Escapeways
Emergency Egress Escapeways
Engineered escapeways for safer underground operations
Pioneering modular emergency egress systems
Since 1988, Wilshaw has been designing and manufacturing escapeways that help underground mining operations protect their most important asset – their people.
Our escapeway systems combine proven engineering with practical installation advantages that simplify construction and deliver long-term reliability. With a cumulative total of over 80 kilometres worth of escapeways supplied throughout Australia and internationally, Wilshaw is a trusted partner for underground emergency egress infrastructure.
Wilshaw escapeways have undergone destructive testing at a NATA-accredited facility and are generally designed to conform to AS 1667:2018, with modifications to accommodate the specific demands of underground mining environments and emergency egress requirements.
Product Features
A pioneer in underground escapeway solutions since 1988.
Modular Escapeway Systems
Flat-pack modular designs simplify transport, handling and installation while providing scalable emergency egress solutions for underground mines.
Built for Underground Conditions
Hot-dip galvanised steel construction is engineered to withstand corrosion, groundwater and the demanding operating conditions of underground mining.
Engineered for Safe Installation
The ladder are installed from the top of the rise utilising purpose-designed installation equipment and personnel do not have to enter the rise during the installation process.
Certified Structural Performance
Every escapeway is designed and manufactured to deliver reliable structural performance and long-term compliance for critical emergency infrastructure.
Product range
Modular systems for every underground application
Rather than a one-size-fits-all solution, Wilshaw offers a range of modular escapeway systems designed to suit different raise diameters, operational requirements and emergency egress needs. Every system is engineered to deliver safe access, reliable performance and efficient installation.
3 Stringer Standard
3 Stringer Stretcher
Can Escapeway
Pipe Escapeway
2 Stringer
Lightweight modular egress systems
Wilshaw 2 Stringer Escapeways offer a lightweight, modular emergency egress solution designed to be installed in holes as small as 1.05 metres, while maintaining access for mines rescue teams.
Designed, fabricated, and supplied through an Australian supply chain, each system leverages over 35 years of expertise in modular underground escapeway design.
Compact raise installation
Modular flat-pack construction
Long-term corrosion protection
Counterweight hinged rest landings
3 Stringer Standard
Offset landing design for safer emergency egress
Wilshaw 3 Stringer Standard Escapeways are designed for installation in raises from 1.4 metres in diameter, providing a modular emergency egress and access solution for larger underground openings. The design combines increased internal space with an offset landing configuration to support safer personnel movement.
Offset landing configuration
Improved personnel egress
3 Stringer Stretcher
Engineered for unrestricted stretcher evacuation
Featuring a larger cage and two sets of ladder rungs between three vertical stringers, Wilshaw 3 Stringer Stretcher Escapeways provide greater internal clearance for stretcher movement while maintaining dedicated climbing access for rescue personnel.
Dual-rung configuration
Increased internal clearance
Offset landing configuration
Optimised stretcher access
Can Escapeway
Fully enclosed escapeway engineered for challenging ground conditions
Wilshaw Can Escapeways provide a fully enclosed emergency egress solution for underground environments, where groundwater or difficult geotechnical conditions demand greater structural protection.
Constructed around a galvanised steel can designed to be grouted into the raise, the system provides continuous structural support and protection for the internal escapeway.
Fully enclosed
Groutable steel enclosure
Protected stretcher access
Eliminates need for separate hole liner
Pipe Escapeway
A single engineered system for egress and dewatering
Wilshaw Pipe Escapeways combine emergency egress and underground pumping infrastructure within a single engineered product.
By integrating ladder access, landings and pump lines into one structural system, the design removes the need for a separate dedicated pump line, helping optimise underground development and simplify critical services infrastructure.
Integrated pump line configuration
Engineered for live loads of water and personnel
Pump lines ranging from DN 150-250
Standard and heavy duty options depending on application
Our projects
Explore Wilshaw’s underground engineering and infrastructure projects
benefits
Why mining operations choose Wilshaw escapeways
Wilshaw designs, engineers and constructs escapeway ladder systems up to 350 metres in length to support safe personnel access in underground mining environments.
Flat-pack components simplify transport, handling and installation, making Wilshaw escapeways ideal for remote mine sites and underground installation
Our compact designs can be installed in raisebores as small as 1050mm in diameter, helping reduce excavation requirements and associated vertical development costs.
Wilshaw supplies safety hand rails that prevent personnel accessing any portion of the raise where risk of falling may exist.
Unlike enclosed alternatives, our galvanised steel mesh design provides clear visibility of surrounding ground conditions, allowing ongoing inspection, scaling and maintenance in accordance with WA Department of Mines safety guidelines.
Ladder cages are designed to facilitate access with emergency response equipment. Wilshaw has multiple configurations to accommodate personnel and stretcher access.
All escapeway components are hot dipped galvanised to AS/NZS 4680 inside and outside, which provides superior corrosion resistance to paint on the exterior surfaces only.
Wilshaw’s steel construction is non-combustible and will not contribute toxic smoke or gases in the event of a fire.
Our Promise
Australian made. Engineered for underground mining.
Proven Experience Since 1988
With over 10,000 jobs completed and documented, chances are we’ve already delivered what others say can’t be done.
Australian Made Certified
All Wilshaw solutions are proudly Australian Made certified, designed by our in-house drafting and engineering team in Western Australia.
Supported Beyond Delivery
Wilshaw continues to support your operations through inspections, compliance, engineering assessments and continued site support.
