AU2016247056B2

AU2016247056B2 - Safety Barrier Support

Info

Publication number: AU2016247056B2
Application number: AU2016247056A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Taryn Fitzgerald; Stuart Jardine; Alistair Livingstone; Nick MacRae; Paul McConnochie; Jeff Scott; Daryl Sebire
Original assignee: Lendlease Construction Southern Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Lendlease Construction Southern Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2016-10-10
Filing date: 2016-10-10
Publication date: 2023-07-27
Anticipated expiration: 2036-10-10
Also published as: AU2023255002A1; AU2016247056A1

Abstract

The disclosure relates to a safety barrier support for use in erecting a temporary safety barrier. The safety barrier support comprises a central support column having a first elongated portion and a second elongated portion, the first elongated portion having at its distal end a base plate adapted for attachment to a building surface, the second elongated portion being slidably engageable with the first elongated portion. The support further comprises at least one first rail support bracket affixed to the first elongated portion of the central support column and at least one second rail support bracket adapted for slidable engagement with the second elongated portion of the central support column. The second elongated portion is releasably attachable to the first elongated portion and the at least one second rail support bracket is releasably attachable to the second elongated portion of the central support column. 4 30 40 16 44 41 48 34 4 432 43z 42 14 FIGURE 4

Description

30 40

16 44

41

48

34 4 432

43z 42

14

FIGURE 4

"Safety Barrier Support"

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosure relates, generally, to safety rail or barrier systems and, more particularly, to safety rail systems for use in the construction industry. The disclosure has particular, but not necessarily exclusive, application in the erection of temporary safety rails in multi-story construction applications.

Background

[0002] Due to increased safety regulations in the building and construction industries, together with improvements in modem construction techniques, particularly those techniques adopted in the construction of high rise (i.e. multi-storey) apartment and office buildings, safety rail or barrier systems have become more commonplace. Such rail or barrier systems often serve two key purposes. Firstly, they provide improved safety to workers on a construction or building site by reducing the risk of fall incidents, specifically accidents that involve workers falling from height and suffering significant or fatal injury. Secondly, these rail or barrier systems act to prevent objects from accidentally falling from height or becoming dislodged and potentially injuring passers-by, or leading to consequential damage to persons or property. One additional function of such rail or barrier systems is to protect the construction from the adverse effects of unfavourable weather (e.g. wind, rain, moisture etc.).

[0003] Current safety rail and barrier systems employ a variety of different systems such as, for example, rail or cable restraints, or safety netting, to prevent workers from falling off an edge of a building structure and/or to prevent objects from being accidentally knocked off the edge and falling from the building structure. However, these existing systems are generally fixed in nature, and overall design, and do not allow for any useful adjustment based on varying conditions and building specifications.

[0004] There is a need for an improved safety barrier support that addresses the abovementioned problems. There is also the need for an improved safety barrier support that can provide improvements in respect of portability and adjustability, while still complying with current safety regulations and standards.

Summary

[0005] Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a safety barrier support for use in erecting a temporary safety barrier, said safety barrier support comprising:

a central support column having a first elongated portion and a second elongated portion, the first elongated portion having at its distal end a base plate adapted for attachment to a building surface, the second elongated portion being slidably engageable with the first elongated portion;

at least one first rail support bracket affixed to the first elongated portion of the central support column; and

at least one second rail support bracket adapted for slidable engagement with the second elongated portion of the central support column,

wherein the second elongated portion is releasably attachable to the first elongated portion and wherein the at least one second rail support bracket is releasably attachable to the second elongated portion of the central support column by way of at least one removable locking pin connected to the at least one second rail support bracket.

[0006] The second elongated portion of the central support column may be slidably engageable within the first elongated portion. In some embodiments of the disclosure, the first elongated portion of the central support column is substantially hollow and has a square or rectangular cross-sectional profile. Similarly, and also in some embodiments of the disclosure, the second elongated portion of the central support column is preferably (although not necessarily) hollow and has a similar, albeit smaller, square or rectangular cross-sectional profile as compared to that of the first elongated portion.

