WO2019162890A1

WO2019162890A1 - Improved screen system

Info

Publication number: WO2019162890A1
Application number: PCT/IB2019/051441
Authority: WO
Inventors: Gregory John Neighbours
Original assignee: Gregory John Neighbours
Priority date: 2018-02-21
Filing date: 2019-02-21
Publication date: 2019-08-29

Abstract

Disclosed is a fall protection structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction. The fall protection structure comprises a frame member (407) that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, the frame member. The frame member (407) comprises at least one upper connector (402) that is mounted to the frame member (407) and at least one lower connector (403) that is mounted below the upper connector by a fixed or rigid connection. Each of upper connector (402) and lower connector (403) comprises a first arm and a second arm secured or able to be secured to the building structure.

Description

IMPROVED SCREEN SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an improved screen system. More

particularly, but not exclusively, it relates to a screen system for improving safety on a construction site.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

During the construction of high rise buildings, perimeter areas lack exterior walls. This may pose a significant safety risk as items or people may fall from a floor of the building. Screen systems are designed to improve safety at construction sites by providing a barrier at the perimeter of high rise buildings to prevent people from falling off and to minimise the risk of falling objects from high rise buildings which may injure people or damage property below.

Traditionally, screen systems are heavy and slow to set up on a construction site, which may waste valuable time and resources. Site cranes are often used to lift a screen up and into place.

Traditionally, screen systems are heavy and setting up such system from one part of the construction site to another often requires assembling and disassembling of components of the screen systems which means that not only the process is slow and tedious but it can also waste valuable time and resources.

Site cranes are often used to move the screen systems from one part of the construction site (e.g. building) to another. While using cranes reduces any need for assembling and disassembling of the screen systems, it has its own drawbacks.

Typically, the screen systems are of limited width generally determined by transportation rules which means larger number of them are often required to cover the complete perimeter of a building. This requires a large number of lifts using a site crane and site labour. Also, the cranes are not always available which means the screen systems cannot be moved or lifted, and even if the cranes are available using them to hold screen systems means the cranes cannot be used to perform other important construction tasks thereby causing delays in the construction project.

Further, budget and space constraints may not allow too many cranes to be present on the construction site. Typically, fall protection screens assemblies comprise a series of frames covered with wise mesh to form screens. These screen assemblies are added together to form a larger screen assembly which are held onto two parallel columns (commonly called solders) by a structural connection.

When positioned on site, the columns stand vertically and their load is carried to the building floor slab by way of beams (or feet) which are anchored to the slab and cantilevered off the slab at a distance that the screen is required to be away from the edge of the slab. Therefore, the frames of the conventional fall prevention screen assembly resolve their vertical loads onto the floor of a building and is not desirable particularly when lifting a number of fall prevention screens in one lift as the loading capacity of a floor is limited.

The foregoing drawbacks are just some of the problems encountered with conventional fall protection screen systems.

In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents is not to be construed as an admission that such documents, or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art, or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved screen system that overcomes or at least partially ameliorates some of the abovementioned disadvantages or which at least provides the public with a useful choice.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect, the present invention broadly consists in a support for holding a fall prevention screen assembly in a vertical condition parallel and adjacent a face side of a high rise building being erected, the fall prevention screen assembly including two spaced apart vertical tracks each track including at least one vertical flange to be positioned extending parallel to the face side of the high rise and a vertical array of spaced apart bearing members or regions, the support comprising :

(i) a base member able to be secured to a floor or pillar of the building, the base member comprising, at a free end thereof and presented in a manner to be able to couple with said protective screen assembly, at least one of: a. a first support member that presents a tongue to provide upward support to said bearing member to vertically support said fall prevention screen assembly adjacent said building, b. a second support member to locate against a face of said vertical flange that faces outward of said building to prevent the fall prevention screen assembly thereat from moving away from said building, and c. a third support member to locate against a face of said vertical flange that faces towards said building to prevent the fall prevention screen assembly thereat from moving towards said building.

Preferably, the base member preferably comprises an arm (preferably elongate and linear) that is preferably in use secured onto or above the floor.

Preferably, the base member projects over the edge of the floor at said face side of the building, to position the free end of the base member outside the footprint of the floor.

Preferably said base member is bolted directly or indirectly onto the floor.

Preferably said first, second and/or third support members are located at the end of the arm.

Preferably each of said first, second and third support members are located at the free end.

Preferably said tongue is pivotally mounted (e.g. relative to said arm) to move between an extended condition at a first limit of rotation and a retracted condition, wherein at the extended condition, the tongue is limited from further rotation in order to thereat provide vertical support to a bearing member, and wherein at the retracted condition, the tongue is in a position to not interfere with upward movement of bearing members relative to the support as the fall prevention screen is moved upwardly vertically relative to the building.

Preferably said tongue is pivotally mounted (e.g. relative to said arm) to move between an extended condition at a first limit of rotation and a retracted condition, wherein at the extended condition, the tongue is limited from further rotation in order to thereat provide vertical support to a bearing member, and wherein the tongue can rotated to its retracted condition by and/or during upward movement of bearing members relative to the support as the fall prevention screen is moved upwardly vertically relative to the building.

Preferably said tongue is rigidly mounted to said arm.

Preferably said tongue includes a cradle at where said bearing member can rest and be supported.

Preferably said tongue is a plate and preferably pivots in use about a horizontal axis.

Preferably said second support member comprises at least one a second support member bearing that can contact the face (herein after "outward face") of said vertical flange that faces outward of said building.

Preferably said second support member comprises a second support member arm at the end of which said second support member bearing is located the arm able to move between an extended condition at where said second support member bearing is in contact with said outward face and a retracted condition at where the second support member bearing is not able to interact with said vertical flange (and preferably is located clear of the fall prevention screen assembly, preferably more proximate said arm).

Preferably the track with which said support is to interact comprises two said vertical flanges and a slot intermediate of said flanges that is preferably substantially planar and has a plane parallel the face side of the building, the slot able to receive said second support member bearing and allow such to pass there therethrough when moving between said extended and retracted conditions when in a first rotational orientation and prevented from passing therethrough when in a second rotational orientation by virtue of an interference fit being established between said second support member bearing and said slot is said second rotational orientation.

Preferably said rotation of said second support member bearing is caused by rotation of the second support member arm relative to the arm.

Preferably said second support member bearing are provided, each to locate against a respective said vertical flange of said track.

Preferably said second support member arm has a crank arm extending therefrom that allows manual cranking of said second support member arm to cause it to rotated and move said second support member bearing(s) between their first and second rotational orientations.

Preferably said crank arm can be locked to prevent its cranking.

Preferably two said second support member bearings are provided at the end of the second support member arm that together form a "T" shaped configuration, with the arm being the centre truck.

Preferably the third support member comprises a third support member bearing to locate against a face of said vertical flange that faces towards said building.

Preferably the third support member bearing is vertically spaced from the second support member bearing.

Preferably the third support member bearing is a roller bearing having in use is rotational axis parallel the face of the flange.

Preferably the second support member bearing is a roller bearing having in use is rotational axis parallel the face of the flange.

In a further aspect the present invention broadly consists in a fall prevention screen assembly support and lifting system for a fall prevention screen assembly having a screen provided in a vertically condition adjacent a face of a multi-story building under construction, the system comprising a plurality of spaced apart arms each able to be secured to the building, each arm presenting a tongue at a distal end of the arm able to sequentially engage with at least two vertically aligned bearing members or regions of said screen and vertically support such bearing members to thereby upwardly support the fall prevention screen assembly, the tongue being pivotally mounted to said arm in order to allow the bearing members to move upwardly and past the tongue in a manner not restricted by said tongue.

Preferably the bearing members act as ratchet teeth and said tongue acts as a ratchet pawl in order to allow the screen to be moved upward to successive height positions relative to the building vertically supported at least in part by said tongue.

In a further aspect the present invention broadly consists in a system comprising a plurality of said supports as hereinbefore described, each to be located in a spaced apart manner to in concert hold a fall prevention screen assembly.

In a further aspect the present invention broadly consists in a building under construction carrying a fall prevention screen as hereinbefore described adjacent a face side of building wherein preferably the fall prevention screen assembly vertically spans at least two floor levels of the building.

In a further aspect the present invention broadly consists in a fall prevention deck assembly to span a gap between (i) a screen of a vertical fall protection screen assembly located parallel and adjacent a face side of a high rise building being erected spanning at least two floor levels of the building, the fall prevention screen assembly including two spaced apart vertical tracks and (ii) the floor or floor construction of said building, the deck assembly comprising an elongate deck to extend substantially horizontally in use at the gap, and wherein at each end of the elongate deck there are provided end connectors that are slidingly captured by a respective said track to be able to travel up and down the vertical fall protection screen assembly to allow adjustment of the vertical location of said fall prevention deck assembly relative to said vertical fall protection screen assembly.

Preferably said end connectors each comprise of at least one bearing that locates with a surface or surfaces of a respective said track.

