Proscaf’s Public Access Stairs exemplify precision engineering, designed to meet the high pedestrian traffic demands of public spaces like schools, train stations, and hospitals. Each stair tread and component is crafted to align with public access standards, ensuring safe passage for users. The system features continuous guardrails and resilient flooring for a secure, comfortable experience.
Adhering to Australian Public Access Compliance, including the National Construction Code and Australian Standards, Proscaf’s stairs stand out for their commitment to public safety and accessibility. They provide a structurally sound, reliable access solution in environments where conventional scaffolding systems fall short.
Infrastructure planners and construction authorities consistently vouch for Proscaf Public Access Stairs, praising their compliance with public access standards and their transformative impact on safety and pedestrian flow in communal spaces.
Shell Cove is a joint development between Shellharbour City Council and property developer Frasers. The seaside housing estate—including a new boat harbour entrance and marina, in construction since 2013—is situated approximately 21km south of Wollongong and 110km south of Sydney.
Frasers were looking to provide a way for general public and prospective buyers to gain a bird’s eye perspective of the development as part of a marketing effort. To do this, a customised system would need to be installed so that on-foot access was easy from existing stairs and footpaths and that an ample platform area was provided for several people.
Frasers contacted Nowra-based scaffolding company Builtrite for ideas on a temporary structure that would perform like a permanent system. Although Builtrite are often busy being one of the most in-demand scaffolding providers on the NSW South Coast, they did not have a system on hand that could fully accommodate a public access stairs design specifically, so they contacted SafeSmart Access in Sydney to see how they could utilise the Proscaf system.
With a tight deadline, SafeSmart’s design team and internal engineers were assigned the case of designing a 3m-high stair system and a 5m-long bridge.
Proscaf steel components were chosen as the core of the design, and a system was devised in a matter of days, being delivered to site and project-managed for installation by a SafeSmart representative, Nathan Joyce.
Builtrite’s workers had the system built within a matter of hours, ready for use by Frasers, their prospects and the public. With the system, installers benefited from Proscaf’s reduced component count that still provided a weight rating on par with more part-heavy systems, as well as the ability to erect the platform and stairs in a shorter amount of time.
Builtrite’s owner and director, Kiel Bickerstaff, was impressed by the combination of high-quality design-flexible product and SafeSmart’s design capabilities. And Nathan’s service was appreciated.
“Thank you again for your help mate, we could not have done it otherwise,” said Kiel.
SafeSmart’s ProScaf brand prefabricated steel system scaffold complies to the relevant requirements of AS/NZS1576-2010 and with applicable stair geometry and barrier balustrading spacing requirements of the ABCB Temporary Structures standard, for a maximum live load on the stairs and landings of 4kPa.
“Thank you again for your help mate, we could not have done it otherwise,” said Kiel.
In the dynamic locales of Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs and Darlington, the imperative for innovative public access solutions within educational settings has never been more critical.
SafeSmart Access champions the well-being and security of our future leaders through the strategic support of scaffolding projects facilitated by our esteemed Proscaf Delivery Partners.
What is a Proscaf Delivery Partner?
A Proscaf Delivery Partner connects scaffolding companies with SafeSmart Access’ resources for engineering and tendering on your behalf. This partnership involves comprehensive support from SafeSmart Access, encompassing project scoping, design, certification, installation, and commissioning.
Proscaf Delivery Partners bridges a gap between scaffolding installers and lead contractors in the supply of critical technical information often required from a scaffold manufacturer. This collaboration aims to enhance project outcomes and foster a commitment to excellence as a win-win-win between contractor, installer, and manufacturer.
The case studies below showcases Just Tube’s and Builtrite Scaffolding’s, respectively, successes as Delivery Partners using the Proscaf scaffolding system.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
The Proscaf Public Access Bridge: A Legacy of Safety
Several years ago, a prestigious private school faced a significant challenge during construction work on its campus. The need for a safe passage for students over an internal site road was paramount. Proscaf, in collaboration with Rohrig Constructions, Just Tube Scaffolding, and the school, rose to the occasion.
The creation of a 12-meter-long, 4.5-meter-high bridge, complemented by public-compliant stairs, showcased our Proscaf system’s versatility and reliability.
Designed to Australian Standards for public access, the structure was not only safe but also aesthetically pleasing, clad in a weather-proof lining that matched the school’s prestigious ambience. This project set a new standard for long-term, public compliance scaffolding, withstanding the test of time and elements for over two years.
The Darlington School Fire Access Stair: Safety in Renewal
Fast forward to the present, and Builtrite Scaffolding’s commitment to safety and innovation continues at Darlington School. Faced with the challenge of ensuring fire safety during extensive renovations, Proscaf and Builtrite provided a swift, effective solution: the Proscaf Fire Access Stair.
Tailored to the specific needs of the school, this temporary emergency evacuation stairs solution mirrored the reliability and safety of a permanent structure. With childproof guardrails, anti-slip flooring, and comprehensive handrails, it guarantees a safe evacuation route for students, demonstrating our capability to adapt and respond to immediate safety needs.
A Testament to Quality and Safety
These projects exemplify our Delivery Partner’s dedication to quality, safety, and aesthetic excellence. From the enduring strength of the Proscaf Public Access Bridge to the immediate, reliable safety of the Darlington School Fire Access Stair, we’re proud to contribute to environments that foster learning and growth.
