You are visiting the United Kingdom Kee Safety website from United States. Would you like to go to the United States site?
Navigating rooftops often means working around pipework, cable trays, ducts, or plant equipment. Without proper access, these obstacles can quickly become trip hazards, making routine maintenance risky and non-compliant.
While traditional fabricated crossovers have long been used in these situations, step over platforms are fast becoming the preferred solution for safe access on different roof types such as concrete, metal, asphalt, and PVC membranes.
In this blog, we’ll explore why step over platforms offer superior benefits in speed, safety, and adaptability, and how Kee Safety’s systems solve common rooftop access challenges.
Kee Step® step over platforms provide safe access over pipework and rooftop obstacles.
Modern roofs are filled with features, and not all of them are easy to step over. Cable trays, HVAC units, parapets, and changes in roof levels can all pose fall or trip hazards if not properly managed. In industrial settings, the consequences of poor access can include slips and falls due to uneven or unstable surfaces, damaged membranes from foot traffic, and non-compliance with height regulations and the Work at Height legislation.
Step overs provide a designated, stable route across obstacles, ensuring safety and compliance while reducing long-term maintenance risk.
Historically, crossover stairs have been fabricated on site or welded in position. While this approach may suit some static environments, it introduces several challenges.
Fabricated systems often require welding and hot works permits, which can slow down installation and increase risk. Heavy components can make transport and handling difficult, while the fixed design limits flexibility once the structure is installed. Adjusting or repositioning a welded crossover typically means cutting and refabricating steel, which adds cost and downtime. In many cases, longer lead times are also unavoidable because each unit must be individually planned and built.
By contrast, modular step over platforms provide a more flexible and efficient approach from stock to site.
Standard Kee Step® kits are delivered ready to assemble with corrosion-resistant components.
Step over platforms are pre-engineered access systems that allow workers to move safely over rooftop obstructions. Kee Step® platforms, for example, are modular in design and constructed using corrosion-resistant galvanised steel or aluminium components. They are designed to be quick to install, easy to assemble, and fully compliant with relevant safety standards.
Each Kee Step platform is designed to provide safe access over obstacles while maintaining roof integrity. They feature modular construction built from standard modules to suit different roof types, and they can be delivered pre-assembled or in kit form to speed up installation. Anti-slip treads and toe boards provide added safety underfoot, while a double handrail system offers a secure grip and fall prevention. Adjustable base feet options ensure compatibility with concrete, metal, or asphalt roofs, and the corrosion resistance of galvanised steel makes them suitable for outdoor industrial environments. As no welding is required, the platforms are assembled with tubular fittings and a simple Allen key, ensuring a quick and tidy installation that meets BS EN 14122-3 and other height regulations.
Modular step-over platforms provide safe, compliant access over obstacles such as pipework or fragile zones on rooftops.
At Kee Safety, our Kee Step® range includes both standard kits for fast delivery and bespoke options tailored to specific site needs. Whether bridging low level obstacles or complex rooftop machinery, our safety experts can configure a solution that fits the environment and project requirements.
Standard kits are available in heights from 600mm up to 1400mm, with adjustable widths and lengths based on the required clearance and walkway dimensions. Flat or adjustable base feet can be selected to suit different surfaces. Every kit includes anti-slip treads, toe boards, double handrails, and corrosion-resistant platforms to ensure a safe working area. If your site requires a configuration outside the standard range, our team can provide a tailored system designed around your exact roof conditions.
Kee Step platforms are delivered pre-assembled or as easy-to-build kits, allowing for quick on-site installation with minimal disruption to rooftop operations. No specialist tools, lifting equipment, or permits for welding are needed. This straightforward assembly method not only reduces downtime but helps keep your roof structure intact, which is particularly important when working on PVC membranes or fragile surfaces. The result is a system that protects both workers and the roof itself, while keeping installation time and maintenance costs low.
Step over platforms are used across a wide range of environments, including industrial rooftops, warehouses, distribution centres, and construction projects with new plant installations. They are also valuable in buildings that require regular maintenance access or have varying roof levels and limited space for fixed crossovers. From bridging cable trays and ducting to crossing fragile surfaces safely, step overs have become an essential part of modern roof safety systems.
Simple assembly requires no welding or hot works, ensuring quick installation on site.
Kee Safety has been providing compliant safety solutions for decades. Our modular step over platforms are designed by qualified engineers, constructed to the highest standards, and backed by full documentation, testing, and technical support. Each platform is installed by our in-house team or supplied as a ready-to-assemble kit. Together with our comprehensive range of systems, including Kee Walk® walkways and Kee Guard® edge protection, we provide complete, compliant solutions that ensure safe access across all types of rooftops.
When it comes to rooftop access, shortcuts can lead to serious risks. Kee Step over platforms eliminate trip hazards, simplify installation, and ensure ongoing compliance. With their modular design, corrosion resistance, and proven durability, they represent a safer, smarter way to protect your workforce.
Don’t leave safety to chance. Whether you need a standard kit or a custom-engineered platform, our team is ready to help you specify the most suitable access solution for your site.
Let us evaluate your roof layout and obstacles to recommend the most suitable platform.
Contact our safety experts today to book your free site survey.