"hoists for accessibility"

Hoists are one of the key components of a Changing Places Toilet and there are a few essential things to consider before installing them. See below for our top 4 things to think about at the planning, design and installation stages.Installing hoists into Changing Places Toilets requires knowledge of the equipment, the relevant regulations and requirements specific to these fully accessible toilets, plus the experience to install the specialist equipment safely.Astor Bannerman have a Changing Places team who have extensive experience with the planning and installation of hoists and other specialist equipment.

Boston Endeavour Academy is a newly built special school for children age 2-19 with a range of learning difficulties and disabilities, located in the market town of Boston, Lincolnshire. It opened to 100 pupils in September 2021 building to 140 over the coming few years. It features many state of the art facilities including therapy rooms classrooms and a hydrotherapy pool. Key Considerations:Installing ceiling hoists within multi-height ceilings Large spans are required throughoutRequires bespoke solution Working in collaboration with Kier and Wates Construction on this state of the art academy, our Astor OT200 hoisting system and Sensory Integration Swings have provided safe, supportive and comfortable accessibility to the children, allowing them to thrive in their educational setting. Main Equipment: Astor OT200 ceiling hoistH systemBespoke track systemRoom to room gatesTurntablesSensory Integration Swings“ The ceiling hoists are infinitely more convenient for supporting pupils from chairs to the floor to complete their work and postural changes. No longer having to rely on mobile hoists increases the space available that can be deployed for learning activities. The tracking in the pool area allows for speedy transitions to changing rooms reducing waiting times and the number of staff required to support transitions. The Sensory Integration swings have become a much-valued resource for supporting the regulation of many pupils. The advice given by Astor Bannerman representatives to be reliable and leading to excellent outcomes in terms of the resources for our pupils..” Richard Gamman, Headteacher Boston Endeavour Academy 

The school themselves chose us to supply and install 15 ceiling track hoist systems on this project. It was completely new building that would facilitate pupils with complex medical needs and autism, so creating an accessible, safe, secure environment was incredibly important. Through the entire design process, we made sure that our hoist systems would be providing the safest, easiest accessible solution to all students. Find out more about how we did it over on our website.

A Gloucestershire based independent care provider has recently completed a 46 bed extension on their care home for clients with dementia and nursing care requirements. Having worked with the contractor on a similar project, Astor Bannerman were recommended to the company to supply ceiling track hoists in an effort to future proof the needs of the home. With floor space at a premium, the company wanted to move away from the traditional style mobile hoists, which need to be stored away when not in use. Also, as using a ceiling hoist system normally only requires one carer to operate, this enables the company to adapt to the possible implications of Brexit on staffing levels.During the installation, we successfully added an XY (H-frame) hoist system into 3 assisted bathrooms and added 3m straight track OT200 hoists in 6 bedrooms allowing simple transfer in an out of bed.Fixings were also installed during the main build in the remaining 40 bedrooms, enabling the care provider to retrofit track and hoists as and when they require them at any point in the future.

Sliding pocket doors are hugely beneficial when designing new or refurbished accommodation for people with disabilities where inclusive design is deemed important. More than 30 sliding pocket door systems and 11 Eclisse Hoist pocket door systems have been installed inside the new building. The Eclisse Hoist pocket door system has meant that a hoist lift can be between rooms to transport the young people from one area to another. Three ECLISSE Hoist pocket door systems have been installed in the physiotherapy area and a motorised lifting system in the pool area.

Working alongside our partner GPBMU we were able to offer our GPI model building maintenance unit which provides 2 person access to the complete façade. This model also incorporates an auxiliary hoist function with a load capacity of 500kg for the glass replacement.

