In the world of architecture, wearing multiple hats is a daily reality. One minute you’re meticulously sketching the perfect building design, the next you’re specifying safety barrier systems, such as prefabricated handrails and balustrades in Australia and New Zealand that meet stringent building codes and complement the overall aesthetic. Now factor in coordinating with engineers, builders, and suppliers, all while keeping an eye on the project timeline and budget. It’s a balancing act that can leave even the most seasoned professional feeling a little wobbly.

This is where a reliable adviser, like a steady handrail, can step in and offer the support you need. Moddex, as Australia and New Zealand’s leading manufacturer of no-weld modular safety barrier systems, including prefabricated handrail and balustrades, understands this struggle. That’s why we go beyond just supplying high-quality prefabricated handrail and balustrade products – we offer a complete service, from design and drafting to installation and project management, for a smoother, safer project.

We break down our 10-step end-to-end process.

Step 1 – Client consultation

Our collaborative process begins with a client consultation. This initial meeting allows us to gain a thorough understanding of your project vision and scope of works including budget considerations, intended application, available plans and timeline. Whether you’re working on a commercial building staircase, major infrastructure project or public space project, our team will answer any questions you may have about selecting the most appropriate barrier system for the application.

Step 2 – Compliance advice

Navigating building codes and safety regulations can be a tedious and complex task. At Moddex, we advise on compliance for the intended application against all relevant Australian and New Zealand Standards, Workplace Health and Safety guidelines and National Construction Codes. This includes factors such as how to ensure full compliance on handrails and balustrades, Australian standards for handrail height, handrail compliance on stairways and ramps in New Zealand, access and mobility standards, understanding Disability Discrimination Act compliance for outdoor handrails – all crucial for ensuring the safety and functionality of your final product.

Step 3 – Proposal submission

Following the initial consultation and compliance assessment, we’ll provide a detailed proposal outlining the recommended railing or balustrade system (whether that be Assistrail disability handrails, Conectabal commercial balustrades, Tuffrail industrial handrails, Ezibilt ramp, walkway and stair solutions or others), project timeline, and associated costs. This proposal will be tailored to your specific needs, whether you require a fully comprehensive design and installation package or prefer to handle some aspects yourself.

Step 4 – Moddex or client site measurement

Once the proposal is approved, we proceed with a detailed site measurement. Depending on the project complexity and your preferences, this may be conducted by our experienced Moddex team or yourself. Accurate site measurements are paramount to help inform correct development of CAD drawings.

Step 5 – CAD support

Leveraging advanced CAD software, our team will review the proposal and critical compliance dimensions against relevant standards and translate your project specifications and site measurements into detailed technical design intent drawings. These CAD drawings will provide a clear visual representation of the proposed railing or balustrade system, including dimensions, materials and any specific design features.

Did you know Moddex has a Design Academy Program that aims to provide accelerated pathways for young people wishing to pursue a career in design?

Step 6 – Design approval

Clear communication is paramount. Once the CAD drawings are complete, we’ll present them to the stakeholder for review and approval. This collaborative approach ensures the final design aligns perfectly with your vision and meets your aesthetic preferences. We’ll happily incorporate any refinements or adjustments you may require at this stage.

Step 7 – Shop drawings

Following design approval, we proceed with the creation of detailed shop drawings. These serve as a blueprint for our product team, providing precise specifications for every component of the railing and balustrade system. Shop drawings include a parts supply list, material specifications, cutting lengths, assembly instructions and any necessary finishing details.

Step 8 – Production management

At Moddex, we manufacture our railing and balustrade systems using high-quality materials and cutting-edge technology. Our experienced production team utilises these resources to efficiently manufacture each component according to approved shop drawings including custom fabrication. Stringent quality control measures are implemented throughout the production process to guarantee every piece meets our exacting standards.

Step 9 – Delivery to site

Once production is complete, we ensure the railing and balustrade system is carefully packaged and delivered to your project site. Our delivery team will work within your designated timeframe to minimise disruptions to your overall project schedule.

Step 10 – Moddex or client installation and handover

The final step involves the installation of the railing or balustrade system. Depending on your project requirements, this can be undertaken by our certified Moddex installation team, or by your own qualified contractors using our installation drawings and installation guide. Did you know Moddex’s handrail and balustrade kit halves installation times?