At Facade Access Solutions, we bring decades of engineering expertise to building maintenance unit retrofit and façade maintenance projects worldwide, with dedicated regional teams serving the UK, UAE, and across the EMEAI region. Our teams upgrade and modernise existing facade access systems to align with the latest global codes, integrating advanced automation and technologies to enhance safety, reliability, and performance. Each retrofit is engineered to deliver the perfect balance of regulatory compliance, functionality, and architectural integrity.
Our retrofit and refurbishment services are built on innovation, precision, and proven experience. We help clients protect workers at height, optimise building performance, and ensure long-term operational efficiency. Each programme also delivers measurable cost savings and lower energy bills for building owners across the EMEAI region.
Contact our service teams in 28 locations today to discuss your specific needs and schedule a free consultation. Our UK and UAE offices serve the EMEAI region with local engineering expertise.
Every building presents unique challenges, from ageing systems to new safety codes, and requires tailored solutions. That’s why Facade Access Solutions offers a full range of five core retrofit and service programmes: training, inspections, maintenance, retrofits, and repairs. Together, these ensure full lifecycle management of facade access and BMU systems, keeping properties compliant, efficient, and secure across the EMEAI region and beyond.
Routine inspection and load testing are crucial to keeping facade access and BMU systems safe and operational. Each system is inspected and tested with calibrated tools to confirm compliance. Our certified technicians perform both annual and pre-use inspections as part of comprehensive compliance programmes. Annual inspections provide a detailed assessment once per year, while pre-use inspections confirm equipment safety every 30 days.
We adhere to international codes and standards such as OSHA, ANSI, CSA, EN 1808, BS 6037-1:2017, and other globally recognised codes. Each inspection identifies risks, detects early signs of material fatigue, and provides actionable recommendations.
Our compliance specialists support building owners and facility managers in understanding their responsibilities and staying informed about evolving safety regulations in the UK, UAE, and across EMEAI markets that may affect their assets.
Through regular inspection programmes, clients can be confident that their facade access and BMU systems operate at peak safety, minimising downtime, preventing costly repairs, and ensuring the well-being of occupants and the public.
Proactive maintenance and energy-efficient upgrades are key to long-term equipment performance and workplace safety. These programmes help building owners reduce energy bills and unlock measurable cost savings over the asset’s lifecycle. We provide customised maintenance contracts for Tractel, Manntech, and CoxGomyl, among other global brands. Scheduled maintenance helps reduce downtime, manage costs, and maintain compliance.
Our programmes cover building maintenance units (BMUs), davits, monorails, and powered platforms. Each maintenance plan is adapted to local environmental conditions, whether coastal climates, extreme heat, or heavy rainfall, ensuring system reliability worldwide.
We also offer emergency response and rapid repair services to quickly restore operations and minimise disruptions to window cleaning and facade maintenance schedules. Availability may vary by region and can be confirmed through your local Facade Access Solutions service office, including our UK and UAE service teams.
Safe operations start with knowledgeable, certified personnel. Our hands-on, site-specific training programs ensure teams are properly certified on the equipment installed in their building.
Our EN 1808 compliant and globally aligned programmes provide training for powered platforms, facade access systems, and height safety equipment. In the UK, our courses align with the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and LOLER, while UAE training reflects Dubai Municipality and Abu Dhabi facade access requirements. Refresher courses are also available to keep operators updated with the latest standards, reducing liability and improving efficiency.
Aging buildings, including UK heritage properties and masonry facades, deserve safe and sustainable upgrades. Our retrofit and modernisation services enhance safety, compliance, and performance without the need for full system replacement.
By integrating new automation technologies into existing structures, we deliver cost-effective modernisation solutions that extend system lifespan and improve operational reliability. Each project is custom-engineered to meet architectural challenges, from historic facades to complex rooftops, ensuring full perimeter safety, functionality, and minimal disruption.
Replacement isn’t always necessary when systems age. Our refurbishment solutions restore existing equipment to optimal performance and compliance standards, supporting long-term preservation of the asset.
We perform component replacements, structural adjustments, and control system recalibrations in line with original manufacturer specifications, ensuring continued reliability and safety. Genuine OEM spare parts are used throughout each refurbishment to maintain system integrity.