Situated in a peaceful borough of the busy Capital of London, Cox architects designed an accessible house swimming in style. They were able to meet necessary needs for the family whilst holding on to aesthetic features that add a stunning look to the property. A open and spacious interior was a must for this property, as were sliding pocket doors, hoists and a wheelchair lift. Essential materials were used to make this house accessible for the couples youngest daughter, who was diagnosed with a rare genetic illness at 18 months old.  The decision to extend the property was decided very early on with the potential of a large extension. The couple was able to add nearly 70sqm to the ground floor alone, helping to give the family more independent freedom and space. Accessible elements were incorporated in to an everyday home such as ECLISSE pocket door systems and ECLISSE hoist pocket door systems to create an environment that wasn't consumed by accessibility needs. LOCATION: London Borough of Lambeth, SW17STATUS: Completed 2019BUILT: Elson Construction & Co. LtdENGINEER: Steve NicolaouARCHITECT: Cox ArchitectsSPECIALIST GLAZING: Vision Design Projects LtdPHOTOGRAPHER: Matt Clayton PhotographySHOOT STYLIST: Camilla Hegarty

The Calvert Trust was set up to provide a fully-accessible luxury holiday home for people with disabilities and their families to stay in. As such, they wanted to make sure that any accessible equipment included in their lodges and chalets was as discreet as possible. We worked with them on their Kielder campus, and created bespoke Integralift hidden hoist systems to go around the double bed from either side. You wouldn't even know they were there! Take a look at the photos on our website.

St Andrew’s Hospice was undergoing well-deserved £9 million refurbishment, and they wanted their new inpatient unit to feel like a home-from-home for all patients and their families. Our Integralift hidden hoist was specified by the architect because it could provide accessibility without being obvious in the room. The hospice had made it clear that all equipment needed to match the overall décor of the hospice and fit in with their signature colour scheme. We ended up supplying over 160 items that all matched with their specifications. See the incredible photos on our website!

Working in collaboration with façade specialist Dane Architectural enabled the design to be developed towards a light weight facade solution that combines GRC fin shaped columns and feature beams fixed directly over areas of the curtain wall grid system at locations where insulated panels were present.This strategy had several advantages, in the first instance a weather tight structure was provided early on in the programme, whilst the GRC facade option provided a much lighter solution that provided significant savings in both cost and time. The access strategy, based on mast climber platforms adapted to include lifting beams, enabled glazing and GRC panels to be hoisted swiftly into position.

The UK government aims to significantly increase the number of Changing Places toilets, designed for disabled individuals, across the country. In response, the Chancellor allocated a Changing Places Fund of £30 million in Budget 2021 to expedite their provision in existing buildings in England. Over 250,000 disabled individuals lack access to suitable public toilets in the UK, hindering their experiences in public spaces. Changing Places toilets, equipped with specialized facilities like ceiling hoists and adult-sized changing benches, address this gap. East Suffolk Council, with assistance from Care Spaces, integrated a Changing Places toilet into the redevelopment of East Point Pavilion, ensuring compliance with accessibility standards. The facility received positive feedback during its grand opening, emphasizing its importance in creating an inclusive environment. The success of this project was showcased in a Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities webinar as a Best Practice example during the second round of Changing Places funding.

Accessible toileting facilities are crucial in public spaces to meet the diverse needs of individuals. Changing Places toilets, such as the modular Care Capsule™, provide a portable and adaptable solution for those with disabilities, ensuring they can enjoy their outings comfortably. A recent project with the Sussex Wildlife Trust exemplifies the effectiveness of Care Capsule™ in upgrading existing facilities. Despite space constraints in the visitors and education centres, a modular unit was swiftly installed adjacent to the main building, offering accessibility without the need for extensive construction within pre-existing structures.The project, initiated in January 2023, aimed for completion by the end of March 2023. The tight timeline was met through efficient processes, including a prompt site survey, proposal acceptance, and swift groundworks. Overcoming challenges like relocating a power cable, the team successfully hoisted the Care Capsule™ into place. The exterior was clad in local chestnut timber to harmonize with the surroundings, while interior features like Altro non-slip vinyl flooring, White Rock welded wall finishes, and height-adjustable units ensured both functionality and aesthetic coherence.

Churchill Square, a bustling shopping hub in Brighton, underwent a significant transformation in 2022, closing its main customer toilet area for a multi-million pound renovation. The refurbishment included not only updating the main toilet facilities but also adding accessible WCs, mother & baby areas, a prayer room, and a Changing Places toilet. Graham Construction, the main contractor, enlisted our assistance for the Changing Places toilet installation. Addressing layout challenges during the initial site visit, we collaborated with the Graham design team to ensure compliance. Our detailed drawings and management through the Trimble Construction One™ portal streamlined the construction process. The installation featured a GoLift ceiling hoist, a thermostatic shower, a Premium 200 shower bench, a height-adjustable basin, and a wall-mounted privacy screen. We provided training for key staff, facilitated the Changing Places registration, and achieved a fantastic finish on this noteworthy project.

