WO2018009984A1

WO2018009984A1 - Safety barrier system for buildings

Info

Publication number: WO2018009984A1
Application number: PCT/AU2017/050734
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kenneth Alan Cox
Original assignee: 4 Ken Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2016-07-15
Filing date: 2017-07-14
Publication date: 2018-01-18
Also published as: AU2017294799A1; AU2017100965B4; AU2017100965A4

Abstract

This invention relates to a system for erecting a safety barrier about a building. The system includes a pair of support members releasably secured to or arranged adjacent to the building in spaced apart relationship. One or more impact resistant panels adapted to be positioned so as to extend between and be supported by the support members. The supported panels enclose an associated region of the building to provide a safety barrier about the building. The pair of support members define a track along which the panels can be moved for selective positioning of the panel relative to the building or adjacent structure (e.g. scaffold assembly) during construction or restoration.

Description

Safety Barrier System for Buildings

Technical Field

[0001 ] The present invention relates generally to construction of buildings, and more particularly to a system and method for erecting a safety barrier during the construction or restoration of a building.

[0002] The invention has been developed primarily for erecting safety barriers, screens, or panels to a scaffold assembly and will be described primarily in this context. It should be appreciated, however, that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use, being also applicable to erecting a safety barrier, panel or screen directly to a building or building facade.

Background to the invention

[0003] The following discussion of the prior art is intended to facilitate an understanding of the invention and to enable the advantages of it to be more fully understood. It should be appreciated, however, that any reference to prior art throughout the specification should not be construed as an express or implied admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

[0004] Scaffolding is temporary framing typically used to support people and materials during the construction or repair of buildings or other large structures. It is usually modular, based on a combination of elongate tubes or rods and associated connecting elements. Most modern scaffolding is assembled from a combination of tubular metal framing elements - usually formed from steel or aluminium - in predetermined lengths and incorporating complementary end fittings. Decking boards, typically formed from timber or metal (steel or aluminium), are positioned to extend horizontally between the framing elements, to provide a working surface, platform or "decking" for users of the scaffold.

[0005] The primary framing elements of a typical scaffold include "standards", "ledgers", "transoms" and "cross braces". Standards are the upright or vertical elements that transfer the mass of the structure to the ground, a base or some other suitable support. Ledgers are horizontal members connected to extend between the standards. Transoms extend horizontally between the ledgers, to provide support for the decking boards. Cross braces are typically positioned to extend diagonally from standard to standard, to increase the rigidity of the scaffold structure. Various types of complementary special purpose end fittings or "couplers" are typically used to releasably connect the various framing and decking elements together.

[0006] For a general-purpose scaffold, the modular elements are usually assembled to form a contiguous matrix of rectangular prismatic "bays". The dimensions of these bays can vary according to the intended application and design loading. However, for typical applications, the bay length is usually around 2.4 m. The bay width is determined by the intended use of the scaffold, which affects the number and width of the associated decking boards. The minimum acceptable width is usually 440 mm. Platform widths typically extend beyond that minimum in discrete multiples of approximately 220 mm, which corresponds to the width of a standard board. Thus, a typical four-board scaffold would be around 880 mm in width, from standard to standard. The height or "lift" of each bay is typically around 2 m, although the base lift can sometimes be larger. Transom spacing is determined by the length and strength of the boards to be supported, but usually ranges from 1 .2 m to 3.5 m.

[0007] Modular scaffolding can be assembled in a variety of ways according to the intended application, although the spacing and positioning of the main elements tends to be relatively standardised for particular applications according to prevailing safety standards, building and construction codes, manufacturers' recommendations and established best practice. These factors are well known and understood by those skilled in the art, and so need not be described in further detail.

[0008] The basic structural elements and methods of assembly of scaffolding are reasonably well developed. However, scaffolders and the public below are nevertheless exposed to significant risks, particularly during the process of erecting, modifying or dismantling a scaffold. Once fully assembled, safety standards dictate that edge protection comprising an upper guard rail and a mid-level guard rail must be installed above each level of decking. These guard rails are formed by positioning ledgers at the appropriate heights. It is also usual in most applications to fit a toe board on the outer face of the scaffold, immediately on top of or level with the working platform or deck. This edge protection minimises the risk of a fall in most situations, once the scaffold has been erected.

[0009] The modular nature of scaffolding system necessarily gives rise to large open areas between the various components including in particular the upper and mid-level guard rails. Such large open areas are problematic in that they readily provide a clear passageway through which building materials, tools, personnel and other objects can inadvertently fall and thus present a significant danger to personnel below.

[0010] In an attempt to reduce these risks, flexible netting systems have been wrapped around scaffold assemblies to create a wind and shade barrier, control dust and debris affecting surrounding environments, and increase safety for passing workers, pedestrians and vehicles. Such scaffold netting systems seek to prevent the tools, debris and other building materials from falling from the higher levels on the scaffold assembly and thereby prevent possible harm to those passing below from falling objects and debris.

[001 1 ] However, these known netting systems are subject to a number of inherent disadvantages and have failed to fully address the problem. These nettings systems are typically formed as a thin web from a plastics material and thus are relatively weak and prone to ripping and puncturing from relatively low impacts, reducing the effectiveness of the netting for the intended purpose and ultimately its service life. In many cases, the netting cannot be reused giving rise to additional costs in construction projects. Furthermore, the flexible nature of these netting systems often results in the netting becoming tangled when installing and dismantling the scaffold assembly, increasing the level of risk taken on by workers who have to attempt to unravel and resolve the tangled netting at elevated heights.

[0012] Thus, these netting systems are subject to a number of inherent disadvantages and a solution is necessarily required. It is an object of the present invention to overcome or substantially ameliorate one or more of the deficiencies of the prior art, or at least to provide a useful alternative.

Summary of the invention

[0013] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for erecting a safety barrier about a building, the system including:

a pair of support members; and

one or more panels adapted to mounted so as to extend between and be supported by the support members adjacent to the building, thereby to enclose an associated region about the building.

[0014] In some embodiments, the support members are attached to the building, preferably releasably attached. In some embodiments, the support members are attached to a frame of the building. In some embodiments, the support members are attached to a building facade. ln some embodiments, the support members are attached to a structure erected on or adjacent to the building. In some embodiments, the structure may be a scaffold assembly.

[0015] Preferably, the panels are impact resistance panels or screens. In some

embodiments, the panels are rigid. In some embodiments, the panels include a flexible screen or membrane, optionally with one or more reinforcing elements.

[0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for erecting a safety barrier about a building, the system including:

a pair of support members releasably secured to or arranged adjacent to the building in spaced apart relationship; and

an impact resistant panel adapted to extend between and be supported by the support members, thereby to enclose an associated region of the building;

wherein, the pair of support members define a track along which the panel can move for selective positioning of the panel relative to the building.

[0017] In some embodiments, the pair of support members are releasably secured to a scaffold assembly. The pair of support members are preferably secured so as to be in spaced about relationship. Preferably, the scaffold assembly is a modular structure of the type formed from a plurality of interconnected structural members. In certain preferred embodiments, the scaffold assembly has a matrix of interconnected bays, wherein the bays are formed from a combination of structural members or elements including a pair of spaced apart inner vertical supports or standards, a corresponding pair of spaced apart outer standards, a series of ledgers connected to extend generally horizontally between the standards, at least two transoms extending horizontally between the standards at each end of the bay, and a series of decking boards disposed in contiguous side-by-side relationship to form a working platform extending between the transoms. The scaffold assembly may also include horizontal and/or vertical diagonally oriented cross-braces. The scaffold assembly is typically erected in a progressive level-by-level manner starting from the ground level and working up to the highest level.

[0018] In some embodiments, the structural members of the scaffold assembly are releasably interconnected by means of special purpose end-fittings, couplers and clamps, which vary between the different proprietary scaffold systems. In one embodiment, the connection mechanism is based on a "V-press" system, whereby V-shaped apertures formed by lugs on the standards are engaged by corresponding spigots extending downwardly from the ledgers and transoms. It should be understood, however, that the present panelling system can be readily adapted for use with a wide variety of other scaffolding systems employing different component connection mechanisms. For example, the scaffold assembly may include connection mechanisms with spigots and wedges for engaging V-shaped apertures on the standards, or blades for engaging cups on the standards, or wedges for engaging slots in a ring-like system.

