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In Australia, ensuring the safety and security of architectural structures is paramount, especially when it comes to preventing unauthorised access to restricted areas. Flexi-Mesh, a stainless steel tensile mesh product used by hamma Global Distributors, has emerged as a leading solution for preventing unauthorised climbing on barriers and fences, providing architects and engineers with a robust, aesthetically pleasing, and effective anti-climb barrier.

Addressing Industry Concerns: The Climbability Dilemma

One of the primary concerns within the industry revolves around the climbability of balustrades, particularly those installed in locations where falls from height pose significant risks. The Australian Building Codes and Standards, particularly BCA D2.16, mandate that balustrades must be non-climbable where there is a drop of over four metres. However, the challenge lies in the absence of a specific Australian or BCA standard that directly addresses the use of stainless steel tensile mesh in these applications.

Flexi-Mesh, with its high-quality Korean wire rope (KOS) construction, offers a unique solution. Available in a variety of sizes, including 1.5mm, 2mm, and 3mm, Flexi-Mesh is versatile and adaptable to different project needs. While there is a natural concern about the potential for climbing, a closer examination reveals that this concern may be mitigated by the product’s inherent design features.

The Practical Realities of Flexi-Mesh as an Anti-Climb Barrier

Flexi-Mesh’s design makes it highly impractical for climbing. The thinness of the wire rope, combined with its small and tightly woven apertures, creates a surface that is difficult to grip or support weight on, making it an ineffective option for climbing. The design naturally discourages attempts to climb, ensuring that the mesh serves as a strong deterrent.

Moreover, the aperture size of Flexi-Mesh is another crucial factor. With mesh openings measuring 40x70mm, even small footwear, including those worn by infants, would not fit through the mesh, further reducing the likelihood of successful climbing. This practical aspect of the design ensures that Flexi-Mesh is not just a theoretical solution but a proven and effective deterrent in real-world applications.

Testing, Compliance, and Engineer Endorsement

While Australia may lack a direct standard addressing tensile mesh in balustrades, Flexi-Mesh has undergone rigorous testing to ensure its suitability in anti-climb applications. Our product has been tested under various conditions to meet safety requirements, including load-bearing capacity and fall protection. These tests, combined with the endorsements from experienced engineers who are ready to issue Structural Design Certificates, provide solid evidence of Flexi-Mesh’s reliability and compliance.

Additionally, Flexi-Mesh comes with a 10-year warranty, further underscoring its durability and the confidence we have in its performance.

International Precedence and Industry Confidence

In the absence of an Australian standard, international guidelines provide valuable insights. The New Zealand Guidance on Barrier Design (March 2012) permits a maximum tensile mesh diameter of 50mm, a standard that Flexi-Mesh easily complies with, thanks to its 40x70mm apertures. This international precedence further strengthens the case for Flexi-Mesh as a reliable and compliant anti-climb solution in Australia.

Flexi-Mesh has been successfully deployed across a variety of projects in Australia, including residential buildings and bridge constructions, where falls of over four metres are a significant concern. In each case, industry professionals, including certifiers and engineers, have assessed the mesh’s non-climbable nature and deemed it suitable for use.

Durability and Longevity in Australian Conditions

Flexi-Mesh is made from the highest quality Korean wire rope (KOS), designed to withstand the harshest Australian climates. Whether exposed to coastal conditions or intense UV radiation, Flexi-Mesh maintains its structural integrity and appearance over time, making it a durable choice for long-term applications. This durability, backed by a 10-year warranty, ensures that once installed, Flexi-Mesh requires minimal maintenance, offering cost savings and peace of mind to property owners and managers.

Versatility and Aesthetic Appeal

Flexi-Mesh is not only functional but also versatile in its application. Whether used in residential, commercial, or public infrastructure projects, it blends seamlessly into the design while providing the necessary security. Its sleek, modern appearance enhances the overall aesthetic of any project, allowing architects to meet both safety and design objectives.

When Do Anti-Climb Requirements Apply?

In Australia, the need for a floor-to-ceiling panel to comply with anti-climb requirements depends on its application. The Building Code of Australia (BCA) provides guidance, but the specifics can vary based on the structure’s purpose and location.

1. Balustrades and Barriers: If a floor-to-ceiling panel is used as part of a balustrade or barrier, particularly where there is a drop of more than four metres, it must comply with anti-climb requirements. This is to prevent unauthorised climbing, which could lead to falls and injuries.
2. Façades and Non-Barrier Applications: In cases where the panel is part of a building façade or another architectural feature not intended as a barrier, anti-climb requirements may not apply. However, if the panel is accessible and poses a risk of climbing—such as in public spaces or security-sensitive areas—anti-climb considerations may still be necessary.
3. Context-Specific Regulations: Certain structures, especially in public buildings, schools, or playgrounds, might have stricter regulations regarding climbability, even for non-barrier applications.

Understanding these requirements is crucial when specifying products like Flexi-Mesh. By ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, professionals can confidently use Flexi-Mesh as an effective anti-climb solution in a variety of applications.

Proven Performance and Customisation

Flexi-Mesh offers a range of customisation options to suit various project requirements. Whether you need a specific mesh size, wire thickness, or installation configuration, Flexi-Mesh can be tailored to meet your needs. This flexibility, combined with its proven performance in demanding environments, makes it a superior choice for projects where preventing unauthorised access is critical.

Conclusion: A Proven Anti-Climb Solution for Australia

Flexi-Mesh stands as a versatile and reliable anti-climb solution, filling a crucial gap in Australia’s architectural and structural safety landscape. Its practical design, rigorous testing, international precedence, and engineer endorsements make it an ideal choice for projects requiring stringent safety standards.

In the absence of a direct Australian standard for tensile mesh, Flexi-Mesh offers a solution that meets the spirit and intent of existing safety requirements. Architects, engineers, and builders can confidently specify Flexi-Mesh, knowing it provides the necessary security without compromising on aesthetics or functionality.

For Australian customers, Flexi-Mesh provides a proven and effective solution. For those operating in other regions, hamma Global Distributors can provide guidance on anti-climb specifications tailored to your local standards. Visit www.hammaarch.com for more information on Flexi-Mesh and its applications.

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