GRP Step-Over Crossover System

A GRP step-over is a pre-fabricated, self-contained access structure designed to allow personnel to safely cross over obstacles such as pipework, cable trays, conveyors, and low-level barriers. Constructed entirely from Glass Reinforced Plastic, the ECL step-over includes a structural frame, platform, grating treads, and tubular handrail, all manufactured from corrosion-resistant composite material. It arrives on site in bolt-together sub-assemblies and requires no welding or specialist lifting to install.

GRP offers three fundamental advantages over steel in industrial and hazardous environments. It is non-conductive, so no earthing or bonding is required in rail, electrical, or cable-dense locations. It is inherently corrosion-resistant, eliminating the painting, recoating, and inspection cycles that steel demands in wet, coastal, or chemically active environments. And it is up to 75% lighter than steel, making two-person installation straightforward without specialist lifting equipment. Once installed, a GRP step-over has no maintenance obligation for the duration of its service life.

All ECL GRP step-overs carry an independent fire classification of EN 13501-1 Class B-s1,d0. This classification confirms limited contribution to fire, minimal smoke production, and zero burning droplets or particles under fire conditions. The rating meets current UK Approved Document B requirements and is compatible with Network Rail standards. The GRP does not support combustion and does not require additional fire treatment.

ECL stocks 14 standard sizes covering platform heights from 360mm to 1560mm in 200mm increments, across two standard spans of 1000mm and 1500mm. All standard models have an 800mm inside width. Custom configurations are available to order, including non-standard heights, wider platforms of 1000mm or greater, inclined stair approaches for uneven surfaces, extended spans, and alternative RAL colours. Contact the ECL technical team with your obstacle dimensions, required platform height, and span for a written quotation.

The system arrives on site factory-assembled in two or three bolt-together sub-assemblies. Positioning and levelling is straightforward. All connections are by A4 stainless bolt only, no welding, grinding, or hot work permits are required. Pre-drilled GRP anchor plates at each stringer base accept M16 holding-down bolts compatible with chemical anchors, resin fixings, or expansion anchors depending on the substrate. A typical installation is completed by a two-person team in under two hours.

The GRP step-over is specified across a broad range of industries where corrosion resistance, non-conductivity, or low maintenance are priorities. Common applications include trackside cable tray crossings and depot walkways in the rail sector, crossings over pipework and valve manifolds at water treatment works and pumping stations, factory access in chemical and pharmaceutical environments, non-conductive crossings in electrical substations, and corrosion-free crossings on marine jetties and offshore platforms. The system is also used in nuclear and defence installations where non-sparking and non-magnetic materials are required.