[0019] Preferably, the impact resistant panel and the support members have complementary coupling formations for releasably securing the panel between the support members. The coupling formations are preferably adapted to allow relative sliding movement of the panel along the support members, when it is desired to raise or lower the panel. In some embodiments, each support member is in the form of a rail. Preferably, each rail is elongate and arranged in use so as to extend longitudinally in the direction of travel of the panel.

[0020] In some embodiments, each support member of the pair of support members is releasably secured to a respective vertical standard or upright of the scaffold assembly. In other embodiments, each support member is releasably secured to a horizontal structural element of the scaffold assembly. Preferably, the pair of support members is releasably secured to the scaffold assembly in parallel spaced relationship.

[0021 ] Preferably, each support member includes a securing mechanism for releasably securing the support member to the respective structural member of the scaffold assembly. In some embodiments, each securing mechanism includes a clamp for clamping the support member to a main tubular portion of the standard between the connection mechanisms (e.g. V- press fittings); that is, the securing mechanism functions independently of the scaffold connection mechanism. In other forms, the securing mechanisms are adapted to enable each support member to be releasably mounted directly to the connection mechanism (e.g. V-press fitting) on the respective standards of the scaffold assembly.

[0022] In some embodiments, two or more securing mechanisms may be associated with each support member. For example, in those embodiments employing an elongate vertically extending support member, two securing mechanisms may be provided including a first upper securing mechanism and a second lower securing mechanism. [0023] In some embodiments, each securing mechanism includes a clamp adapted for releasable connection to a standard of the scaffold system, and an extension arm extending from the clamp to space the clamp from the support member by a predetermined distance, thereby to ensure the associated support member does not foul with the connection mechanism of the scaffold assembly and/or any side bracing members. Preferably, each securing mechanism is secured to the respective support member in use such that the extension arm extends outwardly from the support member, whereby the panel is supported outwardly from the support member/scaffold assembly. The extension arm may be configured to extend horizontally in use and be either straight or angled relative to the backing plate of the support member.

[0024] In some embodiments, each securing mechanism (e.g. clamp) is fixedly attached to the respective support member (e.g. rail), thereby to provide a one-piece unit to facilitate ease of mounting of the support member to the scaffold assembly. In other embodiments, each securing mechanism may releasably engage the respective support member in use for mounting the support member to the scaffold assembly.

[0025] In some embodiments, each support member includes at least one coupling formation, and the (primary) impact resistant panel has a side coupling formation on each side of the panel, whereby in use a first side coupling formation of the panel is coupled to the coupling formation of one support member of the pair of support members and a second side coupling formation of the panel is coupled to the coupling formation of the other support member of the pair of support members.

[0026] In some embodiments, each support member includes two coupling formations, thereby to enable mounting of multiple impact resistant panels to the scaffold assembly in respective side-by-side relationship. Preferably, the two coupling formations are laterally offset from each other to facilitate the side-by-side mounting of the panels. In other embodiments, the support member may be configured such the two coupling formations are arranged at an angle relative to each other to facilitate mounting of panels around a corner of the scaffold assembly, or obliquely oriented bays. In some embodiments, the two coupling formations may be arranged at an angle of, for example, approximately 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 120, 135, 150- degrees relative to each other. In some embodiments, the support member includes a hinge mechanism, whereby the angle between the two coupling formations is adjustable to accommodate the angle between adjacent sections of the scaffold assembly. The angle between the coupling formations may be determined to suit either an internal corner or an external corner.

[0027] In some embodiments, each support member includes a rail, and the or each coupling formation is formed in, or otherwise attached to, the rail as a groove, slot, track, ridge, projection or other suitable formation to captively retain the side coupling formation on a side edge of the panel (and thus the panel to the rail). Preferably, the or each coupling formation extends lengthwise along the full length of the rail such that multiple support members can be connected end-to-end in series to the scaffold assembly, thereby to provide a continuous track for the panel to slide up and down between the various levels when installing and dismantling the scaffold assembly.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the coupling formation of the support member has a generally round or circular cross-sectional profile with a side opening, thereby to retain the side coupling member of the panel whilst allowing a main panel portion to pass therethrough. It will be appreciated that the coupling is open on at least one side to facilitate the upwards and downwards sliding movement of the panels along the rail. It will be appreciated that the coupling formation of the support member is not limited to round or circular cross-sectional profiles but rather may be any suitable formation including, for example, oval, square, and rectangular profiles, and L- or T-shaped projections.

[0029] In some embodiments, each support member includes a backing plate and a cover plate adapted to be releasably connected to the backing plate, the backing and cover plates cooperating to form the coupling formation of the support member for retaining the side coupling formation of the panel therebetween. In some embodiments, each cover plate has one or more openings through which a threaded fastener may pass, whereby a locking nut can threadingly engage the fastener to secure the cover to the backing plate. In certain embodiments, the threaded fastener may be fixedly attached to and extend from the extension arm extending from the clamp.

[0030] Preferably, the coupling formation of the support member has a first coupling portion associated with the backing plate and a second coupling portion associated with the cover plate, whereby the side coupling member of the panel is releasably retained between the first and second coupling portions. [0031 ] In some embodiments, the backing member includes an elongate backing plate with at least one generally arcuate, curved or C-shaped groove extending lengthwise along the plate, thereby to form the first coupling portion. Preferably, the cover member includes an elongate cover plate with at least one generally arcuate, curved or C-shaped groove extending lengthwise along the plate, thereby to form the second coupling portion.

[0032] In some embodiments, the rail and coupling formations of each support member are fixedly attached to each other or otherwise formed as a one piece unit.

[0033] In some embodiments, one or more of the lowermost support members have an open coupling (e.g. a backing plate with first coupling portions and without a cover plate), thereby to facilitate mounting of the primary panels to the support members.

[0034] In some embodiments, one or more of the support members arranged above the lowermost support members have closed couplings, thereby to retain the primary panels within the coupling as the primary panels are raised along the support members.

[0035] In some embodiments, the side edge of the panel has a tube with a generally circular cross-sectional profile (defining the side coupling formation) sized to be received and retained between the two opposing C-shaped grooves in the first and second (front and rear) coupling portions of the support member. In some embodiments, each support member has two coupling formations spaced apart from one another and configured to define two parallel tracks for side coupling formations of adjacent panels.

[0036] In some embodiments, the support members have a female coupling formation and the panels include a male coupling formation, preferably a male coupling formation on each side.

[0037] In some embodiments, the coupling portion of each panel is formed as a separate piece and attached to a respective side edge of the panel. In some embodiments, the coupling portion of each panel includes a tubular member adapted to be slidingly received in the coupling portion of the support members, and a flange extending laterally from the tubular member, wherein the flange includes a mounting formation for attaching a panel thereto, thereby to allow the panel and coupling portion of the panel to move together as a combined panel and coupling unit (i.e. as movable primary panels of the panelling system) along the support member. Preferably, the mounting formation includes a plurality of openings formed in the flange, the openings being disposed in vertically spaced apart relationship to form a series of openings, wherein the openings are adapted to receive complementary attachment formations (e.g. hook-type formations) on the panels so as to connect the panel to the separate coupling portion.

[0038] In some embodiments, an end retaining element extends from the flange such that the end of the panel is at least partially received therein, thereby to prevent the panel from falling outwardly should the connection between the panel and coupling portion break or fail. In some embodiments, the end retaining element has an L-shaped cross-sectional profile, optionally formed from angle iron.

[0039] In some embodiments, a stabilising device is attached to at least one panel to restrict movement of the panel away from the support rails, thereby to increase the stability between the movable (primary) panels and the respective support member (rail). In some embodiments, the stabilising device includes a body attached to the panel and a second arm extending from the body to form an open area, wherein a portion of the support member is received in the open area between the panel and the second arm. In some embodiments, body is attached the flange of the separate coupling portion of the panel. In some embodiments, the portion of the support member is received in the open area between the panel and the second arm is a portion extending from the coupling element of the support member.

[0040] Preferably, the second arm has a friction reducing element. In some embodiments, the friction reducing element is a roller or wheel.

