Loft Ladder Installation with self closing gate systems

Project Overview

NHS Property Services commissioned a programme of safety upgrades across several health centres throughout the Midlands region. The project involved the installation of loft ladders fitted with self-closing gate systems to enhance safe access to roof voids and plant spaces used for maintenance and storage.

The primary objective was to improve health and safety standards for maintenance personnel by ensuring secure, controlled access to loft areas, in full compliance with NHS and HSE Work at Height regulations.

Objectives

• Improve the safety and ease of access to loft and plant areas.
• Eliminate fall hazards by integrating self-closing gate systems at loft openings.
• Ensure all installations meet NHS Property Services’ safety specifications and HSE requirements.
• Minimise disruption to clinical operations during installation works.

Scope of Works

• Conducted comprehensive site surveys to evaluate existing loft access points and structural conditions.
• Supplied and installed durable aluminium loft ladders with integrated self-closing safety gates.
• Installed safety handrails and balustrades around loft openings for additional protection.
• Tested and commissioned all systems to verify correct gate closure, secure ladder operation, and compliance with height safety standards.
• Provided staff handover demonstrations and documentation for safe usage and maintenance.

Challenges

• Working within operational healthcare facilities required strict coordination to prevent disruption to patient services.
• Several older buildings presented restricted loft space and non-standard hatch sizes, requiring tailored installation solutions.
• Managing multiple site locations demanded careful planning and consistency in quality control.

Solutions Implemented

• Scheduled works during off-peak hours or in coordination with each site’s operations team to minimise impact.
• Designed and installed custom ladder configurations to accommodate restricted spaces while maintaining compliance.
• Utilised self-closing gate systems to provide a simple, effective method of fall protection without the need for additional manual barriers.
• A dedicated project manager maintained communication with NHS Property Services representatives and site managers to ensure transparency and continuity across all locations.

Outcomes

• All loft access points are now fully compliant with HSE and NHS safety requirements.
• The self-closing gate systems significantly reduce fall risks by automatically securing loft openings.
• Positive feedback received from NHS maintenance and facilities teams regarding ease of use and the professional execution of works.
• All sites completed on time, within budget, and with zero health & safety incidents.

Client Feedback

“The new loft ladder and self-closing gate installations have made a real difference to our maintenance teams. The work was completed efficiently, with minimal disruption to our day-to-day operations.”
— Facilities Manager, NHS Property Services (Midlands)