MONORAIL SYSTEMS FOR FACADE INSTALLATION & LIFTING

Giraffe Access are the leading provider of suspended access and monorail solutions in the UK. With nationwide rigging teams, in house design engineers and high quality robustly maintained equipment, we are the go to provider for work at height using monorails.

WHAT IS A MONORAIL SYSTEM?

Monorail systems are engineered track solutions suspended from a building or structure, enabling suspended access equipment to traverse. Typically manufactured from lightweight aluminium, the track supports a trolley which provides an anchorage point for either a cradle platform for personnel-riding or hoisting gear for material lifting. 

Monorails are extremely versatile and can be designed to suit a multitude of buildings and structures. Navigating architectural features such as corners, curves, soffits, overhangs, and stepped elevations, monorails can take account of site-specific geometries and nature of work. 

Contact the Giraffe team on 0330 3336222 for a full turnkey service for monorails for façade access and material lifting solutions
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TEMPORARY MONORAILS for CONSTRUCTION 
& FACADE INSTALLATION

While monorails are often used as permanent maintenance systems, they are increasingly deployed as temporary access solutions during construction.  A temporary monorail system provides:

 

  • Continuous façade access without reliance on cranes
  • Safe working platforms via suspended cradles
  • Integrated material lifting solutions for façade panels, glazing, and cladding elements
  • Flexibility to adapt to changing construction phases

 

When installed at roof or slab level, contractors can achieve full building coverage, enabling both installation and finishing works from a single engineered system.


If project durations are squeezed, monorails can be installed at intermediate floor levels, facilitating the installation of façade while the superstructure is still under construction, freeing up valuable crane time, achieving weathertightness, and enabling internal works to proceed that would otherwise be susceptible to damage from the elements. 

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INTEGRATED CRADLE & MATERIAL LIFTING SOLUTIONS

Modern construction projects demand more than just access—they require efficient logistics at height.


Monorail systems can be designed to support:


• Personnel riding cradles for installation, sealing and inspection 

• Dedicated material lifting gear for façade elements

• Dual-track systems separating personnel access and material lifting

• Bespoke lifting rigs for glass, curtain walling and unitised panels


This approach significantly reduces crane dependency and improves programme efficiency, particularly on large or complex façades. 


BENEFITS AND KEY APPLICATIONS


• Full façade coverage – Access all elevations, including curves and recesses

• Reduced crane usage – Lower cost and improved site logistics

• Improved productivity – Continuous access without repositioning equipment

• Lightweight & adaptable – Minimal structural impact and quick installation

• Safer working environment – Dedicated work at height platforms vs rope access or ladders

• Bespoke engineering – Designed to suit each project’s structure and loading requirements

Temporary monorail cradle and lifting systems are widely used across:


• High-rise residential and commercial developments

• Curtain walling and façade installation projects

• Refurbishment and recladding schemes

• Atrium and internal façade access

• Industrial applications such as warehouse Automated Storage and Retrieval System (AS/RS) installations, 

• Power station construction, maintenance, and de-commissioning

• Infrastructure, such as the refurbishment / restoration of dams and bridges 


They are particularly effective where buildings feature:


• Complex geometry or curved façades

• Limited roof space

• Restricted crane access

• Phased construction programmes

• Tight construction deadlines


ENGINEERING, COMPLIANCE & SAFETY

All monorail and cradle systems must be designed, installed and operated in accordance with UK regulations and standards. Systems typically incorporate:


  • Certified hoists and safety devices
  • Load-rated tracks and support brackets
  • Fall protection integration
  • Inspection and maintenance regimes


A fully engineered solution ensures compliance while delivering a safe, efficient working platform for operatives at height. Our in-house design and engineering team provide all supporting drawings, calculations and load information to support the installation of the system. 




WHY CHOOSE GIRAFFE ACCESS?

