Brooks Building | Manchester Metropolitan University
We were appointed by MMU to install a new guard rail system.
The Scope
Vertical Access was appointed by Manchester Metropolitan University to undertake a major fall protection system installation at its award-winning Brooks Building in Manchester, home to the Faculty of Health & Education.
The project involved upgrading the existing fall protection arrangements on the building's external gantries through the installation of over 1,130 linear metres of new guardrail, extending around the building's perimeter across four levels.
Alongside the new guardrail installation, Vertical Access was tasked with the safe removal of the existing Latchways fall protection system, which was no longer fit for purpose. The redundant system was located above each of the external gantries and required specialist access techniques to facilitate its removal.
With the Brooks Building due to become fully occupied at the start of the new academic term, the entire fall protection installation and removal programme had to be completed within a strict six-week period.
The replacement guardrail system also needed to complement the building's existing architectural design. To achieve this, the new guardrail was specified with a powder-coated finish to match the colour and appearance of the existing external cladding, providing an integrated fall protection solution without compromising the building's visual character.
Challenges
Delivering a large-scale fall protection system upgrade on a high-profile university building presented several challenges, particularly around programme constraints, working at height, material handling and maintaining the appearance of the existing structure.
The installation had to be completed during Manchester Metropolitan University's summer break, creating a fixed six-week deadline before students and faculty returned. Although the works took place outside the academic term, the campus remained occupied by staff and other building users, requiring careful planning to minimise disruption and maintain effective exclusion zones.
The external gantries presented complex access requirements, with operatives working across multiple building levels. Large quantities of guardrail materials needed to be transported, positioned and securely managed at height throughout the installation process.
Maintaining the architectural character of the Brooks Building was another important consideration. The new guardrail system needed to integrate with the existing gantry design while providing a robust and compliant fall protection solution.
The project also required the safe removal of the redundant Latchways system, adding a further element of specialist work-at-height access and coordination to the programme.
Our Response
Vertical Access developed a phased fall protection installation methodology, working systematically across Levels 2–5 to maintain control of each work area and ensure the installation progressed efficiently.
Each guardrail section was carefully set out from the existing gantry deck, with fixing positions marked before drilling and tapping. Pre-assembled guardrail tubes and fittings were then positioned and secured.
Materials were transported to the working levels using a scissor lift, with additional measures used to secure materials to the structure where they needed to remain at height.
Once each section of new guardrail had been installed, the redundant Latchways fall protection system was progressively removed. Operatives accessed the underside of the gantries using specialist rope access systems, providing safe and controlled access to the works area.
The existing Latchways cables and stainless-steel bracketry were carefully disconnected and removed along each gantry. Components were secured, bagged and returned to our depot, leaving the underside of the structure clear of the previous system.
Outcome & Feedback
Vertical Access successfully installed over 1,130 linear metres of new guardrail across four building levels, providing Manchester Metropolitan University with an upgraded and integrated fall protection system at its Brooks Building.
The installation was completed within the strict six-week programme, maintaining the visual appearance of the existing gantry system while minimising disruption to the occupied university campus.
The project demonstrates Vertical Access' capabilities as specialist fall protection installers in Manchester, combining technical guardrail installation expertise with rope access and MEWP operations to deliver complex work-at-height solutions in challenging environments.
From installing new guardrail systems to upgrading existing fall protection arrangements and removing redundant equipment, the project highlights our ability to deliver specialist fall protection works within demanding operational environments and restricted programmes.
TESTIMONIAL
We were very pleased with the work carried out by Vertical Access at Manchester Metropolitan University’s Brooks Building, involving the installation of high-level handrails. The work was completed professionally, safely and to a high standard, despite the very tight timescale. Vertical Access demonstrated excellent workmanship, flexibility and a commitment to delivering the project on time. We would have no hesitation in recommending their services.
Tony Woolley
Project Manager, MMU
Looking for Fall Protection System Installers in Manchester?
Vertical Access provides specialist fall protection system installation, guardrail installation and existing fall protection system upgrades for commercial, industrial, educational and public-sector buildings.
Whether you require a new guardrail system, the replacement of existing fall protection equipment or a bespoke solution for a challenging structure, our experienced team of IRATA technicians can help.
Contact Vertical Access to discuss your fall protection installation requirements in Manchester and across the UK.
Get in touch
