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Thermal Efficiency: Starting from the Top – Bilco UK

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In addition to enabling safe and easy access to a roof area, whilst also providing a potential means of escape in an emergency, roof access solutions can contribute to a building’s thermal performance.

With climate change targets and sustainability putting the thermal efficiency of a building higher on a specifier’s agenda than ever before, it can’t be forgotten that the roof accounts for between 25% and 30% of all heat lost through the building envelope.

Changes to the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards came into force on 1st April – rendering non-domestic buildings unlettable unless they have an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating of E or above.

In accordance with Part L2 of Building Regulations, specifiers must consider how the building envelope impacts energy consumption and the requirement to identify locations where there are opportunities for reducing energy consumption.

Whilst safety is the top priority when planning for roof access, it’s important to also consider the importance of specifying and installing the most appropriate products on the roof to prevent heat loss wherever possible.

Roof access hatches are one of the main products that allow specifiers to make a major difference to their building’s U-Value, by focusing on products which provide superior thermal performance.

A roof access hatch allows for safe access to a flat roof, where the user opens the cover of the hatch to gain access to the roof. A roof access hatch comprises two large parts: the upstand and the cover.

Specifiers should consider whether an access hatch is ‘thermally broken’, and also take into account the insulation of the hatch. All Bilco UK roof access hatches are manufactured with 75mm of PIR insulation as standard.

Bilco UK’s thermally broken aluminium S-50TB Roof Access Hatch minimises heat transfer between interior and exterior metal surfaces. The result is a product that resists harmful condensation and provides superior energy efficiency. The GS-50TB is based on the S-50TB Roof Access Hatch with the added benefits of a skylight.

Bilco UK’s SKY Flatglass includes a polyester upstand that is fully insulated for weathertightness and an inner layer of low-emissivity (Low-E) glass that reflects infrared and ultraviolet light from inside the building, supporting the thermal performance of the product, whilst simultaneously maintaining an attractive design.

The SKY Flatglass is a versatile product that acts as a three in one solution; it is simultaneously a smoke vent, roof access hatch and rooflight, saving space, time and money. This three-in-one element also reduces three roof penetrations into a single one which also helps to improve thermal efficiency.

This is a perfect example of how specifiers can factor thermal efficiency into their roof safety purchases as an extra value proposition, without compromising on fundamental safety considerations, while keeping costs down.

Access 360 launches Toolbox Talks Series

Building Products Index Ltd access solutions, Fall protection, riser doors Leave a Comment

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Access 360, one of the UK’s leading access solutions manufacturers, is delivering Toolbox Talk sessions to support contractors in achieving the highest level of safety and compliance on site.

As a building products manufacturer positioned at the forefront of industry advancements, the Toolbox Talks form part of Access 360’s ongoing commitment to providing industry professionals with the latest guidance on regulations and best practices when installing access products.

The Toolbox Talks will comprise two separate sessions, delivered by Access 360’s Specification Sales Manager, Jake Slade, and will cover Access 360’s Profab Access and Bilco UK brands.

The Profab Access session will outline current practices regarding the successful installation of riser doors and maintaining compliance with fire regulations for commercial and residential buildings, whilst the Bilco UK talk will address roof safety considerations when working from height.

Jake Slade, Sales Specification Manager at Access 360, said: “As one of the industry’s leading access solutions manufacturers, we recognise the responsibility we have to ensure we are supporting professionals in ensuring the highest standards of safey and compliance when on site.

“We are consistently seeking new ways to share our industry expertise on such topics, so I’m delighted to be offering these Toolbox Talks. I looking forward to meeting with Health & Safety managers and contractors on site and delivering advice and guidance to industry professionals.”

The Toolbox Talks form an extension of Access 360’s extensive offering of RIBA-accredited CPD seminars, which are hosted virtually and in person to architects and specifiers on a monthly basis.

Individuals interested in receiving a Toolbox Talk can contact Jake Slade directly at Jake.Slade@access-360.co.uk.

Access 360 comprises of Bilco UK, Profab Access and Howe Green, which together provide access and safety solutions for roofs, ceilings, walls and floors.

For further information on Access 360 visit www.access-360.co.uk.

