WO2014134687A1

WO2014134687A1 - A modular barrier system

Info

Publication number: WO2014134687A1
Application number: PCT/AU2014/000227
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephen Roy THRUSH; Dean Anthony VOS; Iain Kilburn White
Original assignee: Moddex Group Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2013-03-07
Filing date: 2014-03-07
Publication date: 2014-09-12
Also published as: GB201517535D0; GB2526755A; NZ631866A; GB2526755B; AU2014225303A1; CA2903885A1; AU2014225303B2; CA2903885C

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a modular barrier system comprising elongate barriers adapted to conform to a substantially flat surface. An orientation of a first barrier with respect to a second adjacent barrier is selectively adjustable such that the barrier system provides a continuous barrier at changes in direction at an edge of the surface.

Description

A Modular Barrier System

Field of the Invention

[001] The present invention relates to a modular barrier system and, in particular, to a modular barrier system for preventing items from falling over an edge of a surface.

Background to the Invention

[002] In some situations, it is necessary to provide protection at the edge of a surface in order to prevent items from falling off the surface. For example, in high- rise construction applications, it is imperative that items not be dropped from higher floors, lest those falling items injure people below. Thus, a barrier must be provided around the edge of the entire work area to prevent items from rolling, sliding or otherwise falling from the surface. Similarly, disabled access ramps must be provided with a barrier that prevents a wheelchair from being able to dismount off the ramp or get a wheel stuck, which might cause the occupant to fall out of the wheelchair or otherwise sustain an injury.

[003] Such surfaces, however, are rarely completely flat and rectangular shaped, but often have corners, stairs and ramps of different inclinations. It can therefore be difficult and time consuming to build an effective barrier system covering the entire area and which conforms to the topography of the surface and complies with relevant Standards and/or OHS (Occupational Health and Safety) Regulations. There may, therefore, be a temptation to take short cuts (both by planners and installers), which may leave small, but nonetheless dangerous gaps, breaks, overhangs or protrusions in the barrier system.

[004] It would be advantageous to provide a barrier system capable of conforming to the surface of any given area.

Summary of the Invention

[005] The present invention provides a modular barrier system comprising elongate barriers adapted to conform to a substantially flat surface. An orientation of a first barrier with respect to a second adjacent barrier is selectively adjustable such that the barrier system provides a continuous barrier at changes in direction of an edge of the surface. [006] In one form, the modular barrier system further comprises a joiner adapted to join the first and the second adjacent barriers. When joined, an orientation of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier is selectively adjustable such that the barrier system provides a continuous barrier at changes in direction of an edge of the surface.

[007] Thus, regardless of the topography and shape of the surface with which the barrier system of the present invention is to be used, it is possible to provide a continuous barrier system at an edge (although it will be appreciated that the barriers do not necessarily need to be situated at the very edge of the surface) of the surface that does not have any gaps through which items could pass or become caught in (e.g. gaps as defined by relevant Standards or Regulations, such as those discussed below). The length of the barriers and their joined respective orientations are selectively adjustable such that the barrier system can closely follow the topography of any given surface (e.g. surface edges which change direction because of a ramp going up or down to a higher or lower level, or surface edges which change direction because they are at a corner of the surface). The modular nature of the barrier system facilitates assembly/disassembly of the barrier system, and the disassembled components of the barrier system can be easily relocated for re-use.

[008] In some embodiments, the joiner enables pivotal movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier (i.e. when joined). For example, the joiner may enable a lateral hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier (i.e. where the first and second barriers can move with respect to each other in the same horizontal plane, such as when the barrier system needs to turn a corner on a flat surface). Alternatively, the joiner may enable a longitudinal hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier (i.e. where the first and second barriers can move with respect to each other in the same vertical plane, such as where the barrier system needs to follow a ramp having an upward or downward inclination). In some embodiments, the joiner may provide for both a lateral hinging movement and a longitudinal hinging movement (i.e. where the first and second barriers can move with respect to each other in the same vertical and horizontal planes, such as where the barrier system needs to turn a corner and follow a ramp having an upward or downward inclination). [009] In embodiments where the joiner enables a lateral hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier, the joiner may, for example, comprise first and second portions, the first portion being adapted to be rotatably received within the second portion. For example, the joiner may comprise a cylindrical rod that is rotatable within a sheath.

