Don't Arrest The Fall, Prevent The Fall

H L Plastics were pleased to offer their help and support as a member of the steering group associated with the recent CIRIA publication, 'Safe Access for Maintenance and Repair.'

Being the manufacturers of the SUREGRIPTM Roof Walkway System, HL's involvement was particularly relevant to safe roof access.

One of the concerns identified within the report in respect of working at height is the, 'reliance on personal protective equipment as a first choice solution.' The report goes on to say that the use of equipment such as safety lines and harnesses etc should always be the last choice.

Other than totally eliminating roof access, an alternative is to, 'introduce permanent non-slip walkway material across the roof, rather than rely on de-icing salt application or warnings to take care'.

SUREGRIPTM Roof Walkways are manufactured from durable PVC and include an anti-slip surface.

They create a safe and level delineated access route ensuring potentially hazardous roof top areas are avoided.

SUREGRIPTM Fall Proof and/or Roof Lights Covers will further prevent falls through fragile roof membranes and roof lights.

This permanent system therefore prevents falls and provides the preferred collective fall prevention, opposed to individual, fall arrest measures.

This CIRIA publication (C611) provides clear and concise guidelines, including statutory obligations aimed primarily at building designers but also a recommended reference tool for planning and facilities managers alike.

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