Insights

Falsework, the temporary support structure used to hold concrete, formwork, steelwork, and other elements during construction, is a critical component in ensuring the safety and quality of the final built product. Any failure in falsework can lead to catastrophic consequences, resulting in injuries, fatalities, and significant project delays. Recognizing this inherent risk, the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) of Malaysia has established CIS 23:2023 - Product Conformity for Falsework in Construction. This comprehensive standard outlines the requirements for ensuring that falsework materials and systems used in Malaysia meet stringent safety and quality benchmarks.  

Understanding CIS 23:2023

CIS 23:2023 serves as a vital guideline for manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, and other stakeholders involved in the design, supply, and erection of falsework. It focuses specifically on the product conformity aspect, ensuring that the materials and components used to construct falsework systems adhere to recognized standards and are fit for their intended purpose. This standard complements other regulations and guidelines related to the safe use and design of falsework in construction.  

Key Objectives of CIS 23:2023:

• Establish Clear Product Standards: The standard defines the acceptable quality and performance criteria for various falsework materials and proprietary systems used in construction.

• Ensure Material Compliance: It mandates that falsework components comply with relevant Malaysian Standards (MS) or equivalent international standards, guaranteeing their structural integrity and durability.

• Implement a Certification and Testing Regime: CIS 23:2023 likely outlines the requirements for product certification and testing to verify the conformity of falsework materials and systems before they are used on-site.  

• Promote Accountability: By setting clear guidelines for product conformity, the standard enhances accountability among manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors regarding the quality of falsework used in their projects.

• Enhance Site Safety: Ultimately, the goal of CIS 23:2023 is to contribute to safer construction sites by ensuring that the temporary structures supporting the works are robust and reliable.

Scope of Product Conformity under CIS 23:2023:

While the exact details are within the official document, the scope of product conformity for falsework under CIS 23:2023 likely covers:

• Materials: Specifications for steel, timber, aluminum, and other materials used in falsework construction, including their strength grades, quality, and testing requirements.

• Proprietary Falsework Systems: Conformity requirements for modular or pre-engineered falsework systems, including their design specifications, manufacturing processes, and load-bearing capacities.

• Components: Standards for individual components such as standards (vertical supports), ledgers (horizontal supports), braces, couplers, and base plates, ensuring they meet the necessary strength and compatibility requirements.

• Surface Treatment and Protection: Guidelines on protective coatings and treatments to prevent corrosion and degradation of falsework materials, ensuring their longevity and safety.

• Marking and Identification: Requirements for clear and durable marking on falsework components to facilitate traceability and verification of conformity.

Likely Requirements and Processes:

Based on CIDB's general approach to product conformity and the importance of falsework safety, CIS 23:2023 likely entails the following:

• Reference to Malaysian Standards (MS): The standard would heavily reference relevant MS for structural steel, timber, and other materials used in falsework. For proprietary systems, it might refer to equivalent international standards like EN or ISO.

• Product Certification: Manufacturers and suppliers of falsework systems and components may be required to obtain product certification from CIDB-recognized certification bodies. This process would involve demonstrating compliance with the specified standards through testing and quality management system audits.  

• Testing and Inspection: The standard would likely outline the testing requirements for different falsework materials and components, including load testing, material testing, and dimensional checks. Inspection procedures at the manufacturing stage and potentially upon delivery to site might also be specified.

• Perakuan Pematuhan Standard (PPS): Similar to scaffolding (CIS 22), a Perakuan Pematuhan Standard (PPS) might be a mandatory requirement for falsework systems and critical components before they can be used in construction projects. Obtaining PPS would necessitate providing valid product certifications, test reports, and other relevant documentation to CIDB.

• Responsibilities of Stakeholders: The standard would likely delineate the responsibilities of manufacturers, suppliers, designers, and contractors in ensuring the product conformity of falsework used in their projects. This could include providing compliant materials, verifying certifications, and conducting on-site inspections.

The Importance of CIS 23:2023:

The implementation and enforcement of CIS 23:2023 are crucial for several reasons:

• Preventing Structural Failures: Ensuring the use of conformant falsework materials and systems significantly reduces the risk of structural collapses, protecting workers and the public.

• Enhancing Construction Quality: Reliable and stable falsework contributes to the accurate and high-quality construction of permanent structures.

• Promoting Industry Best Practices: CIS 23:2023 encourages the adoption of standardized and safe practices in the design, supply, and use of falsework.

• Building Confidence: Compliance with recognized standards builds confidence among stakeholders regarding the safety and reliability of construction projects.

Conclusion:

CIDB CIS 23:2023 - Product Conformity for Falsework in Construction is a vital step towards ensuring the safety and quality of temporary support structures in Malaysia's construction industry. By establishing clear product standards, mandating conformity assessments, and promoting accountability, this standard aims to minimize the risks associated with falsework failures. Manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, and all stakeholders involved in construction must familiarize themselves with the requirements of CIS 23:2023 and adhere to its guidelines to contribute to safer and more reliable construction practices in the nation. Obtaining the official CIS 23:2023 document from CIDB is essential for a comprehensive understanding and full compliance with these critical regulations.