[0041 ] In some embodiments, each support member or rail has a length so as to extend across the full height of one bay or level of the scaffold assembly. For example, in a scaffold assembly having bay heights of 2 metres, each support member or rail may have a length of approximately 2 metres. In this way, multiple support rails can be progressively attached to the scaffold assembly (e.g. to the standards) as the next level of the scaffold assembly is erected, thereby providing a rail or track along which the panel can be raised (and subsequently lowered when dismantling the scaffold assembly). In other embodiments, each rail may have a length which is greater than or less than the height of the scaffold bays, whereby the appropriate number of support rails is mounted to the standards so as to provide a composite support rail or track extending across the full height of the scaffold assembly. For example, in a scaffold assembly having bay heights of 2 metres, each support member or rail may have a length of approximately 1 metre. It will be appreciated that the use of shorter length rails can reduce the size and weight of the rails, thereby to increase the ease of handling of these members by workers.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the support members or rails are advantageously configured such that in use the panel can extend above the uppermost support members so as to be effectively cantilevered from the support members connected to the uppermost or top level of the scaffold assembly. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such a cantilevered arrangement is particularly advantageous for providing a barrier in advance of workers moving to and constructing the next higher level of the scaffold assembly, including about the uppermost deck prior to installing the uppermost standards which are typically installed overhead in an unsupported and unstable manner.

[0043] In some embodiments, a joining element is provided to join together two or more panels in vertically disposed relationship such that all joined panels can be moved together in unison along the track provided by the support rails. The ability to join together panels in this manner is particularly advantageous for providing a barrier around the next upper level as the scaffold assembly is progressively constructed and before a guard rail is installed. Once a level of the scaffold assembly has been completed, the joined panels can be raised upwardly along the track provided by the support rails to a position where the uppermost panel is projecting above the current height of the scaffold assembly. In this way, the uppermost panel is free or proud of the support rails so as to be in a cantilevered arrangement, with the lower joined panels captively retained within the coupling formations of the rails, thereby to provide the cantilevered panel with adequate support and sufficient structural integrity to form a barrier prior to workers moving up to complete the installation of the next level of the scaffold assembly. In some embodiments, at least the uppermost panels which are to be used as part of the cantilevered barrier may include one or more reinforcing members to provide additional structural integrity to the panels.

[0044] In some embodiments, the joined panels can cover or span across multiple levels, bays or deck heights, thereby to provide a protection barrier on the current level under construction, a level above (i.e. in advance of construction of the next level), and/or one or more bay heights below. In some embodiments, the joined panels may provide a barrier whilst a secondary panel is being installed at a corresponding level prior to raising the joined panels further up the support members. [0045] In some embodiments, a plurality of primary panels is mounted to the support members, wherein each primary panel is first positioned at the lowest level and then slid upwardly along the support members. Preferably, the plurality of primary panels are joined together to form a vertical stack of primary panels. In some preferred embodiments, the vertical stack comprises four primary panels which are sized to span across the height of two levels of the scaffold assembly. In some embodiments, to facilitate the mounting of the plurality of primary panels from the lowest level, the support rails associated with the lowest level is configured to have an open front to allow access to the track formed by its coupling formations. For example, the cover of the support rail may not be mounted to the backing plate in the lower level of the scaffold assembly, thereby to provide access to the track.

[0046] Preferably, one or more bracing elements is connected to the vertical stack of joined primary panels such that its distal end extends above and is free of the top of the vertical stack; i.e. is cantilevered. Preferably, the proximal end of the or each bracing element is connected to the lower most panel of the vertical stack. In some embodiments, two bracing elements are connected to the vertical stack and uniformly arranged about a centre line of the vertical stack of panels.

[0047] Preferably, one or more cantilevered panels are positioned on or above the top of the vertical stack and secured to the bracing elements, thereby forming a group of primary panels which are joined together and can move in unison. In some embodiments, the extent to which the or each bracing element extends above the top of the vertical stack of primary panels is sufficient to allow the one or more cantilevered panels secured thereto to span the height of at least one level of the scaffold assembly. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the group of primary panels can be raised along the support members (rails) to a position where the cantilevered panels extend above the current highest level and thereby form a barrier before workers move up to the top of the scaffold assembly. The barrier is therefore advantageously in place during construction of the next level of the scaffold assembly, reducing the risk of objects and personnel falling from the scaffold assembly.

[0048] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that those embodiments employing a cantilevered panel extending below the primary panels are particularly useful for installing sections of a building fagade such as, for example, exterior cladding and window systems.

[0049] In some embodiments, each cantilevered panel has a side cover member attached to one or both of its side edges and extending laterally therefrom so as to provide a side cover or barrier between adjacent cantilevered panels. In some embodiments, each side cover member is attached to the associated panel by threaded fasteners, and preferably extends along the full height of the associated panel. In some embodiments, the side cover member may be adapted to extend or wrap around a corner to provide a cover between adjoining wall sections of the scaffold assembly.

[0050] In some embodiments, each panel includes a generally square or rectangular screen portion formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material, thereby to enable the panel to withstand a degree of impact. The impact resistant nature of the panels advantageously enables the use of multiple panels arranged about the scaffold assembly, thereby to form a secure barrier for preventing scaffold components, building materials, debris, tools, personnel and other objects from inadvertently falling outside the scaffold assembly.

[0051 ] In certain embodiments, the screen portion is formed from sheet metal or plastics material. In some embodiments, the material used to form the primary panel is perforated so as to have a predetermined open area. It will be appreciated that, in other forms, the panel may include a solid screen portion with no opening, a screen portion in the form of a wire mesh, or a combination of wire mesh and a flexible membrane or fabric.

[0052] In some embodiments, each panel has an elongate tubular member extending along both side edges of the screen portion of the panel, thereby to provide the respective side coupling formations of the panel. Preferably, each tubular member extends along the full height of the respective side edge of the panel. In other forms, the side coupling formations may include one or more segments arranged at discrete locations along the side edges of the panel.

[0053] In some embodiments, a lifting mechanism is provided to move the panel along the support members, thereby to raise the panel (or group of joined panels) from the current level to the next proceeding higher level above in the scaffold assembly during installation (or lower the panel when dismantling the scaffold assembly). In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism is releasbly attachable to a structural member of the scaffold assembly (e.g. a standard) such that it can be removed and reinstalled at each subsequent level for use on the next level as the scaffold assembly is progressively erected.

[0054] Preferably, the lifting mechanism includes a first engaging member adapted to engage a corresponding second engaging formation on the panel, wherein an actuator is operatively connected (directly or indirectly) to the first engaging member such that the first engaging member can be selectively driven to raise or lower the panel as required.

[0055] In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism is adapted for control by a hand operated mechanism (e.g. a hand winch), wherein the actuator includes a crank handle. In other embodiments, the lifting mechanism may be adapted to engage the panel from above. For example, the lifting mechanism may include an overhead gantry system with a designated winch or pulley device, or alternatively a crane may be used to raise or lower the panels.

[0056] In certain preferred forms, the actuator is electrically, electromechanically, hydraulically or pneumatically powered. In some embodiments, the lifting mechanism may incorporate an integrated electric motor for driving the engaging member. In other embodiments, a hand-held power tool (e.g. battery operated cordless drill) with a (chuck mountable) drive fitting adapted to engage a complementary driven element associated with the first engaging member may be used to drive the first engaging member, thereby to raise or lower the panel as required.

[0057] In some embodiments, the first engaging member of the lifting mechanism is a toothed-member. In some embodiments, the toothed member is a gear or sprocket or pulley. In other forms, the toothed-member may be a drive chain or belt with outwardly projecting formations.

[0058] The second engaging member on the panel preferably has tooth engaging formations which engage with the teeth of the first engaging member. In some embodiments, the second engaging formation is in the form of a rack. In other forms, the second engaging formation may be defined by a series of lifting slots adapted to at least partially receive the teeth of the first engaging member, whereby activation of the first engaging member causes the teeth to engage a side edge of the respective lifting slots to raise or lower the panel. Preferably, each lifting slot has a square or rectangular profile. Each slot preferably has square corners, thereby to assist in maintaining alignment during a lifting process.