[0010] In embodiments where the joiner enables a longitudinal hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier, the joiner may, for example, comprise first and second adjacent portions, the first and second portions being pivotally connected to each other in an offset manner (e.g. at an upper or lower portion thereof). Where the first and second portions are pivotally connected to each other at an upper portion thereof, the joiner enables an upwards hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier (e.g. as would be required at the bottom of a ramp). Where the first and second portions are pivotally connected to each other at a lower portion thereof, the joiner enables a downwards hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier (e.g. as would be required at the top of a ramp).

[0011] In some embodiments, the joiner may comprise first and second tongues for receipt at (e.g. inside) the first and second barriers respectively. Alternatively, the joiner may comprise first and second grooves or channels that are adapted to receive the barriers therein.

[0012] In some embodiments, the system further comprises joiners that simply join first and second barriers with no change of direction in the barrier system, thereby ensuring the continued integrity of long continuous runs of the barrier.

[0013] Typically, the barrier system of the invention will comprise a plurality of joiners. The number and type of joiners will depend on factors such as the size of the area to be protected using the barrier system, the topography of the surface of the area, engineering requirements and relevant Standards and/or Regulations that must be complied with.

[0014] The joiners for use in the system of the present invention can be made of any material suitable for their application. In some applications, it may be appropriate to provide plastic joiners (e.g. fibre-reinforced plastic joiners or joiners made out of plastics such as HDPE), but in other, more demanding, applications, the joiners will need to be metallic. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials include pressed metal, aluminium, steel, Nylon, fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) or any appropriate combination thereof.

[0015] In some embodiments, the barriers are formed from an extruded material. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials include aluminium and rigid plastics (Pultrusion) Nylon, fibre-reinforced plastic or any appropriate combination thereof.

[0016] In some embodiments, the barrier system further comprises attachments via which the barrier system can be anchored to the surface. Such attachments include posts or stanchions that can be secured to the surface (e.g. via appropriate concrete fixing or mechanical anchors such as bolts in the case of hard surfaces such as concrete, or screws in the case of softer surfaces such as wood, or cast in place or fitted into cast-in-place adapters) and then attached to the barriers. The barriers can be attached to the post or stanchion via any suitable mechanism known in the art. Alternatively (or in addition), the joiners may be adapted for attachment to the posts or stanchions. Other suitable attachments include scaffolding, walls (brick or concrete) and steel structures.

[0017] The barrier system extends from the surface to a height sufficient to substantially prevent items on the surface from passing the barrier system. This height will depend on the requirements of the application for which the barrier system is to be used (including any relevant Standards or governance requirements). For example, in some embodiments, the barrier system is intended for use in high-rise construction applications. In these applications, it is imperative that items not be dropped from higher floors, lest those items injure people below. Australian Standard number AS 1657— 1992 requires that a barrier system in such a location have a height of at least of 100 mm above the surface. Thus, in some embodiments, the barrier system may extends to a height from the surface of between about 100mm and about 120mm (although if compliance with AS 1657— 1992 is not an issue, the barrier system may extend to a height from the surface of between about 80mm and about 120mm).

[0018] In other embodiments, the barrier system is intended for use in preventing wheelchairs from accidentally rolling off the edge of disabled access ramps. As will be appreciated, the height of such a barrier system from the surface may not need to be as great as that for high rise construction applications. Australian Standard number AS 1428— 2009 requires that a barrier system in such a location be within a specific height range (as will be discussed in further detail below).

[0019] The barriers may be of any convenient length, and may be cut to size if necessary for a particular application. In some embodiments, the barriers are provided with a uniform length or a variety of uniform lengths (e.g. to best conform to standard stanchion spacing, or lengths governed by Australian Standards). For example, in some embodiments, the barriers may be provided in lengths of about 2.6m and about 4.6m whilst, in other embodiments, the barriers may be provided in lengths of about 2.0m and about 4.0m.

[0020] The barriers are adapted to conform to the substantially flat surface. It is to be understood that this does not mean that the barriers need to be flush with the surface (which could cause problems with water drainage, etc.), but that they follow the surface in a close manner and do not provide any substantial gaps between the barrier and the surface. For example, Australian Standard number AS 1657— 1992 requires that a barrier system for use in the high-rise construction applications discussed above must not ever be more than 10mm away from the substantially flat surface.