[0007] The second elongated portion may be releasably attachable to the first elongated portion at predefined extension positions along the second elongated portion. The predefined extension positions may coincide with a plurality of first apertures located along the second elongated portion.

[0008] The second elongated portion may be releasably attachable to the first elongated portion by way of a first removable locking pin. The first locking pin may be positioned through one of the first apertures on the second elongated portion and through a second aperture located on the first elongated portion. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking pin may be positioned through one of the first apertures on the second elongated portion and through the second aperture located on the first elongated portion when the one of the first apertures and the second aperture are substantially aligned.

[0009] The base plate may comprise one or more fixing apertures to allow for attachment of the base plate to the building surface.

[0010] The first rail support bracket maybe adapted to receive one or more safety rails. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first rail support bracket may be wide enough to accommodate two or more safety rails in partial overlap or abutment. The first rail support bracket may comprise a first clamping means to allow the one or more safety rails to be secured within the first rail support bracket.

[0011] The second rail support bracket maybe adapted to receive one or more safety rails. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the first rail support bracket may be wide enough to accommodate two or more safety rails in partial overlap or abutment. The second rail support bracket may comprise a second clamping means to allow the one or more safety rails to be secured within the second rail support bracket.

[0012] The first clamping means and/or second clamping means may comprise a screw clamp, and wherein an engaging portion of the screw clamp may be adapted to abut and apply a compressive force to at least one safety rail.

[0013] The second rail support bracket maybe adapted for slidable engagement about the second elongated portion of the central support column. In some embodiments of the disclosure, the second elongated portion of the central support column is preferably hollow and has a square or rectangular cross-sectional profile. Similarly, and also in some embodiments of the disclosure, an engaging portion of the second rail support bracket is preferably hollow and has a similar, albeit larger, square or rectangular cross sectional profile as compared to that of the second elongated portion.

[0014] The second rail support bracket maybe releasably attachable to the second elongated portion at predefined attachment positions along the second elongated portion. The predefined attachment positions may coincide with the plurality of first apertures located along the second elongated portion.

[0015] The second rail support bracket maybe releasably attachable to the second elongated portion by way of a second removable locking pin. The second locking pin may be positioned through one of the first apertures on the second elongated portion and through a third aperture located on the second rail support bracket. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the second locking pin may be positioned through one of the first apertures on the second elongated portion and through the third aperture located on the second rail support bracket when the one of the first apertures and the third aperture are substantially aligned.

[0016] The safety barrier support may further comprise akickboard support bracket affixed to the first elongated portion of the central support column, wherein the kickboard support bracket may be adapted to receive a kickboard. The kickboard support bracket may be positioned adjacent to the base plate. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, an upper portion of the kickboard support bracket may be may be adapted for slidable engagement about the first elongated portion of the central support column. In some embodiments of the disclosure, the first elongated portion of the central support column is preferably (although not necessarily) hollow and has a square or rectangular cross-sectional profile. Similarly, and also in some embodiments of the disclosure, an engaging portion of the upper portion of the kickboard support bracket is preferably hollow and has a similar, albeit larger, square or rectangular cross sectional profile as compared to that of the first elongated portion.

[0017] The safety barrier support may further comprise at least one third rail support bracket affixed to the second elongated portion of the central support column. The third rail support bracket may be adapted to receive one or more safety rails. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the third rail support bracket may be wide enough to accommodate two or more safety rails in partial overlap or abutment. The third rail support bracket may comprise a third clamping means to allow the one or more safety rails to be secured within the third rail support bracket. The third clamping means may comprise a screw clamp, and wherein an engaging portion of the screw clamp may be adapted to abut and apply a compressive force to at least one safety rail.

[0018] Some embodiments of the present disclosure may relate to a temporary safety barrier system comprising:

one or more safety barrier supports according to the previous embodiment of the disclosure, each of the one or more safety barrier supports being attached to a building surface;

at least one safety rail extending between the first rail support brackets of adjacent safety barrier supports, and at least one safety rail extending between the second rail support brackets of adjacent safety barrier supports;

wherein the safety rails extending between the first rail support brackets and/or second rail support brackets of adjacent barrier supports are held in a substantially horizontal position.