Preferably said end connectors each comprise of at least two bearings that each locate with a surface or surfaces of a respective said track.

Preferably said two bearings are in use vertically spaced apart from each other. Preferably said bearings are roller bearings and have their axes of rotation extending horizontally.

Preferably said elongate deck is longer in a direction parallel said face side of the building than it is wide in the direction perpendicular to the face side of the building, when in use.

Preferably hoist points are provided to allow the deck assembly to be hoisted upwards and lowered downwards relative said screen.

Preferably said deck is comprised of a primary panel and a secondary panel, the primary panel in use presented to extend horizontally and the secondary panel rotationally dependent from said primary panel to be able to move between an erect condition where the secondary panel is horizontal and a stowed condition where the primary panel is folded towards the screen more.

Preferably in the erect condition, the deck spans a greater horizontal expanse than when in the stowed condition.

Preferably said deck in the stowed condition, can allow for a gap to be created between the screen and the floor.

In a further aspect the present invention broadly consists in a deck assembly as hereinbefore described, in use locating the deck at the underside of a floor of a building being erected.

In a further aspect the present invention broadly consists in a building comprising a plurality of floors and having a face side at where a vertical extending fall prevention screen assembly (preferably of a kind as hereinbefore described) is located outwardly of the building, the gap between a said floor and the screen being bridged by a deck assembly as hereinbefore described.

A further variation of the invention will now be described wherein in a further aspect the invention resides in a fall protection structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building structure that is under construction, the fall protection structure comprising : a frame member (herein after referred to as "jacking frame") that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, the frame member preferably comprising a first side and a second side that are opposite to each other, wherein a frame member comprises at least one upper connector that is mounted to (preferably to the first side of) the frame member preferably by rolling or sliding connection and at least one lower connector that is mounted below the upper connector (and preferably to the first side of the frame member) by a fixed or rigid connection, each of upper and lower connector comprises a first arm and a second arm secured or able to be secured to said building structure.

Preferably the jacking frame extends vertically outside the building envelope and across at least two levels of the building.

Preferably at least of the first and second arms of the upper and/or lower connectors are pivotable with respect to each other in a direction, preferably opposite to each other about a pivoting axis, the pivoting axis being transverse to the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment, at least of the first and second arms of the upper and/or lower connectors are able to be removed from the jacking frame, yet be secured thereto.

Preferably, the fall protection structure comprises at least one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to or with or otherwise coupled to the jacking frame wherein in use the actuator is configured to lift or lower the jacking frame upwards or downwards along the longitudinal axis relative the building.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises an electrical actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a hydraulic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator is a lead screw that translates rotary motion to linear motion.

Preferably, the at least one lead screw uses a motor to translate rotary motion to linear motion. Preferably, the jacking frame is formed by two spaced apart rails that are vertical or substantially vertical and parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

Preferably, the at least one actuator is mounted directly or indirectly to or with or otherwise coupled to the jacking frame between the two rails.

Preferably, the at least one upper connector and the at least one lower connector are mounted on each of the two rails.

Preferably, the first and/or second arms of the upper connector of one rail is/are adapted to be able to move towards the first and second arms of the upper connector of another rail.

Preferably, the first and/or second arms of the lower connector of one rail is/are adapted to be able to move towards the first and second arms of the lower connector of another rail.

Preferably at least one of the first arm(s) and/or the second arm(s) of the upper connector(s) is/are extendable in length.

Preferably at least one of the first arm(s) and/or the second arm(s) of the lower connector(s) are extendable in length.

Preferably, the first arm(s) and the second arm(s) of the upper and lower connectors comprises means for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building.

Preferably the first arms a jacking ties that in use extend horizontally away from the jacking frame to the building structure.

Preferably the jacking ties are secured to a floor and/or column of the building structure.

Preferably the jacking ties how the jacking frame in a horizontal direction relative to the building structure.

Preferably the second arms are jacking struts and extend from the jacking frame to the building in an upward or downward direction.

Preferably some jacking struts extend upwards and some extend downwards. In use the downward extending jacking struts take vertical load of the fall protection structure in a compressive manner to a part of the building, preferably a column of the building by being secured to such.

In use the upwardly extending jacking struts take vertical load of the fall protection structure in a tensile manner to a part of the building, preferably a column of the building by being secured to such.

Preferably the jacking frame is able to translate relative the building structure by ensuring at least one connector remains fixed relative the building structure and causing the actuator to move and thereby climb the jacking frame and at least one of the other of said connectors to a new elevated position, whereupon at least one other connector is then secured to the building and the first mentioned secured connector is disconnected from the building to allow it to rest to a new elevated position.

Preferably, the means for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building is/are bolt(s).

Preferably, the frame structure comprises at least one horizontal tie for maintaining couple connection of the jacking frame at least on a horizontal direction to the floor slab (or other structural component) of the building when the jacking frame is being raised.

Preferably the fall prevention structure can self-climb and lower to new elevations relative the building.

In a further aspect, the invention resides in a fall protection structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the structure comprising : a frame member (jacking frame) that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, (the frame member preferably comprising a first side and a second side that are opposite to each other), at least one upper connector that is mounted (preferably to the first side of the frame member) by rolling or sliding connection and at least one lower connector that is mounted below the upper connector (and preferably to the first side of the frame member (preferably by a fixed or rigid connection)), each of upper and lower connector comprises a first arm and a second arm that are preferably pivotable with respect to each other in a direction opposite to each other about a pivoting axis, the pivoting axis being transverse to the longitudinal axis of the frame member, wherein the fall protection structure further comprises at least one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to the frame member, wherein in use the actuator is configured to lift or lower the frame member upwards or downwards along the longitudinal axis of the frame member.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises an electrical actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a hydraulic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one lead screw uses a motor to translate rotary motion to linear motion.

Preferably, the frame member is formed by two spaced apart rails that are vertical or substantially vertical and parallel or substantially parallel to each other.

Preferably, the at least one actuator is mounted directly or indirectly to or with or otherwise coupled to the frame member between the two rails.

Preferably, the first and/or second arms of the upper connector of one rail is/are adapted to move towards the first and second arms of the upper connector of another rail.

Preferably, the first and/or second arms of the lower connector of one rail is/are adapted to move towards the first and second arms of the lower connector of another rail.

Preferably the first arm(s) and/or the second arm(s) of the upper

connector(s) is/are extendable in length.

Preferably the first arm(s) and/or the second arm(s) of the lower connector(s) are extendable in length. Preferably, the first arm(s) and the second arm(s) of the upper and lower connectors comprises means for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building.

Preferably, the first arm and the second arm of the upper and lower connectors comprises means for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building.

Preferably, the frame structure comprises at least one horizontal tie for maintaining a horizontally couple connection of the jacking frame to the floor slab when the jacking frame is being raised.

In a further aspect, the invention resides in a fall protection structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the fall protection structure comprising: a frame member (herein after referred to as "jacking frame") that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, the frame member preferably comprising a first side and a second side that are opposite to each other, wherein a frame member comprises at least one lower connector that is mounted to (preferably to the first side of) the frame member preferably by rolling or sliding connection and at least one upper connector that is mounted above the upper connector (and preferably to the first side of the frame member) preferably by a fixed or rigid connection, each of upper and lower connector comprises a first arm and a second arm.

Preferably, the fall protection structure comprises at least one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to or with or otherwise coupled to the frame member, wherein in use the actuator is configured to lift or lower the frame member upwards or downwards along the longitudinal axis relative the building. Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises an electrical actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a hydraulic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator is in the form of a lead screw that translates rotary motion to linear motion.

Preferably the first arm(s) and/or the second arm(s) of the upper

connector(s) is/are extendable in length.

Preferably the first arm(s) and/or the second arm(s) of the lower connector(s) are extendable in length.

Preferably, the first arm and the second arm of the upper and lower connectors comprises means for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building. Preferably, the means for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building is/are bolt(s).

Preferably, the frame structure comprises at least one horizontal tie for maintaining coupled connection of the jacking frame to the floor slab (or other structural component) of the building when the jacking frame is being raised.

In a further aspect, the invention resides in a fall prevention structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the structure comprising : a frame member (jacking frame) that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, (the frame member preferably comprising a first side and a second side that are opposite to each other), at least one lower connector that is mounted (preferably to the first side of the frame member) by preferably rolling or sliding connection and at least one upper connector that is mounted above the upper connector (and preferably to the first side of the frame member preferably by a fixed or rigid connection, each of upper and lower connector comprises a first arm and a second arm that are preferably pivotable with respect to each other in a direction opposite to each other about a pivoting axis, the pivoting axis being transverse to the longitudinal axis of the frame member, wherein the frame structure further comprises at least one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to the frame member, wherein in use the actuator is configured to lift or lower the frame member upwards or downwards along the longitudinal axis of the frame member.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises an electrical actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a hydraulic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises in the form of a lead screw that translates rotary motion to linear motion. Preferably, the at least one lead screw uses a motor to translate rotary motion to linear motion.

Preferably, the at least one upper connector and the at least one lower connector is mounted on each of the two rails.