  • Engineering-led design for complex façade access challenges


  • Extensive experience delivering temporary suspended access across the UK


  • Integration of cradle access and material lifting solutions


  • In-house expertise covering design, installation, inspection and maintenance


  • Proven delivery on high-profile and technically demanding projects


DROP US AN EMAIL about your Project

RECENT MONORAIL PROJECTS

Our portfolio includes a number of recent projects using Monorail systems for a facade access and material lifting.

See all projects

Manchester Hotel Project

Temporary cradles and material hoists were delivered by Giraffe Access via dual monorail systems to provide full façade access during construction on a Manchester project.


To enable complete coverage, a bespoke support structure was engineered to raise the monorail tracks 2m above roof level, allowing finishing works to be carried out across the entire building.

CLICK for Case Study and further images


Kings Cross London Monorail

Temporary suspended access at King’s Cross was delivered within a live, occupied environment using man-riding cradles and material lifting monorail systems to provide full access across two neighbouring 20-storey towers. The engineered platforms were tailored to structural constraints and included enhanced safety features, with systems installed, supported and progressively relocated by our rigging and engineering teams to achieve efficient full façade coverage.

CLICK for Case Study and further images


Bridge monorail in Scotland

Our rigging team used a monorail system and bespoke jibs to provide a highly flexible access system for bridge maintenance works.


As well as vertical movement, this offered  efficient horizontal movement to enable operatives to easily move along the full section of the bridge that needed work carried out on.


FAQs

Got questions? We’ve got answers.

  • What is a monorail system for suspended access?

    A monorail system for suspended access is an engineered track installed at roof or slab level that allows a cradle or platform to travel along a building façade. 

    It provides continuous, controlled access for installation, inspection and maintenance works without the need for full scaffolding or mast climbers. Systems can be designed as temporary solutions for construction or permanent installations for ongoing façade maintenance.

  • How do monorail cradles work on building façades?

    Monorail cradles are suspended platforms connected to a travelling trolley running along a fixed track system. The cradle can move vertically as well as laterally, allowing operatives to access large areas quickly and efficiently without repositioning equipment. This enables a safer and more efficient method of working, particularly for glazing, cladding and façade finishing works.

  • What is the difference between a monorail cradle and a BMU?

    A monorail cradle traverses along a lightweight aluminium track system suspended over the building edge. It is a simpler solution that can be deployed for targeted areas, or full building coverage, on a temporary or permanent basis.


    A BMU (Building Maintenance Unit) is a more complex, permanent system—usually a powered machine with telescopic or luffing capabilities designed to access multiple façades from roof level. Monorails are often selected where a full BMU is not required or where a more cost-effective, project-specific solution is appropriate. 


    As a market leader in both temporary and permanent access systems, our group can support projects with either requirement. 

  • What types of buildings use monorail access systems?

    Monorail systems are used across a wide range of buildings, including high-rise residential developments, commercial offices, hotels and complex façade structures. They are particularly effective on buildings with long or repetitive elevations, recessed façades or restricted ground-level access where scaffolding or MEWPs are impractical.

  • Can monorails be used for both access and lifting?

    Yes, monorail systems can be engineered to support both suspended access platforms and lifting equipment. This allows materials such as glazing panels, cladding units and façade components to be transported directly to the point of installation, improving efficiency and reducing reliance on cranes.

  • What are the advantages of monorail systems for façade installation?

    Monorail systems provide continuous façade access, reduce the need for scaffolding and improve overall site efficiency. Key benefits include:


    • Reduced programme durations 

    • Improved material handling 

    • Safer, engineered access 

    • Reduced crane dependency 

    • Minimal disruption to other trades 


    They are particularly effective on high-rise and complex façade projects.


  • Can monorails reduce crane dependency on site?

    Yes. By enabling materials to be moved vertically as well as horizontally along the façade, monorail systems can significantly reduce the need for crane lifts. This not only improves programme efficiency but also reduces costs and site congestion.

  • Are monorail systems suitable for live construction environments?

    Yes, monorail systems are well suited to live construction environments. They can be installed in phases and operated with minimal disruption to ongoing works, making them ideal for busy or constrained sites.

  • When should a monorail system be used instead of scaffolding?