Profab Access Ltd, part of the Access 360 portfolio, is prioritising fire safety in buildings with the introduction of fire testing for both sides of its 4000 Series riser door range. Established in 2001, Profab Access Ltd is a leading UK manufacturer of wall and ceiling access panels and riser doors. The company employs a team of 71 and operates from a 46,000 sq. ft. manufacturing and distribution facility in Atherstone, Warwickshire. All aspects of the design and manufacturing process are carried out onsite.

Loft Hatches and Access Panels come with very important rules and regulations when it comes to installing them into a wall or ceiling. There are certain building regulations you must comply with and be aware of when it comes to installing panels or hatches.

Adding a white Plastic Access Panel into the ceiling of a petite bathroom to provide easy access to utilities without detracting from the aesthetic of the customer's bathroom. Prioritizing utility and visual appeal, the Plastic Access Panel is a cost-effective solution that grants homeowners easy entry to concealed utilities, seamlessly merging with the bathroom's ambience. The access panel's white textured surface adds a note of elegance to the surroundings, complementing any interior decor.The installation process for the plastic access panel is streamlined and straightforward. The accompanying images document each phase of the process, guiding you through the steps involved.Ultimately, this undertaking harmonizes practicality with style, underscoring how a modest addition can wield a significant impact. The white plastic access panel eradicates the need for unsightly makeshift access points. Balancing cost-effectiveness, inconspicuous aesthetics, and a dash of refinement, this installation transcends mere functionality elevating both the utility and visual charm of the compact bathroom.

The Shard, 31 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9RYThe Shard is not simply an iconic building but represents a new approach to expanding the urban landscape. Offices, residences, and public spaces alike are all taken skyward.The Shard, an iconic skyscraper in London, represents one of the city's most prestigious architectural landmarks. Ensuring efficient utility access solutions within such a complex and monumental structure was a significant challenge. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between The Shard and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of FlipFix Access Panels that utilize the fast fitting FlipFix Clamps for secure and quick installation.Challenges:1. Utility Access Complexity: The Shard's unique architectural design made access to utility systems, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and telecommunications, particularly complex.2. Architectural Significance: The project demanded a high level of architectural integrity and minimal disruption to the building's aesthetics during the installation of access panels.3. Efficient Installation: With a building of this magnitude, an efficient and rapid installation process was crucial to minimize downtime and disturbance to occupants.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, known for their expertise in access solutions, was chosen to address the specific requirements of The Shard. The solution included the installation of FlipFix Access Panels, which leverage the fast fitting FlipFix Clamps, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. FlipFix Access Panels: Rapid Access Ltd provided access panels that integrated seamlessly into the complex architecture of The Shard while offering secure access to utility systems.2. FlipFix Clamps: The use of FlipFix Clamps ensured quick and reliable installation, minimizing disruption and maintaining architectural integrity.3. Efficiency and Security: The access panels and FlipFix Clamps facilitated efficient access to utility systems while ensuring the security and safety of the building.Implementation:The installation of FlipFix Access Panels utilizing FlipFix Clamps by Rapid Access Ltd was executed with precision and expertise. The unique design of FlipFix Clamps enabled swift and secure installation, minimizing downtime and ensuring the structural integrity of The Shard.Conclusion:The collaboration between The Shard and Rapid Access Ltd demonstrated the successful integration of utility access solutions into a complex and iconic skyscraper. The installation of FlipFix Access Panels, using the fast fitting FlipFix Clamps, not only met functional needs but also contributed to the overall success of The Shard, ensuring efficiency and architectural harmony. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for complex architectural projects.

Three of the UK’s leading access specialists have come together to form the Access 360 portfolio, providing a total manufacturing solution for roof, ceiling, wall and floor access products for the construction industry. Access 360 comprises Bilco UK, Profab Access and Howe Green. These well-established brands all have a strong reputation for delivering innovative solutions to address the challenges of safe access within a building or external environment.