Sam Bury, Director of Just Tube, perfectly encapsulates our ethos: “The bridge demonstrated some of Proscaf’s best qualities… The Proscaf System is the best scaffold in the market by far.” It’s a sentiment that echoes through our work, past and present.
As we continue to innovate and adapt to the ever-changing needs of our communities, SafeSmart Access remains committed to the highest standards of safety and design.
Whether it’s a bridge spanning over a construction site or a stair ensuring safe escape during a fire, we’re here to support and protect our future generations.
Our Five-Step Process: Ensuring Excellence from Conception to Completion
At SafeSmart Access, we pride ourselves on our rigorous, client-focused approach to delivering the best safety solutions for our Delivery Partners. The 5-step process is designed to understand and meet your needs meticulously, ensuring optimal outcomes for every project.
Scoping
Understanding client needs and challenges.
In-depth assessment of the project’s requirements and site conditions.
Solution
Tailoring solutions that meet the specific needs of all stakeholders.
Presenting innovative, compliant, and safe access options.
Product/Commercial Proposal
Offering detailed quotes and timelines.
Providing comprehensive plans and drawings for approval.
Delivery
Ensuring rapid provision of the scaffolding solution.
Including clear instructions, Safety Assessment Operations (SAOs), and maintenance documentation.
Conducting training sessions as necessary to ensure safe and effective use.
Through Life Support
Offering ongoing support post-purchase, including training, spare parts, and updated documentation to ensure longevity and safety.
For a personalised consultation and to explore how our innovative solutions and Delivery Partners can benefit your project, contact us and learn more about our projects and capabilities.
Images
Location
Sydney, NSW
System Used
Steel Scaffolding
Applications
Clear Span Bridges, Public Access Stair Towers, Public Access Stairs
Proscaf takes centre stage at Queensland Conservatorium
Established in 1957, the Queensland Conservatorium (Griffith University) has established a reputation as Australia’s most comprehensive tertiary music school. Over the course of many years, this organisation has produced and delivered many high-quality musical and artistic show performances at the Conservatorium Theatre in South Brisbane.
As a part of their production requirements in 2021, the University required a multi-level walkway structure to be built, as part of the set to support two productions over the course of 8 weeks.
Brisbane Scaffold Hire was approached to bring the vision to life.
Utilising Proscaf Public Access system components, and drawing on their experience with similar public access compliant projects, the Brisbane Scaffold Hire team proceeded to design, install and commission a four-level, multi-directional, free standing scaffold structure.
This scaffold was finished with slip resistant flooring and continuous handrails.
The high quality finish of the Proscaf system, expertly installed by Brisbane Scaffold Hire, ensured that the client was impressed with the rock-solid stability and outstanding aesthetic of the scaffold.
Engineered to facilitate safe and effortless pedestrian navigation.
Compliance Mastery
Adheres to Australian standards for public access stair systems.
Versatile Application
Ideal for various high-traffic public settings.
Integral Safety Features
Comprehensive inclusion of continuous guardrails and flooring.
Applications
Schools
In schools and universities, where a vast number of students and faculty migrate across various levels daily, Proscaf Public Access Stairs play an essential role in ensuring safe and orderly movement. The stair systems are meticulously crafted to accommodate the unique flow patterns in academic settings, where traffic peaks during class transitions. Proscaf’s commitment to compliance ensures that these stairways support an inclusive environment, exceeding the necessary slip-resistance levels and featuring guardrails that offer guidance and protection for all.
Public Transport
Public transportation hubs like train stations benefit immensely from Proscaf’s adaptable solutions, as they can be swiftly deployed and repositioned to support changing access needs during peak travel times or construction phases.
The stair systems’ compliance with slip resistance and barrier standards make them a viable and secure alternative to permanent structures, providing an uninterrupted flow of commuter traffic and ensuring public safety amidst the hustle and bustle of transport terminals.
Hospitals
Healthcare facilities, notably hospitals, are high-stakes environments where the unimpeded movement of patients, visitors, and medical staff is paramount. Proscaf Public Access Stairs cater to these needs with reliability and integrity.
Engineered to meet the stringent requirements for barrier heights and clear widths, Proscaf’s stair solutions cater to the diverse access needs present in medical settings, including the accommodation for disability access where necessary.
Proscaf Public Access Stairs are designed in accordance with key Australian public access compliance requirements, following specific guidance from the ABCB, National Construction Code, and related Australian Standards to ensure that stair and ramp surfaces, geometry, widths, and guardrails meet the prescribed safety criteria.
Proscaf stair systems are built with robust materials and feature design conventions like slip-resistant surfaces, continuous guardrails, and adequate landing areas that ensure they can withstand heavy and continuous use in high-traffic public areas while maintaining pedestrian safety.
Proscaf’s stair solutions can accommodate the requirements for disability access, as they can be tailored to include specific ramp slopes, landings, and handrail specifications in compliance with AS1428.1 and the National Construction Code.
Yes, slip resistance is a fundamental characteristic of Proscaf Public Access Stairs, which comply with ABCB Advisory Notes and AS 4586 to ensure the safety of pedestrians under various environmental conditions.
Proscaf provides full engineering support for projects involving its Public Access Stairs, assisting with the design and implementation of access solutions that strictly conform to public safety standards and site-specific requirements.
