Documentation Requirements for Anchorage Points

Anyone installing anchorage devices must now comply with specific documentation requirements. The DGUV sets out the requirements of the Building Regulations in more detail, thereby making them more binding in practice.

The following points are crucial:

• Different requirements for PPE and construction products
  A declaration of conformity is required for each device type when installing permanent anchorage systems
• Minimum, binding content requirements have been defined
  Without a complete set of basic data, it is impossible to compile your documentation correctly
• Unique identifiability is mandatory
  It must be possible to clearly identify every single anchorage point, for example by using a map and labelling system
• Photographic documentation is strongly recommended
  This makes subsequent inspections easier, improves transparency and can help to avoid costly roof openings
• Documentation forms the basis of every single inspection
  Without a full set of documents, it is often impossible to carry out a qualified assessment, or this can only be achieved by opening up the roof
• Hire a specialist installation company
  Companies must provide evidence of possessing the relevant qualifications for installing permanent anchorage points

To ensure that your documentation is coherent and legally watertight, it is essential to distinguish between mandatory requirements and useful additions. The following information will help to clarify both points.

Minimum requirements (mandatory)

Both the Building Regulations and the DGUV define clear minimum content requirements that all installation documentation must meet. This information is mandatory and forms the basis for any subsequent inspections.

Mandatory content:

• Object
  Unique identification of the building or location
• Installation company
  Contractor details
• Responsible installation technician
  Individual who carried out or was responsible for the installation, including proof of qualifications
• Product
  Manufacturer, anchorage device type and model, serial, resp. batch number
• Installation technique
  Installation materials and methods used
• Installation surface
  Load-bearing structure with a corresponding structural analysis test certificate
• Map
  Diagram showing the number and positions of the anchorage points on the roof surface
• Installation certificate
  Confirmation that the installation has been carried out professionally and in accordance with the type approval and manufacturer’s specifications

This information is essential in order to provide verifiable proof that the installation was done professionally.

Recommended content to ensure your documentation is complete

Beyond the minimum requirements, additional content that has proven its worth in practice and significantly improves the quality of the documentation can be added.

Although this content is not mandatory, it is strongly recommended.

Content - best practices:

• Photographic documentation
  Particularly of details that are concealed or will later be inaccessible
• Installation details
  e.g. torque values, drilling patterns and installation environment
• Serial numbers
  To ensure clear identification of the individual anchorage points
• Inspection and maintenance instructions
  Support operators and qualified personnel when continuing to use the equipment
• These additions ensure greater transparency, improved verifiability and greater legal certainty. They are a mark of quality for a job well done.

In daily practice, the photographic documentation of anchorage points is frequently a topic of discussion. Both the DGUV and ABS strongly recommend that it be compiled as “proof of professional installation” in accordance with Section 55 para. 1(2) of the MBO [German Model Building Code]. However, proof may also be provided by other means.

Why photographic documentation provides suitable proof:

Photographs play an important role in ensuring the quality and transparency of your documentation:

• Documentation of concealed details
  Installation details or an installation environment that are no longer visible after installation can be recorded in a transparent manner
• Avoidance of time-consuming roof openings
  During later inspections, it is often possible to avoid penetrating the roof structure if photos are used
• A sign of the quality of the work of the installer
  Photographs serve as proof of professional workmanship and demonstrate the quality and correctness of the installation
• Make inspections easier for the inspection specialist
  Specialists are provided with additional information when assessing the anchorage devices. When used correctly, photographic documentation improves transparency and efficiency throughout the entire life cycle of the system

Important classification

Despite its advantages, photographic documentation must be clearly defined:
It is not a mandatory requirement, as proof can also be provided by other means. It cannot be the sole basis for rejection and missing photos or individual shots must not automatically be regarded as a shortcoming.

Photos are a quality feature; they make inspections easier and, in the case of doubt, prevent time-consuming and costly roof openings.

Conclusion:

Photographic documentation should be used selectively. It is quality not quantity that counts. This applies, in particular, to capturing installation environments that are later concealed, critical details and where complex issues need to be explained.

The requirements pertaining to the documentation of anchorage points are numerous, and it is easy to lose track of the big picture - with important details going missing.

What may sound like a lot of effort at first glance can actually be implemented much more easily than expected using the right digital tool.

ABS Doku helps you keep track of everything and brings structure into your documentation right from day one:

• All your important information in one place
  Photos, plans and other mandatory details are immediately available in one place
• Simply scan in your delivery notes and individual products
  Add products using a scanner
• Record important information quickly and easily
  A checklist for each product records the details that really matter
• PDF export with your logo
  Your work – your logo. Provide your customers with a professional document featuring your company branding
• Transparency throughout the entire lifecycle
  Always to hand - from the initial installation and for all subsequent inspections

This prevents the additional requirements from becoming an extra burden - turning them into a distinctive advantage in daily practice - additionally broadcasting the professionalism of your work.

ABS Doku helps you to manage your documentation in a structured and efficient manner, whilst avoiding time-consuming paper-based processes.

Nobody likes red tape – but neither do they like missing documents, having to make amendments in arrears, or dissatisfied customers.

A great set of documents ensures that everyone involved can keep on top of things and work on a secure basis.