Choosing a rope access London company can be an important decision if you are planning to work at heights. You may need to reach areas that are difficult to get to with conventional scaffolding and ladders, and a team of qualified specialists will be able to offer you the best options for your needs.
Industrial rope access minimises damage to walls
During the design of an industrial rope access system, a number of considerations need to be taken into account. For example, the system should be installed and maintained in compliance with relevant standards. The PCBU (principal contractor or business owner) must ensure that workers are trained and instructed in safe work methods. This may include safety procedures, emergency planning and rescue techniques.
Before high risk construction work begins, a Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) must be prepared. This document will outline the hazards involved and identify control measures to be used. The SWMS should be signed off by a competent person.
The SWMS should provide information on the risks associated with working at height, including any confined spaces. The document will also contain a method of rescue that must be agreed with all members of the team.
The PCBU must keep records of the work and maintenance of the equipment. These records should include the work undertaken, the date and the name of the worker. They should also include the information relating to any accidents or near misses.
The PCBU must also manage health and safety risks, including the risks of remote work. It is a good idea to refer to relevant industry guidance. This includes the New Zealand Qualifications Authority’s unit standards.
Rope protection can be used to minimise the risks associated with industrial rope access systems. This could be fixed to the edge of the wall, or it can be movable along the rope. It is also possible to use scaffolding or an elevating work platform.
Industrial rope access systems should be inspected before and after they are used. A qualified person should assess each piece of equipment to check that it is suitable for the task. It is also a good idea to consult site information. Keeping track of the weather forecast is also important.
Exclusion zones may be used to protect anchors and objects that fall on workers. These areas may also include signs and physical barriers.
If a PCBU has more than one business, they must work together to minimise the risks. This may require a communication system.
Saves famous landmarks from being covered in scaffolding
Getting rid of scaffolding is no small feat. The cost of labor and materials can be prohibitive, especially for a storied landmark. Depending on the building, it might take as many as three years to accomplish the feat. In other words, the sexiest scaffolding-free facade in the city might still be a thing of the past.
As it turns out, the best way to save famous landmarks from being covered in scaffolding is not to remove it, but rather, to prevent it in the first place. The New York Post recently took on the challenge and succeeded with a winning combination of diligence and wit. The paper has compiled a list of the top ten landmarks that need a little TLC. It also enlisted the help of city officials, building owners and maintenance gurus alike.
The new list of nifty things includes the iconic Empire State Building and the mighty Manhattan. However, the city is still dealing with its thorny issues of falling debris and pedestrian safety. The city’s top brass testified that they are tackling these issues head-on. The city also has the audacious intention of announcing its own scaffold-free landmarks list soon, but that’s another story.
The New York Post has been able to persuade many of the big players in the construction and real estate industries to take notice. They have pushed for a list of landmarks that need attention, but more importantly, they have pushed for solutions to the problem. They have even provided a stipulation that owners and contractors can’t leave the site until the issue is resolved. The paper’s biggest benefactor is the Department of Buildings. A number of the city’s oldest landmarks have been neglected for years and it’s not an easy task to convince these buildings to take care of themselves.
The New York Post’s website is a great resource for building owners and tenants, and it’s an especially handy place to turn when the city isn’t looking. For example, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that scaffolding can be expensive to remove and oftentimes, it isn’t always done in the best manner.
Safety record
Using rope access to clean and maintain buildings is an effective way to ensure that structures remain safe. It also helps to reduce the risk of accidents.
Using rope access is often a better option than scaffolding. It offers a more versatile way of working, and it’s quicker. It also minimises costs and red tape. It can be used on just about any building.
The rope access industry has a good safety record. Its safety standards have been regulated by the International Rope Access Trade Association. The organisation has developed a Code of Practice to ensure that all technicians working in the industry are qualified and trained. The IRATA has also been involved in numerous safety bodies, ensuring that it continues to improve its safety record.
Rope access is a cost-effective and practical way of cleaning and maintaining buildings. It is also a safer alternative to traditional methods such as scaffolding. The benefits include a lower risk of accidents, fewer man-hours and less equipment.
IRATA’s annual Work and Safety Analysis reports that the number of accident/incident reports submitted is 109 in 2013, and it estimates that the fatality rate is 0.08 per 1000 hours worked.
The IRATA has developed an International Code of Practice for the industry. The IRATA’s International Training, Assessment and Certification Scheme ensures that all technicians are trained and assessed to the correct standards.
The International Rope Access Trade Association is the world’s leading authority on industrial rope access. It has worked with all industries, and continues to set new standards in the Working-at-Height industry. It has helped to develop and implement the 2005 Work at Height Regulations, which aim to protect workers while they are working at height.
IRATA is constantly looking at ways to improve its safety record, and it continues to be a world leader in the industry. In fact, its annual Work and Safety Analysis is the most comprehensive of its kind in the sector.
With its specialist Work at Height Rope Access maintenance teams, Heightsafe is able to provide a personalised and flexible service. It’s also a fully accredited company that is registered with the Contractors Health and Safety Scheme.