[0018a] Some embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method for erecting a temporary safety barrier, the method comprising:

attaching a base plate at a distal end of a first elongated portion of a support column to a building surface, at least one first rail support bracket being affixed to the first elongated portion of the central support column;

slidably engaging at least one second rail support bracket with a second elongated portion of the central support column;

slidably engaging the second elongated portion with the first elongated portion;

releasably attaching the second elongated portion to the first elongated portion; and

releasably attaching the at least one second rail support bracket to the second elongated portion of the central support column to set a desired vertical positon of the at least one second rail support bracket by way of at least one removable locking pin connected to the at least one second rail support bracket.

Brief Description of Drawings

[0019] An embodiment of the disclosure is now described byway of example with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0020] Fig. 1 shows a front elevation line drawing of an embodiment of a safety barrier support as part of a temporary safety barrier system;

[0021] Fig. 2 shows aside view line drawing of an embodiment of a safety barrier support; and

[0022] Fig. 3 shows a plan view line drawing of the embodiment of the safety barrier support shown in Fig. 2.

[0023] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the interface between the first elongated portion and the second elongated portion shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

[0024] Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the second rail support bracket shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

[0025] Fig. 6 shows a method for erecting a temporary safety barrier.

Description of Embodiments

[0026] In the drawings, reference numeral 10 generally designates an embodiment of a safety barrier support. The safety barrier support 10 is particularly useful in relation to the erection of temporary safety barriers in multi-story construction applications and it will therefore be convenient to describe the safety barrier support 10 in that environment. However, it should be understood that the safety barrier support 10 is not limited to this embodiment, and may be utilised or implemented in other environments or application.

[0027] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 of the drawings, the safety barrier support 10 includes a central support column 12 having a first elongated portion 14 and a second elongated portion 16. The second elongated portion 16 of the central support column 12 is slidably engageable within (i.e. received within the hollow inner structure of) the first elongated portion 14. In a representative embodiments of the present disclosure, the first elongated portion 14 of the central support column 12 is substantially hollow and has a square or rectangular cross-sectional profile, being preferably manufactured from a lightweight steel material (although it should be appreciated that other materials are also encompassed by the present disclosure). Similarly, and also in a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the second elongated portion 16 of the central support column 12 is preferably (although not necessarily) hollow and has a similar, albeit smaller, square or rectangular cross-sectional profile as compared to that of the first elongated portion 14. Again, the second elongated portion 16 is preferably manufactured from a lightweight steel material (although it should be appreciated that other materials are also encompassed by the present disclosure). The smaller cross sectional profile of the second elongated portion 16, relative to the first elongated portion 14, allows the second elongated portion 16 to slidably engage with, and be received within the hollow internal structure of, the first elongated portion 14.

[0028] The second elongated portion 16 is releasably attachable to the first elongated portion 14 at predefined extension positions along the second elongated portion 16. These predefined extension positions preferably coincide with a plurality of first apertures 30 located along at least one surface of the second elongated portion 16. The second elongated portion 16 is releasably attachable to the first elongated portion 14 by way of a first removable locking pin 32. The first locking pin 32 may be positioned through one of the first apertures 30 on the second elongated portion 16 and through a second aperture 34 located on the first elongated portion 14. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the first locking pin 32 is positioned through one of the first apertures 30 on the second elongated portion 16 and through the second aperture 34 located on the first elongated portion 14 when the one of the first apertures and the second aperture 34 are substantially aligned.

[0029] The first elongated portion 14 has at its distal end a base plate 18 adapted for attachment to a building surface 20. The base plate 18 comprises one or more fixing apertures 22 to allow for attachment of the base plate 18 to the building surface 20. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the base plate 18 preferably comprises a support member 24 that is perpendicular to, and affixed to along a first edge 26, the base plate 18. A second edge 28 of the support member 24 is affixed to the first elongated portion 14. The support member 24 preferable provides stability to the central support column 12, particularly when the central support column 12 is under load.