Preferably the first arm(s) and/or the second arm(s) of the upper

connector(s) is/are extendable in length.

Preferably, the frame structure comprises at least one horizontal tie for maintaining couple connection of the jacking frame to the floor slab when the jacking frame is being raised. In a further aspect, the invention resides in a fall protection screen assembly for detachable installation on at least one side of perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the fall protection screen assembly comprising : a fall protection structure as defined above in any one of the preceding statements; at least one fall protection screen that is mounted to the frame structure.

Preferably, the fall protection screen is attached mounted to the second side of the frame structure.

Preferably, the fall protection screen assembly comprises two or more screens that are connected or adapted to be connected directly or indirectly to the frame structure.

Preferably, the two or more screens that are arranged side by side.

Preferably, the two or more fall prevention screens are anchored to a horizontal or substantially horizontal member that is itself anchored to the jacking frame.

Preferably, the horizontal or substantially horizontal member is a truss.

Preferably, the truss is configured to be located on a side that is proximal to the building or to a side that is distal to the building during use.

Preferably, the truss is directly or indirectly connected to the frame member.

Preferably the truss extends horizontally on each side of the jacking frame.

Preferably the truss extends from a first screen at one of a row of side by side adjacent screens to the last screen at the other end of said row.

Preferably the truss extends across all screens intermediate the first and last screens.

Preferably the truss is a 3-dimensional truss.

Preferably the truss is located between the upper and lower edges of the row. Preferably the screens can be assembled as a row to the truss.

Preferably the truss acts in bending on each side of an intermediate region where the truss is supported by a jacking frame.

Preferably the truss is supported by at least two jacking frames that are horizontally spaced apart.

Preferably, the fall protection screen assembly comprises at least one stay member that spans from or near the top of the jacking frame to the truss.

In a further aspect, the invention resides in a fall protection screen assembly for detachable installation on at least one side of perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the fall protection screen assembly comprising a fall protection screen and at least one vertical load supporting member comprising a strut, wherein at least the strut is adapted to extend between the protection screen and the building at an angle.

Preferably, the strut is adapted to extend between the protection screen and the building at an angle of or about 60 degrees or less.

Preferably, the strut is adapted to extend between the protection screen and the building at an angle of or about 45 degrees or less.

Preferably, the strut pivotally or detachably attached to the protection screen.

Preferably, the fall protection structure comprises at least one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to or with or otherwise coupled to the vertical load supporting member, wherein in use the actuator is configured to lift or lower the protection screen upwards or downwards relative the building.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises an electrical actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a hydraulic actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator is in the form of a lead screw that translates rotary motion to linear motion. Preferably, the at least one lead screw uses a motor to translate rotary motion to linear motion.

Preferably the vertical load supporting member is extendable in length.

Preferably, the vertical load supporting member comprises means for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building.

Preferably, the fall protection screen assembly comprises two or more screens that are anchored to a horizontal or substantially horizontal member (preferably a truss).

Preferably, the two or more screens that are arranged side by side.

Preferably, the horizontal or substantially horizontal member is configured to be located on a side that is proximal to the building or to a side that is distal to the building during use.

In a further aspect, the invention resides in a fall protection screen assembly for detachable installation on at least one side of perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the fall protection screen assembly comprising a strut that is connected to the building by a biasing means (such as at least one spring) thereby allowing the strut to be extend between the protection screen and the building at a variable angle during use.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a pneumatic actuator. Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises an electrical actuator.

Preferably, the at least one actuator comprises a hydraulic actuator.

Preferably the strut is extendable in length.

Preferably, the strut comprises means for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building.

In a further aspect, the invention resides in a method of moving a fall protection structure or a fall protection screen assembly comprising at least one vertical load supporting member comprising at least a strut that detachably couples the structure or assembly to the building, the method comprising at least the following steps: detaching the at least the strut from the building, lifting or lowering the fall protection structure or a fall protection screen assembly in relation to the building.

Preferably, the lifting or lowering is carried out using at least one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to or with or otherwise coupled to the fall protection structure or a fall protection screen assembly.

These and other aspects of the invention may become apparent from the following description which is given by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "lateral", "longitudinal" and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be

understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following description are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting.

The term "comprising" as used in this specification means "consisting at least in part of". When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term "comprising", features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as "comprise" and "comprises" are to be interpreted in the same manner.

The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.

As used herein the term "and/or" means "and" or "or", or both.

As used herein "(s)" following a noun means the plural and/or singular forms of the noun.

The entire disclosures of all applications, patents and publications, cited above and below, if any, are hereby incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described by way of example only and with reference to the drawings, in which :

Figure 1 is a side view of part of a high-rise building under construction and adjacent to and from which a fall prevention screen assembly is supported,

Figure 2 is a view from the building looking outwards of the building towards the protection screen assembly,

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the fall prevention screen assembly with some components removed to illustrate further features,

Figure 4 is a view through section AA of the screen of figure 3, Figure 5 is a perspective view of the fall prevention screen assembly and the fall prevention screen assembly support of the present invention,

Figure 6 is a side view of the fall prevention screen assembly and fall prevention screen assembly support of the present invention,

Figure 7 is a side view of the support and fall prevention screen assembly showing a tongue of the first support member of the support in a condition vertically supporting the fall prevention screen assembly and second support member engaging a flange of a vertical track of the fall prevention screen assembly,

Figure 8 shows the assembly of figure 7 but where the tongue has been moved or is moved to no longer provide vertical support to the fall prevention screen assembly,

Figure 9 is a plan view of the support and part of the fall prevention screen assembly,

Figure 10 is a perspective view of part of the support and fall prevention screen assembly,

Figure 11 is a perspective view with hidden detail shown of figure 10,

Figure 12 is an alternative perspective view of part of the support and fall prevention screen assembly,

Figure 13 is a perspective view of part of the support and fall prevention screen assembly showing the second support member in a condition to allow it to be removed from the track,

Figure 14 shows the second support member in a retracted condition away from the track,

Figure 15A is a perspective view at a floor of a building showing the provision of a fall prevention platform between the screen section and the periphery of the floor,

Figure 15B shows a see-through view of Figure 15A,

Figure 16A shows a floor prevention platform 101 in an erect condition, Figure 16B shows a see-through view of Figure 16A,

Figure 17A shows a floor prevention platform in a collapsed condition, and

Figure 17B shows a see-through view of Figure 17A.

Figure 18 shows a partial perspective view of a part of a multi storey building under construction and adjacent to and from which a fall prevention screen assembly of the invention is supported.

Figure 19a shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of Figure 18 is supported, the Figure showing the jacking frame as part of the assembly during a first step of operation. Screen and truss are not shown for the sake of clarity.

Figure 19b shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of Figure 18 is supported, the Figure showing the jacking frame as part of the assembly during a second step of operation. Screen and truss are not shown for the sake of clarity.

Figure 19c shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of Figure 18 is supported, the Figure showing the jacking frame as part of the assembly during a third step of operation. Screen and truss are not shown for the sake of clarity.

Figure 19d shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of Figure 18 is supported, the Figure showing the jacking frame as part of the assembly during a fourth step of operation. Screen and truss are not shown for the sake of clarity.

Figure 20a shows an elevation view of a five floors of a building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of Figure 18 is supported, the Figure showing the assembly during a first step of operation. Figure 20b shows an elevation view of the five floors of the building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of Figure 18 is supported, the Figure showing the assembly during a second step of operation.

Figure 20c shows an elevation view of the five floors of the building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of Figure 18 is supported, the Figure showing the assembly during a third step of operation.

Figure 20d shows an elevation view the five floors of the building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of Figure 18 is supported, the Figurel8 showing the assembly during a fourth step of operation.

Figure 20e shows a partial view of the building of Figures 20a to 20d looking outwards of the building towards the screen assembly, the Figure showing the assembly during a fifth step of operation. Bottom two levels of the building are not shown for the sake of clarity.

Figure 21 shows a perspective view of a multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of the invention is supported, the screen assembly comprising a jacking frame made up of two vertical members that are spaced apart and parallel to each other and connected to each other by a truss. The screen is not shown for the sake of clarity.

Figure 22 shows a perspective view of a multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of the invention is supported, the screen assembly comprising two jacking frames that are that are spaced apart and parallel to each other and connected to each other by a truss. Also shown are the screens supported off the truss.

Figure 23 shows a view from the building of Figure 22 looking outwards of the building towards the protection screen assembly.

Figure 24 shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is coupled.

Figure 25 shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is coupled. Figure 26 shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly according to yet further preferred embodiment of the invention is coupled.

Figure 27 shows a schematic view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is coupled.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings to figure 1 to 17 first which relate to a first system/embodiment and components of the invention herein described follow by description of a second system/embodiment and

components of the invention herein described, both the first and second describing component/ features/configurations that a person skilled in the art will appreciate can translate between the two.

