Fall Protection Strategies for Access Platform Users

Fall hazards are built into jobs that involve working at height, such as roofing, building maintenance, transmission-tower repair, and many others. Considering the significant risk associated with working at elevated heights, regulatory bodies in the UK impose strict regulations to ensure operator safety from such hazards.  If you are considering access platform hire in Manchester for your next project, here are some effective fall protection strategies that you must be aware of to ensure operator safety.

Wear Proper Harness

A fall protection harness can help prevent serious injury and fatality during access platform operations. During a fall, it works by distributing the impact force across the body, thereby minimising the risk of injury. It features a D-ring that allows for the lanyard to be attached to it and helps keep the body upright during a fall. Finding the right harness shouldn’t be hard, but it is still important to do your research and determine what exactly you need. If your job involves welding at elevated heights, a standard nylon harness may not offer you the required heat protection. Instead, you should look for a Kevlar harness with high heat resistance and durability. Additionally, seek comfort and fit when choosing a harness.

Choose Anchorage with the Right Design and Rating

Never underestimate the strength of anchorage required for fall arrest. Typically, the right anchorage strength would be at least two times the anticipated force. Imagine a 200-pound worker freefalls for just 6 ft. without the use of an energy-absorbing lanyard. The amount of force they’d generate is around 5,000 pounds. The force tends to increase in conjunction with the distance falling. So, look for the right anchorage that suits your needs.

Have a Rescue Plan in Place

While exploring your access platform hire options in Manchester, do not forget to work on establishing an effective rescue plan. A rescue plan is critical for safeguarding operators at height. The plan should be specific to your job site and must clearly outline how the suspended operator will be provided ‘prompt rescue’. The operators too should be aware of the provisions of the plan and what measures the co-workers would follow to ensure a successful rescue. 

The ground staff should be trained to use the specific rescue system available on-site to rescue operators in case of a fall. They should practice simulated rescue scenarios to ensure timely and effective response during emergencies. If self-rescue equipment/device is available, the operator should know how to use it properly to descend safely to the ground.

With these fall protection strategies, you can ensure safe and effective access platform operations, regardless of the type of aerial equipment you hire.

For the best access platform hire options in Manchester, visit AFI Rentals. The company has been operating successfully for over 20 years and is backed by a dedicated team of powered access hire specialists in and around Manchester. In their comprehensive rental fleet, you can find scissor lifts, spider lifts, telehandlers, Push-Around Verticals (PAVs), boom lifts (articulating booms, stick booms), truck & track mounts, van mounts and mast lifts.

Contact today for a fast, secure and user-friendly access platform hire in Manchester. Dial 01924 601 566!