A Better Way to Access Steep Slopes: AdjustaStairs at Mt Messenger

The Mt Messenger Bypass Project is one of New Zealand’s most challenging road developments. With steep batters, uneven ground, and constant changes on site, crews needed a temporary access system that was safe, fast to install, and easy to move.

Working with Glasgow Scaffolding, SafeSmart Access supplied the AdjustaStairs Portable Stair System to help workers move safely and efficiently through the project.

The Challenge: Safe Access on Steep, Changing Ground

Civil crews faced ongoing access issues due to:

  • Steep and uneven slopes
  • Wet and soft ground
  • Daily changes to cut and fill levels
  • High foot traffic in active work zones
  • Timber stairs are taking too long to build and rebuild

The site needed a strong, reliable, and adjustable access solution.

The Solution: AdjustaStairs Portable Stairs

The AdjustaStairs Portable Stair System was the ideal choice for the Mt Messenger project. It is designed for civil works, earthworks, and any site where access conditions change quickly.

  • Adjustable and Flexible

AdjustaStair can be easily moved or adjusted as the ground level changes.
No need to rebuild timber stairs each time the site changes.

  • Fast to Install

Lightweight aluminium makes installation quick and simple.
Crews spend less time setting up and more time on the job.

  • Safe and Compliant

Built to AS/NZS standards with:

  • Non-slip treads
  • Strong handrails
  • Stable, secure footing even in wet conditions

How We Designed the Solution

SafeSmart Access worked with Glasgow Scaffolding to:

  • Choose the right stair lengths for each batter
  • Set the correct pitch for different slopes
  • Supply modular units for fast relocation
  • Keep a consistent safety standard across all access points

This ensured the stairs were safe, stable, and easy for crews to use.

Project Results

Using AdjustaStairs on the Mt Messenger Bypass delivered clear benefits:

  • Better Safety

Workers had stable and non-slip access, even on steep or muddy terrain.

  • Time Savings

No more rebuilding timber steps every few days.

  • Higher Productivity

Faster, easier access helped crews stay on schedule.

  • Reusable and Efficient

AdjustaStairs units were moved and reused across multiple zones as the project changed.

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