In figure 1 there is shown part of a multi storey building 1. The building 1 may be of a construction involving vertical columns or pillars 2 and floor plates 3. This is typical post and beam style construction style of high rise buildings. A plurality of floor plates is usually spaced apart at regular intervals. However, it feasible that floor plates are provided at uneven spacings.

During the process of construction, a fall prevention screen assembly 4 may be supported adjacent the building. The fall prevention screen assembly 4 is preferably substantially planar and is held adjacent to a face of the building in a manner to be parallel to that face side of the building. The fall prevention screen assembly 4 preferably comprises of a screen section 5. The screen section 5 may consist of a plurality of screen panels that are held together by at least two stringers or tracks 6A and 6B. In the in use condition the tracks 6A and 6B preferably extend vertically as can be seen in figures 1 and 2. The tracks are preferably parallel to each other. Additional tracks may be provided but it is typical for two tracks 6A and 6B to be secured to the screen sections at or towards the vertical lateral sides of the fall prevention screen assembly.

A typical example of the assembly of the tracks 6A and 6B with the screen sections is shown in figures 3 and 4. In the preferred form each track 6A and 6B comprises of two I-beams 7A and 7B that are joined together by a plurality of vertically spaced pins 8. The pins preferably perform the function of connecting the two I-beams together as well as providing a location at where the support of the present invention can provide vertical support to the fall prevention screen assembly 4, as will hereinafter be described.

The tracks 6A and 6B may be secured using fasteners 9 to the screen section(s) 5. In some forms the tracks 6A and 6B may comprise of only one I-beam such as I-beam 7B only. However in the preferred form two I-beams are desirable as this creates a slotted raceway 10, provided without obstruction, for the support 11 of the present invention to interact with and as will hereinafter be described. It will be appreciated that alternative sectional shapes may be used instead of the two I-beams in the configuration shown in figure 4.

The support 11 of the present invention is provided to vertically and preferably also laterally support the fall prevention screen assembly 4 adjacent the building. A plurality of supports 11 are preferably used for such purposes. As an example, a minimum of two supports may be used per floor each for engagement to an adjacent fall prevention screen assembly 4. In the preferred mode of use the supports are provided across multiple levels of the building such as preferably at each floor of the building as it is being constructed and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly 4 is provided. It will be appreciated that under high wind loads it is imported to ensure that the fall prevention screen assembly 4 remains securely held in place adjacent the building.

Each support 11 comprises of a base member 12. The base member 12 is preferably an arm as can be seen in the figures. It is preferably an I-beam and is able to be secured to a floor plate 3 of the building such as by the use of a fastener 13. A plurality of such fasteners may be used in order to securely hold the base member to or relative to the floor plate. It is envisaged that the base member may be secured to other elements of the building such as vertical pillars or the like. However, it is most convenient to secure the base member to a floor plate.

The base member 12 has a free end 14, which is preferably an end of the base member that projects outwardly from the edge 15 of the floor plate. Provided at the free end is at least one of a plurality of support members. In the preferred form as seen in the accompany drawings all three of the preferred support members (that will hereinafter be described) are provided at the free end 14 of the base member 12. Of the preferred 3 supports members there is a first support member 16. As mentioned, at the raceway 10 a plurality of vertically spaced pins 8 are provided. The first support member 16 presents a tongue in a manner that allows for a pin 8 of the fall prevention screen assembly 4 to rest thereon. The tongue preferably includes a cradle shape as seen in figures 7 and 8 that allows for the pin to rest in the cradle.

The first support member 16 is preferably pivotally engaged relative to the base member 12 about axis BB. However, in alternative forms the first support member may be rigidly fixed relative to the base member 12.

The pivotal engagement as seen in figure 7 and 8 allows for the tongue of the first support member to be presented in a pin supporting condition as seen in figure 7 and a retracted condition as seen in figure 8. In the retracted condition the fall prevention screen assembly 4 is able to slide upwardly adjacent the building and relative to the building to be reset at a different height relative to the building. The tongue of the first support member 16 is moved out of the way and will not interfere with the motion of the fall prevention screen assembly 4 as it is lifted or pushed upwards. Such lifting or pushing may be achieved by a ram 17 that may be coupled to the support 11 and extend between the support 11 and the fall prevention screen assembly 4. The ram may be a hydraulic ram and is able to extend and contract as appropriate for the purposes of pushing the fall prevention screen assembly 4 upwards. The ram 17 may instead be secured directly to a part of the building rather than to the support 11. The ram may likewise engage with a pin or pins of the fall prevention screen assembly 4 for the purposes of engaging therewith and causing it to be moved in an upward direction. A controlled dropping of the fall prevention screen assembly 4 relative to the building may be achieved using the ram. For the purposes of lifting and/or dropping of the fall prevention screen assembly 4 relative to the building, alternative means are also envisaged including the use of a crane that may be in the vicinity of the building. The ram 17 is hence optionally but a useful addition for the purposes of controlling the upward and/or downward motion of the fall prevention screen assembly 4 relative to the building.

The first support member and pins act in a manner similar to a ratchet. The first support member is analogous to a pawl of a ratchet whereas the pins 8 are analogous to the ratchet teeth of a ratchet. As the fall prevention screen assembly 4 is lifted up relative to the support 11 the first support member can pivot about its pivot axis BB and be caused to move out of the way by the interaction of a pin travelling from below the first support member, impinging on the first support member to push it out of the way as the pin travels up. Alternatively, the pin may be moved manually out of the way or may be biased by a spring 18 to move out of the way.

The tongue of the first support member 16 preferably extends into the raceway 10 through the slot 18 between the two I-beams 7A and 7B as can be seen in figures 10 and 11. In this way the first support member or at least the tongue and cradle feature thereof can reach into the raceway 10 to be presented for engagement with the pins 8 of the fall prevention screen assembly 4. It will be appreciated that a plurality of discrete height locations, supported by the support of the present invention can be achieved a fall prevention screen assembly 4 relative to the building. A clear raceway 10 travelling at least a substantial portion along the vertical length of the fall prevention screen assembly 4 can allow for an extensive range of vertical movement of the protective screen to be provided for. As the height of the building increases during its construction, the fall prevention screen assembly 4 can be raised to suit and provide full protection at the appropriate levels of the building. It will be appreciated that the tracks 6A and 6B may be of a different configuration and present the plurality of pins in a different location where it is still possible for the first support member of each of the supports 11 to still engage with such pins for supporting the fall prevention screen assembly 4 in a vertical condition.

In order to provide lateral support to the fall prevention screen assembly 4, the support 11 of the present invention also includes second and preferably third support members 19 and 20 respectively. The second support member 20 is preferably a roller bearing as can be seen in Figures 10 and 11. It may alternatively may be a sliding or other type of bearing that can basically rest against the building facing side 22 of the flange 23 of the track at where the support is presented. This flange 22 preferably extends parallel to the face side of the building and preferably parallel to the plane of the fall prevention screen assembly 4.

The third support member is able to engage the surface 22 of the flange 23 and where it is provided in the form of a roller bearing can roll over that surface as the screen is raised and/or lowered relative to the support. The third support member 20 will resist movement of the screen towards the building. A second support member 19 is provided to preferably act on the opposite face of the flange 23. This is the face in the raceway 10. The second support member preferably is also provided in the form of a roller bearing or roller bearings as can be seen in Figure 11. The second support member is captured in the raceway and may be presented at the end of an arm 24 that extends through the slot 18 of the track. The second support member 19 when so engaged with the opposite face of the flange 23 resists the movement of the string away from the building. In one form the fall prevention screen assembly 4 may be lowered for engagement with the second and third support members by being dropped from above and sliding the lower end of the raceway 10 to capture the second support member in the raceway.

In a more preferred form the second support member is able to be

manipulated so as to have an interference fit in the raceway yet be able to be released from the raceway via the slot 18. Preferably the arm is able to slide in a horizontal direction relative to the base member 12. The arm is hence able to extend and retract relative to the base member 12 of the support. In a retracted condition as shown in Figure 14. In the preferred form the second support member 19 supported on the end of the arm 23 is able to be rotated about a horizontal axis by the arm 23. Such rotation and due to the configuration of the second support member 19, can allow for the second support member 19 to assume a rotational position where it has no interference fit at the slot 18. This then allows for the second support member to be moved to a retracted condition as shown in Figure 14 by moving out from the slot the motion as seen between figures 13 and 14.

A lever arm 25 may be provided to allow for the manual rotation of the arm 24. The lever arm 24 may be held in its rotational conditions by a first lock member 26 as seen in Figure 13 and 14 and a second lock member 27 as seen in Figure 12.