[0030] The safety barrier support 12 also comprises at least one first rail support bracket 40 affixed to the first elongated portion 14 of the central support column 12. The first rail support bracket 40 is adapted to receive one or more safety rails 90. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the first rail support bracket 40 is wide enough to accommodate at least two safety rails 90 in partial overlap or abutment. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the overlap of the two safety rails 90 within the first rail support bracket 40 is at least about 260mm (i.e. 130mm either side of the central axis of the central support column 12). However, it should be appreciated that other configurations of the safety rails 90 are also encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0031] The safety barrier support 12 also comprises at least one second rail support bracket 50 adapted for slidable engagement with the second elongated portion 16 of the central support column 12. As with the first rail support bracket 40, the second rail support bracket 50 is also adapted to receive one or more safety rails 90. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the second rail support bracket 50 is wide enough to accommodate at least two safety rails 90 in partial overlap or abutment. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the overlap of the two safety rails 90 within the first rail support bracket 50 is at least about 260mm (i.e. 130mm either side of the central axis of the central support column 12). However, it should be appreciated that other configurations of the safety rails 90 are also encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0032] The first rail support bracket 40 and second rail support bracket 50 both comprise a clamping means in the form of a screw clamp 60, to allow the one or more safety rails 90 to be secured within the first and second rail support brackets 40, 50. An engaging portion 62 of the screw clamp 60 is adapted to abut and apply a compressive force to at least one safety rail 90. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure (as will be described in further detail below), the compressive force applied to the safety rail 90 is controlled by a user operating the screw clamp 60.

[0033] In the event that only one safety rail 90 is received within the first rail support bracket 40, or similarly only one safety rail 90 is received within the second rail support bracket 50, the engaging portion 62 of the screw clamp 60 will abut a surface of the safety rail 90. As the screw clamp 60 continues to be engaged, an opposing surface of the safety rail 90 will be brought into abutment with an inner surface (not shown) of the first rail support bracket 40, or similarly an inner surface (not shown) of the second rail support bracket 50. At this point a compressive force will be applied to the safety rail 90.

[0034] In the event that two safety rails 90 are received within the first rail support bracket 40, or similarly two safety rails 90 are received within the second rail support bracket 50, the engaging portion 62 of the screw clamp 60 will abut a surface of the first (nearest) safety rail 90. As the screw clamp 60 continues to be engaged, an opposing surface of the first safety rail 90 will be brought into abutment with an inner surface (not shown) of the second (adjacent) safety rail 90, and an opposing surface of that second safety rail 90 will be brought into abutment with an inner surface (not shown) of the first rail support bracket 40, or similarly an inner surface (not shown) of the second rail support bracket 50. At this point a compressive force will be applied to both of the safety rails 90.

[0035] The second rail support bracket 50 is releasably attachable to, and slidably engageable about, the second portion 16 of the central support column 12. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, and as previously discussed, the second elongated portion 16 of the central support column 12 is preferably (although not necessarily) hollow and has a square or rectangular cross-sectional profile. Similarly, and also in some embodiments of the disclosure, an engaging portion 52 of the second rail support bracket 50 is preferably hollow and has a similar, albeit larger, square or rectangular cross-sectional profile as compared to that of the second elongated portion 16. The engaging portion 52 of the second rail support bracket 50, as well as the remainder of the second rail support bracket 50, is preferably manufactured from a lightweight steel material (although it should be appreciated that other materials are also encompassed by the present disclosure). The larger cross-sectional profile of

I1

the engaging portion 52 of the second rail support bracket 50, relative to the second elongated portion 16, allows the second rail support bracket 50 (and specifically the engaging portion 52 of the second rail support bracket 50) to slideably engage with the second elongated portion 16.

[0036] The second rail support bracket 50 is releasably attachable to the second elongated portion 16 at predefined attachment positions along the second elongated portion 16. These predefined attachment positions preferably coincide with the plurality of first apertures 30 located along at least one surface of the second elongated portion 16. The second rail support bracket 50 is releasably attachable to the second elongated portion 16 by way of a second removable locking pin 32. The second locking pin 32 may be positioned through one of the first apertures 30 on the second elongated portion 16 and through a third aperture 64 located on the second rail support bracket 50. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the second locking pin 32 is positioned through one of the first apertures 30 on the second elongated portion 16 and through the third aperture 64 located on the second rail support bracket 50 when the one of the first apertures 30 and the third aperture 64 are substantially aligned.

