring installation. We’ll be sending 10 on the course from this region in the coming year.”
FrameWorks is constantly evolving content to keep it up to date. For instance, when the NHBC changed its guidelines regarding maximum deflection on engineered floor systems, the next course highlighted the changes. Courses are updated in line with changes to Building Regulations, in particular Part E and Part L, and to mirror changes in general building practice.
Tracking developments
The training also keeps track of developments in hanger systems. The new safety restraint hanger negates the need for straps or propping and FrameWorks includes training from manufacturers’ representatives who demonstrate how to install new products correctly and safely.
FrameWorks takes a full system approach, bringing together market leaders in their field, namely Puhos, Simpson Strong-Tie and Cullen Building Products, which lend staff for its courses. Puhos Board, for instance, provides hands-on training in the safe and correct use of its WeatherDek2 Fast-Fix flooring.
FrameWorks includes a highly practical element. Inside a former aircraft hangar a full-scale house has been built up to first floor level in which Trus Joist‘s Silent Floor System – with the TJI joists exposed – has been installed. A large section of the house features a ‘wrong room’ in which visible demonstrations can be seen of typical mistakes made during installation, together with large format photographs also illustrating incorrect site practice.
Most FrameWorks participants are site managers, CAD technicians and design managers from national housebuilders. However, several carpentry subcontractors have also signed up.
“Frameworks Solution is targeted not only at experienced tradesmen, but also at those undertaking apprenticeships,” said Trus Joist’s UK manager. “It is designed for site managers, construction managers, subcontractors, assurance bodies and apprentices. At the end of the course delegates receive a trade training card. For stockists of our Silent Floor System the initiative also provides invaluable input on design issues. It is fair to say that whilst individual delegates will benefit from the courses, the real winner will be the housebuilder’s bottom line.”