Bilco UK’s Roof Safety Range Puts Compliance and Safety First

Building Products Index Ltd access covers, Access Hatches, Access Ladders, access solutions Leave a Comment

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A leading manufacturer of roof safety products, Bilco UK, offers an extensive range of complementary solutions for residential and commercial developments with its Roof Access and Safety Range, which features a variety of ladders and fall protection products.

Designed to provide construction professionals with high quality products to mitigate potential falls from height, the range complies with all relevant legislation and safely and successfully meets the unique requirements of a range of developments.

The Roof Access Range includes:

Ladders

Fixed vertical ladders can be utilised across a diverse range of commercial and residential applications to provide permanent access to a roof area. The ladders can be installed on the exterior of a building or internally via a roof access hatch or smoke vent. Available in standard sizes for floor-to-ceiling heights of two – six metres, with bespoke sizes also available on request.

Companionway ladders provide permanent roof access across commercial and residential applications via roof hatches where the rise is less than three metres. These are manufactured in four height ranges up to three metres. Bespoke options with rest platforms can be supplied for heights greater than three metres.

Retractable ladders are suitable for use with larger access hatches up to 1500mm in size and for commercial applications such as schools and hospitals where the floor area must be kept clear at all times.

Roof safety systems

The Bilco UK BilGuard® 2.0 Fixed Roof Hatch Railing System provides a permanent means of fall protection around the top of roof hatch openings, with a non-penetrating attachment enabling it to be installed quickly and easily on new or existing Bilco UK roof access hatches and smoke vents.

The unique LADDER UP® Safety Post provides safe and easy ladder access through roof access hatches, floor doors and manholes across commercial and residential applications. It can be attached to the top two rungs of any fixed vertical ladder to enable the user to enter or exit in an upright balanced position with  a secure hand-hold.

Bilco UK’s Roof Edge Protection system provides a permanent or temporary guardrail around the exterior of a commercial or residential roof, without requiring mechanical attachment to the roof.

Stepover Units

The range also includes a variety of stepover ladders, which can be installed in freestanding or fixed positions to provide flexible access over obstacles on the roof over a range of widths and heights, whilst keeping the operative enclosed by a handrail on both sides.

Suitable for residential and commercial applications, Bilco UK’s stepover ladders can be manufactured to bespoke sizes to suit the requirement of any application.

Marcus Parnham, Commercial Director at Bilco UK, said: “We have a responsibility to ensure every access solution we manufacture delivers the highest standard of performance and compliance, whilst enabling safe means of access for the end user.

“With over 30 years of manufacturing experience, our in-house team of engineering experts can assist construction professionals in successfully meeting the unique requirements of their project, whilst providing maximum fall protection and compliance.”

For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit: www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

Achieve the highest standards of quality, reliability and safety with Bilco UK

Building Products Index Ltd Access Hatches, Access Ladders Leave a Comment

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According to recent figures from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height were the main type of fatal accident for workers between 2021/2022.

Architects can mitigate the potential for falls from height by specifying compliant roof safety products at the beginning of a building’s design to provide maximum protection for contractors when working at height.

Bilco UK’s portfolio of roof safety solutions includes:

Fixed vertical ladders

Fixed vertical ladders can be utilised across a diverse range of commercial and residential applications and can be installed on the exterior of a building or internally with a roof access hatch or smoke vent.

Manufactured from corrosion-resistant aluminium to meet the requirements of BS4211: 2005 + A1: 2008, the Bilco UK TYPE BL industrial Fixed Vertical Ladder is available in standard sizes for floor to ceiling heights of 2 – 6 metres.

If the ladder is to be mounted externally to provide access to a roof, it must be fitted with a safety cage and guard rail to ensure safe and secure access.

If designed to sit below a roof access hatch, at heights above 3 metres, a safety cage is required. Manufactured in aluminium to meet BS4211: 2005 + A1: 2008, these additional safety features prevent individuals from falling backwards or sidewards and ensure compliance with Building Regulations.

Additional protection can be achieved with the specification of Bilco UK’s unique Ladder Up® Safety Post. The telescopic post mounts permanently to the top two rungs of any fixed ladder, providing a secure hand-hold and enabling the user to enter or exit the opening in an upright and balanced position.

Companionway ladders

For permanent access via a roof hatch where the rise is less than 3 metres, companionway ladders provide the highest standards of safety and compliance.

 Manufactured from aluminium to meet BS EN ISO 14122-03 2001 + A1 2010, BS 4211-2005+A12008 and BS 5395 Part 3, the Bilco UK TYPE BL-COMP companionway ladder is manufactured in four height ranges up to 3 metres.

