Instructions / Assembly

FORTRESS
®
OSHA Stair System Installation Manual Page 8 of 9
4. MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY
4.1. Always exercise caution when handling, assembling, and or using the system. Proper maintenance and
upkeep of the system surface is vital.
4.2. Regular inspection of the system is required to identify worn, loose, or damaged parts, which must be
immediately repaired by your original installer or a qualified technician. Failure to do so may result in
serious injury.
4.3. Do not attempt to repair or modify any portion of the system without the support of your original
installer or a qualified technician.
4.4. Before each use, confirm the system is secure, anchored, and installed per the instructions. Contact
your installer for any necessary adjustments.
4.5. At all times, keep the system clear of dirt, leaves, and other debris that may accumulate on the surface.
Simply sweeping the system or using a garden hose will usually suffice, but, if needed, a damp cloth or
soft brush with soap and water can be used (avoid use of alkaline detergents).
4.6. If tread surface is covered with ice and or snow, remove ice and or snow before use. Snow
accumulation should be shoveled, and the tread surface swept clean. Magnesium Chloride may be used
to melt snow or ice accumulation on the system; however, after the snow and or ice threat has cleared,
be sure to clean the tread surface with soap and water (avoiding alkaloid detergents) to remove
Magnesium Chloride residue. See ‘DEICING’ section below for additional information.
4.7. Keep the system clear of debris and clutter. Do not use the system if walking surface is unsafe.
4.8. Do not run, jump, or play on or around the system, including climbing on or between the handrails.
4.9. Do not use any part of the system to support planters, lights, decorations, etc.
4.10. The system may be slippery in wet conditions; use caution as traction may be reduced.
5. DEICING
For the safety of all users, it is important to keep your system clear of snow, ice, and other debris.
Always follow the deicing agent manufacturer’s directions.
EZ-ACCESS® will not be held responsible for any injuries or damages that arise from the information
provided. ALWAYS check with the deicing product’s manufacturer or your local supplier to
determine which method is best for your situation.
After the snow and or ice threat has cleared, be sure to clean the tread surface with mild soap and
water (avoid alkaline detergents) to remove deicing residue.
Sodium Chloride (salt) and Calcium Chloride are particularly damaging to newly poured
concrete. In addition, these chemicals should not be applied to brick or stone surfaces.
While care has been taken to ensure that the table below is accurate, the information shown is
not all-inclusive. Manufacturers of deicing products may make changes to their products as well
as recommended functions and usage requirements. The deicing method you choose should be
researched with your deicer supplier so you can determine which method is best for your
situation.
The information below is taken from Fact Sheet 707, Cooperative Extension Service,
University of Maryland at College Park, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, and was up to
date at the time of this manual’s publication.
PRODUCT
MIN. WORKING
TEMP (
o
F)
SPEED OF ACTION
DAMAGES
CONCRETE & METAL
HARMFUL TO PLANTS
MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE
-13
VERY FAST
NO
MODERATE
CALCIUM CHLORIDE
5
FAST
YES
YES
SODIUM CHLORIDE (SALT)
18
MODERATE
YES
YES
POTASSIUM CHLORIDE
25
SLOW
OK ON OLD CONCRETE
MODERATE
CALCIUM MAGNESIUM ACETATE (CMA)
25
SLOW
NO
NO