West Virginia University needed a complex platform solution to safely access their rooftop air handlers and HVAC units servicing the college dorms and science buildings. The facility manager was not only looking for a solution that would be efficient but also safe for filter maintenance access. SafeRack’s HVAC specialists were able to quickly configure a custom configuration using ErectaStep’s prefabricated stairs as the solution. The proposal was accepted and the business was awarded. SafeRack conducted an on-site visit for project kickoff.
There were a few challenges that had to be overcome in order to achieve the project’s milestones and goals. They needed access to the air handlers on the roof, but there was also a raised elevated platform that required safe access. The university was expecting two separate units, however, our HVAC stair specialist suggested using the handler platform to also access the second level to save space, reduce cost and time. Another challenge faced was that they realized in order to get the work platforms on the building’s roofs they would have to assemble the stair components (ErectaStep has 5 main stair components) on the ground and then lifted to the roof. Once assembled on the ground the installation process took 4 days for 6 customized and modular platforms. The customer was pleased working with SafeRack and could see the advantages of their decision to work with a safety platform company with decades of experience.
“With the success of this project it has also landed us other projects to help improve efficiencies and safety for new customers,” said SafeRack Sales Representative responsible for the university project.
After the completion of this initial project, ErectaStep then provided these same platforms for the agricultural science buildings at the university, as well as, for the chillers used by maintenance.
The facility manager received SafeRack’s scale-model kit of an ErectaStep prefabricated system. Exclusive kits are sent out to customers after a purchase and completion of a project. Immediately after receiving the gift, Lisa placed her miniature ErectaStep kit proudly on her desk. By doing this, it caught the interest of a physical therapy and rehab center professional that was visiting the university. After conversations, proposals, and drawings ErectaStep was recommended for the job. You never know what will catch the interest of a potential future customer. SafeRack and the university couldn’t have been happier with the project outcome and the opportunities that came from this project.
