SFS’ lifeline system 27 November 2019

SFS has installed its unique Soter™ Horizontal Safety Lifeline System on the new visitor centre and gallery, The Weston, on the grounds of Bretton Hall in West Yorkshire, UK. The building has already won four RIBA Yorkshire Awards for its design, which fits with the rural and picturesque surroundings and future vision for the park.

SFS Group Fastening Technology Ltd and Templar Roofing Services Ltd collaborated to bring the park’s new building to life, installing SFS’s Soter™ lifeline system into the natural roofline of the building. By installing the Soter lifeline system the architectural design of the building is not compromised, and the low height of the system ensures that it is not obtrusive, blending seamlessly into the structure of the building.

“As the roof had been waterproofed already, SFS worked with our operatives to ensure the waterproof integrity of the building was maintained. The whole process went smoothly, and the finished product blended in well with the green and brown roof finishes, while allowing future maintenance of the system to be carried out safely,” said Martin Adwick, managing director at Templar Roofing Services.

Having completed several design layouts, SFS recommended a system that minimised the loading back to the roof, which was less than 6kN at any given point. The use of the Soter lifeline system will also assist The Weston to maintain the roof and ensure the integrity of the roof for years to come.

After being brought on board by Templar Roofing Services, SFS was heavily involved in liaising with the architect and engineer to arrive at a solution that met the Yorkshire Sculpture Park’s health and safety criteria. The system required a secure fixing through the green roof to ensure the roof did not suffer from water ingress. SFS utilised M8 stainless steel gravity toggles to fix the base plate to the roof, which was then weathered by Templar Roofing Services to provide a secure weatherproof installation.

“We’re proud to have been a part of the building process of The Weston. Making sure we provide the highest standard of fall safety equipment that blends in with the surroundings is always of utmost importance to us and our customers,” said James Gooder, business manager at SFS Fall Protection.

Claire Aldridge Deputy Editor t: +44 (0) 1727 743 889

Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.

Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.