Our panels coated with Anti Bacterial powder coat are manufactured to meet the sanitary requirements of Hospitals, Labs and Clean Rooms.Our Antibacterial Powder Coat is available on all our Metal Faces Access Panels and features an effective Antibacterial agent which kills most species of bacteria including: MRSASALMONELLAE COLI C DIFFICILE

As well as offering our customers a bespoke service in which we can offer any size and any shape access panel, we are now adding Antibacterial Powder Coating as an addition to our extensive range of products. It is available on all our Metal Faced Access Panels and features an effective antibacterial agent which kills fungi and most species of bacteria including the deadly MRSA, Salmonella, E coli and C difficile.

This guide on the different variations of Access Panels, will help you decide which one is best for you.

RAF Museum Cosford, one of the premier tourist destinations in Shropshire, officially opened its brand-new Astor Bannerman Changing Places Toilet last week. Staff at the museum were joined by carers from City of Wolverhampton Council, Adult Provider Services and Aveso CEO Nick Kent for the ribbon cutting ceremony.Located in the visitor centre, the toilet includes a ceiling track hoist for full room coverage and an adult size height adjustable changing table, amongst other essential equipment and the extra space needed to use the toilet safely and comfortably.The equipment in the Changing Places toilet includes: Astor Invincible Changing TableAstor OT200 Ceiling HoistAstor ABW6 Height Adjustable Wash BasinCentrally Placed ToiletPortable Privacy ScreenAccessories including grab railsTalking about the new accessible facility, Paula Kovacs, RAF Museum Community Engagement Manager said:‘As a national museum, we recognise how important it is that each one of our visitors is able to enjoy their day with us in comfort and dignity. This is particularly important for visitors with profound and multiple learning disabilities, and others who need extra support. I am certain that this new facility will have a tremendous positive impact on the visitor experience for those of our visitors with such requirements, as well as their families, friends and carers, enabling them to enjoy as fully as possible their day with us, confident that their requirements are being catered for.’The Changing Places toilet was given a big thumbs up from members of the City of Wolverhampton Council, Adult Provider Services (Day Opportunities), who recently visited the RAF Museum on their first day trip to an attraction in more than a year.One carer said:‘It’s my first visit to the RAF Museum and the Changing Places facility is wonderful. The Museum is amazing, and we will now be able to plan more days out with our members. Without the Changing Places facility, we wouldn’t have been able to bring some of our members.’‘It’s vital when we go out that we have facilities for people to use. Changing Places toilets is something we can’t always find but having one so close will make days out so much better.’Nick Kent, CEO of Aveso, a long-term sponsor of The Changing Places Campaign making venues more accessible for all, said:‘Changing Places are a vital facility for the disabled community and their carers. There are over 1,600 Changing Places rooms in the UK, but this facility is one of the most beautifully designed with the mural of the sky. It’s a great facility for users and carers and ensures the Museum is an attractive day out for everyone.’The Museum’s new Changing Places facility is provided in addition to the standard accessible toilets that can be found in each of the Museum’s buildings. For further details of the various facilities that the Museum offers for visitors requiring additional assistance please visit rafmuseum.org/Cosford.

When it comes to refurbishing a landmark as historic and luxurious as the Old War Office, every detail counts. The selection of Access Building Products Access Panels for this prestigious project is a testament to the company’s commitment to quality, design, and functionality.The Project: A Blend of History and LuxuryFast forward to today, the Grade II listed Old War Office building, which has been closed to the public for more than a century, has undergone a magnificent transformation. The building has been re-imagined and redeveloped into a luxury hotel and residences, bringing a new lease of life to this historic site. This transformation demanded products that could match its grandeur while maintaining its historic charm.The Challenge: Balancing Aesthetics and FunctionalityEvery customer wants their access panels to seamlessly blend with the interior design, ensuring that the necessary utility access points don’t detract from the building’s aesthetic appeal. This was a critical consideration for such a historical building.The Result: A Seamless Fusion of History and ModernitySupplying a range of discreet steel and plaster in style access panels in the Old War Office refurbishment was a resounding success. These panels not only met the practical requirements but also added to the overall aesthetic, creating a harmonious blend of historic elegance and modern luxury.The Old War Office now stands as a shining example of how to preserve historical charm while incorporating modern necessities. This project has further cemented Access Building reputation as a reliable provider of high-quality access panels, capable of meeting the demands of even the most prestigious refurbishment projects.In conclusion, when history meets luxury, it’s essential to make the right choices. And in the case of the Old War Office refurbishment, Access Building Products Access Panels were the perfect choice.

