How to Check an Anchor Installation on Site

A supervisor should check the installed anchor against the exact product specification and manufacturer's instructions, including the required tools and setting method. Confirm the work before the pipework, ductwork, cable containment or bracket it supports is loaded.

How can I make sure anchor/fixing installations are compliant with BS 8539?

He outlines:

• How to install an anchor in compliance with BS 8539?
• Why anchor installation training is critical for each and every anchor?
• Why it is important to use the correct setting tool for that specific anchor?

One of the most popular anchors purchased in the M&E industry, is the deformation-controlled anchor (commonly known as drop-ins). Unfortunately, the majority of them are installed incorrectly.

On-site anchor installation failure is commonly down to three issues

• The incorrect anchor has been specified and supplied on-site (find out how to correctly select an anchor BS 8539 guidance)
• The correct anchor has been specified but not supplied on-site (which can be down to a third-party influence due to breaking the spec.)
• Training - installers have not been adequately trained on how to correctly install anchors with the right setting tool

Anchor installation - BS 8539 guidance

BS 8539:2012+A1:2021 states that anchors should be installed and supervised by competent individuals. BS 8539 defines competent as:

“Suitably trained and qualified by knowledge and practical experience, and provided with the necessary instructions, to enable the required task(s) to be carried out correctly”.

If the manufacturer provides a witness mark and the installation instructions call for it, check it using the manufacturer's method.