OLYMPIQUE Facade Access Consulting Blog

At OLYMPIQUE, we specialize in designing and implementing Facade Access Systems that meet our clients’ specific requirements. Now we’re pleased to announce the launch of our latest project: our revamped website. Like our Facade Access Systems, we’ve designed our new website around our clients’ needs — making it easier than ever for visitors to find the information they’re looking for and learn about our services.

A Window Cleaner suffered a fatal fall on Tuesday July 12th in San Diego, CA. A tragic accident that could have been avoided. We cannot have enough awareness about workplace safety.

There are many ways to access the exterior of a building. You can use an extension ladder, high reach extension poles, or a boom lift (cherry picker), but these are only used for structures that are under four stories. When working with buildings taller than four stories you will have to use something that is more appropriate. As a building owner, you have several options; two common options are an Outrigger system and a Davit system. There are pros and cons for either system. A significant factor will be the city and/or state regulatory codes and standards because they will impact the decision. We compare the two systems here to explain their features and settle the long-running debate (we didn't just make it up for this article).

A few years ago, Newport Beach Fire contacted Olympique in order to learn how to operate their city’s facade access equipment. There was strong focus on learning how to assist those caught in a swing stage emergency. When David Ortiz, CEO of Olympique, was asked why this kind of training was necessary, he responded, “Recent accidents in suspended access equipment on high-rise buildings in Newport Beach prompted the fire department to acknowledge their need for a better understanding of this equipment so they can perform rescue operations."

Living buildings are starting to become a regular part of most downtown skylines. A decade ago they were seen as oddities that would probably fade away along with the craze in ‘going green.' Fast forward to today, and we can see that hasn't happened as living building facades have only grown in popularity. Which leaves us with the question: How do you perform maintenance on the exterior of a living building?