Wind Force Rig
Parent Body: Health and Safety Executive, Health and Safety Laboratory, Harpur Hill, Buxton, Derbyshire SK17 9JN

Principal Functions
To assess the stability of engineering structures and plant when they are subjected to wind forces.

General Details
The wind force rig is used to assess the stability of engineering structures and plant when they are exposed to wind forces. It was designed by, and constructed in conjunction with the Building Research Establishment for the purpose of measuring the effects of wind loading on large outrigger supported cranes. It is located at the Buxton site as part of a joint project, because of the exposed location and high winds.

Specification
The facility comprises a large reinforced concrete base approximately 15m × 10m. One end of the facility has a small reinforced concrete two room hydraulic-power pack and instrumentation building. The other end of the facility has a 3m wide concrete access ramp. The steel structure between the laboratory and ramp comprises adjustable tracks and outrigger pads. The latter contains sophisticated tri–axial load cells. A multi-channel data logging system is located in the laboratory.

Special Features
Support staff for the operation of the facility could be provided.

Future Plans
The facility could be available for use by other bodies for some periods over the next five years.

Availability
The facility is available to other bodies in both the private and public sector. There are no restrictions on the type of body that can apply to use the facility. Three months advance notice is required when asking for time on the facility. Time is allocated on the following basis; HSE has first call, then vacant slots for repayment work.

Charging Basis
Charging rates are subject to individual negotiation.

Site Access
The site has ready access for vehicles and local accommodation is available for the hirer’s staff.

Contact Information
Business Development Unit
Health and Safety Laboratory
Broad Lane
Sheffield
S3 7HQ
Telephone: 0114 2892920
Fax 0114 2892830
E-mail: hslinfo@hsl.gov.uk