[0021] The barrier system of the present invention may be used for any application where a barrier system is required. For example, the barrier system of the present invention could be used in elevated areas (as discussed previously) or at the edge of a pathway having a ramp, such as those provided for disabled access. The barrier system of the present invention could also be used as a barrier or guard rail as an alternative to standard tube guardrails.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022] A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0023] Figure 1 shows a barrier system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figures 2A, 2B and 2C show components of the barrier system of Figure 1 ; [0025] Figure 3 shows a barrier system in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 4 shows a barrier of the barrier system of Figure 3;

[0027] Figure 5 shows a first joiner of the barrier system of Figure 3;

[0028] Figure 6 shows the first joiner of Figure 5 in use;

[0029] Figure 7 shows a second joiner of the barrier system of Figure 3;

[0030] Figure 8 shows the second joiner of Figure 7 in an alternate configuration;

[0031 ] Figure 9 shows a third joiner of the barrier system of Figure 3;

[0032] Figure 10 shows alternate components for use in the barrier system of Figure

1 ;

[0033] Figures 1 1A, 11 B and 11 C show alternate components for use in the barrier system of Figure 1 ;

[0034] Figures 12A and 12B show alternate components for use in the barrier system of Figure 1 ;

[0035] Figures 13A and 13B show alternate components for use in the barrier system of Figure 1 ; and

[0036] Figures 14A, 14 B and 14C show alternate components for use in the barrier system of Figure 3.

Description of Specific Embodiments of the Invention

[0037] As noted above, in its most general form, the present invention relates to a modular barrier system comprising elongate barriers adapted to conform to a substantially flat surface. An orientation of a first barrier with respect to a second adjacent barrier is selectively adjustable such that the barrier system provides a continuous barrier at changes in direction of an edge of the surface (e.g. at a corner of the surface or where the gradient of the surface changes).

[0038] In a more particular form, the present invention provides a modular barrier system comprising elongate barriers adapted to conform to a substantially flat surface and a joiner adapted to join first and second adjacent barriers. When joined, an orientation of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier is selectively adjustable such that the barrier system provides a continuous barrier at changes in direction of the edge of the surface. [0039] General features of general embodiments of the present invention have been discussed above. A detailed description of specific embodiments of the present invention with reference to the drawings will now follow.

[0040] The barrier systems described below are intended for use in high-rise construction (or other elevated industrial work areas such as fixed platforms, walkways, stairways, and ladders) and in disabled access applications. The requirements of barrier systems for use in these applications are governed by Australian Standard numbers AS 1657—1992 and AS 1428—2009, relevant clauses of which are set out below.

[0041] AS 1657— 1992 contains the following requirements:

3.2.1.2 Toe-board A toe-board complying with Clause 3.4.3 shall be provided at the edge of a platform, walkway, or landing, which is greater than 10 mm distant from a permanent structure and where an object could fall more than 2000 mm.

3.4.3 Toe-board The toe-board shall be firmly attached to the floor or posts, and any gap between the toe-board and the floor shall not exceed 10 mm. The top of the toe-board shall be not less than 100 mm above the top of the floor.

[0042] AS 1428—2009 contains the following requirements (in Clause 10.3):

(i) Ramps and intermediate landings shall have kerbs or kerb rails on both sides that comply with the following:

(i) The minimum height above the finished floor shall be 65 mm.

(ii) The height of the top of the kerb or kerb rail shall not be within the range 75 mm to 150 mm above the finished floor, as shown in Figure 18 [of the Standard],

(iii) There shall be no longitudinal gap or slot greater than 20 mm in the kerb or kerb rail within the range 75 mm to 150 mm above the finished floor.

(j) Kerbs or kerb rails shall— (i) be located so that the ramp-side face is either flush with the ramp- side face of the handrail or no greater than 100 mm away from the ramp-side face of the handrail, as shown in Figure 19 [of the Standard];

(ii) where the handrail is supported on a vertical post, the height of the top of the kerb or kerb rail shall be not less than 150 mm above the finished floor, as shown in Figures 19(a), 19(b) or 19(c) [of the Standard]; and

(iii) where the kerb is at a height of 65 mm to 75 mm, the support posts shall be set back a minimum of 200 mm from the face of the kerb or kerb rail, as shown in Figure 19(d) [of the Standard].