[0037] The safety barrier support 10 further comprises a kickboard support bracket 70 affixed to the first elongated portion 14 of the central support column 12, wherein the kickboard support bracket 70 is adapted to receive a kickboard 72 (otherwise referred to as a toe-board). In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the kickboard support bracket 70 is positioned adjacent (and perpendicular) to the base plate 18, such that the kickboard 72 is in a position close to (or in contact with) the building surface 20 in order to provide the function of preventing low-lying objects from being dislodged and falling from the edge of a building structure. An upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70 is adapted for slidable engagement about the first elongated portion 14 of the central support column 12.

[0038] In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, and as previously discussed, the first elongated portion 14 of the central support column 12 is preferably hollow and has a square or rectangular cross-sectional profile. Similarly, and also in some embodiments of the disclosure, an engaging portion 76 of the upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70 is preferably hollow and has a similar, albeit larger, square or rectangular cross-sectional profile as compared to that of the first elongated portion 14. The engaging portion 76 of the upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70, as well as the remainder of the upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70, is preferably manufactured from a lightweight steel material (although it should be appreciated that other materials are also encompassed by the present disclosure). The larger cross-sectional profile of the engaging portion 76 of the upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70, relative to the first elongated portion 14, allows the upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70 (and specifically the engaging portion 76 of the upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70) to slideably engage with the first elongated portion 14.

[0039] The safety barrier support 10 also comprises at least one third rail support 80 bracket affixed to the second elongated portion 16 of the central support column 12. The third rail support bracket 80 is preferably located at a distal end of the second elongated portion 16, and is adapted to receive one or more safety rails 90. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the third rail support bracket 80 is wide enough to accommodate at least two safety rails 90 in partial overlap or abutment. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, the overlap of the two safety rails 90 within the third rail support bracket 80 is at least about 260mm (i.e. 130mm either side of the central axis of the central support column 12). However, it should be appreciated that other configurations of the safety rails 90 are also encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0040] The third rail support bracket 80 comprises a clamping means in the form of a screw clamp 60, to allow the one or more safety rails 90 to be secured within the third rail support bracket 80. An engaging portion 62 of the screw clamp 60 is adapted to abut and apply a compressive force to at least one safety rail 90. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure (as will be described in further detail below), the compressive force applied to the safety rail 90 is controlled by a user operating the screw clamp 60.

[0041] In the event that only one safety rail 90 is received within the third rail support bracket 80, the engaging portion 62 of the screw clamp 60 will abut a surface of the safety rail 90. As the screw clamp 60 continues to be engaged, an opposing surface of the safety rail 90 will be brought into abutment with an inner surface (not shown) of the third rail support bracket 80. At this point a compressive force will be applied to the safety rail 90.

[0042] In the event that two safety rails 90 are received within the third rail support bracket 80, the engaging portion 62 of the screw clamp 60 will abut a surface of the first (nearest) safety rail 90. As the screw clamp 60 continues to be engaged, an opposing surface of the first safety rail 90 will be brought into abutment with an inner surface (not shown) of the second (adjacent) safety rail 90, and an opposing surface of that second safety rail 90 will be brought into abutment with an inner surface (not shown) of the third rail support bracket 80. At this point a compressive force will be applied to both of the safety rails 90.

[0043] Figure 4 illustrates the interface between the first elongated portion 14 and the second elongated portion 16 in more detail. As described above, removable locking pin 32 may be positioned through one of first apertures 30 on the second elongated portion 16 and aperture 34 on the first elongated portion 14. Further, a lanyard 41, such as a steel wire, connects the removable locking pin 32 to the first elongated portion 14. The length of the lanyard 41 is long enough to allow removable safety pin 32 to be completely removed from aperture 30. Lanyard 41 prevents the removable locking pin 32 from falling, which is particularly useful near the edge of a building structure where falling objects can cause serious injuries. A catch 42 pivots about an axis 43 on a first end of removable locking pin 32 and engages with a second end of removable locking pin 32. Catch 42 holds the removable locking pin 32 in place and avoids inadvertent removal of the removable locking pin 32.

