Changing a Specified Anchor: What to Do

If the specified anchor for a pipework, ductwork, cable containment or bracket support is unavailable, do not send a substitute straight to the installer. Tell the original specifier and check the alternative against the substrate, load, environment, installation method and approval before it is used.

It is recommended that for anchor/fixing compliance BS 8539 must be referred to in this situation.

What does BS 8539 tell us about breaking spec for another anchor?

The BS 8539 clearly states:

“The correct anchor must be sourced as specified. If an alternative anchor is proposed, the change management procedure must be followed”

What are the main reasons why an anchor specified may not be the one supplied on-site?

It often comes down to the fact that one of the stakeholders decides, due to commercial reasons, not to supply that anchor. If this happens then this stakeholder becomes the specifier under BS 8539 and therefore carries the responsibilities of following the right procedures as outlined in BS 8539.

Who is responsible for notifying the relevant stakeholder that the anchor specified has not been supplied?

• BS 8539 highlights the contractor's responsibilities, under clause 10 of the management procedure;
• If the contractor is aware that the anchor specified is not the one supplied on site it is their responsibility to inform the original specifier and once the new anchor has arrived, having gone through the correct due diligence of selecting an anchor, then it should be installed To the manufacturer's specifications.

How does BS 8539 guide us?

BS 8539 is quite clear “The correct anchor must be sourced as specified. If an alternative anchor is proposed, the change management procedure must be followed”

Clause 10 - management procedure - BS 8539 guidance