Working at heights requires safe, professional equipment to ensure that you and your team are fully supported when carrying out jobs. With access platform hire equipment ranging from alloy towers to step ladders, you can equip yourself for whatever height and task you intend to work on. The improper erection or use of such equipment can result in workforce injuries and even fatalities. It is imperative that all access platform hire equipment is used safely. In the years from 2015 to 2016, there were a total of 37 UK workplace fatalities as a result of falling from a height, with a further 37,000 injuries, of varying degrees, for the same reason. For training or equipment hire be sure to use Charles Wilson Engineers Ltd to guarantee a high quality, professional service.
In 2005, workplace regulations were introduced as a response to 67 fatal accidents in the year from 2003-2004. Although the regulations have reduced the rate of deaths and injuries, falling from height is still one of the top causes of workplace fatalities. Thankfully, the regulations and safety guidelines have triggered a decline in these statistics, but the risk is still prominent. Don’t take unnecessary risks, as it could be you.
Alloy Scaffold Towers
Alloy scaffold towers are easily portable and can be carried in separate lightweight sections directly to their place of use. Most have lockable wheels so once a job like cleaning out gutters is started, the scaffold can simply be pushed further down the line allowing safe access to all parts of the project. Always dismount the scaffold tower before moving it, and never move a tower while someone else is still on it.
When using an Alloy tower, please follow these steps to ensure a safe environment and reduce risks.
- Check the ground conditions. The platform should only be used on firm and level ground that is not liable to sink. Do not use on wet grassy areas or nearby to trenches, man holes, large potholes or other unlevel ground situations.
- Ensure the tower is level and firmly in contact with the ground at all points of contact such as feet or wheels. Make sure all castor wheels are fully locked. Check the tower doesn’t wobble or move before continuing.
- Follow the instructions listed on the manual for each piece of equipment very carefully.
Never exceed manufacturer’s limits, listed in manual. This is particularly important in terms of height, as the equipment is specifically designed to maintain safety to a particular limit. - Never use an access tower in strong weather conditions such as heavy rain and winds. Only continue with use if all sections of the structure are present.
- When moving the tower, check the overhead area for obstructions and hanging cables.
Ensure that you keep the platform on the tower tidy and clear of clutter. Items such as rags can pose a trip hazard, as feet can easily become tangled in loose fabric. Paint tins, tools and cables can also lead to loss of footing and balance. - If the conditions or environment still raise the concern of falls after checks and regulations have been carried out, members of the team working on the platform should wear harnesses for additional safety protection. The harness should be attached to a suitable anchorage that will prevent individuals from falling, whilst still allowing work to be carried out.
Alternative Access Platform Hire
Not all jobs require a full alloy tower, and sometimes this equipment is simply not suitable. Alternative options to this include stairwell access towers, step ladders, podium towers and more.
Stairwell Access
These are specifically designed to stand robustly on stairs, giving you the flat, horizontal platform that is required to reach certain walls and ceilings. These are beneficial when painting, hanging art or taking out maintenance such as plasterwork. The horizontal structure means that you can work for longer periods of time in comfort rather than having to balance on one or two rungs of a ladder.
Multi Purpose Ladders
These ladders are highly versatile, with the ability to convert into a multitude of platform structures. These are handy for small jobs, although they do not have the magnitude of height that an alloy tower can provide. With a simple conversion, these can be used as regular ladders or simple step ladders for use at low heights.
Access Platforms
Although all equipment discussed in this blog is an access platform of sorts, a standard access platform is a much sturdier version of a step ladder, with a robust platform at the top that can be stood on safely with two feet. It is important to NOT use the top of a regular step ladder in the same way, as these do not have the same solid structure that is required to safely support your weight. Access platform hire equipment must be checked thoroughly before use to ensure parts have not been subject to wear or damage.
Training
It is of paramount importance that anyone working at height has been informed of, and understands the correct protocol that is appropriate for each item of access platform hire equipment. Charles Wilson Engineers Ltd offers comprehensive PASMA training to cover all health and safety regulations and requirements of working at a height, using machinery and more.
At Charles Wilson Engineers Ltd, we offer nationwide access platform hire solutions in response to your height requirements, potential task, and working conditions. We are able to cater to all needs thanks to our extensive range of equipment and training programmes. Whether you have a large scale construction project that requires several alloy towers, or are an independent builder in need of a step ladder to gain access to high points in a property, our access platform collection allows you to acquire the most suitable structure or structures for your particular task. Contact the team at Charles Wilson Engineers Ltd today to find out more about access platform hire.