The second lock member 27 will hold the arm 24 in its rotational condition to ensure the second support member remains in an interference fit in the raceway. The ability for the second lock member to move between the extended (interference fit) condition and a retracted condition allows for the fall prevention screen assembly 4 to be moved into and out of position without it needing to be loaded end on with each of the supports of the present invention that are provided at spaced apart locations across a number of floors of the building under construction. In other words, the fall prevention screen assembly 4 can move into place in a lateral/horizontal direction and then be captured laterally by the second support members as these are maneuvered in through the slot to thereby assume an interference fit with the tracks and capture the screen assembly in a lateral condition. The first support members thereafter acting as vertical support to the protective screen assemblies. With reference to Figures 15A and 15B a further aspect is described in relation to a fall prevention platform 101. As can be seen in Figure 1 during the construction of a floor in a building such as the floor 3A, formwork 102 may be utilised to provide form to the bottom of the floor plate 3A. The formwork 102 may be a panel that presents an upward facing surface or surfaces that provide a flat or profiled bottom face of the floor plate 3A, which is itself formed of a poured concrete. The formwork 102 may not extend completely to the screen assembly 4 and a gap X may exist as seen in Figure 15A. This gap may allow for objects or a person to fall through and to a floor below or beyond. This gap X may increase in size when the formwork 102 is removed as can be seen at the floor level 3B. In many instances the formwork 102 will extend beyond the peripheral edge of the floor plates that have been cast. But when removed the gap X between the periphery of the floor plate and the screen assembly increases. This increases the risk of objects or persons falling through such increased gap and there is therefore a need for a fall prevention platform to be provided. The floor prevention platform 101 is provided in a manner to allow for it to be located as close as possible to the formwork 102 and/or the floor plate 3 so as to provide a snug as possible or proximate as possible fit thereto. The fall prevention platform 101 comprises of a primary panel 103 as seen in Figures 15A, 16A, 16B, 17A and 17B and preferably also a secondary panel 104. The primary panel 101 is presented in use preferably in a horizontal condition and is able to be positioned adjacent the formwork 102 as seen in Figures 15A and 15B. The primary panel bridges the gap X between the edge of the formwork 102 and the screen section 5 of the screen assembly 4. In the preferred form the secondary panel 4 is hingingly engaged or pivotally engaged or otherwise articulated relative to the primary panel 103. The secondary panel 104 is provided as an extension so that when the formwork 102 is removed, the greater gap between the edge of the floor plate 3A and the screen section 5 can be bridged. In the preferred form the secondary panel 104 is articulated or otherwise pivoted relative to the primary panel 103 so that it can be moved to a collapsed condition as seen in Figures 17A and 17B to purposefully create a gap between the perimeter of the floor plate 3A and the screen section 5 in order to allow for transfer of materials between floors of the building. It may also be required to be moved to a collapsed condition as shown in Figures 17A and 17B for the purposes of removing of the formwork 102. However in alternative forms it is envisaged that the primary panel 103 is of a size that allows for the condensed gap X as seen in Figure 15A and the larger gap X a seen in Figure 1 to be spanned by the primary panel 103. In such an execution of the fall prevention platform, no articulation of the fall prevention platform panels occurs. Only one panel may be provided per fall prevention platform 101. A suitably appropriate locking mechanism may be provided to lock the secondary panel 104 into the erect condition as shown in Figures 16A and 16B relative to the primary panel 103. The fall prevention platform 101 as seen in the solid dark line in Figure 4 is located in the preferred form by the tracks 6A and 6B and presents the primary and preferably secondary panels 103 and 104 intermediate of the tracks 6A and 6B. In the preferred form the fall prevention platform has end mounts 106A and 106B that are coupled to the primary panel 103 and are presented each to engage with tracks 6A and 6B respectively. The end connectors 106A and 106B preferably each include an appropriate bearing or bearings 107 that allow for it to engage and be effectively guided by the raceway 110 that is preferably also presented by the two I-beams 7A and 7B of each of the tracks 6A and 6B as seen in Figure 4. Preferably the raceways 110 of each of the tracks 6A and 6B are substantially clear along the full extent of the protective screen assembly to allow for an uninterrupted movement of the fall prevention platform in a vertical direction relative to the protective screen assembly. This allows for the fall prevention platform to be moved from below into position adjacent the floor plate 3 and/or formwork 102 so as to be positioned as proximate as possible thereto. The end connectors 106 or other parts of the fall prevention platform may be provided with hoist points 111 that allow for the fall prevention platform 101 to be moved up and down such as for example by being connected to a hoist chain 112 that may be at one end connected to the hoist point 111 and at an opposite end connected to the protective screen assembly at point 113 as seen for example in Figures 15A and 15B. Being supported in a clear raceway 110 allows for the height of the floor prevention platform 101 to be continuously variable relative to the protective screen assembly thereby catering for varying floor heights and/or other construction components that might be provided as part of the construction process so that it is possible to position the fall prevention platform as proximate as possible to a floor plate and/or its formwork and improve safety of a construction site by preventing the falling of objects and/or people between the gap X that may exist between the screen section 5 and the periphery of the floor being constructed or that has been

constructed.

The fall prevention platform may occupy the space between the tracks and may be positioned at any location from the bottom to the top of the tracks.

The fall prevention platform is preferably an assembly of two parts namely a panel or deck (that may comprise of the primary and secondary panels as herein described) and end connectors that are configured for sliding attachment to the tracks.

Sliding attachment is preferably achieved by capturing one flange of each of the I-beams and preferably by way of two plates and a spacer. A wheel 114 can act as a bearing to be mounted to roll in the space 110. Or there can be two wheels vertically spaced apart as can be seen in Figure 17B.

At each end connector there are preferably two bearings that are vertically spaced sufficient to resolve rotational torque forces (about a notional horizontal axis normal to the screen.

The end connectors are respectively are free to move vertically up or down the columns and are each coupled together by a beam so the two end connectors may move together.

The deck comprises members which are supported off and which span between the sliding end attachments and a panel which may be of sheet type of material such as steel or plywood (ie panels 103 and 104).

The deck can be in two parts (ie a first part being panel 103 and a second part being panel 104) preferably connected by a hinged joint.

The platform although in use normally held in a fixed position, can be raised or lowered by a separate device and is held in a fixed position by way of a connection preferably provided between the end connectors and the tracks. This connection is preferably by a threaded rod with suitably adapted ends or by chain and shackles.

Each of the former offering a range of adjustment between connection positions along the height of the tracks preferably by spaced holes of the tracks and/or the end connectors.

Advantages of the systems described above include:

• Quick installation of the T-bar roller that engages thru the slot between the I beams. To install these are rotated 90 degrees so that they can fit into the slot and then rotated back 90 degrees so they can act effectively help contain the screens in the lateral plane. A second set of rollers mounted on the end of the beam help do the same. • The second feature is the adjustable platform that can be easily re positioned preferably at any height.

• The use of roller bearing which contain the screen system in the vertical plane enable the fast lifting of the screens when being raised.

A second system/embodiment and components of the inventionwill now be described. As mentioned previously, both the first system /embodiment as described above and second describing component/ features/configurations that a person skilled in the art will appreciate can translate between the two.

Reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings to figure 18 to 27 which relate to a second system/embodiment and components of the invention herein described. As mentioned above, both the first and second describing component/ features/configurations that a person skilled in the art will appreciate can translate between the two.

In figures 18 and 19a-19d there is shown part of a multi storey building B.

The building B may be of a construction involving vertical pillars or columns 411 and floor plates or slabs 412. A plurality of floor plates or slabs 412 are spaced apart at regular intervals. However, it is possible that floor plates or slabs 412 are provided at uneven spacing.

Figure 18 shows a perspective view of the fall prevention screen assembly 401 according to one preferred form of the present invention.

The screen assembly 401 is configured to be detachably installed on at least one side of the perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction. The screen assembly 401 includes at least one fall prevention screen 9 including at least one vertical rail or jacking frame 407 that is detachably connected to building B on at least one side of the building B.

The screen 409 may be in the form of a mesh panel. Alternatively, the screen may be a non-mesh panel.

The screen assembly 401 may optionally comprise two or more fall prevention screens that are arranged side by side and are preferably anchored to a horizontal or substantially horizontal member that is preferably in a form of a truss 406. The truss 406 may be located on either side of the screen, i.e. the side that is proximal to the building B or the side that is distal to the building B. The truss 406 may be designed in a single plane, and or forming part of the screen for lifting only but preferably in three dimensions (a three or four-sided box like truss) in order to resist torque as well as bending in the horizontal plane. The truss 406 is directly or indirectly connected to the jacking frame 407. Optionally there are more than one jacking frames and the truss may be connected to more than one jacking frames.

The jacking frame 407 may be typically located near the edge at the building column 411 and can both lift up and hold the fall prevention screen 409 with the resulting vertical load not resolving exclusively to the floor slab 412 of the building but also to the column 411 of the building. Where truss 406 (including the fall prevention screen 409 attached to the truss 406) is present, the building column 411 can both lift up and hold the truss 6 and the fall prevention screen 409 attached to the truss 6 with the resulting vertical load not resolving exclusively to the floor slab 412 of the building B but also into the column 411 of the building B. Where there are multiple jacking frames, each of the jacking frames may be located near the edge of a separate building column and the jacking frames can both lift up and hold the truss (including the fall prevention screens attached to the truss) with the resulting vertical loads not resolving exclusively to the floor slab 412 of the building but also into the columns of the building.

