Unite Students Manchester
Safe Access Solutions for Live Student Accommodation: Overcoming Logistical and Design Challenges at Height
Case Study:
United Students Manchester - Safe access solutions for live student accommodation: Overcoming logistical and design challenges at height
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Located in Manchester and constructed in 2000, Mill Point is an 8-storey student accommodation building serving Manchester Metropolitan University. Standing approximately 34 meters tall, the building required critical maintenance work to its roof area.
Merseyside Scaffolding (MSC) was engaged by our retained client to deliver a fully designed system staircase and edge protection, installed to the full height of the building to support this essential work.
Project Requirements & Challenges
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Working on student accommodation projects demands sensitivity due to the environment and continuous occupancy. Key challenges overcome on this project included:
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Logistics: MSC’s experienced team navigated restricted access and heavy foot traffic to transport materials safely and efficiently to and from the workface each day.
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Scaffold Design: A major challenge was the inability to tie into the building’s façade for the final 6 meters of the structure. Our scaffold designer resolved this through innovative solutions tailored to the site’s constraints.
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Security: To prevent unauthorized access, a ranched boarded section and a lockable gate were installed at the scaffold’s access and egress point.
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Safety: Protection decks were constructed above building entrances to safeguard residents and visitors from any falling debris.​
Solutions & Methodology
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MSC provided expert guidance throughout the planning phase, addressing complex design considerations and coordinating closely with the university to ensure secure and efficient logistics.
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The project was completed on time and within budget, achieving full client satisfaction.
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All MSC staff undergo DBS checks every two years, reinforcing our commitment to safety and professionalism.
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Pre-start meetings were conducted with all stakeholders to ensure effective planning and execution.
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An advanced inspection and handover process guaranteed compliance with all structural and safety regulations prior to client works commencing.
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Pull tests were performed and verified to TG4:19 standards by our qualified in-house team.
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