[0044] Bracket 40 comprises a D-loop 44 attached to a block 45. The block 45 has a threaded bore 46 to receive screw clamp 60 and is affixed to the first elongated portion 14. In this example, block 45 is affixed to the side 47 of the first elongated portion 14, which is the side that faces an adjacent support column in the direction of the safety rails 90. Block 45 may be welded to side 47 forming weld 48. Since block 45 is welded to side 47, the weld 48 can follow all four edges of block 45 which leads to increased strength. In particular, the connection between block 45 and first elongated portion 14 is more resilient against downward forces. For example, when building material, such as timber beams, are positioned or fall onto safety rails 90, significant downward forces may shear off bracket 40 which is avoided in the shown configuration.

[0045] While Figure 4 illustrates the top bracket on first elongated portion, the other brackets may be designed similarly. In particular, Figure 5 illustrates second rail support bracket 50 that also has removable locking pin 32 with lanyard 41 and catch 42. Just as first elongated portion 14 is adapted for slidable engagement with the second elongated portion 16, second support bracket 50 is adapted for slidable engagement with second elongated portion 16.

[0046] A representative embodiment of the present disclosure also relates to a temporary safety barrier system that comprises one or more safety barrier supports 10 described above. The following description provides an example of how such safety barrier supports 10 can be used to erect a temporary safety barrier system at, for example, a multi-storey construction site.

[0047] Each of the safety barrier supports 10 are positioned along the edge of a multi storey construction site (for example, near the edge of each storey, in an area where objects could easily become dislodged, or an area where fall-risks are high), at a distance apart that allows a safety rail 90 to span between adjacent safety barrier supports 10. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, and as previously described, the overlap of two safety rails 90 relative to central support column 12 is preferably at least about 260mm (i.e. 130mm either side of the central axis of the central support column 12). However, it should be appreciated that other configurations of the safety rails 90 are also encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 6 illustrates a method 100 for erecting a temporary safety barrier 10. The method comprises attaching 101 the base plate 20 at the distal end of first elongated portion 14 of support column 12 to a building surface by driving appropriate fixings (not shown) through the fixing apertures 22 on each of the base plates 20 of the safety barrier supports 10. . At least one first rail support bracket 40 being affixed to the first elongated portion 14 of the central support column 12. Method 100 further comprises slidably engaging 102 at least one second rail support bracket 50 with second elongated portion 16 of the central support column 12. Then, the second elongated portion 16 is slidably engaged 103 with the first elongated portion 14. Method 100 further comprises releasably attaching 104 the second elongated portion 16 to the first elongated portion 14 releasably attaching 105 the at least one second rail support bracket 50 to the second elongated portion 16 of the central support column 12 to set a desired vertical positon of the at least one second rail support bracket 50.

[0049] The overall height of each of the safety barrier supports 10 can then be adjusted by setting the position of the second elongated portion 16 relative to the first elongated portion 14. This height will vary depending on the specific requirements of the project or construction site. For each of the safety barrier supports 10, one of the first apertures 30 on the second elongated portion 16 (e.g. the nearest aperture to the desired height) is substantially aligned with the second aperture 34 located on the first elongated portion 14, and a first locking pin 32 is inserted through that first aperture 30 on the second elongated portion 16 and through the second aperture 34 located on the first elongated portion 14, in order to releasably attach the second elongated portion 16 to the first elongated portion 14.

[0050] Depending on the specific requirements of the project, or construction site, it is also possible to set the height of the second rail support bracket 50 on each of the safety barrier supports 10. For example, if a safety rail 90 is required at a specific height, or within a predefined proximity of other safety rails attached to the safety barrier support 10, it is possible to accurate set the height of an additional safety rail 90. For each of the safety barrier supports 10, one of the first apertures 30 on the second elongated portion 16 (e.g. the nearest aperture to the desired height of the second rail support bracket 50) is substantially aligned with the third aperture 64 located on the second rail support bracket 50, and a second locking pin 32 is inserted through that first aperture 30 on the second elongated portion 16 and through the third aperture 64 located on the second rail support bracket 50, in order to releasably attach the second rail support bracket 50 to the second elongated portion 16.

