XT Gives the Edge to UK’s Largest Education PPP

Accessories specialist Gradus has supplied stair edgings from its innovative XT range for a number of schools being completely rebuilt by South Lanarkshire Council as part of the UK’s largest education PPP (Public Private Partnership), including the new Calderside Academy.

Designed and built by Morgan Ashurst, the impressive modern Academy is the result of a merger between Earnock and Blantyre High Schools. The new-build forms part of South Lanarkshire’s £319million Secondary Schools Modernisation Programme that will see all 19 of the county’s secondary schools being transformed into 21st century learning environments by 2009.

XT stair edgings were fitted on staircases throughout the Academy, to help reduce the risk of slips, trips and falls, in line with guidance in Approved Document M of The Building Regulations 2000. Jet (black) inserts were chosen to create high colour contrast with the blue and orange vinyl floorcoverings to aid the provision of an inclusive environment as outlined in the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).

In line with recommendations from BRE, the XT range features slip resistant inserts that extend around the leading edge of the step to increase contact and maximise safety underfoot. The inserts are held securely in place by a specialist adhesive bond, with a locking mechanism for additional strength.

Morgan Ashurst’s Marketing and Communications Manager Sharon Conway comments: “When developing and modernising schools, it is crucial that student and staff safety remains a top consideration, which is why XT stair edgings were specified. Developed in line with the latest research to satisfy current safety guidelines, the XT range is an ideal match for such a forward-thinking school building programme.”

Rachael Robertson, Product Manager for Gradus Accessories, adds: “The South Lanarkshire Secondary Schools Modernisation Programme is a landmark initiative and we are pleased to have contributed to the development of Calderside Academy, as well as other schools within the scheme. With increasing investment in educational buildings, it is vital that specified products are able to cope with the everyday demands of such environments, as well as meeting the latest safety recommendations. Gradus prides itself on delivering such products, reducing risk and providing peace of mind for specifiers and contractors.”

The large-scale modernisation programme has also seen stair edgings from the Gradus XT range installed on staircases at Duncanrig Secondary School, Calderglen High School, Lesmahagow and Holy Cross High Schools.

The XT range offers both mill finished and anodised aluminium channels, with 55mm treads and 40mm or 55mm risers available, in line with the guidance in Approved Document M. The range is available with a choice of two insert types and 22 colour options, designed to offer visual contrast with surrounding floorcoverings, and includes profiles suitable for use on square, rake back or bullnose step shapes.

For further information on the XT range, contact Gradus Customer Support on 01625 428922 or visit www.gradusxt.com, where visitors can also register to receive the latest news and product information from Gradus.