Dr Kershaw’s Hospice is an independent hospice that provides specialist palliative care for adults with non-curable, life-limiting illnesses in a peaceful and homely setting. They wanted to build a new In-Patient Unit that would help them provide compassionate and dignified care in a modern environment, and contacted us for our expertise in interior design.

In densely populated urban areas of the cities, where the number of floors in housing is sometimes limited and private gardens are rare, a rooftop terrace or patio is becoming a popular design choice. However, many residential buildings with rooftop gardens don’t see much daylight and careful consideration is required to determine an access point to the roof terrace. For such rooftop projects, a new dimension of roof access is offered by the LAMILUX Flat Roof Access Hatch Comfort range, designed to give a generous daylight intake in attic apartments alongside convenient access to the roof terrace creating an air of grace and beauty both internally and externally. The LAMILUX Flat Roof Access Hatch Comfort range now introduces its fourth product into the family, giving more choice and flexibility when creating a luxurious living space with an exclusive ambience. Featuring unrestricted use as a natural ventilation device and convenient access to the roof terrace, the indoor climate also benefits from the high energy efficiency of the range thanks to the thermally broken frame and excellent air tightness values.The existing Solo and Duo Flat Roof Access Hatch products from LAMILUX open laterally by moving one or two panels horizontally to create direct access to step onto the roof terrace, whilst the space-saving hinged opening Swing variant swiftly opens its one meter by 3000 or 3500 mm long aperture to 84 degrees in just 25 seconds. The fourth, and newest addition to the Access Hatch Comfort repertoire the Square, makes it possible, for the first time, to also use spiral and platform staircases underneath. Until now, access to the roof was limited to straight stairways due to the elongated rectangular shape of the roof access hatch range. The Square only takes 45 seconds for the concealed hydraulic drives to silently open the 4m² glass element of the skylight by 70 degrees. As with the Swing, the new variant does not require any additional space on the roof terrace than its own size in closed form, even when open, thanks to its swing mechanism.   Visually, the aluminium border frame throughout the product family, attracts attention as an architectural highlight. The aluminum profiles and the reveal surface can be coated in all RAL colours offering further choice and exclusivity. Since the glass panes and frame feature a flush edge detail both internally and externally, and all variants are designed with an inclined surface, the range boasts not only a visually appealing seamless design, but also ensures that rainwater can run-off easily without leaving any dirty edges or water ponding. Safety is standard in the Flat Roof Access Hatch Comfort product family with fall-resistant glazing which can be walked on to a limited extent for cleaning purposes. As an additional safety feature, a light barrier is installed as standard which prevents the closing of the access hatch as soon as it detects something in the entrance area. In terms of energy, the new roof access hatch continues the tradition of all LAMILUX skylights: The overall system, which is free of thermal bridges and isothermally balanced and the option of special glazing meets modern demands for sustainability, energy efficiency and climate protection which ultimately save heating costs and minimizes condensation. All four products in this family have one further thing in common: They are delivered completely pre-assembled to the construction site, lifted onto the roof by a crane provided by the customer and then installed swiftly and easily. This minimizes the risk of errors and saves valuable time – both for the contractor and for the apartment user who ultimately gains access to the roof terrace. 