[0043] Referring firstly to Figures 1 and 2, a portion of a barrier system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention is shown in the form of barrier rail 10. Barrier rail 10 provides a barrier on both sides of a walkway 12 that is located on an elevated floor of a high-rise building (not shown). Workers on walkway 12 are prevented from falling off the walkway 12 by railings 14. However, railings 14 are generally not able to prevent items such as workers' tools and the like rolling, sliding or otherwise falling off the walkway 12. Barrier rail 10 conforms to the surface of the walkway 12 and provides a gap no more than 10mm between the surface and the barrier rail 10. Thus, barrier rail 10 can substantially prevent items from sliding or rolling (e.g. by being kicked by a worker or due to a slight incline in the surface) off the walkway 12.

[0044] Barrier rail 10 is attached to the walkway 12 via posts 16. For example, a C- shaped clamp 17 may be used to attach the barrier rail 10 to post 16 in locations where the barrier rail is linear (see Figure 2B). The C-shaped clamp 17 may be provided with apertures 18 which can be aligned with corresponding apertures 19 in barrier rail 10, and the two connected using a nut and bolt, or other suitable fastener. In locations where the barrier rail changes direction, such as at corner 20 (see Figures 2A and 2C), joining pieces may be provided that are adapted to clamp or otherwise be attached to the post 16 and attach to and join adjacent barrier rails 10 and 10. In some embodiments, such as that shown in Figures 1 and 2C, the barrier rail 10 is located on the inside of the post 16. However, the barrier rail could just as easily be located on the outside of such posts, as shown in Figure 2A, for example if a wider walkway was required. [0045] As the barrier rails 10 are provided with slots (e.g. apertures 19) along their length, it is not necessary to drill holes through them in order to securely affix them in place. This not only makes installation easier and less time consuming, but the rails are also not damaged with each successive use. As will be appreciated, drilling holes through metal products greatly increases the corrosion rate of the products.

[0046] Barrier systems such as those described above in respect of Figure 1 do not necessarily require separate components for joining adjacent rails. Adjacent rails could, for example, be joined by bolting them together, or by simply causing them to be firmly held in a fixed relationship to each other. At corners, for example, two rails could be positioned perpendicularly (or at any other angle) to each other and then fixed in that position by attaching the rails to posts in a similar manner to that described above. Alternatively, a corner piece adapted to be attached to a rail at the corner and also to each of the perpendicularly orientated rails could be used to securely join the rails (see Figure 2C).

[0047] Referring now to Figure 3, a portion of a barrier system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention is shown in the form of barrier rail 21. Barrier rail 21 provides a barrier on one side of a walkway 22 that includes a disabled access ramp 24 (in practice, the barrier rail 21 would also be present on the other side of the walkway 22 and ramp 24, but this has been omitted for clarity). People using walkway 22 and ramp 24 are prevented from falling off the walkway and ramp by railings 26. However, railings 26 might not prevent the wheels of a wheelchair from falling off the edge of the walkway 22 and ramp 24 (as required by AS 1428). In order to prevent this occurring (and, indeed, complying with Australian Standards), it is necessary for disabled access ramps etc. to be provided with preventative measures. Existing barrier systems do not necessarily provide a continuous system, and have gaps or exposed edges where the wheels of a wheelchair can become stuck, with potentially unacceptable consequences. However, as will be described below, barrier rail 21 is a continuous barrier rail which does not have such gaps or edges, but instead conforms to the surface of the walkway 22, both as it turns a corner and then inclines to go down the ramp 24. Obviously, in such applications, the barrier rail 20 must be on the inside of the railings 26 to prevent the wheel of a wheelchair being caught by the railings 26. [0048] A detailed view of barrier rail 21 is shown in Figure 4. Barrier rail 21 is formed from extruded aluminium and can be provided in any desired length. Barrier rail 21 can readily be cut (e.g. with a power saw, angle grinder or hacksaw) during installation into pieces of the appropriate length. Barrier rail 21 includes recessed portions 28, which have a narrower cross section and through which screws or the like can be passed, with the head of the fastener recessed to avoid catching something (e.g. a person's shoes or clothes, or a wheel). The interior 30 of the rail 21 is shaped to receive joiners of the type which will be discussed below. Barrier rail 21 also has an attachment portion 32 via which a face board or the like can be attached to the rail, and a lip 34, which can assist in locating the rail 21 with respect to an edge.

