Product Handling, Installation & Lifecycle Guidance

This page provides general handling, storage, installation, operation, maintenance and end-of-life guidance applicable to all products supplied by SFS.

This information supports compliance with the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) and is intended to ensure that declared product performance is not compromised throughout the product lifecycle.

For product-specific technical information, always refer to the relevant Product Data Sheet, ETA, DoP, or Installation Guide.

Handling, Storage & Transport

Handling

  • Handle products carefully to prevent mechanical damage, deformation, or contamination.
  • Avoid dropping or impact loading that may affect structural performance.
  • Follow manual handling regulations and site-specific lifting procedures.
  • Use appropriate mechanical handling equipment where required.
  • Protective coatings must not be scratched, abraded or otherwise damaged prior to installation.

Storage

  • Store products in a clean, dry, well-ventilated environment.
  • Protect from moisture, standing water, aggressive atmospheres and chemical exposure.
  • Keep products in original packaging until use.
  • Do not stack beyond packaging guidance.
  • Separate aluminium, stainless and carbon steel products during storage to prevent cross-contamination.

Transport

  • Secure products during transport to prevent movement or damage.
  • Protect from weather exposure during transit.
  • Inspect goods upon delivery. Do not install damaged products.

Any compromised product performance may invalidate declared performance and warranty provisions.

Installation Guidance

Correct installation is essential to achieve tested and declared performance.

  • Installation must follow the relevant product-specific installation guide or other manufacturer recommendations.
  • Substrate suitability must be confirmed before installation.
  • Installation parameters (embedment depth, torque settings, spacing, edge distances, etc.) must be strictly followed.
  • Only use compatible components and accessories as specified.
  • Environmental limitations (temperature, humidity, fire classification, corrosion category) must be respected.
  • Installation must be undertaken by competent and appropriately trained personnel.
  • Records of installation (e.g., torque verification, pull-out testing where specified) should be retained.

Failure to follow installation guidance may:

  • Compromise structural performance
  • Invalidate warranties or guarantees
  • Affect insurance compliance
  • Breach statutory or regulatory requirements

Specialist Equipment & Tools

Some products require specialist tools or calibrated equipment, including but not limited to:

  • Torque-controlled installation tools
  • Drilling equipment meeting specified tolerances
  • Testing and verification equipment
  • Hinge Jigs or Milling Schemes

Always refer to product documentation to confirm required tools and calibration requirements.

Warranties, Guarantees & Insurance

Product warranties are conditional upon:

  • Correct storage and handling
  • Installation in accordance with published guidance
  • Use within declared performance limits
  • Compliance with inspection and maintenance requirements

Deviation from published guidance may invalidate warranties and could impact project insurance arrangements.

For warranty terms, refer to the relevant product documentation or contact Technical Services.

Operating Instructions & Limitations of Use

  • Products must only be used within the performance scope defined in their Declaration of Performance (DoP), ETA, or relevant test certification.
  • Products must not be modified, altered or re-engineered without written approval.
  • Environmental and loading limitations must be respected.
  • Products designed for concealed structural use must not be repurposed for non-intended applications.

If there is uncertainty regarding suitability for a particular application, consult Technical Services prior to installation.

Safety Guidance

  • Follow all applicable health and safety legislation and site regulations.
  • Use appropriate PPE during installation.
  • Consider risks relating to drilling, dust generation, noise and working at height.
  • Refer to relevant Safety Data Sheets (SDS) where applicable.

Maintenance & Inspection

Unless otherwise stated in product-specific documentation:

  • Products should be inspected periodically as part of the building or products maintenance regime.
  • Inspect for corrosion, mechanical damage, loosening, or movement.
  • Replace damaged or compromised components immediately.
  • Maintain inspection records where required by regulation or warranty conditions.

Maintenance frequency will depend on environmental exposure and structural application.

Disposal & End of Life

  • Products should be removed safely in accordance with site safety procedures.
  • Separate materials where possible for recycling.
  • Dispose of in accordance with local waste management regulations.
  • Where products form part of structural systems, removal must be assessed by a competent person.

Metal components are generally recyclable.

Responsibility & Competence

It is the responsibility of the designer, contractor and installer to:

  • Ensure product suitability for the intended application.
  • Follow all published technical documentation.
  • Ensure competent installation and inspection.
  • Maintain adequate project records.

For project-specific advice, contact our Technical Department.

