With snow being a-plentiful this season, we appreciate heavy snow can cause some problems, especially with OH&S issues. Let’s face it, that great looking white stuff that falls (snow) looks nice falling and laying on the ground. But, thick levels of snow on foot paths, driveways, etc. have to be cleared.
And, as the managers of Redbank Lodge (a family ski lodge located in Thredbo, NSW) found out, anti-slip properties of the grid mesh steps had to be assured, especially in the nosings. To assure anti-slip protection for users of the platform and steps, they approached various anti-slip floor and step protection suppliers. And, the only product offered was a flat panel, with a millimeter or so of grit.
At first glance, what could go wrong with installing something like that on the steps’ nosings. Well, let’s consider what happens when snow falls on such a surface. For starters it piles up, as this cannot fall through the open grid spaces of the step, as these are now covered. And, as steps are in constant use, we get snow packed on these spaces by foot traffic. Of course, you can easily guess the result. Ice. Yes, hard-packed snow turns to ice. So much for the one millimeter of grit, right?
Thus, this traditional method of applying anti-slip to open grid type steps doesn’t really work for snow. Not only with the snow compact into ice, which is dangerous, the snow also covers the nosing, losing the visual effect of the safety yellow colour, as this is fully covered with the newly built-up ice.
And, note that ice can be really slippery, especially if this starts to melt or there is a drizzle of rain. So, slips, falls or worse are now a special problem.
So, when requested to look at Redbank’s predicament, AMCO suggested their U-Tred anti-slip stair nosing. Designed for use on open grid type steps, this advanced stair nosing is easy to install and doesn’t require special tools or the need to work from both sides of the steps.
Designed and manufactured in Australia, U-Tred anti slip cleat is made of steel that is powder-coated with safety yellow. The unique profile provides exceptional step definition, with a profile features a double action tread. And, with no nuts, bolts or fasteners of any kind, installation is done easily with no hassle whatsoever. All that is required is a rubber mallet or hammer. Installation is not only cheaper and less involved but can be done a lot faster than when traditional nosings.
Thus, U-Tred anti slip cleat nosings remain visible, with their safety yellow colour standing out. They remain proud of the stairs’ edges and will not be covered up by snow, unlike traditional flat anti-slip units.
We also note that unlike fibreglass stair nosings, U-Tred will not crack or release hazardous splinters. This is always something that can occur with fibreglass stair nosings which can result with other safety problems going forward.
Finally, there is no need to work on the nosing as one would with flat nosings, which may have to be cut before installation. Another installation step done away with.
Contact us now for more information on anti slip cleats or to discuss your needs.