[0059] In some embodiments, two lifting mechanisms may be used to raise or lower a panel, each lifting mechanism being positioned to act adjacent to a respective side edge of the panel, thereby to prevent rotation and maintain alignment of the panel during the lifting process. [0060] In some embodiments, at least one support member of each pair of support members has a flange extending outwardly from the associated coupling formation, the flange having a series of support openings via which the panel can be secured in place at a desired position along the support member. Preferably, the panel has a corresponding series of location openings of which at least one in use overlies the series of support openings, thereby to allow a releasable locking element to be installed or at least partially extend through a pair of aligned support and location openings to hold the panel in the desired position. In some embodiments, the locking element includes a self-latching catch which is biased to a latching position, thereby to prevent the panel from free-falling under its own weight.

[0061 ] In some embodiments, one or more latching mechanisms are mounted in discrete positions along the length of each support member (or along the length of the track defined by multiple vertically mounted support members).

[0062] Preferably, the releasable locking element includes a latching mechanism mounted between a movable primary panel and the support rail. In some embodiments, the latching mechanism is attached to the panel, preferably to the coupling unit of the panel. The latching mechanism preferably has a latch biased to a latching position in which the latch prevents the primary panel from moving down along the track, and wherein the latch is selectively movable out of the latching position to allow the primary panels to be lowered along the track.

[0063] In some embodiments, each latching mechanism has a body adapted to be mounted to one side of the flange of the panel coupling unit and fit within a cavity or groove of the flange of the support member such that it does not obstruct or interfere with the free passage of the movable track and/or primary panel. Preferably, each latching mechanism has a mounting plate connected to a rear of the body and configured to facilitate mounting of the latching mechanism to the support member, with the flange of the panel coupling unit sandwiched therebetween. The mounting plate preferably abuts against the other side of the flange of the panel coupling unit.

[0064] The body of the latching mechanism preferably houses the latch and biasing means. Preferably, the latch has a first surface generally facing in a downwards direction and extending (orthogonally) outwardly from the body and such that it forms a stop which obstructs and arrests movement of the primary panels along the support member upon engagement with corresponding engagement formations in the support member. The first surface is preferably associated with the distal end of the latch. The latch preferably has a second detent surface extending outwardly from the body and generally facing in an upwards direction, and preferably extending at an angle relative to the body, such that when the second surface comes into contact with the rail the latch is moved out of the latching position (against the action of the biasing means) and the panel can freely move upwardly along the support member. Due to the biasing element (e.g. spring) associated with the latch, the latch automatically returns to the latching position once the panel raised to an extent that the latch is aligned with the next engaging formation in the support member.

[0065] Preferably, the latch is rotatably mounted within the body. The latch preferably rotates about a shaft extending laterally across the body. Preferably, the proximal end of the latch is mounted to the shaft. In some embodiments, the body includes an abutment (e.g. pin) positioned to prevent over-rotation of the latch past the latching position. In some embodiments, the pin is attached to the body and extends laterally across the front of the latch.

[0066] In some embodiments, the latching mechanism includes a locking element for releasably locking the latch out of the latching position. In some embodiments, the locking element is adapted to releasably engage and hold the latch in a non-latching position, wherein the primary panels are free to be lowered down along the support members. In some embodiments, the locking element includes a locking element (e.g. pin) arranged within the body and positioned to engage the latch when it is moved to the non-latching position. Preferably, the latch includes a receiving formation (e.g. dimple) which is complementary in shape to an end of the locking element, thereby facilitating a positive engagement between the locking element and the receiving formation to hold the latch in the non-latching position. Preferably, no part of the latch projects out from the body when the latch is in the non-latching position. Preferably, a release member is operatively associated with the latch, whereby operation of the release member causes the latch to disengage the locking element. In some embodiments, the release member is manually operable. In some embodiments, the proximal end of the latch defines the release member.

[0067] In some embodiments, the series of location openings in the panel is arranged in parallel spaced apart relation to the series of lifting slots in the panel. Preferably, the series of location slots is arranged outwardly of the series of lifting slots (i.e. closer to the side edge of the panel).

[0068] Preferably, one or more secondary or auxiliary panels are adapted to be positioned between the support members (rails). The one or more secondary or auxiliary panels are preferably releasably mounted to, and extend between, pairs of the support members. Once the secondary panels are in place and forming a barrier or screen between respective standards of the scaffold assembly, the primary panel (or multiple of joined primary panels) can be raised up to the next level above. This process can be repeated as each successive upper level or bay of the scaffold assembly is erected. It will be appreciated therefore that, by installing secondary panels below the primary panels, the primary and secondary panels together provide a total encapsulation system around the scaffold assembly from the uppermost deck to the ground floor. Preferably, two or more (primary) panels are joined together so as to cover multiple levels of the scaffold assembly, including the current level on which the secondary panels are being installed.

[0069] Preferably, the secondary panels are configured to be in the form of impact resistant screens. Each secondary panel preferably includes a generally rectangular screen portion formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material, thereby to enable the panel to withstand a degree of impact. The impact resistant nature of the secondary panels advantageously enables the use of multiple panels arranged about the scaffold assembly, thereby to form a secure barrier for preventing building materials, debris, tools, personnel and other objects from inadvertently falling outside the boundary or perimeter of the scaffold assembly.

[0070] In certain embodiments, the screen portion of each secondary panel is formed from a sheet metal or a plastics material. In some embodiments, the material used to form the secondary panels is perforated so as to have a predetermined open area. It will be appreciated that, in other forms, the secondary panels may include a solid screen portion with no opening, a wire mesh screen, or a combination of a wire mesh and a fabric or cloth.

[0071 ] In some embodiments, each secondary panel has a frame bounding the screen portion. Preferably, the secondary panels have attachment formations to allow the secondary panels to be releasably mounted to the support members (rails). In some embodiments, the attachment members are provided on each side edge of the frame of the secondary panel in a hook-like formation and adapted to engage selected ones of the support openings formed in the flange of the support members (rails). In some embodiments, each attachment formation is a generally L-shaped element adapted to pass through the support openings and engage the other side of the panel, thereby to hold the secondary panel in place relative to the support members. In other embodiments, each attachment formation may be generally T-shaped or button shaped (e.g. a body/shaft with a retaining boss) or the like. In some embodiments, each side edge of the secondary panel has two attachment formations including an upper and a lower attachment formation. It will be appreciated that the secondary screens can be advantageously mounted from a position inside or within the scaffold assembly, for example, by a worker standing on the decking boards of the current level of the scaffold assembly (i.e. from safely within the confines of the scaffold assembly) to close off the open area or window which forms once the main panel has been raised. Thus, the secondary panels are preferably mounted to the opposite (inner) side of the support members (rails), whereas the primary panels are mounted to the outer side of the support members (rails).

[0072] In some embodiments, the support rail may advantageously include a secondary mounting formation configured and arranged in use to enable the secondary panel to be readily mounted to the secondary mounting formation whilst a primary panel is simultaneously acting as a barrier at the same level of the scaffold assembly. In such embodiments, the primary panel can be raised to an upper level after the secondary panel has been secured in place, thereby to ensure that a worker is not exposed to an open window or region during the construction process. It will be appreciated that the reference here to the primary panel includes a reference to a portion of a series of multiple joined panels mounted within the support rails.

[0073] Preferably, each secondary mounting formation includes one or more receiving formations (e.g. openings or keyhole type slots) for releasably receiving the respective attachment formations (e.g. button headed lugs) of the secondary panel.

[0074] In some embodiments, each secondary mounting formation may be an L-shaped member attached to the respective flange of the support member such that the receiving formations are formed in the return arm of the L-shaped member and thus spaced from the flange, whereby the secondary panel attachment formations are also spaced from the flange when the secondary panel is mounted thereto. It this way, the secondary panels can be installed independently of the position of the primary panel.

[0075] In other embodiments, each flange of the support rail is adapted to include the support openings and the secondary mounting formations. In some embodiments, each flange includes a stepped portion extending inwardly towards the decking, wherein in use the primary panels abut or are disposed adjacent to an outer face of the flange and the secondary panels abut or are disposed adjacent to an inner face of the stepped portion of the flange, thereby enabling the secondary panel to be installed independently of the position of the primary panel. Preferably, the support slots are formed in the stepped portion. The secondary mounting formations are preferably associated with the support slots. In some embodiments, the secondary mounting formations include notches or cut-outs configured to form an enlarged open portion of the support slot (e.g. a keyhole shape), wherein the secondary panels include complementary attachment formations (e.g. button headed lugs) for mounting thereto. Preferably, the depth of the stepped portion in each flange is greater than the length by which each attachment formation extends outwardly from the secondary panel, thereby to ensure that the attachment formation does not interfere with the primary panel.