[0049] As discussed above, in some embodiments the joiner enables a longitudinal hinging movement (i.e. an in-plane hinging movement) of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier. An example of such a joiner is shown in Figures 5 and 6 as joiner 40. Joiner 40 has first and second portions 42 and 44, which are capable of being joined at their lower portions by a fastener in the form of bolt 46 (although not shown, portions 42 and 44 could also be joined at an upper extremity by bolt 46 or another form of fastener). First and second portions 42 and 44 each have a tongue 48 and 50, respectively, which is shaped to be received within the interior 30 of a barrier rail 21 . Once tongue 48 (for example) is received within the interior of a first rail 21 , it can be securely affixed thereto by passing one or more screws or other suitable fastener through the rail 21 and tongue 48 at the recessed portions 28.

[0050] Joiner 40 is moveable between two positions; a closed position (not shown), and an open position (as shown in Figures 5 and 6). Joiner 40 joins two rails 21 and 21 in a manner whereby the two rails 21 and 21 can be positioned on a flat surface and an angled surface, respectively (e.g. at the top or bottom of the ramp 24 shown in Figure 3), but whilst providing a continuous barrier (via barrier 21 , joiner 40 and barrier 21 ). A continuous barrier is provided because the joiner 40, when in its opened position to join barriers 21 , 21 at an angle to each other, does not have any gap or hole.

[0051] Figure 6 shows joiner 40 joining two rails 21 , 21 at the junction of walkway 22 and ramp 24. Rail 26 supports the barrier 21 and keeps the barrier system in place in order to prevent a wheel from falling off the walkway/ramp, even if struck with some force.

[0052] As also discussed above, in some embodiments the joiner enables a lateral hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier. An example of such a joiner is shown in Figures 7 and 8 as joiner 60. Joiner 60 has first and second portions 62 and 64, which are joined via hinge 66. Hinge 66 has an inner cylindrical portion 68 that is part of second portion 64 and a sheath 70 that is part of first portion 62. Cylindrical portion 68 and sheath 70 cooperate to enable the first 62 and second 64 portions to move hingedly with respect to each other, as can be seen by comparing Figures 7 and 8.

[0053] First and second portions 62 and 64 each have a tongue 72 and 74, respectively, which is shaped to be received within the interior 30 of a barrier rail 21. Once tongue 72 (for example) is received within the interior of a first rail 21 , it can be securely affixed thereto in the manner described above.

[0054] Joiner 60 joins two rails 21 and 21 in a manner whereby the two rails 21 and 21 can be positioned on a flat surface at any angle up to and including perpendicular with respect to each other (e.g. at the corner of the walkway 22 shown in Figure 3), but whilst providing a continuous barrier (via barrier 21 , joiner 60 and barrier 21 ).

[0055] Figure 9 shows a further joiner 80 which has two tongues 82 and 84 that are aligned with each other and shaped to be received within the interior 30 of a barrier rail 21 and secured as discussed above. Joiner 80 is intended for use when it is necessary to join two co-linear barrier rails 21 , 21 , but with no change in direction of the barrier system required.

[0056] In some embodiments (not shown), it is possible to join two co-linear barrier rails 21 , 21 , with no change in direction of the barrier system, using joiner 40 or joiner 60. Whilst joiners 40 and 60 are more structurally complicated than joiner 80, it may be more convenient in some circumstances to use fewer components in the barrier system.

[0057] In some embodiments (not shown), it is possible to provide one of the barriers 21 having an end that is not substantially perpendicular, but which has been cut at an angle to match that of the ramp. In such embodiments, a joiner 60 or 80 could be used at the top or bottom of the ramp instead of a joiner 40. As would be appreciated, cutting an end of the barrier to conform exactly to the surface of the ramp would require precise measurements and cutting tools and, once cut, the barrier may well not be useful for other applications. Such a barrier may, however, be useful in conjunction with a joiner 60 in situations where the edge of the surface changes angle and direction at the same time (e.g. where there is a corner directly at the bottom of a ramp).