BilGuard® 2.0

The BilGuard® 2.0 Fixed Roof Hatch Railing System provides a permanent means of fall protection around the top of roof hatch openings and has been developed to exceed OSHA Fall Protection Regulations (29 CFR 1910.23). The aluminium rail construction and non-penetrating attachment allows quick and easy installation on new or existing roof access hatches and smoke vents with capflashing. The self-closing and latching gate feature ensures the opening is protected at all times.

Bilco UK can assist architects in successfully meeting the unique requirements of their project, whilst providing maximum fall protection and compliance.

For further information on its complete range of roof access solutions, visit: www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

 

Are you choosing the right roof access hatch and ladder for your project?

Building Products Index Ltd Access Hatches Leave a Comment

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Whether you are working on a commercial or residential project, there are a number of factors that must be addressed when deciding on a roof access hatch and accompanying ladder to ensure its safe and compliant application for the entire lifecycle of the building.

Here Tom Brandon, Specification Sales Manager at Bilco UK, explores the main areas that should be taken into consideration.

1) Purpose for access

Whether for the education, healthcare, leisure or commercial sectors, roof access hatches are required to provide permanent and secure access to the roof area. In order to make sure you’re choosing the correct system to meet your project’s unique requirements, you must first identify the main reason for requiring access to the roof.

Is it purely for maintenance reasons? Or will a safe means of access also be required for the regular installation or removal of equipment from the roof?

Here you should also identify what tools and equipment will need to be transferred through the access hatch, or whether it will just be the individual that is conducting the necessary work.

2) Frequency and product specification

Once you have established your reason for requiring safe access to the roof, you will then be able to make an informed choice regarding which roof access hatch and corresponding ladder system is best suited to meet the needs of your project.

The first considerations that must be addressed when specifying a ladder to gain roof access is where the ladder will be mounted and the requirement of any additional safety elements to ensure the continued safety of the individual when using the system. If a ladder is to be mounted externally to gain access to a roof, it must be fitted with a safety cage and guard rail to ensure safe and secure access.

For a small roof access hatch, such as the Bilco E-50TB, which has internal dimensions of 915mm x 915mm, a fixed vertical ladder should be chosen. This type of ladder is also the most suitable option for projects where space is limited.

In this instance, a retractable ladder would not be recommended, as the ladder angle would hinder easy access as an individual moved closer to the hatch. However, retractable ladders are ideal for use in areas including schools and hospitals where the roof hatch is larger, at around 1500 mm in size and the floor area must be kept clear at all times.

To ensure easy and safe access, a minimum head clearance of 120mm is required, whilst the maximum single climb should be no more than three metres, in accordance with BS4211-7.2.

If access to the roof is required on a regular basis for professionals that will have to transfer tools and equipment through the hatch, a Fixed Staircase Roof Access Hatch, also known as a Service Stair Roof Access Hatch, should be specified with a Companionway Ladder or a Fixed Staircase. The companionway ladder is a 75 degree angled, rigid ladder, which provides permanent access to a roof hatch of up to 2440mm.

It should here be noted that the roof hatch must be sufficient to maintain a head clearance of 2000mm, as detailed in Building Regulations Part K.

When specifying a retractable ladder, it is essential that you know the height of the space between the ceiling and the roof, more commonly known as the roof void. This is to ensure the ladder box liner will fit inside the space once retracted. Calculating the height of the floor to the underside of the roof access hatch should also be done at the initial stages to ensure the ladder isn’t too short or long.

Regardless of the size of the roof access hatch, the system should be operated easily and safely with one hand, in accordance with the requirements outlined within the Manual Handling Regulations, enabling the individual to maintain three points of contact with the fixed ladder.

During the installation process, the ladder must be positioned opposite the hinge to ensure safe and unobstructed access.

3) Bespoke requirements

To ensure the criteria is successfully met, consideration should be given to the wider options available for both the roof access hatch and corresponding ladder.

For example, ladders that are supplied with relevant fire ratings and available with vertical backboards that include steps and a handrail for enhanced safety and security should also be considered to meet relevant building regulations.

Increased access opening sizes or double leaf configurations should also be explored where access is required for larger items of equipment or tools. Motorised options also allow the individual to safely maintain contact with the ladder when entering or exiting the hatch.

