GRP Staircase – Airport Installation
Non-conductive fire escape access for a live airport environment
As part of a new hangar development at Bournemouth International Airport, PJNC was appointed to design and supply a bespoke GRP staircase to serve as a fire escape. The system was required to operate within a live airport environment without interfering with sensitive radar equipment.
Project Requirement
A fire escape staircase was required to support a new hangar facility within the operational area of Bournemouth International Airport. The location of the installation introduced a key constraint, as traditional steel structures would have interfered with nearby radar equipment.
The system also needed to be accommodated within a restricted footprint, integrate with the building structure and provide reliable, compliant access suitable for long-term external use in an airside environment.
The GRP Solution
Glass Reinforced Polymer (GRP) was selected for this application due to its radio-transparent and non-conductive properties, allowing the staircase to be installed near sensitive radar systems without causing electromagnetic interference.
GRP also provided a suitable material solution for an exposed airport environment, offering durability and corrosion resistance while supporting the development of a bespoke, non-standard staircase configuration.
Key Design & Engineering Considerations
The staircase was engineered to suit the spatial and structural constraints of the site while delivering safe and compliant fire escape access.
Key design considerations included:
- A total staircase height of 7.5 metres
- Internal stair width of 1 metre
- Multi-level configuration on a limited footprint
- Self-supporting structural design, fixed to the building
The design process incorporated a detailed 3D model, full fabrication drawings and a comprehensive Structural Verification Report to support the final solution.
Fabrication & Installation
To suit the constrained site conditions and minimise disruption within the live airport environment, all staircase components were prefabricated off site. The system was manufactured in modular sections and delivered ready for assembly.
On site, the staircase was assembled and installed efficiently, allowing integration with the existing building structure while maintaining controlled working practices.
Performance & Suitability
The completed GRP staircase provides compliant fire escape access without compromising airport operations. Its non-conductive construction ensures compatibility with sensitive radar equipment, while its durability and low maintenance requirements make it well suited to long-term use in an exposed airside environment.
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If your project involves restricted space, sensitive environments or complex operational constraints, PJNC can provide technical guidance on a compliant GRP solution.
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