If you need to use
When erecting
There are two approved methods which are recommended by the Prefabricated Access Suppliers’ and Manufacturers’ Association, which have been developed in conjunction with the Health and Safety Executive. However all manufacturers also have the duty to provide the instruction manual which explains the erection sequence and this should include any bracing requirements. The same applies to any organisations which hire the towers.
The first approved method is an advance guard rail system, which makes use of guard rail units which are specifically designed for the job. These guard rail units are locked in place form the level below and moved up onto the platform level. They provide collective fall prevention and are put in place before the operator accesses the platform in order to fit the permanent guard rails. It is the progressive erection of guard rails from the protected areas at the lower level which makes sure that the operator will not be exposed to the risk of falling from an un-guarded platform.
The second approved method of erection is the “through the trap” method. It involves the operator taking up a working position in the trap door of the platform. From this position he can add or remove the components which are acting as guard rails on the level above the platform. This method is designed to make sure that the operator does not stand on an un-guarded platform, yet can install the components to a particular level while he is positioned within the trap door of that level.
All operators must also be trained in the health and safety aspects of ensuring that the