Safety first in building repair and maintenance

New expert service from OCS provides design and installation of safe working platforms and comprehensive fall arrest systems - for hire or purchase.

A new expert service provides the design and installation of safe working platforms and comprehensive fall arrest systems - for hire or purchase - for use on buildings and structures of any shape or size where built-in cradles are not provided.

It comes from nationwide specialist company OCS Engineering which has built a reputation over fifty years in the design, development and installation of fall arrest systems.

The system can be specially tailored for any structure from complex bridges and towers to industrial and commercial buildings which do not have pre-installed fall arrest equipment.

It is being made available at a time when, according to the UK Health and Safety Executive, falls from height remain the most common type of accident resulting in fatal injuries.

Last year 46 people died and a further 3,351 suffered a major injury after falling from height.

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The OCS range of temporary cradles comes in kit form and can be made to order if required or hired for the duration of a specific project.

They can be easily transported and quickly assembled on site to suit the most complicated building shape or structure.

The cradles are already proving useful in projects such as building renovation, concrete repairs, window replacement and specialist cleaning and renovation.

A current project utilising this solution from OCS Engineering uses a nine metre cradle to provide the safest working conditions for a 14 storey Glasgow office block.

All staff installing and using the equipment are fully trained; all cradles meet safety standards EN1808/6037/5974, LOLER and PUWER.

OCS Engineering is part of the long established and independent OCS property support services group.

The company operates across the UK and delivers support through five main service channels - cradle runways, fall arrest systems, project management, strategic engineering and maintenance support.

OCS Engineering's managing director, Richard Burl said, "This highly functional and flexible temporary cradle solution means there is no excuse for failing to make adequate provision for the safety of operatives working at heights, regardless of the age or complexity of the structure".

"Our expert advisers can ensure that robust and reliable advice is always available".

OCS Engineering will also recommend and supply the most effective secondary safety devices including safety harnesses attached to cradles using eyebolts; single point anchors for individual use; pairs of anchors for rope access; flexible steel wires for continuous support during inspection and maintenance for large roof areas, balconies or roof spans; and a range of guard rails for perimeters.

OCS chief executive, Chris Cracknell said, "Our Group is committed to the development of innovative solutions in every aspect of property services".

"This is a good example of how innovation can help resolve crucial issues of health and safety in buildings and structures where there is inadequate provision for safe access.".

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