Standing tall on London’s South Bank, One Blackfriars – known locally as “The Vase” – is one of the capital’s most distinctive high-rise landmarks.
During construction, Rapid-EPS supplied engineered edge protection systems via Ischebeck Titan, supporting safe working across complex façade and structural zones throughout the build.
Our Rapid Posts and Double Height Rapid Panels provided robust perimeter protection across curved slab edges and variable levels, ensuring full compliance and operational safety in one of London’s most constrained construction environments.
Project Overview
| Item | Detail |
| Project | One Blackfriars |
| Location | South Bank, London, UK |
| Products Used | Rapid Posts and Double Height Rapid Panels |
| Distributor / Client | Ischebeck Titan |
| Structure Type | 50-storey mixed-use high-rise |
| Environment | Central London, riverside site with curved façades and limited working area |
Rapid-EPS’ Role & Edge Protection Contribution
Products Supplied
- Rapid Posts — providing the primary vertical support system along the tower’s slab edges and core perimeters.
- Double Height Rapid Panels — delivering continuous, compliant protection across extended vertical zones, reducing the need for mid-rails and secondary fixings.
These systems were selected for their strength, adaptability, and ability to integrate seamlessly into evolving construction phases without disrupting site progress.
Collaboration
Working in partnership with Ischebeck Titan, Rapid-EPS coordinated equipment supply to align with the project’s phased build schedule.
Deliveries were planned to suit structural progression and site constraints, enabling safe, efficient installation in a challenging central-London setting.
Challenges & Solutions
Challenge 1 — Curved façade geometry
The building’s distinctive shape required edge protection to follow irregular, non-linear slab edges.
→ Solution: Rapid Posts and Rapid Panels were configured to match varying angles, maintaining continuous guard lines around curved sections.
Challenge 2 — High elevation & wind exposure
At 50 storeys, systems needed to withstand increased wind loads and maintain stability at height.
→ Solution: Secure Rapid Post anchoring and the use of Double Height Panels reduced the risk of falling debris and increased site safety for the workforce.
Challenge 3 — Tight site access and logistics
With limited lay-down space and riverside access, equipment movement and staging were restricted.
→ Solution: Lightweight, modular components and just-in-time deliveries allowed rapid installation and repositioning without storage congestion.
Why It Matters
The One Blackfriars project showcases the adaptability of Rapid-EPS systems on complex, high-rise structures.
Our solutions ensured full compliance and safety while accommodating the project’s striking architectural design.
Working alongside Ischebeck Titan, Rapid-EPS demonstrated:
- Proven safety performance in high-rise construction environments.
- System flexibility to suit curved, multi-level façades.
- Reliable delivery and coordination under tight logistical constraints.
Quick Facts
- Height: ~166 m (50 storeys).
- Nickname: “The Vase” or “Boomerang”.
- Products used: Rapid Posts + Double Height rapid Panels.
- Supplied via: Ischebeck Titan.
- Location: South Bank, London.
Conclusion
The One Blackfriars development highlights how engineered edge protection can adapt to unique design and construction challenges.
Rapid-EPS is proud to have supported Ischebeck Titan in delivering safe, efficient perimeter protection on this iconic London project.
Learn more about our Rapid Posts and Double Height Rapid Panels, or contact Rapid-EPS to discuss edge protection for your next complex build.
