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Safety Access Upgrades Across Six Buildings for a Global Manufacturing Company

Project Overview

A global manufacturing company partnered with GSM Industrial to complete a coordinated series of safety access upgrades across six buildings within its facility. The project originated through GSM Roofing, which was already supporting the facility and engaged GSM Industrial to deliver the required safety and access upgrades. The objective was straightforward but critical: improve stair, ladder, and handrail safety, reduce slip and fall risk, and align existing infrastructure with current OSHA access and egress standards.

Rather than replacing entire systems, GSM Industrial focused on strategic upgrades—enhancing existing stairs, ladders, and handrails with durable materials, improved visibility, and long-term safety performance. The result was a cleaner, safer, and more compliant facility without disrupting daily operations.


Project Scope: Multi-Building Safety & Access Improvements

Custom Anti-Slip Stair Tread Upgrades

Materials Used

GSM Industrial installed 1/8-inch fiberglass anti-slip stair tread covers across multiple exterior and below-grade stair systems. Each tread was:

Fiberglass was chosen over painted coatings due to its superior slip resistance, longevity, and performance in wet or icy conditions.

Installation Approach

The stair tread covers were mechanically fastened to existing concrete and steel stair structures. This approach:

In interior stairwells, GSM applied a special glow-in-the-dark epoxy nosing to stair edges to improve visibility during low-light or emergency egress conditions. (Interior photos are not available due to facility restrictions.)

Safety Impact


Handrail Fabrication and Installation

Material Selection

Handrail systems varied by location and exposure:

This approach ensured durability while meeting safety visibility expectations.

Field Installation

Handrails were field-installed and anchored to existing concrete and steel substrates. GSM ensured:

Operational Benefit

Upgraded handrails improved both safety and usability at stair access points frequently used by employees and maintenance personnel.


Rooftop Ladder Refurbishment

Shop-Based Restoration

A corroded rooftop access ladder was:

  1. Removed from the building
  2. Transported to GSM Industrial’s fabrication shop
  3. Surface blasted to remove rust and scale
  4. Repaired and recoated
  5. Returned to the site for reinstallation

Reinstallation & Compliance

Once restored, the ladder was reinstalled with improved visibility and secure mounting, restoring safe rooftop access while extending the ladder’s service life.

Why Refurbishment Worked

This approach avoided unnecessary replacement while achieving a safer, more durable outcome—an efficient solution for aging access infrastructure.


Project Coordination & Execution

Multi-Building Scheduling

The work spanned six buildings, requiring careful coordination rather than complex logistical constraints.

Maintenance Team Communication

GSM Industrial’s foreman coordinated directly with on-site maintenance staff before and after each task and location. This ensured:

Site Conditions


Results & Measurable Outcomes

Improved Facility Safety

OSHA Alignment

Long-Term Value


Before & After Photo Gallery

Stair Systems

Before:
Worn concrete, cracked surfaces, low-visibility edges, aging or insufficient handrails

After:
Fiberglass anti-slip stair treads, high-visibility nosings, refurbished or newly installed handrails

Rooftop Ladder

Before:
Heavy corrosion, deteriorated coating, reduced visibility

After:
Fully restored ladder with protective coating and improved safety configuration


Related Services

Access & Safety Fabrication
Custom design, repair, and upgrade of stairs, ladders, platforms, and handrails.

Field Installation
Efficient on-site installation services with minimal disruption to operations.

Custom Metal Fabrication
Shop-built components tailored for exact field-fit requirements.

Maintenance & Repairs
Upgrades and refurbishments that extend the life of existing industrial infrastructure.


Frequently Asked Questions

What type of stair treads were installed?

GSM Industrial installed 1/8-inch fiberglass anti-slip stair tread covers, custom cut and drilled to fit existing stair systems.

Why use fiberglass stair treads instead of paint or coatings?

Fiberglass provides superior traction, longer service life, and better performance in wet or icy conditions compared to painted or coated surfaces.

Were the upgrades designed to improve OSHA compliance?

Yes. The improvements enhanced visibility, reduced slip hazards, and upgraded access points to better align with current OSHA access and egress standards.

Can GSM Industrial perform safety upgrades across multiple buildings?

Absolutely. This project required coordinated work across six buildings, completed efficiently through clear communication with on-site maintenance teams.

Does GSM Industrial handle specialty coatings?

Yes. GSM applied a glow-in-the-dark epoxy nosing on interior stair systems to improve visibility during low-light and emergency conditions.


Ready to Improve Facility Safety?

If your facility is dealing with aging stairs, ladders, or access points, GSM Industrial provides practical safety upgrades that reduce risk, improve compliance, and extend the life of existing infrastructure.

Contact GSM Industrial.