Regardless of the project type, all installations should be subject to individual Risk Assessments. Comprehensive training should also be provided for all professionals, supported by Method Statements regarding safe and correct use of the access solutions installed.

For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

For advice on how to specify the correct ladder, visit: www.bilcouk.co.uk/news/specifying-ladders

For further information on specifying the right roof access hatch for your upcoming project, download Bilco UK’s free guide:

www.bilcouk.co.uk/files/downloads/choosing-the-right-access-hatch-bilco.pdf

Bilco UK sets the standard for safety at Glasgow Housing Development

Building Products Index Ltd Access Hatches Leave a Comment

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Glasgow’s latest redevelopment project, located on Langside Road, is built upon the former site of the city’s Victoria Infirmary and consists of a large housing development that includes 413 flats, offices and retail space.

The 3.75 hectare site, which is situated next to Queen’s Park on the south side of the city, forms an important part of the Battlefield area’s character, with the buildings’ exterior reflecting and complementing the surrounding heritage by using the city’s traditional blonde coloured sandstone.

As part of the construction process, Bilco UK was commissioned to supply six ESW-50REM Smoke Vents, in addition to seven E-50TB Roof Access Hatches, to provide the highest standards of safety and efficiency, whilst being sympathetic to the project’s overall design.

Installed onto the roof areas of four blocks of flats by Scottish contractors, Procladd Small Works Ltd, Bilco UK’s ESW-50REM Smoke Vents were specified to provide essential ventilation in the event of a building fire. Featuring a linear actuator operating mechanism that opens the cover to 140 degrees within 60 seconds, the smoke vents ensure compliance with Building Regulations Approved Document B, BS9999 and EN12101-2.

The built-in wind deflector also provides protection against smoke being blown back into the vent in the event of a fire., whilst the newly-designed closed-cell EPDM sponge gasket helps meet Building Regulation air leakage targets by providing a better seal of the cover to the curb. With the addition of a fixed vertical ladder, the smoke vents can also be used by maintenance engineers for roof access.

Billy Baillie, Managing Director at Procladd Small Works  Ltd, said: “We have a longstanding relationship of over 20 years with Bilco UK, and will continue to do so over the forthcoming years, due to their impressive product quality and outstanding service. Bilco UK’s Roof Access Hatches and Smoke Vents were incredibly easy to install, and knowing they’re engineered to meet the highest industry standards, it provided both ourselves and the client with the confidence that the installation would set the standard for performance and longevity.”

Constructed with corrosion-resistant materials, Bilco UK’s E-50TB Roof Access Hatches were also installed to provide engineers with safe, regular and convenient access to the roof to conduct essential maintenance. Engineered with compression spring operators to provide easy one-hand operation, the roof access hatch meets the requirements of Manual Handling Regulations, whilst the automatic hold-open arm locks the cover in the open position to ensure safe egress. The overlapping cover design, fully welded corners and insulated cover also ensure weathertightness and energy efficiency to deliver the highest standards of resilience.

Mark Baird, Sales Operations Manager at Bilco UK, said: “Drawing on our longstanding relationship with Procladd  Small Works Ltd, it was fantastic to work together on this project, which has been designed to positively impact the city’s culture. The products installed were manufactured with fire safety and efficiency in mind, delivering assurance of the durability and suitability of the installation for years to come.”

For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

The sky is the limit for the Riverside Museum, Glasgow, with the help of Bilco UK

Building Products Index Ltd Access Hatches, Roof Hatches Leave a Comment

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Glasgow Transport Museum 4Housing the Glasgow Museum of Transport, one of the UK’s foremost transport and technology collections, the Riverside Museum reflects Glasgow’s historic role as a centre of shipbuilding, train manufacturing and engineering.

Previously located in a former tram depot on the Glasgow South Side, the Transport Museum’s exhibits have moved to The Riverside Museum, designed by renowned architect, Zaha Hadid.

The museum’s iconic and beautiful design dominates its riverside location, whilst paying homage to the heritage of its surroundings. Crucial to the museum’s flowing design is its roof, which curves and undulates and continues around the east and west sides of the building to constitute the majority of the external structure.

glasgow transport museum1Silver-grey zinc panels complete the effect, placing the building firmly in the context of the River Clyde. As part of the roof construction, Bilco UK was commissioned to manufacture and supply a E-50TB Roof Access Hatch, in addition to two ESW-50REM Smoke Vents, to meet strict requirements for convenient access and building safety regulations.

