Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre, Melbourne VIC
The Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre at The Alfred in Melbourne is one of Australia's leading facilities dedicated to melanoma and skin cancer treatment, research and clinical innovation.
Architecturally, the building is instantly recognisable. Its curved glass façade features a distinctive lozenge-patterned ceramic frit design inspired by the appearance of a skin graft, creating a striking visual identity that reflects the building's purpose. The project has received international recognition, including the 2024 World Architecture Festival Award for Best Health Building.
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The challenge
The centre's unique curved glass façade presented a complex maintenance access challenge.
Externally, the building required a rope access solution capable of supporting routine window cleaning, glass replacement and ongoing façade maintenance. Any system installed on the roof needed to remain largely hidden from view so it would not compromise the building's architectural character.
Internally, the challenge continued within the main entry void. Featuring a curved glass façade and unusual geometry, the space required a specialised access system that would allow maintenance teams to safely reach all areas of the glass without disrupting the clean, modern aesthetic of the interior.
The solution needed to provide complete access coverage while remaining as unobtrusive as possible.
Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre, Melbourne VIC, Australia
Our solution
Kattsafe worked with AHSS and the wider project team to deliver a tailored rope access solution that met both maintenance and architectural requirements.
Roof Mounted Rope Access System
To service the external façade, multiple Davit and Needle systems were installed across the roof. These systems were selected for their ease of use, flexibility and ability to be removed and stored when not required.
By using portable Davits and Needles, maintenance teams can quickly establish safe rope access positions for façade works, while the equipment remains out of sight during normal building operation. This preserves the visual impact of the award-winning architecture and avoids the need for permanent structures protruding from the roofline.
Custom Curved Rigid 80 Rail
Inside the building's main entry void, a more specialised solution was required.
Kattsafe designed a custom continuous Rigid 80 Rail system that precisely followed the curved profile of the façade. Nicknamed the "Peanut Rail" by the project team, the system was carefully engineered to mirror the complex geometry of the space.
The continuous design allows rope access technicians to move smoothly around the entire void without interruption, improving efficiency during maintenance activities and reducing the need for repositioning.
To maintain the clean architectural finish, the Rigid 80 Rail was mounted flush with the ceiling panels, making it largely invisible to visitors while still providing a highly capable access solution.
Key Benefits for the Client
Preserved Architectural Intent
The combination of removable Davits and Needles, along with a discreet ceiling-mounted rail system, allows maintenance activities to be carried out without distracting from the building's iconic design.
Safe Long-Term Access
The rope access systems provide safe and reliable access for façade cleaning, glazing replacement and future maintenance tasks, supporting the building throughout its lifecycle.
Efficient Maintenance Operations
The custom curved Rigid 80 Rail enables continuous movement throughout the internal void, helping maintenance teams work more efficiently and reducing interruptions during access activities.
Seamless Integration
Both the external and internal systems were carefully integrated into the building's design, delivering the access required without creating visual clutter or compromising visitor experience.
Future-Proofed Building Maintenance
By incorporating dedicated rope access infrastructure during construction, Bayside (Alfred) Health has a practical, long-term solution that will support safe building maintenance for decades to come.
The outcome
The Paula Fox Melanoma and Cancer Centre demonstrates how thoughtful access design can support building maintenance without compromising architectural vision.
Through a combination of Davits, Needles and a custom curved Rigid 80 Rail system, Kattsafe delivered a simple, highly effective rope access package that remains largely hidden from view while providing safe access to every maintenance area. The result is a future-ready solution that protects both the building's award-winning design and the people responsible for maintaining it.
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Maximum safety. Minimum fuss.
Get in touch to find out how we can help you meet your legal requirements and keep your people safe with our innovative height safety and access systems.
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