INSIGHT
GETTING IN THE FRAME
Edited by Leon Louw
T
excellent thermal properties, logistical cost
advantages and design flexibility are all
factors which have made LSFB the building
method of choice for a growing number of
construction projects.”
“SASFA was established in 2006
by interested parties as an industry
representative association, with all
activities and actions aimed at increasing
LSFB’s share of building and construction
sector projects.
“Today, the Association embodies the
collective wisdom of its members and
serves as a valuable reservoir of knowledge
for professionals and practitioners in the
industry. SASFA’s management of codes
and standards, its strategically neutral and
advocacy role as an industry voice across
many construction-related industries and
authorities, and its training programmes are
unsurpassed,” says Barnard.
Joining SASFA – a member
association of the South African
Institute of Steel Construction (SAISC) –
is the most affordable and practical way
to tap into the growing LSFB market;
and in which to stay abreast of new
trends and technologies.
he Southern African Light Steel
Frame Association (SASFA) has
become an empowering network
for its members. Professionals in the
industry – from building and construction
contractors and sub-contractors to
designers, power tool manufacturers,
architects and engineers – find value in
SASFA membership, in what is undeniably
a challenging time of economic constraint
and change for the construction, steel
and building sectors locally.
Whether novice contractors or seasoned
suppliers, SASFA is encouraging new
members and companies across various
sectors to join the association, to facilitate
and assist the growth and development of
the local and export markets for light steel
frame building (LSFB).
“The active demand for LSFB in
South Africa is one of the most exciting
developments in recent times,” explains
John Barnard, director of SASFA.
“While this method of building has
been used in the United States, Europe
and Australia for decades, it was only
relatively recently introduced to our shores.
The speed of construction, accuracy,
The Southern African Light Steel Frame Association (SASFA) has become an empowering
network for its members.
www.equipmentandhire.co.za
Building and construction industry contractors, sub-contractors and consulting engineers should be members
of SASFA.
John Barnard, director of SASFA.
“The Association forms a strong vehicle
for advocacy, education, and professional
networking. Listing on SASFA’s website
boosts members’ exposure online and
generates referrals. Furthermore, members
have the opportunity to network with
clients and professionals through access to
all SASFA events,” Barnard advises.
The Institute’s and SASFA’s library
and databases of companies and people
associated with the industry are readily
available to members, as is its up-to-date
technical advice and specification changes
relating to LSFB. SASFA also offers
members training courses on demand, to
further develop the skills available to the
LSFB industry. In addition, membership
serves as a form of certification which
is deemed useful by finance providers,
building authorities and the National Home
Builders Registration Council (NHBRC).
“Arguably, one of the most compelling
reasons to join SASFA’s expanding network
is to gain access to the ‘bigger picture’ now
and beyond. SASFA members belong to a
professional representative organisation,
where membership also signifies credibility
and reputability,” Barnard points out.
“To this point, all our members are
instrumental in leading the way on thinking
and strategy and shaping the future of
LSFB. For this reason, SASFA has a solid
reputation, both locally and internationally.”
The Association has achieved many
significant milestones since inception.
For example, it has drafted the SASFA
Building Code for LSFB in South Africa and
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