[0076] In some embodiments, the (primary and/or secondary) impact resistance panels include at least one handle to facilitate handling of each panel. In certain embodiments, each impact resistant panel includes a handle associated with a corner of the panel. In some embodiments, each impact resistant panel includes a handle associated with two or more corner of the panels, preferably each corner of the panel. In other forms, each panel may include a centrally arranged handle or two or more handle evenly spaced about a centre line of the panel. In some embodiments, the or each handle includes a bar, rod, tube or the like arranged an angle (e.g. 45 degrees) and extending between a side and top of the panel and/or a side and a bottom of the panel.

[0077] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panelling system for a scaffold assembly, the panelling system including:

a pair of support members releasably secured to the scaffold assembly in spaced apart relationship; and

an impact resistant panel adapted to extend between and be supported by the support members, thereby to enclose an associated region of the scaffold system.

[0078] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panelling system for a scaffold assembly, the panelling system including:

a support member releasably secured to the scaffold assembly; and

an impact resistant panel mountable to the support member;

wherein, the support member is adapted to support a side edge region of the panel such that the panel is cantilevered from the support member, thereby to extend laterally across the scaffold assembly.

[0079] It will be appreciated that the ability to laterally cantilever a panel from a support member is particularly advantageous for providing a safety barrier or screen for a cantilevered extension module of the scaffold assembly. [0080] Preferably, one or more bracing members is provided to provide additional structural support for the laterally cantilevered panel. The or each bracing member may extend at an angle between the scaffold assembly (e.g. standard) and the panel (e.g. by connection to or adjacent to the lower edge of the panel).

[0081 ] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panelling system for a scaffold assembly, the panelling system including:

a pair of support members releasably secured to the scaffold assembly in spaced apart relationship, the support members being associated with a first bay level of the scaffold assembly; and

at least one impact resistant panel adapted to extend between and be supported by the support members, wherein the position of the panel relative to the support members is selectively adjustable such that at least a portion of the panel can be cantilevered upwardly of the support members, thereby to enclose an associated region of a second bay level of the scaffold assembly above the first bay level.

[0082] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a panelling system for a scaffold assembly, the panelling system including:

a plurality of support members releasably secured to the scaffold assembly in spaced apart relationship to define a track;

at least one impact resistant panel movably mounted to the support members; and a lifting mechanism releasably mountable to the scaffold assembly, the lifting mechanism being adapted to engage the panel and selectively operable to raise or lower the panel along the track.

[0083] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of erecting a safety barrier about a building, the method including the steps of:

providing one or more support members;

arranging the support members in spaced about relationship; and

releasably mounting one or more panels between the support members, thereby to form a safety screen about the building or a structure erected on or adjacent to the building.

[0084] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a support rail for a scaffold panelling system as describe herein. [0085] According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a lifting mechanism for a scaffold panelling system as describe herein.

Brief Description of the drawings

[0086] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0087] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a modular scaffold assembly on which is mounted an embodiment of a panelling system according to the invention;

[0088] Figure 2 is a plan view of a modular scaffold assembly on which is mounted an embodiment of a panelling system according to the invention;

[0089] Figure 3 is a schematic view of a support rail of the panelling system;

[0090] Figure 4 is an exploded schematic view showing a panel extending between a pair of support rails of the panelling system;

[0091 ] Figures 5A and 5B show a top view and front view of a backing plate of the support rail of Figure 3, respectively;

[0092] Figures 6A and 6B show a top view and front view of a cover plate of the support rail of Figure 3, respectively;

[0093] Figures 7 A and 7B show a top view and front view of a primary panel of the panelling system, respectively;

[0094] Figures 8A and 8B show a rear view and side view of a secondary panel of the panelling system, respectively;

[0095] Figure 9 shows a schematic view of a portion of a secondary panel mounted to the support rails of the panelling system;

[0096] Figure 10 shows a schematic side view of a portion of a lifting mechanism engaging a primary panel of the panelling system; [0097] Figure 1 1 shows a schematic top view of the lifting mechanism of Figure 10;

[0098] Figure 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the support rail of the panelling system, incorporating a stepped portion in each flange;

[0099] Figures 13A and 13B show a top view and front view of a backing plate of the support rail of Figure 12, respectively, incorporating keyhole shaped slots in the stepped portion of each flange;

[00100] Figures 14A-14C show a rear view, a side view, and enlarged view of another embodiment of a secondary panel of the panelling system for use with the support rail of Figure 12, respectively, with button head attachment formations;

[00101 ] Figure 15 shows a schematic view of a portion of the secondary panel of Figures 14A and 14B mounted to the support rail of Figure 12, with the button head attachment formations seated in the support slots of the flange;

[00102] Figures 16A and 16B respectively show a front view and a side view of another embodiment of the panelling system with cantilevered panels and associated bracing;

[00103] Figure 17 shows a perspective view of multiple sections of a scaffold assembly employing several embodiments of the panelling system;

[00104] Figures 18A-18C show rear, side and front views, respectively, of an embodiment of an impact resistance panel of the panelling system, configured for use as a secondary or auxiliary panel;

[00105] Figures 19A-19C show front, top and rear views, respectively, of an embodiment of the impact resistance panel of Figure 18 with side coupling formations attached thereto and configured for use as a primary panel;

[00106] Figures 20A-20C show rear, side and top views, respectively, of an embodiment of the impact resistance panel with side cover portions attached thereto and configured for use as a cantilevered panel;

[00107] Figure 21 shows a schematic top view of the assembly arrangement of the support member, coupling formations, primary panel and cantilevered panel with side cover plates; [00108] Figure 22 shows the cross-sectional profile of the embodiment of the separate coupling portion attached to the panel of Figure 19;

[00109] Figures 23A-23B show a front view and a side view of a latching mechanism of the panelling system, with the latch in its latching position, Figure 23C shows a section view of the latching mechanism with the latch out of the latching position, and Figure 23D shows a perspective view of the latching mechanism; and

[001 10] Figure 24A shows a top view of a coupling portion of a primary panel coupled to a support member and with a stabilising device attached thereto, Figures 24B-24D show a front, side and top view of the stabilising device, and Figure 24E shows a perspective view of the stabilising device.

Detailed description of the drawings

[001 1 1 ] Referring to the drawings and initially to Figure 1 , the invention provides a panelling system 1 for a modular scaffold assembly 2. The panelling system 1 includes a pair of support members in the form of elongate support rails 3 for supporting an impact resistant panel 4 therebetween to enclose an associated region of the scaffold assembly 2. It will be appreciated that multiple pairs of support rails 3 advantageously can be releasbly secured around the scaffold assembly, whereby respective panels 4 can be installed therebetween to effectively encapsulate the scaffold assembly 2. That is, the installed panels effectively provide a wall, screen or barrier about the scaffold assembly to enhance the safety of workers on the scaffold assembly.

[001 12] The scaffold assembly 2 is a modular structure of the type formed from a plurality of interconnected structural members, including a pair of spaced apart inner vertical standards, a corresponding pair of spaced apart outer standards 5, a series of ledgers connected to extend generally horizontally between the standards, at least two transoms extending horizontally between the standards at each end of the bay, and a series of decking boards disposed in contiguous side-by-side relationship to form a working platform extending between the transoms. For the sake of clarity, only the outer standards 5 of the scaffold assembly 2 have been labelled in the drawings. The scaffold assembly is typically erected in a progressive level-by-level manner starting from the ground level and working upwardly to the highest level.

[001 13] The support rails 3 are releasably secured to the vertical outer standards 5 of the scaffold assembly 2 in parallel spaced apart relationship. In this way and as described in greater detail below, the support rails 3 define a track along which the panel 4 can be raised during installation of the scaffold assembly 2 and subsequently lowered when dismantling the scaffold assembly.

[001 14] Each support rail 3 includes a securing mechanism in the form of a clamp 6 for releasably securing the support rail 3 to the respective standard 5 of the scaffold assembly 2. In the illustrated embodiment, each support rail 3 has two clamps, including an upper and a lower clamp, to assist in maintaining the parallel alignment of the rail 3 with the associated standard 5 (as well as the parallel alignment between pairs of support rails 3).