Both the roof access hatch and smoke vents were custom-designed to unique specifications by Bilco UK’s in house team and clad in zinc to create a seamless, aesthetic  finish with the museum’s distinctive roof.

Expertly engineered to meet the requirements of Manual Handling Regulations, the E-50TB Roof Access Hatch allows for regular and convenient maintenance by facilitating easy one-handed operation. The Access Hatch will enable engineers with small tools to safely access the roof to conduct essential maintenance, whilst its overlapping cover design, fully welded corners and insulated cover ensure both weather tightness and energy efficiency to deliver the highest standards of longevity for the museum.

Bilco Zinc-clad E-50TB Roof Access Hatch installed at Glasgow Transport MuseumSpecified to ensure strict adherence with relevant fire safety regulations, the two ESW-50REM Smoke Vents open to 140 degrees in the event of a fire within 60 seconds, guaranteeing the highest standards in fire safety and allowing for the venting of smoke, heat and noxious gases in the event of a fire.

Mark Baird, Sales Operations Manager at Bilco UK, said: “Knowing that Bilco UK’s products are part of such a unique and ambitious project, especially one which is so architecturally significant, is incredibly rewarding. The Riverside Museum is a great example of how taking a bespoke approach to roof access solutions can achieve unparalleled aesthetics, without compromising on convenience or safety.

“Not only do our custom-made access hatches and smoke vents integrate seamlessly into the overall design, they also offer the highest possible standards of fire safety and efficiency.”

Open to Glasgow to the North and the Clyde to the South, the museum’s interior is complex, inviting visitors to snake their way around the various exhibits. The building “flows from city to waterfront, symbolising the dynamic relationship between Glasgow and the ship-building, seafaring and industrial legacy of the river Clyde.” (Zaha Hadid).

For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

Three things to consider when specifying Roof Access Hatches

Building Products Index Ltd Access Panels, Roof Hatches Leave a Comment

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When choosing roof access hatches for commercial or residential projects, there are a number of factors that must be addressed at the initial design stages in order to not only achieve a successful specification, but also deliver safe and sufficient access for the entire lifecycle of the building. Here Tony Stevens, Technical Estimator at Bilco UK, discusses which factors should be taken into consideration when selecting Roof Access Hatches: 

1) Purpose for access

BILCO Service Stair with Type L-50TB Roof HatchWhether for the education, healthcare, leisure or commercial sectors, roof access hatches are required to provide permanent and secure access to the roof area. In order to make sure you’re choosing the correct system to meet your project’s unique requirements, you must first identify the main reason for requiring access to the roof.

Is it purely for maintenance reasons? Or will a safe means of access also be required for the regular installation or removal of equipment from the roof?

Here you should also identify what tools and equipment will need to be transferred through the access hatch, or whether it will just be the individual themselves that is conducting the necessary work.

2) Frequency and product specification

Once you have established your reason for requiring safe access to the roof, you will then be able to make an informed choice regarding which roof access hatch and corresponding ladder system is best suited to meet the needs of your project.

Bilco S-50T Roof Access Hatch installed at Brentwood Community HospitalIt is important to specify the correct Roof Access Hatch and Ladder combination to ensure that access from the ladder, through the roof access hatch, is as safe as possible.

For example ,a small roof access hatch should be accessed via a fixed vertical ladder, which is also the most suitable option for projects where space is limited. Alternatively, if you use a  companionway ladder or a retractable ladder, the roof access hatch length must be extended to around 1500 mm in order to provide for easy and safe access.

However, here it should be noted that a minimum head clearance of 120mm is required and that the maximum single climb is no more than three metres, in accordance with BS4211-7.2.

Regardless of the size of the roof access hatch, the system should be operated easily and safely with one hand, in accordance with the requirements outlined within the Manual Handling Regulations, enabling the individual to maintain three points of contact with the fixed ladder.

During the installation process, the ladder must be positioned opposite the hinge to ensure safe and unobstructed access.

If access to the roof is required on a regular basis for professionals that will have to transfer tools and equipment through the hatch, a Fixed Staircase Roof Access Hatch, also known as a Service Stair Roof Access Hatch, should be specified with a Companionway Ladder or a Fixed Staircase.