[0058] The barriers and joiners for use in the present invention can be made from any suitable metallic or non-metallic materials, including aluminium, aluminium alloys, mild steel (optionally galvanised), fibre reinforced plastics or engineering plastics such as Nylon and HDPE. The barriers and joiners can be produced by any suitable process, including roll-forming, moulding or casting processes.

[0059] Those of skill in the art will appreciate that modifications or changes to the particular embodiments described above can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. All such modifications and changes are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.

[0060] For example, an alternate form of a joiner for joining barriers 0, 10 at a selectively adjustable change of direction at an edge of a surface is shown in Figure 10. Joiner 100 has a nut 102 and bolt 104, with two wings 106, 106 beatable on the shaft of the nut 102 between the nut head and bolt 104. Each of wings 106 has an aperture 108 via which the joiner 100 can be affixed to adjacent barriers 10, 10 (e.g. as discussed above). As will be appreciated, once the nut 102 and bolt 104 are tightened together, the relative orientation of wings 106, 106, and hence the barriers 10, 10 to which they are affixed, will be fixed. Joiner 100 can be used to join adjacent barriers 0, 10 at practically any angle to each other, provided that the joined barriers do not physically contact each other (e.g. as would be the case if the barriers were at a very tight angle).

[0061] Advantageously, the joiner 100 does not require a post 16 in order to join barriers 10, 10 at a corner. Rails such as rails 16 shown in Figure 2B could be provided at a short distance from the corner in order to provide a barrier system having an appropriate strength. [0062] Yet another form of a joiner for joining barriers 10, 10 at a selectively adjustable change of direction at an edge of a surface is shown in Figures 11 A, 1 1 B and 11C. Joiner 1 10 has two parts 112 and 1 14. Part 112 has a wing 116 which has apertures 118, via which wing 1 16 can be affixed to a barrier 10 (e.g. as discussed above). Part 112 also has a joining portion 120 that has an arc shaped wall 122 which projects outwardly from a rim 124. Similarly, part 1 14 has a wing 126 which has apertures 128, via which wing 126 can be affixed to a barrier 10 (e.g. as discussed above). Part 114 also has a joining portion 128 that has an arc shaped wall 130 which projects outwardly from a rim 132 and is co-axial with the arc shaped wall 122 of part 112.

[0063] Parts 1 12 and 1 14 are couplable together, with arc shaped wall 122 being configured to be matingly received within arc shaped wall 130. In this position, the distal end of arc shaped wall 122 abuts rim 132 and the distal end of arc shaped wall 130 abuts rim 124, with parts 112 and 114 being capable of rotating with respect to each other about a central axis (not shown) of arc shaped walls 122 and 130.

[0064] When connected, walls 122 and 130 define a substantially circular wall which is adapted to receive and clamp a rail (e.g. rail 16) therein. In use, a rail can be positioned where two barriers 10, 10 are to be joined and anchored to the surface. Each of the parts 1 12, 114 can then be slid onto the rail via the gaps in the walls/rims. The wings 116 and 126 can then be rotated such that they are at a desired angle to each other, and screw 134 tightened to effectively lock parts 1 12 and 114 together in that configuration, as well as fastening the joiner 1 10 to the rail.

[0065] Advantageously, joiner 110 can be used to join barriers 10, 10 at a range of angles, but can also be positioned on the inside (i.e. the barriers would join on the outer side of the rail 16 (not shown)) of a barrier system (as would be the case, for example, when the parts 1 12 and 1 14 are in the configuration shown in Figure 1 1A) or on the outside (i.e. the barriers would join on the inner side of the rail 16 (not shown)) of a barrier system (as would be the case, for example, when the parts 1 12 and 114 are in the configuration shown in Figure 11 C). Thus, joiner 1 10 could be used to join all barriers 10, 10 to form a barrier system having practically any shape. As would be appreciated, providing a single joiner capable of joining barriers at practically any angle could greatly simplify the installation process. [0066] Another form of a joiner for joining barriers 10, 10 at a corner of a surface is shown in Figures 12A and 12B. Joiner 140 includes a number of plates which, when assembled (as is shown in Figure 12A), provide surfaces adapted for fastening to an end of a barrier 10 and a stanchion 141 (or a rail 16, not shown), hence attaching the barrier 10 to the stanchion 141. In the Figures, the joiner 140 is shown having six plates for illustrative purposes only; in normal use only two plates would be required. In the embodiment shown, joiner 140 has three left-leading plates 142A, 142B and 142C, and three right-leading plates 144A, 144B and 144C. Plates 142A and 144A are identical to each other, but rotated by 180 degrees. Similarly, plates 142B and 144B and 142C and 144C are identical to each other, but rotated by 180 degrees.