As shown in Figure 18a, the fall protection screen may comprise at least one upper connector 402 and at least one lower connecter 403. Both the upper connector 402 and lower connector 403 are connected to the jacking frame 407. The upper connector 402 is connected to the jacking frame in a translatable manner (e.g. rolling connection or sliding connection). The lower connector 403 may be connected to the jacking frame 407 by a fixed or rigid connection that cannot translate relative the jacking frame 407 but may pivot relative to the jacking frame 407.

As it can be seen from Figure 18a, the upper connecter comprises a jacking tie 18a and the jacking strut 18b that are pivotable with respect to each other in opposite direction, and the lower connection comprises a holding tie 19a and a holding strut 19b that are also pivotable with respect to each other in opposite direction.

Lifting and holding of the jacking frame 407 is either by way of a holding strut 403b or a jacking strut 402b, each located on different floors of the building during use, as shown in Figure 19a. Depending upon whether the fall protection screen(s) is/ are being lifted or held, both types of strut, i.e. the jacking strut 402b and holding strut 403b, have the load transmitted to the column 411 preferably by at least one bolt 404 into or through the column 411. The lifting strut 403a and/or holding strut 403b may also be secured bolted to the floor near or adjacent the column 411. For each strut, lateral support may be by way of tie 402a and 403a which anchor to the building B. The jacking strut 402b which remains fixed to the building B, has a roller or slider to guide to the jacking frame 407 as the jacking frame 407 is raised or lifted.

In instances where the column 411 is set back from the floor slab edge a distance, the load from the jacking strut 402b and holding strut 403b can be transferred to the floor slab and the floor slab is back propped so the load is shared between several floors. For example, if the column 411 is not present or is not within the reach of the jacking strut 402b and/or holding strut 403b, the load from the jacking strut 402b and holding strut 403b can be transferred to the floor slab and the floor slab is back propped so the load is shared between several floors. The jacking strut 402b and/or the holding strut 403b are preferably extendable in length, for example via telescopic or pin arrangement. This can be very useful because floor spacing and/or the distance between the jacking frame 407 and column 411 can vary. By having jacking strut 402b and/or holding strut 3b that are adjustable in length, it is still possible to attach or secured to the floor slabs 412 or column 411 of the building even if the distance between the jacking frame 407 and column 411 varies. The jacking tie 402a and/or the holding tie 403a are also preferably extendable in length, for example via telescopic or pin arrangement, for the same reason.

A horizontal tie 408 (see for example Figure 19b) with roller connection to jacking frame 407 is optionally installed before lifting to maintain a couple connection of the jacking frame to the floor slab when the jacking frame is being raised. The horizontal tie 408 may be extendable in length, for example via telescopic or pin arrangement, so that couple connection of the jacking frame 407 to the floor slab 412 can be maintained even if the distance between the jacking frame 407 and the floor slab is varied. Instead of one, two or more horizontal ties may be used.

An actuator 410 is located in a suitable location near the jacking frame 407 and is connected to the jacking frame to provide the lifting or lowering of the jacking frame 407. The jacking frame 407 may be made up of two vertical member that are spaced apart and parallel to each other and connected to each other by a truss 406. In such case, the actuator 410 is preferably located between the two vertical members of a jacking frame. This is shown in Figure 20e and Figure 21. The actuator 410 may extend between two ends. As shown in Figure 19a, one end of the actuator 410 may be connected to the jacking frame 407 which becomes the moving end while lifting and the other end of the actuator 410 may be connected to the jacking tie 402a or jacking strut 402b which is fixed while lifting. Actuator 410 is preferably in a form of a leadscrew as shown in Figures 19a to 19d but may also be many other suitable form of mechanical or electro-mechanical actuators that are operated electrically, manually, or by various fluids such as air (pneumatic actuators), hydraulic (hydraulic actuators) etc. Instead of one actuator, there may be multiple actuators, for example two vertically or horizontally spaced apart actuators (not shown).

Reverting back to Figure 18, the screen assembly 401 optionally comprises at least one stay member 414 that spans from or near the top of the jacking frame 407 to the truss 406. Preferably, the stay member 414 spans from the near or top of the top of each side (left or right side) of the jacking frame 407 back to the truss 406. The stay member 414 reduces the bending load of the truss 406 as the weight of the truss 406 is also supported by the jacking frame 407 via the stay member 414 at or near the top of the jacking frame 407

A screen assembly 401 in accordance with the invention may be moved up and down a multi-storey building B using a number of steps in which different components of the assembly are directly or indirectly attached and detached to and from the building B at different times, in a step-wise manner. One possible method to moving the screen up a multi-storey building is shown with reference to Figures 402a to 402d.

Please note that the screen and truss are not shown in Figures 19a to 19d for the sake of clarity. Having said that it is reiterated that the truss 406 is a preferred but optional feature of the screen assembly 401.

As shown in Figure 19a, the screen assembly 401, and particularly the upper connector 402 and lower connector 403 are detachably coupled to the building B using bolts 404. In this example, the jacking tie 402a of upper connector 402 is coupled to the floor slab 412 on the fifth level L5 of the building B and the jacking strut 402b of the upper connector 402 is coupled to the column 411 of the building B on the fourth level L4. Similarly, the holding tie 403a of lower connector 403 is coupled to the column 411 on the second level L2 of the building B and the holding strut 403b of the lower connector 403 is coupled to column 411 on first level LI of the building B. In order to raise the screen assembly 401 of Figure 18 to a higher vertical elevation on the building B as shown in Figure 19d, the holding tie 403a and the holding strut 403b are first detached from the building by removing the bolts 404. The holding tie 403a and holding strut 403b may then pivoted as shown in Figure 402b or otherwise moved/ removed. The initial position of the holding tie 403a and holding strut 403b are shown by dotted lines and the later position of those elements after they are pivoted are shown by solid lines in Figure 402b. Once bolts 404 are removed, the actuator 410 in the form of leadscrew moves from the initial position as shown in Figure 402a to the position as shown in Figure 402b. Such movement of the actuator 410 is possible because the upper connector 402 is connected to the jacking frame 407 by rolling connection.

The rolling connection allows the actuator 410 to move or slide further as shown in Figure 402c, thereby lifting the jacking frame 407 upwards. When the jacking frame 407 is lifted upwards, the lower connector 403 attached to the jacking frame 407 will also move up as well shown in the Figure 402c. The distance the lower connector 403 moves upwards in vertical direction will depend upon the distance the actuator moves/slides down in the vertical direction. In Figure 402c it is shown that the actuator 410 slides down to its full length and that causes the lower connector 403 to move up one level of the building B. Once moved, the holding tie 403a of lower connector 403 is pivoted in horizontal direction as shown in Figure 402c and coupled to the column 411 on third level L3 of the building B and the holding strut 403b of the lower connector 403 is pivoted and coupled to the column 411 on second level L2 of the building B.

As it can be seen from Figure 19C, the jacking frame 407 is now moved up one level up from its initial position shown in Figure 19a.

In order to raise the screen assembly 401 of Figure 19c to even higher vertical elevation, the jacking tie 102a and the jacking strut 402b are detached from the building by removing the bolts 404. The jacking tie 402a and jacking strut 402b are then pivoted as shown in Figure 19d. The holding tie 403a and holding strut 403b remain bolted to the building. In Figure 19d, the initial position of the jacking tie 402a and jacking strut 402b are shown by dotted lines and the later position after those elements are pivoted are shown by solid lines. Once bolts 404 are removed from the jacking tie 402a and jacking strut 402b, the actuator 410 in the form of lead screw moves from the position as shown in Figure 19c to the position as shown in Figure 19d. Such movement of the actuator 410 is possible because the first connector 402 is connected to the jacking frame by rolling connection.

Although, not shown in Figures 19a-19d, the rolling connection allows the actuator 410 to move or slide further up, thereby lifting the jacking frame 407 more upwards. When the jacking frame 407 is lifted upwards, the upper connector 402 attached to the jacking frame 407 will move up as well. The lower connector 403 will not move as holding tie 403a and holding strut 403b are still bolted to the column 411 of the building B. The distance the upper connector 402 moves up in vertical direction will depend upon the distance the actuator moves/slides up in the vertical direction. If the actuator 410 is allowed to slide enough, then that causes the upper connector 402 to move up further one level of the building B. Once moved, the jacking tie 402a of upper connector 402 is pivoted in horizontal direction and coupled using bolt(s) to the column 411 on sixth level L6 of the building B and the jacking strut 402b of the upper connector 402 is pivoted and coupled using bolt(s) to the column 411 on fifth level L5 of the building B.

In that way, the jacking frame 407 can move up further one level up from its position shown in Figure 19d.

As shown in Figures 19b-19c, at least one horizontal tie 408 may be used to maintain couple connection of the jacking frame 407 to the floor slab 412 when the jacking frame 412 is being raised. The horizontal tie 408 may be connected to the jacking frame 407 by roller connection. Figure 19a does not show horizontal tie 408 for the sake of clarity. It is to be noted that the horizontal tie is optional.

