The EPS infill blocks and top sheets provide a formwork to the structural concrete topping; only the top sheets make a further contribution to the long-term structural performance of the floor in the form of load spreading, once the structural concrete topping has been placed and has obtained its full design strength

Installation of EPS panels requires free movement of beams; this will also assist with fitting multiple beam units and thicker units

Placing beams in contact with parallel walls shall be avoided as this creates a cold bridge

It is good practice to begin each bay with a starter unit

The span of the concrete topping over the first or last beam shall be no greater than 300 mm

To reduce the risk of accidental penetration of the EPS during the construction phase spacers for supporting mesh reinforcement should be located on spreader plates over the EPS top sheets.

Partition walls running parallel to beams shall be installed directly above, or within a maximum distance from supporting beams

Partition walls perpendicular to beams shall be supported by a minimum number of beams according to the Agrément holder’s requirements

There are not to be joints in the top sheets running parallel to and above the PCC beam or beams within the width of the beam or beams for their full length, nor joints perpendicular to the PCC beam or beams within the width of the beam or beams within 375 mm of the centreline of a span perpendicular partition

The exact position of partition walls will vary according to beam width and configuration