Roof Access / Fall Protection Safety Upgrade – London NW5
- Alex Highton
- Nov 14
- 2 min read
Project type: Roof Access / Fall Protection Upgrade
Location: London NW5
Sector: Mixed–Use / Commercial Workspace
Services: Roof Access Design, Fixed Ladder Installation, Permanent Handrail Systems, Roof Safety Improvements
Upgrading a Complex Roofscape for Safe, Long-Term Access
The property is a multi-level commercial building with a varied roof layout, featuring multiple elevations, narrow transitions, and several exposed edges. The client required a fully compliant, permanent system that would allow maintenance teams to access all rooftop areas safely without relying on temporary scaffold or outdated access structures.
During the initial survey, several issues were identified: deteriorated timber steps, ageing metalwork, unprotected roof perimeters, and non-compliant ladders. These conditions posed significant fall risks and fell below current UK standards for safe, routine access in operational buildings.
ProAltus was appointed to design and deliver a comprehensive roof access and fall-protection upgrade, ensuring long-term safety and compliance across the entire roofscape.
Project Goals
The client required a solution that would:
Replace outdated and unsafe ladders with BS 4211-compliant fixed access systems
Provide continuous, permanent guardrails to protect all exposed edges
Remove deteriorated timber structures and unsafe transition areas
Avoid roof penetration where unsuitable, protecting existing waterproofing
Deliver a robust, compliant access strategy for all maintenance operations
Integrate effectively with a complex, multi-level roof structure
Our Solution
ProAltus developed and installed a custom-engineered roof access system, combining fixed ladders, permanent edge protection, and improved transitions between roof levels.
Fixed Access Ladders (BS 4211:2005+A1:2008)
All existing ladders were replaced with new galvanised steel fixed ladders installed in full accordance with BS 4211, meeting requirements for ladder geometry, landing safety, anti-fall design features, and secure structural fixing.
Permanent Handrailing & Edge Protection (BS EN 14122-3 & BS 13700)
Exposed roof perimeters were fitted with a permanent guardrail system designed in line with:
BS EN 14122-3 – Safety of machinery: Permanent means of access
BS 13700:2021 – Management of permanent anchor systems and edge protection
Where roof penetrations were unsuitable, non-penetrative weighted uprights were implemented to eliminate any risk to the roofing membrane while still meeting loading requirements.
Removal of Unsafe Structures & Transition Improvements
All deteriorated timber stair assemblies and weakened metalwork were removed. These were replaced with fully engineered access solutions designed to:
Improve safety when moving between roof levels
Provide predictable, stable maintenance routes
Minimise long-term repair requirements
Key Features of the System
BS 4211-compliant fixed ladders for reliable vertical access
Permanent guardrails ensuring continuous fall protection
Weighted, non-penetrative systems where required
High-durability steel construction resistant to weathering
Engineered, uniform transition points between roof levels
Low-maintenance, long-life design suitable for frequent access
Results
The project delivered a fully compliant, unified rooftop access system, now providing:
Safe, efficient movement across all roof areas
Full alignment with relevant British Standards
Removal of hazardous legacy structures
A clean, professional installation that complements the building
Reduced operational risk for ongoing inspections and maintenance
The building now benefits from a future-proof roof access strategy, ensuring long-term safety for all personnel accessing the roof.
Need to Upgrade Your Roof Safety Systems?
ProAltus specialises in permanent access design, fall-protection systems, and tailored building-safety upgrades for commercial, industrial, and heritage properties.
Speak to our team today:
01638 781 541sales@proaltus.co.uk