[001 15] As most clearly seen in Figures 5A and 21 , each clamp 6 is attached to an extension arm 7 so as to space the clamp 6 from the support rail 3 by a predetermined distance (e.g. 50mm, 100mm or 150mm) to ensure the associated rail 3 is positioned to clear and thus not foul with the connection mechanism (e.g. the v-press fitting) or side bracing on the standard 5. In the illustrated embodiment, each clamp 6 engages the main tubular portion of the standard 5 at a position intermediate the connection mechanisms. In this way, the support rails 3 can be installed independently of the connection mechanism on the standards 5 so as to leave the connecting mechanisms free for erecting the scaffold assembly 2.

[001 16] In use, each clamp 6 is secured to the respective standard 5 such that the extension arm 7 extends outwardly from the support member, whereby the panel is also supported outwardly from the standard 5 and the scaffold assembly 2 itself.

[001 17] The distal end of each extension arm 7 is fixedly attached to the respective support rail 3 such that the rail and clamps form a one-piece unit. It will be appreciated that such a one-piece unit reduces the number of components a worker must handle during installation and thereby facilitates ease of mounting of the rails 3 to the standards 5.

[001 18] As most clearly seen in Figure 7B, each panel 4 includes a generally rectangular screen portion 8 formed from a rigid or semi-rigid material such as, for example, sheet metal so as to enable the panel to withstand a degree of impact. The impact resistant nature of the panels advantageously enables the use of multiple panels arranged about the scaffold assembly to form a secure barrier for preventing building materials, debris, tools, personnel and other objects from falling outside the scaffold assembly such as, for example, when an object is inadvertently dropped or a worker accidently falls into the panel. [001 19] In the illustrated embodiment, the material used to form the screen portion 8 of the panels 4 is perforated so as to have a predetermined open area (e.g. 50%, 60, 70%, 80%, 90% open area). It will be appreciated that, in other forms, the panel may include a solid screen portion with no opening, or may include a wire mesh structure (optionally with an overlying fabric membrane) to suit the environment of the particular application in which the scaffold assembly 2 is intended to be used.

[00120] Referring to Figures 3 to 5, each panel 4 has side coupling formations to facilitate mounting to the support rails 3. Each side coupling formation is in the form of an elongate tubular coupling member 9 extending along the full height of the respective side edge of the screen portion of the panel 4. In the illustrated embodiment, each tubular coupling member 9 has a generally circular cross-sectional profile.

[00121 ] In the illustrated embodiment, each support rail 3 includes two parallel spaced apart rail coupling formations 10 of complementary profile to that of the tubular side coupling members 9 of the panels 4. The two coupling formations 10 are arranged to enable mounting of two impact resistant panels 4 to the scaffold assembly 2 in respective side-by-side relationship so as to provide a generally continuous barrier around the perimeter of the scaffold assembly.

[00122] Each support rail 3 includes an elongate backing plate 1 1 and a cover plate 12 adapted to be releasably connected to the backing plate 1 1 by a suitable fastener. As is described below, the backing plate 1 1 and the cover plate 12 are shaped to have respectively a first coupling portion 13 and a second coupling portion 14 so as together forming the rail coupling formation 10 for retaining the respective tubular side coupling formations 9 of the panel 4 therebetween.

[00123] The support rail 3 has a first coupling portion 13 in the form of a generally semicircular or C-shaped groove or formation extending lengthwise along the backing plate 1 1 . In the illustrated embodiment, there are two side by side grooves forming the two respective adjacent first coupling portions 13.

[00124] The cover plate 12 has a second coupling portion 14 in the form of a generally semicircular or C-shaped groove extending lengthwise along the cover plate 12. In the illustrated embodiment, there are two side by side grooves forming the two respective adjacent second coupling portions 14. As best seen in Figure 6A, the cover plate 12 may include guide elements 16 extending laterally from each second coupling portion 14 to guide and maintain alignment of the panel 4 with the first and second coupling portions (13, 14), thereby to prevent jamming of the panel 4 and facilitate ease of tracking along the rail.

[00125] The two second coupling portions 14 are complementary in profile to the first coupling portions 13 and arranged in use to overlie and face in the opposite direction to the first coupling portions so as to form a passageway therebetween with a generally circular cross-sectional profile whereby the tubular side coupling member 9 of the panel 4 is releasably retained between the first and second coupling portions.

[00126] The rail coupling formations 10 extend lengthwise along the full length of the support rail 3 such that multiple support rails 3 can be connected in series to the scaffold assembly 2 to provide a continuous track for the panel 4 to slide up and down between the various levels when installing and dismantling the scaffold assembly.

[00127] Referring to Figure 3, the rail coupling formations 10 formed by the first and second coupling formations (13, 14) of the support rail 3 has a generally circular cross-sectional profile with a side opening 15 which is configured to allow the screen portion 8 of the panel 4 to pass therethrough so as to extend between the pair of support rails 3.

[00128] Referring to Figures 19 and 21 , the coupling portion of each panel 4 is formed as a separate piece 35 and attached to a respective side edge of the panel. In this embodiment, the coupling portion 9 of each panel 4 includes a tubular member 9 adapted to be slidingly received in the coupling portion 10 of the support rails 3, and a flange 36 extending laterally from the tubular member 9. The flange 36 includes a mounting formation in the form of a series of support openings 26 for attaching a panel thereto, allowing the panel 4 and coupling piece 35 of the panel to move together as a combined panel and coupling unit (i.e. as movable primary panels of the panelling system) along the support rail 3. The coupling piece 35 also includes an end retaining element 37 in the form of an L-shaped bracket extending from the flange 36 such that the end of the panel 4 is at least partially received therein.

[00129] Referring again to Figure 21 , the connection between the panel 4 and side coupling pieces 35 enables these panels to be raised and lowered along the rails 3 via the coupling between the respective couplings formations (9, 10). These slidable panels are referred as to the primary panels of the panelling system. [00130] Referring to Figures 24A-24E, a stabilising device 40 is attached to one of the movable primary panels 4 to limit undesirable movement of the group of joined panels 4 away from the support rails 3. The stabilising device 40 thus increases the stability between the movable primary panels 4' and the respective support rail 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the stabilising device 40 includes a body 41 attached to the flange 36 of the coupling piece 35 of the panel 4'. A second arm 42 carrying a friction reducing element in the form of a roller 43 extends laterally from the body 41 to form an open area 44 between the flange 36 and roller 43. The open area 44 is sized to close-fittingly receive a portion of the support rail 3 such that movement of the panel away from the support rail is restrained.

[00131 ] In the illustrated embodiment, each support rail 3 has a length so as to extend across approximately half the height of one level of the scaffold assembly. For example, in a scaffold assembly 2 in which each bay has a height of 2 metres, each support rail 3 may have a length of approximately 1 metre. In this way, two pairs of support rails 3 can be attached to standards 5 of the scaffold assembly 2 so as to be disposed in a vertical series, whereby two panels 4 can be mounted to these rails 3 to provide complete coverage across that region of the sidewall of the scaffold assembly. This arrangement of the support rails 3 provides a track along which the panel 4 can be raised during installation of the scaffold assembly (and subsequently lowered when dismantling the scaffold assembly).

[00132] Advantageously, a joining element (not shown) is provided to join together two or more panels 4 in vertically disposed relationship such that all joined panels 4 move in unison along the track provided by the support rails 3. The joining element includes a plurality of nuts and bolts mounted through holes in the adjacent upper and lower edges of the panels 4. The ability to join together panels 4 in this manner is particularly advantageous for providing a barrier around the next upper level as the scaffold assembly is progressively constructed. For example, in the embodiment described above where each level is 2 metres high and each panel is 1 metre high, it is advantageous to use multiple joining elements to join together six panels 4. Once a level of the scaffold assembly 2 has been completed, the six joined panels 4 can be raised upwardly along the track provided by the support rails 3 to a position where the two uppermost panels 4' (see Figures 16 and 17) are projecting above the current height of the scaffold assembly. In this way, the two uppermost panels are free of the support rails so as to be in a cantilevered arrangement, with the four lower joined panels 4 captively retained within the coupling formations 10 of the rails 3 to provide the cantilevered panels 4' with adequate support and sufficient structural integrity to provide a barrier before workers move up to complete the installation of the next level of the scaffold assembly. In some embodiments, to provide additional structural integrity to the panels (e.g. to reduce flexing of the panels), at least the upper most panels which are to be used as part of the cantilevered barrier may include one or more reinforcing members. It will be readily appreciated that the number of joined panels is not limited to the example provided above. It is preferred, however, to have no more than one third of the height of the joined panels extending freely in a cantilevered manner and at least two thirds of the height of the joined panels captively retained within the support rails 3 to ensure the structural integrity and stability of the cantilevered barrier arrangement.