Product Handling, Installation & Lifecycle Guidance

This page provides general handling, storage, installation, operation, maintenance and end-of-life guidance applicable to all products supplied by SFS.

This information supports compliance with the Code for Construction Product Information (CCPI) and is intended to ensure that declared product performance is not compromised throughout the product lifecycle.

For product-specific technical information, always refer to the relevant Product Data Sheet, ETA, DoP, or Installation Guide.

Handling, Storage & Transport

Handling

  • Handle products carefully to prevent mechanical damage, deformation, or contamination.
  • Avoid dropping or impact loading that may affect structural performance.
  • Follow manual handling regulations and site-specific lifting procedures.
  • Use appropriate mechanical handling equipment where required.
  • Protective coatings must not be scratched, abraded or otherwise damaged prior to installation.

Storage

  • Store products in a clean, dry, well-ventilated environment.
  • Protect from moisture, standing water, aggressive atmospheres and chemical exposure.
  • Keep products in original packaging until use.
  • Do not stack beyond packaging guidance.
  • Separate aluminium, stainless and carbon steel products during storage to prevent cross-contamination.

Transport

  • Secure products during transport to prevent movement or damage.
  • Protect from weather exposure during transit.
  • Inspect goods upon delivery. Do not install damaged products.

Any compromised product performance may invalidate declared performance and warranty provisions.

Installation Guidance

Correct installation is essential to achieve tested and declared performance.

  • Installation must follow the relevant product-specific installation guide or other manufacturer recommendations.
  • Substrate suitability must be confirmed before installation.
  • Installation parameters (embedment depth, torque settings, spacing, edge distances, etc.) must be strictly followed.
  • Only use compatible components and accessories as specified.
  • Environmental limitations (temperature, humidity, fire classification, corrosion category) must be respected.
  • Installation must be undertaken by competent and appropriately trained personnel.
  • Records of installation (e.g., torque verification, pull-out testing where specified) should be retained.

Failure to follow installation guidance may:

  • Compromise structural performance
  • Invalidate warranties or guarantees
  • Affect insurance compliance
  • Breach statutory or regulatory requirements

Specialist Equipment & Tools

Some products require specialist tools or calibrated equipment, including but not limited to:

  • Torque-controlled installation tools
  • Drilling equipment meeting specified tolerances
  • Testing and verification equipment
  • Hinge Jigs or Milling Schemes

Always refer to product documentation to confirm required tools and calibration requirements.

Warranties, Guarantees & Insurance

Product warranties are conditional upon:

  • Correct storage and handling
  • Installation in accordance with published guidance
  • Use within declared performance limits
  • Compliance with inspection and maintenance requirements

Deviation from published guidance may invalidate warranties and could impact project insurance arrangements.

For warranty terms, refer to the relevant product documentation or contact Technical Services.

Operating Instructions & Limitations of Use

  • Products must only be used within the performance scope defined in their Declaration of Performance (DoP), ETA, or relevant test certification.
  • Products must not be modified, altered or re-engineered without written approval.
  • Environmental and loading limitations must be respected.
  • Products designed for concealed structural use must not be repurposed for non-intended applications.

If there is uncertainty regarding suitability for a particular application, consult Technical Services prior to installation.

Safety Guidance

  • Follow all applicable health and safety legislation and site regulations.
  • Use appropriate PPE during installation.
  • Consider risks relating to drilling, dust generation, noise and working at height.
  • Refer to relevant Safety Data Sheets (SDS) where applicable.

Maintenance & Inspection

Unless otherwise stated in product-specific documentation:

  • Products should be inspected periodically as part of the building or products maintenance regime.
  • Inspect for corrosion, mechanical damage, loosening, or movement.
  • Replace damaged or compromised components immediately.
  • Maintain inspection records where required by regulation or warranty conditions.

Maintenance frequency will depend on environmental exposure and structural application.

Disposal & End of Life

  • Products should be removed safely in accordance with site safety procedures.
  • Separate materials where possible for recycling.
  • Dispose of in accordance with local waste management regulations.
  • Where products form part of structural systems, removal must be assessed by a competent person.

Metal components are generally recyclable.

Responsibility & Competence

It is the responsibility of the designer, contractor and installer to:

  • Ensure product suitability for the intended application.
  • Follow all published technical documentation.
  • Ensure competent installation and inspection.
  • Maintain adequate project records.

For project-specific advice, contact our Technical Department.