The jacking frame 407 can be moved down or lowered by reversing the process described above.

In one variation, the upper connector 402 and/or lower connector 403 may be detachable or removable from the jacking frame 407, in which case, instead of pivoting the ties and struts of the upper and/lower connectors, movement of the screen assembly 401 may be achieved by completely detaching/removing the upper or lower connectors from the jacking frame 407. Once the screen assembly is moved to its desired position, the upper connector 402 and/or lower connector 403 may be remounted to the jacking frame 407 and then secured to the building B. A motor may be used with a lead screw for rotation of the lead screw so that the lead screw turns rotary motion into linear motion.

A skilled person will appreciate that if the jacking frame 407 is raised, the screen 409 and any truss 406 attached to the jacking frame 407 will also be raised and if the jacking frame 407 is lowered, the screen 409 and any truss 406 attached to the jacking frame 407 will also be lowered.

Figures 20a to 20e sequentially show the upward movement of the screen assembly 401 in a five storey building structure B. In this example, the screen assembly raises from the position as shown in Figure 20a (where the screen covers the second level L2 and third level L3 and partially covers the fourth Level L4) to the position as shown in Figure 20e where (the screen covers the third level L3 and fourth level L4 and partially covers the fifth Level L5). The method is same as the method described above with reference to Figures 19a to 19d and therefore need not be described again here. However, Figures 20a to 20e also show the movement of screen 409 and truss 406.

Figures 20a to 20d show elevation views whereas Figure 20e shows a partial view from a building looking outwards of the building towards the screen assembly 401. The first level LI and the second level L2 of Figures 20a to 20d are omitted from Figure 20e for the sake of clarity. It can be seen from Figure 20a, that the jacking frame may be made up of two vertical members 407a and 407b that are spaced apart and parallel to each other and connected to each other by strut 406. The actuator 410 in this example is located between the two vertical members 407a and 407b of a jacking frame.

Figure 22 shows a perspective view of a multi storey building B under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly 401 of the invention is supported. The screen assembly 401 comprises a jacking frame 407 made up of two vertical members 407a and 407b that are spaced apart and parallel to each other and connected to each other by a truss 406. In such case, the actuator 410 is located between the two vertical members 407a and 407b of a jacking frame 407. The screen is not shown for the sake of clarity.

It is to be noted that in Figure 22, there are two upper connectors 402, 402' and two lower connectors 4033, 4033' with one upper connector and one lower connector connected to each of the vertical members 411a and 411b. The upper connectors 402, 402' are connected to the vertical members 411a, 411b of jacking frame by rolling connections or sliding connections. The lower connectors 403 may be connected to the vertical members 411a, 411b of the jacking frame by rigid or fixed connections.

The two upper connectors 402, 402' and two lower connectors 403, 403' are adapted to be located on two sides of the column 411 as shown and they work in a similar manner as described above with reference to Figures 18, 19a- 19d and 20a to 20e. The screen assembly may be operated in a similar manner as described above with reference to Figures 18, 19a- 19d and 20a to 20e. The two upper connectors 402, 402' and/or two lower connectors 403, 403' may be configured to move towards each other or away from each other in order to accommodate different column width.

Figure 23 shows a perspective view of a multi storey building under

construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly of the invention is supported The screen assembly 401 in this example comprises two jacking frames 407, 407' that are spaced apart and parallel to each other and connected to each other by a truss 406. Each of the jacking frames 407, 407' is similar to the one described above with reference to Figure 21 and therefore need not be described again. Also, each of the jacking frames 407, 407' comprises two upper connectors and two lower connectors similar to the jacking frame 407 as described above with reference to Figure 404 and therefore need not be described again.

In each of the two jacking frames 407, 407', an actuator 410, 410' is located between two vertical members as shown in Figure 22.

The screen assembly may be operated in a similar manner as described above with reference to Figures 18, 19a- 19d and 20a to 20e.

Figure 24 shows a view from the building of Figure 22 looking outwards of the building towards the protection screen assembly.

The actuator 410 may not necessarily be located near the jacking tie 402a and jacking strut 402b. As shown in Figure 24, the actuator may be located near the holding tie 403a and holding strut 402b. One end of the actuator 10 may be connected to the jacking frame 407 which becomes the moving end while lifting and the other end of the actuator 410 may be connected to the holding tie 403a or holding strut 403b which is fixed while lifting. Figure 25 shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the invention is coupled.

Figure 26 shows a partial elevation view of a part of the multi storey building under construction and adjacent to which the fall prevention screen assembly according to yet further preferred embodiment of the invention is coupled.

In Figure 27, the upper connector 402 and lower connector 403 are connected to the jacking frame 407. The lower connector 403 may be connected to the jacking frame 407 in a translatable manner (e.g. rolling connection or sliding connection). The upper connector 402 may be connected to the jacking frame 407 by a fixed or rigid connection that cannot translate relative the jacking frame 407 but may pivot relative to the jacking frame 407. Method of operation will be similar as the method described above with reference to Figures 19a to 19d and therefore need not be described again here.

A person skilled in the art will appreciate that instead of using the actuator, the jacking frame 407 or the screen attached to the jacking frame 401 may still be lifted or lower manually such as by using cranes, although use of actuator 410 is most preferred as that facilitates self-climbing of the jacking frame 401 or the screen attached to the jacking frame 407 without use of cranes. Figure 408 shows an example of a variation without any use of actuator.

Instead of two connectors, only one connector may be used. Figure 409 shows an example of one such variation. The connector 402 (vertical load supporting member) similar to upper connector 402 as described above and is preferably attached to the jacking frame 4107 by in a translatable manner (e.g. rolling connection or sliding connection). Alternatively, the upper connector 402 may alternatively be similar to the lower connector 403 as described above and is alternatively connected to the jacking frame 407 by a fixed or rigid connection that cannot translate relative the jacking frame 407 but may pivot relative to the jacking frame 407. In such variation , frame 4107 (fall protection structure) or screen assembly may be lifted or lowered in relation to the building by detaching the strut 4102a of the vertical load supporting member 4102 from the building, and then lifting or lowering the fall protection structure or a fall protection screen assembly in relation to the building. Preferably, the lifting or lowering is carried out using at least one actuator 4110 that is mounted directly or indirectly to or with or otherwise coupled to the fall protection structure or a fall protection screen assembly 4100. The actuator 410 may be same as the actuator as described above. The jacking frame 4107 may be optional and the connector 4102 may directly be connected to the protection screen (not shown).

Although, not shown in the drawings, the screen assembly 401, 4100 may further comprise a horizontal member (such as a net) at or near the bottom of the jacking frame 407 to further prevent person or item from falling through the gap between the jacking frame 407 and the building B.

Although, not shown in the drawings, the screen assembly 401, 4100 may comprise two or more trusses that are spaced apart from each other in order to more strongly resist torque as well as bending in the horizontal plane.

Although, not shown in the drawings, the screen assembly 401 may comprise additional horizontal ties (such as roller ties) at or near the edges of the truss 401 or screen 409 and is adapted to connect the truss 406 or the screen 409 with the building B, preferably the floor slab 412 of the building. Such additional horizontal ties can prevent the screen assembly from deflecting due to the winds.

Figure 27 shows a schematic view of one variation of the invention where the fall protection screen assembly 200 comprises a strut 4202 that is detachably connected to the building B (preferably the column 4211) by a biasing means (such as at least one spring 4203) thereby allowing the strut 4202 to be extend between the protection screen 4209 and the building B at a variable angle during use. Although not shown in the drawings, the assembly may also comprise horizontal tie that extends between the building B and the protection screen 4209.

Preferably, the strut 4202 is adapted to extend between the protection screen and the building at an angle of or about 60 degrees or less or more preferably, an angle of or about 45 degrees or less. There may be one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to or with or otherwise coupled to the strut, wherein in use the actuator is configured to lift or lower the protection screen 4209 upwards or downwards relative the building.

The actuator may be a pneumatic actuator or an electrical actuator or a hydraulic actuator. The at least one actuator may be in the form of a lead screw that translates rotary motion to linear motion. The lead screw may uses a motor to translate rotary motion to linear motion. The strut may be extendable in length. The strut may comprise means (such as bolts) for attaching to the column and/or floor of the building. More than one strut 4202 may be used.

Advantages of the systems described above include:

• Typical fall prevention screen assembly is heavily dependent upon many

comparatively small lifts consuming valuable crane time, excessive man hours. The fall prevention screen of the present invention reduces that time as it does not require cranes and are easily movable up and down.

• The frames of the typical fall prevention screen assembly resolve their vertical loads onto the floor of a building. The loading capacity of a floor is limited. The load capacity of building columns is high compared with floors. One of the advantages of this new invention is that it also resolves the vertical loads into the columns and thereby providing the opportunity for lifting a number of fall prevention screens in one lift.

