Key risks

• Impacts, pinching/entrapment and overexertion when handling heavy or bulky components.
• Cuts from sharp edges, splinters or damaged corners.
• Falls from height during façade work and falling objects striking people passing below.
• Inhalation of dust and ejected particles when cutting or drilling; exposure to high noise levels.
• Irritation of skin, eyes or respiratory tract caused by adhesives, mortars, sealants or cleaners.
• Accidental drilling into hidden cables or pipework.
• Subsequent detachment if the substrate is unsuitable or if fixings are insufficient.
• Water ingress and damage due to defective or deteriorated sealing.
• Risk from high winds, rain or frost during installation and curing.
• Deterioration or fire risk if exposed to intense heat sources on combustible materials.

Safe use

• Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions; verify that the system is suitable for outdoor use and compatible with the substrate.
• Plan the work and cordon off the area; keep children, pets and passers-by away.
• Use cut-resistant gloves, safety glasses, safety footwear with non-slip soles, respiratory protection appropriate to the dust, and hearing protection when cutting.
• Handle components by two people when necessary or with lifting equipment; hold by the edges and keep fingers away from pinch points.
• Work in suitable weather: avoid high winds, rain and frost; do not install on wet or unstable surfaces.
• Use stable, well-levelled ladders or scaffolding; secure each component before releasing it.
• Carry out cutting and drilling in well-ventilated areas or with extraction; hold the component firmly and use tools in good condition.
• Provide ventilation when applying adhesives or sealants and avoid contact with skin and eyes; respect curing times before exposing to rain or loads.
• Check for cables or pipework with a detector before drilling; isolate the power if working near electrical points.
• Observe clearances, joints and the manufacturer’s recommendations for expansion and fixings.

Storage and maintenance

• Store the components in their packaging, in a dry, ventilated place protected from the weather and direct sunlight.
• Store horizontally on a flat surface with spacers; do not over-stack and protect edges against impacts.
• Avoid point loads and bending that could bow or crack the components.
• Keep adhesives and sealants tightly closed, away from heat and flames; observe expiry dates.
• During the works, protect the newly installed cladding from impacts, rain and frost until fully cured.
• Clean periodically with water and pH-neutral soap; test any cleaner in a discreet area and avoid abrasives or strong acids unless recommended.
• Inspect after storms or seasonal changes: look for loose components, cracks, deteriorated joints or seals and repair as soon as possible.
• Avoid directing pressure washers at very close range onto joints, flashings or edges.
• Keep flashings, drip edges and nearby drainage channels clean to reduce water ingress.

Restrictions on use

• Do not use as a structural element or to support loads or fixings without substrate-specific systems.
• Do not install on substrates with loose areas, rising damp, movement or insufficient strength.
• Do not hang heavy objects directly from the cladding without appropriate anchors and accessories.
• Do not install in continuous immersion or in extremely aggressive environments (salinity, chemicals) unless expressly indicated by the manufacturer.
• Do not expose to open flames, barbecues or intense heat sources if the material may be affected by heat.
• Do not walk on, lean on or load components that are loose or during curing.
• Do not drill, cut or sand without adequate protection or without checking for hidden services.
• Do not allow handling by minors; work at height must be carried out by trained and equipped personnel.
• Do not mix fixing systems, adhesives or accessories that are not compatible with the product.
• Do not install components with visible damage; replace them before installation.