It should here be noted that the roof hatch must be sufficient to maintain a head clearance of 2000mm, as detailed in Building Regulations Part K. 

3) Bespoke requirements

To ensure all the criteria are successfully met, you should also consider whether a custom made roof access hatch should be chosen to ensure each of these areas is adequately fulfilled.

E2 X cleanedThis includes options such as Bilco UK’s SKY Flatglass, which functions as both a Roof Access Hatch or a Smoke Ventilator, and is supplied with a clear, translucent lid  to enable natural daylight into specific areas of the building, without impeding the functionality and accessibility of the hatch.

Increased access opening sizes or double leaf configurations should also be explored where access is required for larger items of equipment or tools. Motorised options also allow the individual to safely maintain contact with the ladder when entering or exiting the hatch.

By working closely with a manufacturer at the initial stages of a project, you can ensure that each of these important factors have been adequately considered and catered for.

Regardless of the project type, all installations should be subject to individual Risk Assessments. Comprehensive training should also be provided for all professionals, supported by Method Statements regarding safe and correct use of the access solutions installed.

For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

For advice on how to specify the correct ladder, visit: https://www.bilcouk.co.uk/news/specifying-ladders

For further information on specifying the right roof access hatch for your upcoming project, download Bilco UK’s free guide:

https://www.bilcouk.co.uk/files/downloads/choosing-the-right-access-hatch-bilco.pdf

 

Crossrail systemwide contractor ATC reaches for new heights with the help of Bilco UK

Building Products Index Ltd access solutions Leave a Comment

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With the new Elizabeth line set to deliver a 10% increase in rail capacity across central London, the project will provide a high frequency service that reduces journey times and creates new travel opportunities by linking 41 stations across 100 kilometres.

As part of the landmark construction project, over 42 kilometres of new tunnels, 50 kilometres of new track and 10 new stations are being developed in conjunction with major upgrades to the existing infrastructure.

Throughout the construction stages of the central section, which spans from Westbourne Park to Plumstead and Pudding Mill Lane, over 350 of Bilco UK’s innovative aluminium Ladder Up® Safety Posts have been specified by Crossrail’s systemwide contractor Alstom TSO Costain Joint Venture (ATC Systemwide) to provide safe and secure access.

Weighing just seven kilograms due to the milled aluminium construction, the resilient Ladder Up® Safety Posts will provide engineers with unobstructed access to the walkways when conducting essential maintenance throughout the tunnels, once the line is operational.

Once fully open, the Elizabeth line will provide an additional 1.5 million people with access to central London within 45 minutes, covering Reading and Heathrow in the West, right through to Shenfield and Abbey Wood in the East.

The specification process, managed by Construction & Rail Contractors McNealy Brown, focused on the requirement for durable yet functional access solutions that would consistently provide a safe and direct step through onto the walkway, without impacting on the surrounding electrical services.

The unique and high quality construction of the Ladder Up® Safety Post fulfilled each requirement of the brief. This includes features such as the innovative telescopic post, which mounts permanently to the top two rungs of any fixed ladder to provide a secure handhold that enables the user to enter or exit the opening in an upright and balanced position.

Clive Burfoot, Contract Manager at McNealy Brown, said: “When we first began researching potential access solutions for the Crossrail project’s central section, it became clear quite quickly that the Bilco UK Ladder Up® Safety Post was the only product available on the UK market that would fulfil our extensive list of requirements.

“The telescopic extension was one of the main benefits that secured its specification for this project, as it enables the Ladder Up® safety post to be both retracted and extended, a key function that wasn’t available with any other access solution.”

Each ladder has been installed with two Ladder Up® Safety Posts, which are located on either side of the ladder to provide the direct step through onto the walkway for increased safety and efficiency.

The installation process, which has been managed by ATC Systemwide, will provide secure access throughout all essential areas of the central section, including at either end of every station and at additional strategic locations.

Vimesshen Ravindran, Senior Mechanical Engineer at ATC Systemwide, said: “The lightweight construction of the Ladder Up® Safety Posts ensured the installation process was quick and easy, resulting in no unforeseen issues on site. When the system retracts, the high quality spring-balance and convenient lever release provides a controlled means of lowering into its retracted position. This delivers enhanced ease of operation, ensuring long term suitability and usability for the engineers when undertaking future maintenance tasks.