Claims

1. A support for holding a fall prevention screen assembly in a vertical condition parallel and adjacent a face side of a high rise building being erected, the fall prevention screen assembly including two spaced apart vertical tracks each track including at least one vertical flange to be positioned extending parallel to the face side of the high rise and a vertical array of spaced apart bearing members or regions, the support comprising :

(i) a base member able to be secured to a floor or pillar of the

building, the base member comprising, at a free end thereof and presented in a manner to be able to couple with said protective screen assembly, at least one of: a. a first support member that presents a tongue to provide upward support to said bearing member to vertically support said fall prevention screen assembly adjacent said building, b. a second support member to locate against a face of said vertical flange that faces outward of said building to prevent the fall prevention screen assembly thereat from moving away from said building, and c. a third support member to locate against a face of said vertical flange that faces towards said building to prevent the fall prevention screen assembly thereat from moving towards said building.

2. A support as claimed in claim 1 wherein the base member preferably comprises an arm (preferably elongate and linear) that is preferably in use secured onto or above the floor.

3. A support as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the base member projects over the edge of the floor at said face side of the building, to position the free end of the base member outside the footprint of the floor.

4. A support as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 3 wherein said base member is bolted directly or indirectly onto the floor.

5. A support as claimed in claim 2 wherein said first, second and/or third support members are located at the end of the arm.

6. A support as claimed in anyone of claim 1 to 5 wherein each of said first, second and third support members are located at the free end.

7. A support as claimed in anyone of claim 1 to 6 wherein said tongue is pivotally mounted (eg relative said arm) to move between an extended condition at a first limit of rotation and a retracted condition, wherein at the extended condition, the tongue is limited from further rotation in order to thereat provide vertical support to a bearing member, and wherein at the retracted condition, the tongue is in a position to not interfere with upward movement of bearing members relative to the support as the fall prevention screen is moved upwardly vertically relative to the building.

8. A support as claimed in anyone of claim 1 to 7 wherein said tongue is pivotally mounted (eg relative said arm) to move between an extended condition at a first limit of rotation and a retracted condition, wherein at the extended condition, the tongue is limited from further rotation in order to thereat provide vertical support to a bearing member, and wherein the tongue can rotated to its retracted condition by and/or during upward movement of bearing members relative to the support as the fall prevention screen is moved upwardly vertically relative to the building.

9. A support as claimed in claim 2 wherein said tongue is rigidly mounted to said arm.

10. A support as claimed in anyone of claim 1 to 9 wherein said tongue includes a cradle at where said bearing member can rest and be supported.

11. A support as claimed in of claim 7 or 8 wherein said tongue is a plate and preferably pivots in use about a horizontal axis.

12. A support as claimed in anyone of claim 1 to 11 wherein said second support member comprises at least one a second support member bearing that can contact the face (herein after "outward face") of said vertical flange that faces outward of said building.

13. A support as claimed in claim 12 wherein said second support member comprises a second support member arm at the end of which said second support member bearing is located the arm able to move between an extended condition at where said second support member bearing is in contact with said outward face and a retracted condition at where the second support member bearing is not able to interact with said vertical flange (and preferably is located clear of the fall prevention screen assembly, preferably more proximate said arm).

14. A support as claimed in claim 12 or 13 wherein track with which said support is to interact comprises two said vertical flanges and a slot intermediate of said flanges that is preferably substantially planar and has a plane parallel the face side of the building, the slot able to receive said second support member bearing and allow such to pass there therethrough when moving between said extended and retracted conditions when in a first rotational orientation and prevented from passing therethrough when in a second rotational orientation by virtue of an interference fit being established between said second support member bearing and said slot is said second rotational orientation.

15. A support as claimed in claim 14 wherein said rotation of said second support member bearing is caused by rotation of the second support member arm relative to the arm.

16. A support as claimed in claim 14 wherein two said second support member bearing are provided, each to locate against a respective said vertical flange of said track.

17. A support as claimed in anyone of claims 13 to 16 wherein said second support member arm has a crank arm extending therefrom that allows manual cranking of said second support member arm to cause it to rotated and move said second support member bearing(s) between their first and second rotational orientations.

18. A support as claimed in claim 17 wherein said crank arm can be locked to prevents its cranking.

19. A support as claimed in anyone of claims 14 to 18 wherein two said second support member bearings are provided at the end of the second support member arm that together form a "T" shaped configuration, with the arm being the centre truck.

20. A support as claimed in anyone of claims 1 to 19 wherein the third support member comprises a third support member bearing to locate against a face of said vertical flange that faces towards said building.

21. A support as claimed in claim 20 wherein the third support member bearing is vertically spaced from the second support member bearing.

22. A support as claimed in claim 20 wherein the third support member bearing is a roller bearing having in use is rotational axis parallel the face of the flange.

23. A support as claimed in claim 13 wherein the second support member bearing is a roller bearing having in use is rotational axis parallel the face of the flange.

24. A fall prevention screen assembly support and lifting system for a fall prevention screen assembly having a screen provided in a vertically condition adjacent a face of a multi-story building under construction, the system comprising a plurality of spaced apart arms each able to be secured to the building, each arm presenting a tongue at a distal end of the arm able to sequentially engage with at least two vertically aligned bearing members or regions of said screen and vertically support such bearing members to thereby upwardly support the fall prevention screen assembly, the tongue being pivotally mounted to said arm in order to allow the bearing members to move upwardly and past the tongue in a manner not restricted by said tongue.

25. A fall prevention screen assembly support and lifting system as claimed in claim 24 wherein the bearing members act as ratchet teeth and said tongue acts as a ratchet pawl in order to allow the screen to be moved upward to successive height positions relative to the building vertically supported at least in part by said tongue.

26. A system comprising a plurality of said supports as herein described, each to be located in a spaced apart manner to in concert hold a fall prevention screen assembly.

27. A building under construction carrying a fall prevention screen as herein described adjacent a face side of building wherein the fall prevention screen assembly vertically spans at least two floor levels of the building.

28. A fall protection structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building structure that is under construction, the fall protection structure comprising: a frame member that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, the frame member, wherein the frame member comprises at least one upper connector that is mounted to the frame member and at least one lower connector that is mounted below the upper connector by a fixed or rigid connection, each of upper and lower connector comprises a first arm and a second arm secured or able to be secured to said building structure.

29. A fall protection structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the structure comprising : a frame member that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, at least one upper connector that is mounted by rolling or sliding connection and at least one lower connector that is mounted below the upper connector, each of upper and lower connector comprises a first arm and a second arm, wherein the fall protection structure further comprises at least one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to the frame member, wherein in use the actuator is configured to lift or lower the frame member upwards or downwards along the longitudinal axis of the frame member.

30. A fall protection structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the fall protection structure comprising : a frame member that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, the frame member comprising a first side and a second side that are opposite to each other, wherein a frame member comprises at least one lower connector that is mounted to the frame member and at least one upper connector that is mounted above the upper connector, each of upper and lower connector comprises a first arm and a second arm.

31. A fall prevention structure for detachable installation on at least one side of a perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the structure comprising : a frame member that is vertical or substantially vertical, extending between a first end portion and a second end portion along a longitudinal axis, at least one lower connector that is mounted to the frame member, each of upper and lower connector comprises a first arm and a second arm, wherein the frame structure further comprises at least one actuator that is mounted directly or indirectly to the frame member, wherein in use the actuator is configured to lift or lower the frame member upwards or downwards along the longitudinal axis of the frame member.

32. A fall protection screen assembly for detachable installation on at least one side of perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the fall protection screen assembly comprising : a fall protection structure as defined above in any one of the preceding statements; at least one fall protection screen that is mounted to the frame structure.

33. A fall protection assembly of claim 32 wherein, the fall protection screen is attached mounted to the second side of the frame structure.

34. A fall protection assembly of claim 32 wherein, the fall protection screen assembly comprises two or more screens that are connected or adapted to be directly or indirectly connected to the frame structure.

35. A fall protection assembly of claim 34 wherein, the two or more screens that are arranged side by side.

36. A fall protection assembly of claim 34 wherein, the two or more fall prevention screens are anchored to a horizontal or substantially horizontal member.

37. A fall protection screen assembly for detachable installation on at least one side of perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the fall protection screen assembly comprising a fall protection screen and at least one vertical load supporting member comprising a strut, wherein at least the strut is adapted to extend between the protection screen and the building at an angle.

38. A fall protection screen assembly for detachable installation on at least one side of perimeter of a multi-storey building that is under construction, the fall protection screen assembly comprising a strut that is connected to the building by a biasing means thereby allowing the strut to be extend between the protection screen and the building at a variable angle during use.

39. A method of moving a fall protection structure or a fall protection screen assembly comprising at least one vertical load supporting member comprising at least a strut that detachably couples the structure or assembly to the building, the method comprising at least the following steps: detaching the at least the strut from the building, lifting or lowering the fall protection structure or a fall protection screen assembly in relation to the building.

40. A fall protection structure as substantially herein described with reference to one or more of the accompanying drawings.

41. A fall protection screen assembly as substantially herein described with reference to one or more of the accompanying drawings.

42. A method of moving a fall protection structure or a fall protection screen assembly as substantially herein described with reference to one or more of the accompanying drawings.