Heathrow Airport, Hounslow TW6 1QGHeathrow’s plans for expansion at the airport with a third runway to the north-west of the existing two are currently supported by Government policy through the Airports National Policy Statement. Expansion at the airport would create tens of thousands of jobs and billions in economic benefits to the UK.Heathrow Airport, one of the world's busiest and most prominent international airports, requires top-tier access solutions that balance security and aesthetics. Ensuring efficient maintenance and access to utility systems is essential for its seamless operation. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between Heathrow Airport and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of new flush lock Access Panels with a sleek, discreet finish and a spring-loaded locking mechanism.Challenges:1. Critical Infrastructure: Heathrow Airport is a vital transport hub, serving millions of passengers annually. Access solutions needed to support maintenance without compromising security or aesthetics.2. Efficient Maintenance: The project demanded access panels that allowed for quick and secure access to utility systems, reducing downtime and disruptions.3. Sleek Design: The access solutions had to align with the airport's modern and sleek architectural aesthetics, complementing the overall design.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, known for their expertise in access solutions, was chosen to address the specific needs of Heathrow Airport. The solution included the supply and installation of new flush lock Access Panels with a discreet finish and a spring-loaded locking mechanism, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. New Flush Lock Access Panels: Rapid Access Ltd provided access panels with a sleek, discreet finish, ensuring functionality and a modern, unobtrusive design.2. Efficiency and Security: The access panels allowed for swift and secure access to utility systems, enhancing operational efficiency while maintaining stringent security standards.3. Architectural Integration: The access solutions seamlessly integrated into the airport's modern architectural design, complementing its aesthetic appeal.Implementation:The supply and installation of new flush lock Access Panels by Rapid Access Ltd were carried out meticulously, ensuring that the sleek and discreet design elements were in harmony with the airport's architectural aesthetics. The locking mechanism was integrated with precision to meet the highest security standards.Conclusion:The collaboration between Heathrow Airport and Rapid Access Ltd exemplified the successful integration of access solutions that balanced functionality, security, and aesthetics for a world-class transportation hub. The installation of new flush lock Access Panels not only met functional needs but also contributed to the airport's overall efficiency, security, and architectural appeal, enhancing the passenger experience. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for critical infrastructure projects with specific design requirements.

We can make any size and shape access panel: Antibacterial Paint Special Antibacterial Paint available with the added benefit of an effective antibacterial agent which kills most species of bacteria, including the deadly MRSA, Salmonella, E coli and C difficile. Ceramic Tile Doors Plasterboard Faced Metal Faced Loft Hatches Fire Rated Acoustic Rated Airtight Rated Smoke Tested Special Paint Colours for your Project needs. Available Panel Sizes: 100x100mm to 3000x8000mm

Riverside Ice and Leisure, ChelmsfordClient: Chelmsford City CouncilArchitect: Pick EverardInstaller: Geschwender GmbhProduct: Bespoke Locker and Cubicle solutions from GeschwenderAs part of a major renovations project for the leisure centre in 2019, LSA and Geschwender supplied and installed lockers and cubicles to the changing rooms and studio areas.The complete facility refurbishment includes a new 25m swimming pool and learning pool with a spectator area and flume, as well as modern studio spaces and 130 station state-of-the-art gym. Other new additions to the leisure centre include a new café and creche as well as improvements to general access and the main sports hall and ice rink.The improvements achieved by Chelmsford City Council and Pick Everard architects aimed to make the space more accessible for disabled guests. The new swimming pool facility has a submersible entry platform and pool pod for wheelchair users as well as an access hoist for the learner pool. With the introduction of new changing places units and additional accessible wet and dry changing rooms the site is geared towards making the experience of their disabled guests as easy as possible with the support of Chelmsford Access Group.LSA are proud to have worked with Riverside Ice and Leisure since 2006 when we first supplied some lockers and cubicles to changing rooms. Over the next 12 years we kept in touch with the leisure centre, adding more Geschwender cubicles and lockers to the site as well as completing minor repairs and supplying a few replacement keys and locks.In 2018 we were thrilled when Riverside and the architects at Pick Everard contacted us to be part of the new major refit project. In addition to restyling the space with a more modern colour scheme and accessories we were able to design the changing room from the ground up. Optimising space for our premium lockers and changing cubicles to best suit the needs of all of the users.In addition to the great still shots of our products at Riverside we are delighted to share on our website the virtual tour walkthrough showing our lockers and changing rooms across the facility.