[00133] With reference to Figures 16 and 17, a plurality of primary panels 4 are mounted to the support rails 3. Each primary panel 4 is first positioned at the lowest level of the scaffold assembly and then slid upwardly along the rails 3. In this embodiment, four primary panels 4 are mounted to the rails 3 and connected to each other to form a vertical stack. The four primary panels 4 are sized to span across the height of two levels of the scaffold assembly. To facilitate the mounting of the plurality of primary panels 4 from the lowest level, the support rails 3 associated with the lowest level is configured to have an open front to allow access to the track formed by its coupling formations. For example, the cover of the support rail may not be mounted to the backing plate in the lower level of the scaffold assembly, thereby to provide access to the track. The rails 3 of the upper levels (i.e. from level two and above) preferably have closed coupling formations 10 such as, for example, of the type shown in Figures 21 and 24 to securely couple the panels 4 to the rails 3.

[00134] Again referring to Figures 16 and 17, two bracing elements 45 in the form of elongate bracing beams (e.g. RHS) are connected to the vertical stack of four joined primary panels 4 such that the distal end of beam 45 extends above and is free of the top of the vertical stack; i.e. is cantilevered. The proximal end of each bracing beam 45 is connected to the lower most panel of the vertical stack.

[00135] Two cantilevered panels 4' are positioned on or above the top of the vertical stack and secured to the bracing beams 45 to form a group of six primary panels (4, 4') which are joined together and can move in unison along the rail 3. The extent to which each bracing beam 45 extends above the top of the vertical stack of primary panels is preferably sufficient to allow the two cantilevered panels 4' secured thereto to span the height of at least one level of the scaffold assembly. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the group of primary panels can be raised along the support members (rails) to a position where the cantilevered panels extend above the current highest level and thereby form a barrier before workers move up to the top of the scaffold assembly. The barrier is therefore advantageously in place during construction of the next level of the scaffold assembly, reducing the risk of objects and personnel falling from the scaffold assembly.

[00136] Referring to Figures 16, 20A and 20C, each cantilevered panel has a side cover member 46 attached to one or both of its side edges and extending laterally therefrom so as to provide a side cover or barrier between adjacent cantilevered panels. Several side cover members 46 can be adapted to extend or wrap around a corner to provide a cover between adjoining wall sections of the scaffold assembly, as shown in Figure 17.

[00137] Referring to Figures 10 and 1 1 , a lifting mechanism 17 is provided for moving the panel 4 along the track of the support rails 3 to raise the panel 4 from the current level to the next proceeding level above in the scaffold assembly during installation (or lower the panel when dismantling the scaffold assembly). In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting mechanism 17 is releasbly attachable to the standards 5 of the scaffold assembly by a clamp 24 such that it can be removed and reinstalled at each subsequent level for use on the next level as the scaffold assembly is progressively erected.

[00138] The exemplary lifting mechanism 17 shown in the drawings includes a self-locking double reduction gearbox 18 adapted to drive a power transmission chain 19 about vertically spaced apart gear wheels 20. The chain 19 has first engaging members in the form of lugs or teeth 21 projecting outwardly from the chain 19 at spaced apart locations. Each panel 4 has a corresponding second engaging formation in the form of a series of slots 22 arranged to extend in a vertical line along a side edge region of the panel 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the chain 19 is configured such that four teeth 21 pass through four corresponding lifting slots 22. By this arrangement, when the chain 19 is driven, the teeth 21 engage a side or end of the respective lifting slots to raise or lower the panel 4.

[00139] To operate the lifting mechanism 17, an actuator in the form of a hand-held power tool (e.g. battery operated cordless drill) with a chuck mounted drive fitting (not shown) engages an input shaft 23 of the gearbox 18. Thus, the lifting mechanism 17 is adapted to convert a rotatable input driving action into a corresponding linear translational movement of the panel 4, as required.

[00140] In some embodiments, it is preferable to employ two lifting mechanisms 17 for raising and lowering the panels, with one lifting mechanism positioned to act adjacent to a left side edge of the panel and a second lifting mechanism positioned to act adjacent to the right side edge of the panel. It will be appreciated that the use of two lifting mechanisms on respective side edges of a panel can assist in maintaining alignment of the panel to ensure that the panel tracks freely along the track provided by the support rails, without rotating and potentially jamming against the rail. This advantage provided by the use two lifting mechanisms 17 is particularly beneficial for panels of relatively greater weight.

[00141 ] As best seen in Figure 5B, the support rails 3 have flanges 25 extending outwardly from the associated first coupling portion 13 of the rail coupling formations 10. Each flange 25 has a series of support openings 26 via which the panel 4 can be secured in place at a desired position along the support rails 3. For this purpose, the panel 4 has a corresponding series of location openings 27 arranged in parallel spaced apart relation to the series of lifting slots 22 in the panel 4. The series of location openings 27 (e.g. slots) is arranged outwardly of the series of lifting slots (i.e. closer to the side edge of the panel). The location openings 27 may be positioned and arranged in use to overlie the series of support openings 26, thereby to allow a releasable locking element to be installed through a pair of aligned support and location openings (26, 27) to hold the panel 4 in the desired position (height) relative to the respective pair of rails 3. In addition or alternatively, the locking element may include a self-latching catch 28 (Figure 7B) connected to the respective primary panel 4 and biased to a latching position to positively engage the support openings 26, thereby to prevent the panel from free-falling under its own weight. The catch 28 may have a bevelled detent which causes the catch to automatically release from a support opening 26 when the panel 4 is raised. Thus, the catch 28 works in a ratchet-style manner. The catch 28 may include a holding pin to hold the detent in a non-latching position against the against of the biasing element (e.g. spring) to facilitate lowering of the panel when dismantling the scaffold assembly.

[00142] Figures 23A-23D show an embodiment of a releasable locking element including a latching mechanism 47 for preventing the primary movable panels 4 from freely falling down along the track. As best seen in Figure 21 , each latching mechanism 47 is mounted between a movable primary panel and the support rail, particularly between the flange 36 of the coupling unit 35 (attached to the panel) and the extension flange 25 of the rail 3. The latching mechanism 47 has a latch 48 biased to a latching position in which the latch prevents the primary panel from moving down along the track (Figures 23A and 23D), and wherein the latch is selectively movable out of the latching position to allow the primary panels to be lowered along the track (Figure 23C). [00143] Each latching mechanism 47 has a body 49 adapted to be mounted to one side of the flange of the panel coupling unit and fit within a cavity or groove of the flange of the support rail 3 such that it does not obstruct or interfere with the free passage of the movable coupling element and/or primary panel. A mounting plate 50 is connected to a rear of the body 49 and configured to facilitate mounting of the latching mechanism 47 to the support rail 3, with the flange 36 of the panel coupling unit 35 sandwiched therebetween.

[00144] The body 49 of the latching mechanism 47 houses the latch 48 and a biasing means in the form of a coil spring (not shown). The latch 48 is hingedly connected so as to be rotatable about its proximal end within the housing. The latch 48 has a first surface 51 associated with the distal end of the latch and generally facing in a downwards direction and extending (orthogonally) outwardly from the body 49 and such that it forms a stop which obstructs and arrests movement of the primary panels 4 along the support rail 3 upon engagement with corresponding engagement formations in the support rail 3. The latch 48 has a second detent surface 52 extending outwardly from the body 49 and generally facing in an upwards direction and at an angle relative to the body 49. The configuration of the second surface 52, together with the rotatable latch 48, is such that when the second surface 52 comes into contact with the rail 3 the latch 48 rotates out of the latching position (against the action of the biasing means and compressing the spring) enabling the panel to freely move upwardly along the support member. Due to the action of the spring operatively associated with the latch 48, the latch automatically returns to the latching position once the panel is raised to an extent that the latch is aligned with the next engaging formation in the support member.

