Combisafe edge protection system helps NEC visitors walk on water

An innovative and highly adaptable edge protection system from Combisafe has helped ensure safe passage for thousands of visitors using a floating walkway during a multi-million pound development at the NEC Conference Centre.

Pontoonworks - the UK’s specialist in over-water working platforms and safe access systems - selected the COMBISAFE Steel Mesh Barrier (SMB) System after being appointed to construct a unique 250-metre temporary floating walkway across the NEC’s Pendigo Lake.

One of Pontoonworks larger floating systems – the walkway enabled visitors to easily and safely reach the NEC’s main entrance, bypassing the new Resorts World Birmingham construction site. Now completed, this major leisure and entertainment attraction includes a casino, 178 bedroom four star hotel, shopping centre, cinema, conference facilities as well as restaurants and bars.

Pontoonworks required a solution that was lightweight, flexible and durable to withstand the thousands of pedestrians using the walkway during construction. With this in mind, the company selected the COMBISAFE SMB system which incorporates guard rail, toe-board and debris mesh with high level impact absorption. Fitting directly into Pontoonworks’ modular Jetfloat pontoon, the system safeguarded and prevented any pedestrians using the walkway from falling into the water.

“We specialise in creating bespoke, floating access solutions and working platforms on and over water and safety is an absolute priority for us,” said Chris Murphy, Pontoonworks’ MD.  “With this in mind, we wanted a full, high quality, edge protection system and Combisafe’s Steel Mesh Barriers - which spanned both sides of the bridge – met our needs. Combisafe has a great reputation in the industry, which provides our clients with added reassurance that, in tandem with our specialist safe access solutions, wider safety issues such as edge protection are looked after.”

The SMB system from Combisafe, which is part of Honeywell, has been developed to offer effective edge protection solutions for challenging construction environments. Benefits include strength, durability, speed of installation and adjustability. The barrier is light to carry and easy to manoeuvre for improved transport and on-site handling.  

Available in a two width sizes, the system also has flexible height adjustments without the need for disassembly. Offered in square and circular post variations, it is also fully compliant with EN13374 European regulations for temporary edge protection.

“Pontoonworks is a highly regarded and innovative safe access solution provider for the construction sector and we were delighted that they selected our SMB system for such an ambitious project,” said Gerard Kennedy, product manager at Combisafe. “This successful project enabled thousands of people to continue visiting one of the most important conference centres in the UK, in total safety at a time of major building developments.”