Frequently Asked Questions

PAGE12 : CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Q. How should a raised access floor be used?
A. Raised access flooring panels should only be lifted using the correct lifting device i.e. vacuum lifter or spiked carpet lifter. Panels should be lifted vertically with no hinging movement. Panels should be
replaced in a vertical movement ensuring that the panel is seated on the pedestals correctly. Only single rows of panels should be lifted at any one time so as not to leave pedestals independent of panels, as they are prone to damage.

Q. What are the maintenance requirements?
A. The exact maintenance requirements for any specific installation will be clearly spelled out in the Project Operating & Maintenance Manual. This will take due regard for the products and floor finishes used and also the anticipated loadings on the floor in terms of static loads, rolling loads and pedestrian traffic.

Q. What is the expected life span of a raised access floor?
A. The expected life span of a raised access floor system is outlined in the PSA MOB PF2 PS / SPU specification as:

• The supporting components should have a minimum life of 50 years.
• The floor panels (excluding floor finish) should have a minimum life of 25 years.

There is no mention of life span in the BS EN 12825 standard although it can be reasonably expected that the raised floor has a life span in keeping with the period of time between major refurbishments of the building which may be 25 years.