Curtain Walling RAMS Guide for UK Contractors

Key Topics in a Curtain Walling RAMS

Working at height on the facade

Curtain walling installation is inherently high-risk work at height on the exterior of buildings. The RAMS must specify the access method (facade scaffold, MEWP, suspended access equipment/mast climber), apply the WAH 2005 hierarchy, describe exclusion zones at ground level below the working face, and confirm that access equipment is designed and inspected by a competent person. No improvised access at any stage of installation.

Glass and panel handling

Curtain walling glass units (IGUs) are heavy, brittle, and often large. Breakage during handling is a serious falling object and laceration hazard. The RAMS must specify: mechanical vacuum handling devices for all glass installation; exclusion zones on all floors below the working level; glasshandling training for all operatives; inspection of each unit before installation; and PPE including cut-resistant gloves and safety footwear with metatarsal protection.

Structural silicone application

Structural silicone glazing (SSG) systems rely on the silicone acting as a structural adhesive. The RAMS must specify that silicone is applied only by trained and certified applicators, in conditions within the manufacturer's temperature and humidity range, with correct surface preparation (priming, cleaning, and compatibility testing). SSG must not be loaded until the silicone has achieved its design cure.

Fire stopping at slab edge

The interface between the curtain walling system and the structural slab must be fire stopped to prevent vertical fire spread through the facade cavity. The RAMS must identify all slab edge interfaces, confirm that fire stopping is installed in accordance with the approved fire strategy and tested system specification, and describe the inspection and sign-off procedure before the cavity is closed.