[0067] Plate 142A (by way of example) has a barrier attachment portion 146, an angled portion 148, and a stanchion attachment portion 150. Barrier attachment portion 146 has two elongate apertures 151 which can align with the apertures 19 in the barrier rail 10, with fastening mechanisms (e.g. a nut and bolt, not shown) being passable through apertures 151 , 151 and 19, 19 to attach the barrier 10 to the plate 142A. Stanchion attachment portion 150 has a number of apertures shown generally at 152, which are adapted to receive screws 153 (or other suitable fasteners) to attach the plate 142A to the stanchion 141 . As can be seen in Figures 12A and 12B, apertures 152 are alignable with corresponding apertures on the stanchion attachment portions of other left-leading plates (i.e. plates 142B and 142C in Figure 12) and right leading plates (i.e. plates 144A, 144B and 144C in Figure 12) so that all of the plates can, if desired, be attached to the stanchion 141. In normal use, however, only one left-leading and one right-leading plate would be attached to the stanchion 141 , depending on the desired configuration and orientation of the barriers 10, 10 with respect to the stanchion 141 or rail 16.

[0068] When attached to the stanchion 141 , the barrier attachment portion of the respective corresponding left- and right-leading plates are either substantially perpendicular or parallel to one another. Thus, barriers 10, 10 attached to the barrier attachment portion of the respective corresponding left- and right- leading plates are also either substantially perpendicular or parallel to each other, as would be required at a corner of a surface or where two in-line barriers meet, respectively. In the embodiment shown in Figure 12, six plates are depicted in order to illustrate the various positions and orientations of the barrier attachment portions 146 of the respective plates 142, and hence the numerous possibilities available to position the barrier 10 with respect to the stanchion 141 (and hence the rails 16 etc., as shown in Figure 1 ). In some embodiments, just two corresponding plates (e.g. plates 142A and 144A) may be all that is required. As will be appreciated, providing just a few plates for use in this embodiment results in a number of potential barrier configurations at surface corners, thereby giving an installer many options to meet the specific requirement of any given installation site. As would also be appreciated, the respective angles of the barrier attachment portion 146, angled portion 148, and a stanchion attachment portion 150 could be varied to allow for configurations other than parallel and perpendicular.

[0069] Other forms of joiners for joining barriers 10, 10 at a corner of a surface are shown in Figures 13A and 13B. Joiner 154 has substantially perpendicular arms 155, 155 which are separated by a bend 156 having a relatively small radius. In contrast, joiner 157 has substantially perpendicular arms 158, 158 which are separated by a bend 159 having a relatively large radius. Arms 155 and 158 are adapted to be received in the grooves of the barrier 10 (see Figure 2) to provide a flush fitting between the joiners 154, 157 and barriers 10. The apertures in the arms 155, 158 can align with the apertures 19 in the barrier rail 10, with fastening mechanisms (e.g. a nut and bolt, not shown) being used to attach the barriers 10 to each side of the joiner 154, 157.

[0070] Finally, an alternate form of a joiner for joining barriers 21 , 21 at a selectively adjustable change of direction at an edge of a surface is shown in Figures 14A, 14B and 14C in the form of joiner 160. Joiner 160 enables a lateral hinging movement of a first barrier (not shown for clarity) with respect to a second barrier (also not shown). Joiner 160 has first and second portions 162 and 164, which are joined via hinge 166. Hinge 166 is formed by an arc shaped edge portion 168 of first portion 162 and an arc shaped edge portion 170 of second portion 164. In the orientation shown in Figure 12A, an upper side of arc shaped edge portion 168 has a pin 172 that is shaped to be matingly received in a corresponding sheath 174 accessible from a lower side of arc shaped edge portion 70. Each edge portion 168, 170 is substantially arc shaped and extends for approximately half the respective portions' 162, 164 height. As can be seen from Figures 14A and 14B, once pin 172 is inserted into sheath 174 the upper side of edge portion 168 abuts the lower side of edge portion 170, and the first and second portions 162 and 164 are hingedly coupled to one another, as can be seen by comparing Figures 14B and 14C. [0071] First and second portions 162 and 164 each have a tongue 176 and 178, respectively which, in this embodiment, is provided by three ribs that are shaped to be received within respective channels within the interior 30 of a barrier rail 21. Once tongue 176 (for example) is received within the interior of a first rail 21 , it can be securely affixed thereto in the manner described above. Joiner 160 joins two rails 21 and 21 in a manner whereby the two rails 21 and 21 can be positioned on a flat surface at any angle up to and including perpendicular with respect to each other (e.g. at the corner of the walkway 22 shown in Figure 3), but whilst providing a continuous barrier (via barrier 21 , joiner 160 and barrier 21 ).

