Timber Frame Construction Safety

The CoverSafe mats are designed to provide a safe working platform and fall arrest system across the whole of the exposed roof area during the initial build phase. Whether they are installed at ground level prior to the roof being craned into position, or as the roof trusses are individually put in place, the ease and speed at which they can be installed ensures the reduced build times are maintained.

Unlike many crash deck systems, once in place, our CoverSafe mats also enable work to be carried out both above and below at the same time. Roofers and tilers can work at the same time as plasterers and other trades which many house builders cite as- reducing construction times by a further 4-5 weeks.

The StairSpan Bridge is our latest innovation and has come directly from working with timber frame house builders. They had recognised a large amount of wastage was being created in and around the void left where the staircase would eventually flow through. During the initial install phase large wooden cassettes would be removed from the first floor to expose this void.

This process created two main concerns, namely the huge amount of wastage, with wooden cassettes discarded next to each property and the significant fall risk through the void until the staircase was installed.

The StairSpan Bridge addresses these issues head on. They can be installed in multiple locations, being moved to each new house as required and therefore totally remove the need for the wooden cassettes. Once in place they completely protect the void area from a risk of fall but with the use of the StairSpan mat and ladder still retain the ability to allow safe access between floors.

As the house build progresses, we recognise that the staircase will then be installed. At this point the StairSpan Bridge will be removed, and we are ready to protect the workforce in the next phases.

So, Oxford Safety’s presence is still found on site, as we have the perfect product to protect the area on and around the staircase. The StairSpan with its range of sizes and multiple configurations ensures that any shape and size of staircase can be protected during the first fix and decorating stages of the build.

Installed on the staircase, the system not only provides the invaluable fall arrest for all operatives but with a safe working load of 225kgs can also be a fully functional working platform.

Unlike other types of protection for this area, such as crash decking and scaffold our system can be installed in minutes and have the unique ability to also be opened and closed, thereby allowing access to the floors both above and below. Yet another opportunity to reduce build times.

With many timber frame houses being built to be as energy efficient as possible so we are seeing more and more of these benefiting from either solar panels or specific solar tiles. As the construction of each house comes to a close, so there is a need to access the loft area to finalise connection of services including the solar panels, boilers and electrics. Step forward our CoverSafe Spark, a GRP and fully insulated mat that allows safe access into lofts. With the ability to span joists of up to 900mm, the CoverSafe Spark enables electricians, plumbers and other trades to traverse across the roof area without fear of damaging the ceiling below, falling through the roof or touching live wires.

 A quick and easy way to finish off the house build, connect the services and prepare for the arrival of the new homeowners.

Need a one-off solution for your project? We can create a bespoke hire package tailored to your individual project needs.

Our dedicated ISO procedures ensure that every product has been inspected and maintained before a system goes out on hire.
12 month inspection service available on PitProtect.