The Peninsula London, 1 Grosvenor Pl, London SW1X 7HJ The Peninsula London offers 190 exquisitely styled guest rooms and suites by Architect and Designer of Interiors, Peter Marino. Superbly situated alongside Hyde Park Corner and Wellington Arch, The Peninsula London occupies one of the city's most prestigious addresses.The Peninsula Hotel London, renowned for its luxurious hospitality, sets high standards for safety, comfort, and tranquility. Ensuring secure utility access and acoustic comfort is essential for its distinguished clientele. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between The Peninsula Hotel London and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading Manufacturer of 2-hour fire rated Riser Doors with a 40DB acoustic rating.Challenges:1. Safety and Compliance: The Peninsula Hotel London demanded access solutions that met stringent fire safety and compliance standards, ensuring the safety of guests and staff.2. Acoustic Comfort: Maintaining a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere within the hotel's opulent surroundings was a top priority.3. Efficient Utility Access: The project required access solutions that facilitated efficient maintenance of utility systems without compromising safety or tranquility.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, recognized for their expertise in access solutions, was chosen to address the specific needs of The Peninsula Hotel London. The solution included the supply and installation of 2-hour fire rated Riser Doors with a 40DB acoustic rating, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. 2-Hour Fire Rated Riser Doors: Rapid Access Ltd provided riser doors that met stringent fire safety standards, ensuring the safety of guests and staff.2. 40DB Acoustic Rating: The riser doors were equipped with an acoustic rating of 40DB to maintain a peaceful and quiet environment within the hotel.3. Efficiency and Security: The access solutions allowed for swift and secure access to utility systems, enhancing operational efficiency while upholding safety and tranquility.Implementation:The supply and installation of 2-hour fire rated Riser Doors with a 40DB acoustic rating by Rapid Access Ltd were carried out with meticulous attention to safety and acoustic comfort. The installation process was executed to meet the highest standards set by The Peninsula Hotel London.Conclusion:The collaboration between The Peninsula Hotel London and Rapid Access Ltd exemplified the successful integration of access solutions that met stringent safety, acoustic, and efficiency standards in a luxury hospitality setting. The installation of 2-hour fire rated Riser Doors with a 40DB acoustic rating not only met functional needs but also contributed to the overall safety and comfort of The Peninsula Hotel London, enhancing the guest experience. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for high-end establishments with specific safety and comfort requirements.

One, Hyde Park, 100 Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7LJOne Hyde Park is a major residential and retail complex located in Knightsbridge, London.The development includes three retail units (Rolex, McLaren Automotive and Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank) and 86 residential properties, with prices starting at around £15 million, and penthouses selling for almost £200 million, it is generally considered the most exclusive apartment building in the world.Located at 100 Knightsbridge, London, stands as one of the city's most prestigious residential developments. Maintaining architectural excellence while ensuring efficient utility access was of paramount importance. This case study highlights the successful collaboration between One Hyde Park and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of Circular Ceiling Access Panels and Dual Access Panels.Challenges:1. Utility Access Excellence: One Hyde Park required access solutions that provided reliable and efficient access to utility systems, including plumbing, electrical, HVAC, and telecommunications, while upholding the luxury standards of the development.2. Architectural Significance: The project demanded the preservation of architectural integrity and minimal disruption to the building's aesthetics during the installation of access panels.3. Versatility Requirement: The development needed access solutions that catered to various spaces, from standard areas to circular ceiling installations.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, renowned for their expertise in access solutions, was chosen to address the specific requirements of One Hyde Park. The solution included the installation of Circular Ceiling Access Panels and Dual Access Panels, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. Circular Ceiling Access Panels: Rapid Access Ltd provided access panels specially designed for circular ceiling installations, offering aesthetic and functional excellence.2. Dual Access Panels: Dual Access Panels were deployed to provide versatility, ensuring seamless access to utility systems across various spaces within the development.3. Architectural Harmony: The access panels were meticulously customized to blend with the architectural design of One Hyde Park, preserving the property's luxurious appeal.Implementation:The installation of Circular Ceiling Access Panels and Dual Access Panels by Rapid Access Ltd was executed with precision and expertise. The unique design of the panels ensured seamless integration, while the dual access panels provided versatility for various utility access points.Conclusion:The collaboration between One Hyde Park and Rapid Access Ltd demonstrated the successful integration of utility access solutions into a prestigious residential development. The installation of Circular Ceiling Access Panels and Dual Access Panels not only met functional needs but also contributed to the overall success of One Hyde Park, ensuring architectural excellence and operational efficiency. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for luxury architectural projects.