[0072] As will be appreciated, embodiments of the present invention can provide a number of advantages over existing barrier systems. Such advantages include:

• the modular nature of the barrier rails and other components enables the barrier system to be used in almost any application (many existing systems include components which need to be modified for each specific application)

• the modular nature of the barrier system enables it to be used "as is", with no special design or engineering being required prior to installation

• the components of the barrier system are reusable, relocatable and adjustable

• only a small number of components are required to construct the barrier system

• many of the components of the barrier system can be formed from recyclable materials

• the barrier system can be easily disassembled and, once disassembled, easily transportable to other locations (e.g. the next floor up on a high rise construction site). In contrast, many existing systems include cumbersome, long and heavy components, which require specialist equipment (e.g. cranes) to move them and have an attendant risk of worker injury

• the barrier system can increase the safety provided when compared to existing barrier systems, and in a more cost effective manner

• due to the method of construction, components of the barrier system are unlikely to corrode or break quickly, which can dramatically increase the safety of the barrier systems • it is not necessary to weld any components, which would require skilled welders, a suitable source of electricity and permanently affix components together

• there is no need to predrill, drill or tap holes through the barrier rails for fixing them in place - fixing can be achieved by simply self-tap screwing the barrier rails in place

• In many embodiments, any screws or bolts in the barriers are recessed, making them less likely to snag hazards (e.g. for shoes or the wheels of wheelchairs)

[0073] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

Claims

Claims:

1. A modular barrier system comprising:

elongate barriers adapted to conform to a substantially flat surface, whereby an orientation of a first barrier with respect to a second adjacent barrier is selectively adjustable such that the barrier system provides a continuous barrier at changes in direction of an edge of the surface.

2. The modular barrier system of claim 1 , further comprising:

a joiner adapted to join the first and the second adjacent barriers, wherein, when joined, an orientation of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier is selectively adjustable such that the barrier system provides a continuous barrier at changes in direction of an edge of the surface.

3. The modular barrier system of claim 2, wherein the joiner enables a pivotal movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier.

4. The modular barrier system of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the joiner enables a lateral hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier.

5. The modular barrier system of claim 4, wherein the joiner comprises first and second portions, the first portion being adapted to be rotatably received within the second portion.

6. The modular barrier system of claim 4 or claim 5, wherein the joiner comprises a cylindrical rod that is rotatable within a sheath.

7. The modular barrier system of claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the joiner enables a longitudinal hinging movement of the first barrier with respect to the second barrier.

8. The modular barrier system of claim 7, wherein the joiner comprises first and second adjacent portions, the first and second portions being pivotally connected to each other in an offset manner.

9. The modular barrier system of any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein the joiner comprises first and second tongues for receipt at the first and second barriers respectively.

10. The modular barrier system of any one of claims 2 to 9, comprising a plurality of joiners.

11. The modular barrier system of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the barriers are formed from an extruded material.

12. The modular barrier system of any one of claims 1 to 1 1 , wherein the barrier system further comprises attachments via which the barrier system can be anchored to the surface.

13. The modular barrier system of any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the barrier system extends to a height from the surface of between about 80mm and about 120mm.

14. The modular barrier system of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein any gap between the substantially flat surface and the barrier is less than 10mm.

15. The modular barrier system of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the edge of the surface is an edge of an elevated area.

16. The modular barrier system of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the edge of the surface is an edge of a pathway having a ramp.