Accurate Safety Ltd design and supplies best in class construction site safety edge protection, to prevent falls from height - the leading cause of deaths and injuries in construction, according to the Health and Safety Executive. Internal stairwells without balustrades pose a particular risk for contractors working on construction sites, in addition to the new social distancing requirements, which this innovation can help improve significantly.

COVID-19 has reduced the turnover of Accurate Safety significantly, this grant would help us rapidly recover our sales position, by the launch of this innovative and commercially viable solution, we've called StairFast.

We have a fabrication partner in China, which has created a prototype. However, Covid-19 has highlighted the vulnerability of this supply chain, since any future lockdown in China would threaten our ability to take StairFast to market. It has effectively stalled development.

Bringing manufacturing back to the UK overcomes this threat, while also providing employment during a recession, which is a direct result of the Covid- 19 pandemic.

**Current solutions**

There are some edge protection systems for stairwells already on the market, however, they are typically made up of several different components and require scaffolding poles to be individually cut to size. This increases the risk of losing integral components. They also need to be drilled into the concrete slabs of the stairwell, which causes dust during installation, and requires the stairwell to be repaired before project completion.

**StairFast**

Therefore, in 2019 we began developing a new steel modular stairwell protection system, to solve issues with current products. StairFast was born and comprises of telescopic handrails, posts and secure fixing clamps, which are available in a range of sizes to suit different configurations.

StairFast also incorporates HSE signage on the handrails, such as 'on-way' to promote social distancing protocols contained in the Construction Leadership Council's Covid-19 operating procedures.

We also have plans as part of the project, to develop proprietary 3D modelling software accessible through an app, allowing site managers and quantity surveyors to calculate exact volumes of equipment required. This 'right equipment at the right time approach', reduces waste and costs, but also double handling of materials to decrease risk of Covid-19 transmission.

**Summary**

* Will help AS Ltd to rapidly grow with two company's supporting project
* Quick and safe to install/dismantle, improving efficiency and productivity
* Project team have 20 years combined experience in Edge Protection
* Non-invasive fixing, avoids drill dust/repairs
* Digital solution for exact quantities, reducing Landfill waste
* Promotes Covid-19 social distancing protocols
* Designed to be installed into Cross Laminated Timber, also important in helping reduce Carbon Emissions.