Customer ordered our fire rated FlipFix panel. We dispatched the same day and the customer received their access panels the following day. Customer comments:-"Easy to order and delivery was quicker than expected which was a bonus for us as we were able to complete the job earlier than planned."

Battersea Power Station, Circus Rd W, Nine Elms, London SW11 8DDThe iconic Grade II* listed Battersea Power Station is NOW OPEN as London’s most exciting new shopping and leisure destination! This legendary London landmark and surrounding area has been brought back to life as one of the most exciting and innovative mixed use neighbourhoods in the world – a place for locals, tourists and residents to enjoy a unique blend of shops, bars, restaurants, leisure and entertainment venues, parks and historical spaces. A place to shop, eat, drink, live, work and play; here life doesn’t feel ordinary, it feels extraordinary.The Battersea Power Station regeneration project stands as an iconic symbol of urban revitalization in London. Preserving the historic architectural character while modernizing utility access was a formidable challenge. This case study showcases the successful collaboration between the Battersea Power Station regeneration project and Rapid Access Ltd, a leading supplier of Plaster-In Access Panels and Dual Access Panels designed to seamlessly integrate with the development.Challenges:1. Historic Preservation: The project required utility access solutions that respected the historical significance of the Battersea Power Station while modernizing its functionality.2. Architectural Integrity: The development needed to uphold architectural integrity and ensure minimal disruption to the building's aesthetics during the installation of access panels.3. *Functional Versatility: The vast and diverse spaces within the regeneration project demanded access solutions that could cater to different utility access needs.Solution:Rapid Access Ltd, recognized for their expertise in access solutions, was chosen to address the specific needs of the Battersea Power Station regeneration project. The solution included the installation of Plaster-In Access Panels and Dual Access Panels, designed to meet the following key criteria:1. Plaster-In Access Panels: Rapid Access Ltd provided access panels that seamlessly integrated with the historic architecture, preserving the building's aesthetics.2. Dual Access Panels: Dual Access Panels were deployed to provide versatility, ensuring seamless access to utility systems across various spaces within the development.3. Architectural Harmony: The access panels were meticulously customized to blend with the architectural design of the Battersea Power Station, ensuring that they harmoniously integrated with the historic structure.Implementation:The installation of Plaster-In Access Panels and Dual Access Panels by Rapid Access Ltd was executed with precision and expertise. The unique design of the panels allowed for seamless integration, while the dual access panels offered versatile solutions for various utility access points.Conclusion:The collaboration between the Battersea Power Station regeneration project and Rapid Access Ltd exemplified the successful integration of utility access solutions into a historically significant and iconic development. The installation of Plaster-In Access Panels and Dual Access Panels not only met functional needs but also contributed to the overall success of the Battersea Power Station regeneration, ensuring architectural preservation and operational efficiency. This case study underscores the importance of selecting the right access solutions provider for historically significant architectural projects.

Our access panels and riser doors are available with many different lock types for all your security needs. From low level security locks to high level security making any access panel as secure as the customers needs.

Bilco UK's CS-50TB Roof Access Hatch provides the perfect solution for roof-top access at Blair Castle, Scotland. The Category A listed building is said to have been constructed in 1269 and has been extensively added to over the years. Maintaining such a historic monument is a massive task. The Atholl Estate employ an army of staff to ensure this iconic property is preserved for future generations. One of the many problems in looking after such a building is the fact that it was not designed with ease of access to the roof in mind.

60 London Wall is an icon mixed use office & retail building in the dynamic heart of London’s City, with 328,500 sq ft of grade A office accommodation situated over ten stunning floors. It was recently completely renovated and Alliance Bernstein now occupy space within the building. The existing raised access floor was overlaid with Knauf GifaFloor FHB18 making it the ideal substrate to receive a combination of ceramic tiles & micro-screed cement

55 Whitehall was previously a Government occupied office space. This iconic building has undergone a complete re-design. There was existing steel encapsulated raised access flooring throughout. Rather than remove or replace the raised floor, it was retained. Hugo18 was specified here to use as an overlay solution to the raised access floor. It offers a non-combustible, high performance substrate for a range of finishes, in this case - ceramics