“The Ladder Up® Safety Posts will play an essential role in ensuring the central section of the Elizabeth line continues to run at the highest standard, so it was crucial we specified access solutions that would facilitate the continued maintenance of the line, safely and efficiently.”

The telescopic tubular section automatically locks when fully extended, while the adjustable mounting hardware accommodates any ladder rung size or spacing. The corrosion resistant construction can also withstand the demanding environment of the London underground system, ensuring its successful operation for years to come.

Darren Waters, Managing Director of Bilco UK, said: “We are extremely proud to have been involved in the UK’s high profile Crossrail infrastructure project and have worked closely with McNealy Brown and ATC Systemwide throughout every stage of the specification and installation stages.

“This has ensured our unique Ladder Up® Safety Posts have fulfilled each individual requirement of the central section of the Elizabeth line, from security and ease of usability, right through to long term durability. We look forward to seeing the completion of the Crossrail project as our innovative access solutions play a vital role in ensuring its safe and successful operation.”

Aiming to make travelling throughout the capital easier, quicker and less crowded for passengers, the Elizabeth line will not only reduce the strain on London’s transport network but transform the way passengers experience and interact with the city and its suburbs.

For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

The sky is the limit with Bilco UK’s SKY Flatglass smoke vent

Building Products Index Ltd access covers, Rooflights, Smoke Ventilation Leave a Comment

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Bilco UK is supporting specifiers, architects, engineers and facilities managers in achieving the highest standards in safety, efficiency and aesthetics with the launch of its new SKY Flatglass smoke vent.

SKY Flatlight 006 copyThe innovative product, which can be installed on flat roofs across a wide range of commercial and residential building types, offers professionals a diverse ‘three in one’ solution, as it can be utilised as a smoke vent, roof access hatch and rooflight.

Suitable for installation on new build developments or retrofitted onto existing projects, the CE marked smoke vent can be wired into the Building Management System to provide a fully compliant solution that will automatically open in the event of a fire or smoke.

The SKY Flatglass is fully compliant with all relevant building regulations outlined in Approved Document B and is tested to BS EN 12101-2 to support professionals in achieving constant compliance in line with latest legislations.

Unlike many competitor products that use polycarbonate,  the smoke vent features a single leaf flat glass sliding cover, offering a functional yet aesthetic approach to natural smoke ventilation, particularly for exposed areas where a hinged opening may not be suitable.

The streamlined flat glass enables the smoke vent to also be utilised as a rooflight, flooding interior spaces with natural light. When used in conjunction with a fixed ladder, it can also be utilised as a roof access hatch, opening to 180 for safe and secure access.

sliding flat copyThe latest range has been tested for impact resistance, meeting standard BS EN 1873: 2014 Class SB1200. This is achieved through its innovative construction, which features a top layer of toughened glass, spacer filled with 90% argon and a low-E laminated glass layer. This is combined with a lightweight external white powdered coated aluminium frame and internal frame of reinforced PVC.

Every element of the SKY Flatglass’ construction has been developed with thermal efficiency in mind. This includes a polyester upstand that is fully insulated for weathertightness and an inner layer of low-emissivity (Low-E) glass that reflects infrared and ultraviolet light from inside the building.

This prevents the light from escaping, without minimising the level of light that enters, controlling the high thermal performance of the product, while simultaneously maintaining an attractive design. An optional third layer of glass, which can also be solar control glass, can be specified upon request.

The standard size of the new SKY Flatglass smoke vent is 1000 mm  x 1500 mm, which provides a 1m² clear vent area. Bilco UK is also able to offer this product in special sizes to meet individual specification requirements. This includes optional motors and upstands, which are available upon request by contacting its team of inhouse designers, engineers and technical estimators.

James Fisher, Managing Director of Bilco UK, which is part of the Access 360 division of ERA,  said: “Our new SKY Flatglass sets the standard within the industry for safety, thermal performance and efficiency. It demonstrates our continued investment in product development, as part of our wider commitment to providing the highest quality smoke ventilation and access solutions to professionals serving and maintaining the built environment.

“We look forward to working with our clients over the coming months throughout the specification and delivery stages to introduce our new SKY Flatglass smoke vent and the wide range of benefits it has to offer.”

For further information on Bilco UK’s complete range of roof access solutions, visit www.bilcouk.co.uk or call 01284 701696.

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