Whenever your employees need to work at height it is important that they have the correct training and equipment to do so safely. By using a spider lift you can provide your operators with a safe and secure way of reaching high up areas.
Working safely at heights
According to the Health and Safety Executive, 70% of workplace accidents occur when employees are working at height. Therefore it is vital that you prepare your employees in the best possible way before they attempt any of this type of work. As an employer it is your duty to provide them with adequate protection and training in order to prevent the likelihood of accidents happening.
There are a number of considerations you need to think about before starting to work at height. One of these is the type of equipment you will use. There are a range of different access platforms, but not all of these are as safe across all types of ground. However, spider lifts are a safer option, even on uneven, fragile or sloped surfaces.
Health and safety benefits
The main advantage of spider lifts is that they are considerably more stable than other platforms. Instead of using traditional wheels, spider lifts are fitted with tracks. This means that the load is spread over a greater distance, reducing the pressure placed on the ground. This makes them a good option for softer ground as it is less likely to sink from the weight or become unstable and fall over.
The majority of access platforms are unsuitable for use indoors. However, spider lifts can be used to work both inside and out. Their tracks will cause less damage to the floor surfaces than wheeled models. They are also available in compact versions, enabling them to fit through narrow doorways and manoeuvre in confined spaces. As they are fitted with additional electric motors, there is no risk of fumes from a diesel engine.
Spider lifts are extremely stable, even when working at their maximum height. This makes them a safe option for workers, reducing the risk of accidents occurring. They can be used on slopes and gradients and will still remain secure.
Training for spider lift operators
Whatever type of equipment you are using for working at height, it is crucial that your employees are trained correctly. This includes their initial training schedule, as well as ongoing support and refresher courses.
The IPAF training course is specially designed for operators of Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP). By the end of the course, your employees will have gained an operator’s licence, allowing them to take control of spider lifts within your facilities. They will be trained on how to check the machines are safe to use, as well as how to operate them correctly. They will receive guidance on preventing accidents and understanding their personal protection requirements.
Working at height is necessary in my areas of industry. Whether your employees are doing so every day or just on an occasional basis, you need to ensure that they receive the appropriate training. This will be an investment in the overall safety of your work place.
