Summary: | Statistics of occupational injuries show that bricklayers are among the most exposed, with heavy lifting by far the most common cause of long-term sick leave. Prefabricated brick beams create yet another risk of injuries that can be prevented by auxiliary equipment or alternative solutions. From articles, interviews with masons and from a survey carried out in conjunction with this report, it appears that there are frequently difficulties in the use of available means for lifting and handling. Previous studies on the subject of transverse reinforcement in masonry beams indicate a viable method for bridging large openings in masonry walls. This bachelor thesis delves into whether the idea could be realized in today's brick construction with a view to improving occupational health and safety. Within the project a method, applicable in today's manufacturing of pre-stressed brick beams enabling mounting of vertical reinforcement, was developed and tested.
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