Gradus Improves Access At Aberdeen's Largest Office Development

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Contract interiors specialist Gradus has supplied high performance XT stair edgings and Esplanade Plus barrier matting for a new high profile office development in the business centre of Aberdeen’s West End, creating a safe working environment and improved access for all.

The largest speculative office block in the city, Union Plaza is a £25million commercial office development by Stewart Milne, offering 125,660 sq ft of modern office space over seven floors, landscaped gardens and parking for up to 225 vehicles.

To help improve building safety by reducing the risk of trips, slips and falls, Gradus GXT and AKXT stair edgings were fitted on the staircases in the main and side entrances, respectively. In line with BS8300:2009 and Approved Document M (ADM) of The Building Regulations 2000, Steel (grey) inserts were used to provide visible contrast with the dark grey floorcovering, helping to define the step edge and contributing toward the creation of an inclusive environment, as set out in the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA).

Supported by the latest recommendations from BRE, the XT range comprises aluminium or PVC-u channels and slip-resistant inserts that extend around the leading edge of the stair edging to maximise safety underfoot by ensuring optimum foot contact with the slip-resistant element of the stair edging.

Gradus also supplied primary barrier matting from its Esplanade Plus range for the building’s main entrance. Suitable for use in interior or exterior locations subject to heavy foot and wheeled traffic, the matting was specified with Swift (black) wipers from the Boulevard 5000 range to help disguise dirt and marks. By preventing soil and moisture from being carried into the building, the matting will help to maintain the appearance of the lobby flooring, reduce cleaning and maintenance costs, and improve safety by reducing the risk of slip accidents caused by wet or soiled floors.

Brian Polson, Building Manager for real estate company CBRE at Union Plaza, comments: “Union Plaza has been a huge success attracting top tenants, such as Barclays and commercial law firm Paull & Williamsons. The development provides the area with the quality, modern office space it has been missing and the products from Gradus are crucial for protecting the welfare of building users, offering the latest in safety and design.”

Caroline Davies, Gradus Accessories Product Manager, adds: “It was great to be involved in such a prestigious project and the stair edgings and matting specified demonstrates an awareness and understanding of the importance of building safety and responsibility toward staff and visitors.”

The XT range offers 55mm treads and both 40mm and 55mm risers, in line with the guidance in BS8300 and ADM and is available in a choice of colours to provide visual contrast with surrounding floorcoverings. It also includes profiles to accommodate various step shapes.

Esplanade Plus barrier matting is available in open or closed construction, in two thicknesses and with a choice of wiper options.

For further information on the full range of stair edgings and barrier matting available from Gradus, contact Customer Support 01625 428922 or visit HYPERLINK "http://www.gradusworld.com" www.gradusworld.com.