Façade access and maintenance is a complex topic that involves many parameters. The range of solution goes from a simple anchor point to a +150-ton BMU machine on the roof. Each design choice has its pros and cons.  So, how do you choose the right solution? And what sets each option apart?

Understanding Your Requirements

Before looking into each facade access solution, you need to understand your building's requirements. The first considerations should be:

• Safety of the equipment:  When working at height, no shortcut can be taken which could lead to a risk for the end user.
• Ergonomics for the end user: For large glass surfaces, the architect and consultant should give priority to designs that reduce the strain on the end user.
• Normative framework: Depending on the country where the system is installed certain design options may not be available.
• Type of operations required: Is the façade access system used solely for façade cleaning or also for heavier repairs such as glass replacement?
• Duration of a cleaning cycle and frequency of cleaning: Does the building owner require fast and short cleaning operations? Depending on the environment, the building might need cleaning 2,3 or 4 times a year.
• Accessibility: the end user must be able to access each point of the façade in an easy and safe way.
• Maintainability: the systems must be designed in a way which allows periodic inspection.
• Aesthetics: the visual impact is always a key aspect for the architect and the building owner and should be part of the design process.

Based on the above, you should have an easier way selecting a solution. Among the most common design choices:

Davit Arms: Discretion first

For buildings where visibility from the ground is a concern and a semi-permanent solution is acceptable, davit arms —fixed suspension rigs— offer a versatile option. Recommended design for small to medium sized roofs, as the operator must move manually the davit arm.  Fallprotec's davits, known for their lightweight (30kg in total) and easy mounting in sockets, offer versatility for cleaning various areas with the same mast and jib, with rope access specialists completing the task. After works, only the sockets remain on the rooftop.

Monorails: Best maneuverability in vertical and horizontal axis

Permanently installed on the top of the façade, monorails stand out as the most straightforward and efficient equipment. Its versatility conforms to the building's shape, accommodating suspended platforms, rope access specialists, and Ropeclimbers alike. Fallprotec offers two monorail options for suspension works: SafeAccess for all types of platforms, SafeAccess C for a hidden rail solution, e.g. for double-skin façades.

Roofcars: Innovation for large Facades

The roofcar combines the advantage to have roofmounted tracks with the possibility of lateral displacement of a suspended platform or a rope access technician.  Unlike davits, roofcars are mobile, either manually or motorized, facilitating lateral movements on rails atop the building. They can be paired with RopeClimber StandSit, BackPack, or Bosun Chair, rationalizing the cleaning process for expansive facades.

Building Maintenance Units (BMUs) for specific challenges

If there is no space available on the rooftop, or that you have specific requirements that cannot be covered by lightweight façade equipment due to the outreach required, a Building Maintenance Unit (BMU) will be the suitable option. The suspended platform is connected to a single or twin outrigger arm. Each BMU machine is custom built to meet the requirements of the site.  BMU’s can also be equipped with auxiliary hoists up to 1To (limit of EN1808)

In the domain of facade access solutions, understanding the nuances between monorails, davits, roofcars, and BMUs can become crucial for selecting the most suitable option for your building maintenance needs. To better understand each option, consult our paper on lightweight access solutions.