[00145] The latch 48 rotates about a shaft 53 extending laterally across the body 49. The body includes an abutment in the form of a pin 54 extending laterally across the front of the latch and positioned to prevent over-rotation of the latch past the latching position. The pin 54 is positioned to be received in a recess 55 formed in the latch 48. The recess 55 is adapted to space the latch from the pin when the latch is in the non-latching position, thereby ensuring there is sufficient room for the latch to rotate about the shaft 53 between the latching and non- latching positions.

[00146] The latching mechanism 47 includes a locking element 56 for releasably locking the latch out of the latching position. The locking element 56 is adapted to releasably engage and hold the latch in a non-latching position, wherein the primary panels 4 are free to be lowered down along the rails 3. The locking element 56 includes a locking member in the form of a locking pin 57 arranged within the body 49 and positioned to engage the latch 48 when it is moved to the non-latching position. The locking element 56 includes a receiving formation in the form of a dimple 58 which is complementary in shape to an end of the locking element, thereby facilitating a positive engagement between the locking pin 57 and the dimple 58 to hold the latch in the non-latching position. To release the locking element (i.e. the connection between the locking pin 57 and the dimple 58), a release member 59 is operatively associated with the latch to cause the pin to disengage from the dimple. In the illustrated embodiment, the release member is defined by a surface at or adjacent the proximal end of the latch (and below its axis of rotation) and is therefore manually operable.

[00147] Referring now to Figures 7A, 7B and 8, one or more secondary or auxiliary panels 30 are adapted to be positioned between the support rails 3 so as to form a safety barrier once the primary panel 4 has been raised to the next level above.

[00148] The secondary panels 30 are also advantageously configured to be in the form of impact resistant screens. Each secondary panel 30 includes a generally rectangular screen portion 31 preferably formed from a rigid or semi-rigid sheet metal material bounded by a frame 32. The frame 32 may be formed from elongate tubular members such as, for example, square, rectangular or circular hollow sections. The sheet material used to form the secondary panel 30 may be perforated so as to have a predetermined open area (e.g. 50%, 60, 70%, 80%, 90% open area).

[00149] Each secondary panel 30 has attachment formations in the form of generally L- shaped hook-type elements 33 extending from the frame 32 to allow the secondary panels 30 to be releasably mounted to the support rails 3. In the illustrated embodiment, each secondary panel 30 has four hooks 33 with two provided on each side edge of the frame 32. The hooks 33 are positioned and arranged so as to be adapted to pass through selected support openings 26 to engage the adjacent support rails 3 and hold the secondary panel 30 in position.

[00150] The process of adding secondary panels 30 can be readily and safely completed from within the confines of the scaffold assembly, on or against the opposite side of the rail 3 to which the primary panels 4 abut, and repeated as each successive upper level or bay of the scaffold assembly 2 is erected. It will be appreciated therefore that, by installing secondary panels below the primary panels, the primary and secondary panels (4, 30) together provide a total encapsulation system around the scaffold assembly 2 from the uppermost deck to the ground floor. In particular, the impact resistant nature of the secondary panels advantageously enables the use of multiple panels arranged about the scaffold assembly, thereby to form a secure barrier for preventing building materials, debris, tools, personnel and other objects from inadvertently falling outside the scaffold assembly.

[00151 ] It will be appreciated that the invention in preferred embodiments provides a safe, simple, convenient, efficient, and secure method, apparatus and system for erecting an impact resistant panelling system to a scaffold assembly. In particular, it allows the scaffold system to be progressively encapsulated as the scaffold assembly is erected level by level in an effort to prevent building materials, debris, tools, personnel and other objects from inadvertently falling outside the scaffold assembly, which addresses a major safety risk for personnel and vehicles passing by the scaffold assembly. In these and other respects, the invention represents a practical and commercially significant improvement over the prior art.

[00152] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

Claims

1 . A system for erecting a safety barrier about a building, the system including:

2. A system according to claim 1 , wherein the impact resistant panel and the support members have complementary coupling formations for releasably securing the panel between the support members.

3. A system according to claim 2, wherein the coupling formations are adapted to allow relative sliding movement of at least one panel along the support members, when it is desired to raise or lower the panel.

4. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each support member includes a securing mechanism for releasably securing the support member to the building or a structure erected adjacent to the building.

5. A system according to claim 4, wherein the structure is a scaffold assembly.

6. A system according to claim 4 or claim 5, wherein each securing mechanism includes a clamp for clamping the support member to the building or structure.

7. A system according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein each securing mechanism includes an extension arm extending from the securing mechanism to space the securing mechanism from the support member by a predetermined distance.

8. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each support member includes at least one coupling formation, and the panel has a side coupling formation on each side of the panel, wherein the panel can be releasably coupled to the support member.

9. A system according to claim 8, wherein each support member includes two coupling formations, thereby to enable multiple panels to be mounted to the support members in respective side-by-side relationship.

10. A system according to claim 8, wherein the support member includes two coupling formations arranged to facilitate mounting of panels at an angle to one another.

1 1 . A system according to any one of claims 8 to 10, wherein each support member includes a rail, and the or each coupling formation is formed to captively retain the side coupling formation of the panel.

12. A system according to claim 1 1 , wherein each coupling formation extends along the full length of the support member such that multiple support members can be connected end- to-end in series, thereby to provide a continuous track along which the panel can slide between various levels of the building.

13. A system according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the coupling formation of the support member has a rounded cross-sectional profile with a side opening, thereby to retain the side coupling member of the panel whilst allowing a main panel portion to pass through the side opening.

14. A system according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein each support member includes a backing plate and a cover plate adapted to be releasably connected to the backing plate, the backing and cover plates cooperating to form the coupling formation of the support member for retaining the side coupling formation of the panel therebetween.

15. A system according to claim 14, wherein the coupling formation of the support member has a first coupling portion associated with the backing plate and a second coupling portion associated with the cover plate, whereby the side coupling member of the panel is releasably retained between the first and second coupling portions.

16. A system according to claim 14, wherein the rail and coupling formations of each support member are fixedly attached to each other or otherwise formed as a one piece unit.

17. A system according to any one of claims 8 to 16, wherein the side coupling portion of each panel is formed as a separate piece and attachable to a respective side edge of the panel.

18. A system according to any one of claims 8 to 16, wherein the coupling portion of each panel includes a tubular member adapted to be slidingly received in the coupling portion of the respective support member, and a flange extending laterally from the tubular member, wherein the flange includes a mounting formation for facilitating attachment to the panel.

19. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a stabilising device is attached to at least one panel to restrict movement of the panel away from the support rails.

20. A system according to claim 19, wherein the stabilising device includes a friction reducing element to facilitate ease of movement of the panel relative to the support member.

21 . A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a joining element is provided to join together two or more panels in vertically disposed relationship such that the joined panels can be moved together in unison along the support member.

22. A system according to claim 21 , wherein one or more bracing elements is connected to the joined panels.

23. A system according to claim 22, wherein at least one end of one or more bracing elements extends above and is free of a top edge of the joined panels.

24. A system according to claim 22 or claim 23, wherein at least one end of one or more bracing elements extends below and is free of a bottom edge of the joined panels.

25. A system according to claim 23 or claim 24, wherein two bracing elements are connected to the joined panels.

26. A system according to claim 23 or claim 24, wherein one or more cantilevered panels are secured to the or each free end of the bracing elements, thereby forming a group of primary panels which can move in unison along the support member.

27. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, when dependent on claim 6, wherein a lifting mechanism is provided to move the panel along the support members, thereby to raise the panel from its current level to the next proceeding higher level above in the building or structure during installation.

28. A system according to claim 25, wherein the lifting mechanism is releasbly attachable to a structural member of the building or structure.

29. A system according to claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the lifting mechanism includes a first engaging member adapted to engage a corresponding second engaging formation associated with the panel, the first engaging member being operatively connected with an actuator, wherein the actuator is selectively operable to raise or lower the panel.

30. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a latching mechanism is mounted to a support rail, the latching mechanism having a latch biased to a latching position in which the latch prevents the primary panel from moving down along the track.

31 . A system according to claim 28, wherein the latch is selectively movable out of the latching position to allow the primary panels to be lowered along the track.

32. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more secondary panels are adapted to be releaseably mounted between the support members, the secondary panels together with the other panels forming a barrier encapsulating the walls of the building.