[0051] Once each of the safety barrier supports 10 are in place, the kickboards 72 can be spanned and attached between them. In a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, the upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70 is slid up the first elongated portion 14 to allow the kickboard 72 to be inserted into the kickboard support bracket 70. Once the kickboard 72 is in place, the upper portion 74 of the kickboard support bracket 70 is slid down the first elongated portion 14 to engage and (at least partially) retain the kickboard 72. It should be appreciate that additional fixings may also be used to achieve secure attachment of the kickboard 72 with the safety barrier support 10.

[0052] Finally, although not necessarily last in the erection procedure, the safety rails can be inserted into the first, second and/or third rail support brackets, 40, 50, and respectively. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present disclosure, and as previously described, the overlap of two safety rails 90 relative to central support column 12 is preferably at least about 260mm (i.e. 130mm either side of the central axis of the central support column 12). However, it should be appreciated that other configurations of the safety rails 90 are also encompassed by the present disclosure.

[0053] Once the safety rails are positioned in the designed overlap position (or singularly in the event that only one safety rail 90 is required), it is necessary to securely attach the safety rails 90 by engaging the screw clamps 60 on each of the first, second and/or third rail support brackets, 40, 50, and 80 respectively. As previously described, the compressive force applied to the safety rail(s) 90, by at least the engaging portion 62 of the screw clamp, is controlled by a user operating the screw clamp 60 in a clockwise or anticlockwise direction. The screw clamps 60 at each of the first, second and/or third rail support brackets, 40, 50, and 80 respectively, is engaged until a secure attachment of the safety rail(s) 90 is achieved.

[0054] Once all of the safety rails 90 have been installed between the first, second and/or third rail support brackets, 40, 50, and 80 respectively, of adjacent safety barrier supports, the safety rails 90 should all be held in a substantially horizontal position.

[0055] It should also be appreciated that additional safety apparatus may also be affixed to the safety barrier supports 10 in order to provide further protection against the dislodgement of objects from the edge of a multi-storey construction site, or against fall-risks. Such additional safety apparatus may include safety netting or webbing, or sheeting material that also serves the function of protecting the construction site from the adverse effects of unfavourable weather.

[0056] Due to the construction of the safety barrier supports 10, the overall height of the temporary safety barrier system can be adjusted relatively easily and efficiently. Similarly, the height of safety rails 90 positioned within the second rail support bracket can also be adjusted relatively easily and efficiently. This allows the adjustment of the relative position between , the first rail support bracket 40, the second rail support bracket 50 and the third rail support bracket 80. This means that for any desired height of the third rail support bracket 80 second rail support bracket 50 can be adjusted to be in the middle between the first rail support bracket 40 and the third rail support bracket 80. This avoids large gaps between rails when a maximal height of third rail support bracket is desired. It is now possible to safely work on small platforms or step ladders near the edge of the building as the risk of falling over the safety barrier is reduced by the higher third rail support bracket 80. At the same time, the height can be reduced quickly in case facade components need to be launched from the inside of the building to the outside of the building, for example. It is noted that due to the described configuration, no loose parts need to be handled which eliminates the risk of parts falling from the building while the safety barrier is adjusted. In particular, the safety rails 90 can remain in the brackets 40, 50 and 80 due to the overlap. In other words, the distance between adjacent support columns is shorter than the length of the safety rails such that the safety rails do not slide out of the rail support brackets when one of the support columns is adjusted to maximum height while the adjacent support column is adjusted to minimum height.

