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
- 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.