Different sectors have distinct operational and safety requirements. Facade Access Solutions provides specialised retrofit and maintenance programmes that meet EN, BS, and other global industry standards across the following sectors, with established teams in the UK, UAE, and across EMEAI:
Office towers demand consistent facade upkeep and window cleaning to maintain their visual appeal and operational safety. Taller buildings in cities like London and Dubai benefit from edge-rated suspended access equipment that covers the full perimeter of the roof. Our retrofit projects improve energy efficiency and minimise disruption by scheduling maintenance around tenant hours.
Hospitals and clinics across EMEAI operate continuously, so our facade access services are carefully planned to meet strict safety and regulatory standards without disrupting patient care or daily operations.
Universities and schools benefit from cost-efficient upgrades and energy-saving automation designed around academic schedules. We integrate sustainability and safety into each project to ensure long-term value and reliability.
For UK, UAE, and other public facilities, transparency and compliance are essential. Our rigorous documentation, safety clearances, and procurement processes ensure all work meets the highest standards of accountability.
Hotels and resorts, particularly Dubai’s luxury properties and London’s heritage hotels, require discreet and visually harmonious access systems. Our solutions integrate seamlessly with architectural aesthetics while ensuring minimal operational impact during peak seasons.
As part of the Alimak Group, Facade Access Solutions leverages over 120 years of global engineering expertise and the strength of leading brands, Tractel, Manntech, and CoxGomyl. With more than 16,000 BMU and facade access units installed worldwide over decades of innovation, our systems are trusted for their performance, safety, and durability.
Our global teams collaborate with architects, contractors, and facility managers to deliver facade access systems that integrate seamlessly into every project while balancing form, function, and compliance. Early-stage integrated design services help avoid costly retrofits later in the building’s lifecycle.
Whether for new construction, retrofit, or modernisation, we provide end-to-end solutions that meet international safety standards, adapt to local regulations, and deliver consistent performance across all regions.
Leverage global strength with local EMEAI expertise. Partner with our engineering teams today.
Begin your retrofit journey today. Take the next step toward safer, smarter, and more efficient building operations.
Any building with an outdated or non-compliant facade access system can benefit, whether commercial towers, hospitals, government facilities, or hotels. Our retrofit services are tailored to meet the operational and safety requirements of every structure. This includes BMU systems on taller skyscrapers across the UK, UAE, and EMEAI region.
All retrofit activities are carefully planned with building management to align with occupancy schedules. Work is executed during off-hours or low-traffic periods to maintain business continuity and comfort for occupants.
All projects comply with international codes and standards such as, but not limited to, OSHA, ANSI, CSA, EN 1808, and relevant regional building codes to ensure complete safety and quality assurance from design through installation. In the EMEAI region, this includes BS 6037-1:2017 and the Work at Height Regulations 2005 in the UK, along with Dubai Municipality requirements in the UAE.
In the UK, BMU retrofit work follows BS 6037-1:2017, BS EN 1808, the Work at Height Regulations 2005, and LOLER. In the UAE, projects align with Dubai Municipality regulations, Abu Dhabi facade access guidelines, and EN 1808 as the core suspended access equipment standard. Our codes, regulations, and standards page covers these requirements in detail.
With proper maintenance and regular inspections, retrofitted systems can operate safely and efficiently for decades while improving energy use and reliability. This often translates into lower energy bills and measurable cost savings for building owners.
Timelines vary depending on the size and complexity of the building. On average, retrofit projects take several months, with planning customised to minimise operational impact.
Yes. Modernised systems include energy-efficient motors, smart controls, and upgraded materials that reduce energy consumption and improve building performance. These energy upgrades help building owners cut utility bills and meet sustainability targets.
Yes. Our service teams maintain, repair, and upgrade systems from all major manufacturers. As the OEM for Tractel, Manntech, and CoxGomyl, we provide genuine parts and certified support.
Our engineers specialise in designing custom solutions that integrate seamlessly with complex architecture, historic masonry facades, or irregular structures, ensuring safety, compliance, and aesthetic harmony. Reference projects include UK heritage preservation work and UAE landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai and the World Trade Centre in Abu Dhabi.