[0057] In one example, there are exactly two first rail support brackets 40 affixed to first elongated portion 14, exactly one second rail support bracket 50 slidably engaged with second elongated portion 15 and exactly one third rail support bracket 80 affixed to the second elongated portion 16 at or near the top of the second elongated portion 16. This arrangement has the advantage that the vertical positon of the first rail support brackets 40 cannot be changed to an unsafe position to ensure building regulations are met at all times. At the same time, the vertical position of second rail support bracket can be adjusted due to the slidable engagement with second elongated portion 16. The vertical positon of the third rail support bracket 80 can be adjusted due to the slidable engagement of the second elongated portion 16 with the first elongated portion 14. Since there is exactly one third rail support bracket 80 at or near the top of the second elongated portion 16, almost the entire length of the second elongated portion 16 between the top first rail support bracket 40 and the top of the second elongated portion 16 is available for positioning of the second rail support bracket 50. This provides flexibility to the deployment of the safety barrier.

[0058] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments, without departing from the broad general scope of the present disclosure. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A safety barrier support for use in erecting a temporary safety barrier, said safety barrier support comprising:

2. The safety barrier support according to claim 1, wherein the second elongated portion of the central support column is slidably engageable within the first elongated portion.

3. The safety barrier support according to either claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second elongated portion is releasably attachable to the first elongated portion at predefined extension positions along the second elongated portion.

4. The safety barrier support according to claim 3, wherein the predefined extension positions coincide with a plurality of first apertures located along the second elongated portion.

5. The safety barrier support according to claim 4, wherein the second elongated portion is releasably attachable to the first elongated portion by way of a first removable locking pin.

6. The safety barrier support according to claim 5, wherein the first locking pin is positioned through one of the first apertures on the second elongated portion and through a second aperture located on the first elongated portion.

7. The safety barrier support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the base plate comprises one or more fixing apertures to allow for attachment of the base plate to the building surface.

8. The safety barrier support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first rail support bracket is adapted to receive one or more safety rails.

9. The safety barrier support according to claim 8, wherein the first rail support bracket comprises a first clamping means to allow the one or more safety rails to be secured within the first rail support bracket.

10. The safety barrier support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second rail support bracket is adapted to receive one or more safety rails.

11. The safety barrier support according to claim 10, wherein the second rail support bracket comprises a second clamping means to allow the one or more safety rails to be secured within the second rail support bracket.

12. The safety barrier support according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the first clamping means and/or second clamping means comprises a screw clamp, and wherein an engaging portion of the screw clamp is adapted to abut and apply a compressive force to at least one safety rail.

13. The safety barrier support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second rail support bracket is adapted for slidable engagement about the second elongated portion of the central support column.

14. The safety barrier support according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second rail support bracket is releasably attachable to the second elongated portion at predefined attachment positions along the second elongated portion.

15. The safety barrier support according to claim 14, wherein the predefined attachment positions coincide with the plurality of first apertures located along the second elongated portion.

16. The safety barrier support according to claim 15, wherein the second rail support bracket is releasably attachable to the second elongated portion by way of a second removable locking pin.

17. The safety barrier support according to claim 16, wherein the second locking pin is positioned through one of the first apertures on the second elongated portion and through a third aperture located on the second rail support bracket.

18. The safety barrier support according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a kickboard support bracket affixed to the first elongated portion of the central support column, wherein the kickboard support bracket is adapted to receive a kickboard.

19. The safety barrier support according to claim 18, wherein the kickboard support bracket is positioned adjacent to the base plate.

20. The safety barrier support according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one third rail support bracket affixed to the second elongated portion of the central support column.

21. The safety barrier support according to claim 20, wherein the third rail support bracket is adapted to receive one or more safety rails.

22. The safety barrier support according to claim 21, wherein the third rail support bracket comprises a third clamping means to allow the one or more safety rails to be secured within the third rail support bracket.

23. A temporary safety barrier system comprising:

one or more safety barrier supports according to claim 1, each of the one or more safety barrier supports being attached to a building surface; and

at least one safety rail extending between the first rail support brackets of adjacent safety barrier supports, and at least one safety rail extending between the second rail support brackets of adjacent safety barrier supports,

24. A method for erecting a temporary safety barrier, the method comprising:

slidably engaging the second elongated portion with the first elongated portion; releasably attaching the second elongated portion to the first elongated portion; and releasably attaching the at least one second rail support bracket to the second elongated portion of the central support column to set a desired vertical positon of the at least one second rail support bracket by way of at least one removable locking pin connected to the at least one second rail support bracket.