    Monorail systems are typically used where continuous façade access is required without the cost, time and visual impact of scaffolding. 

    They are particularly effective on high-rise or complex buildings, allowing operatives to move efficiently along elevations while reducing programme duration and crane dependency.

  • How are monorail systems designed for specific buildings?

    Monorail systems are designed on a project-specific basis, considering building geometry, structural capacity, loading requirements and intended use. 


    This includes detailed engineering calculations, track layout design and coordination with the building structure to ensure a safe and practical solution. 


    At Giraffe, systems are engineered to suit the specific façade geometry and loading requirements by our in-house design and engineering team.

  • What loads can a monorail system support?

    Load capacity depends on the system design but typically includes personnel, tools and façade materials. Systems are engineered by Zarafa to meet project-specific requirements with appropriate safety factors, ensuring compliance with relevant standards.

  • Can monorails be designed for complex or curved façades?

    Yes, monorail systems can be designed to follow complex geometries, including curved or stepped façades. Bespoke track layouts allow access to challenging building forms that would be difficult to reach using traditional methods.

  • What standards apply to monorail access systems in the UK?

    Monorail systems must comply with relevant UK legislation and standards, including the Work at Height Regulations, LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998),BS EN 1808:2019 Safety requirements for suspended access equipment. Design calculations, stability criteria, construction. Examinations and tests and BS 5974:2017 Planning, design, setting up and use of temporary suspended access equipment. Code of practice. 


    Design and installation are also carried out in line with recognised engineering and safety standards.

  • Do monorail systems require structural verification?

    Yes, structural verification is essential to confirm that the building or supporting structure can safely accommodate the imposed loads. 

    This forms a key part of the design and engineering process, which Giraffe can offer further support.

  • Can temporary monorails be installed on existing structures?

    Yes, temporary monorail systems can often be installed on existing structures, subject to detailed assessment and verification of load capacity and fixing arrangements. Visit our case studies to see examples of this.

  • How are monorail systems installed on site?

    Installation typically involves fixing the track system to the building structure, installing trolleys and rigging a suspended platform consisting of man riding hoists and safety devices, and completing thorough testing and commissioning. Systems are then certified prior to use. The same process applies to lifting gear monorails, which can be added alongside the cradle track to provide a more enhanced solution for façade related works.

  • Can monorails be relocated during a project?

    Yes, temporary monorail systems can often be relocated or adapted as the project progresses, providing flexibility as façade works advance. 


    Giraffe Access have installed systems that are relocated up the building as cladding or façade works are performed. See Case Study of a hotel in Manchester.

  • What maintenance and inspection is required for monorail systems?

    Monorail systems require regular inspection and maintenance to ensure safe operation. 

    This typically includes routine checks and statutory inspections in accordance with LOLER and manufacturer guidance. We teams can support this, including factory based testing of equipment by manufacturer approved engineers.

  • Do you provide design, installation, inspection and certification?

    Yes, Giraffe provides a fully engineered, turnkey service including design, installation, testing, inspection and certification—ensuring compliance and continuity throughout the project lifecycle. Contact us for further information.

  • Can monorail systems be hired or are they purchase only?

    Monorail systems can be provided on a hire basis for temporary construction projects or as permanent installations, depending on project requirements.

  • Can monorail systems be used for curtain wall installation?

    Yes, monorail systems are widely used for curtain wall installation or removal, providing safe, efficient access and enabling materials to be positioned accurately at the point of installation.

  • Are monorails suitable for high-rise façade works?

    Yes, monorail systems are particularly effective for high-rise façade works, offering continuous access, improved safety and enhanced productivity.

  • Can lifting monorails handle glazing panels or cladding units?

    Yes, lifting monorails can be engineered to handle glazing panels, cladding units and other façade materials, supporting efficient and controlled installation processes.

NEED MORE HELP?

If you are unsure which area is of interest to you, please visit the ‘Quick Contact’ page and contact Giraffe Access, who will point you in the right direction.
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When it comes to Facade Access...look for the giraffe.