Posted By Steve Wood Hi, I would welcome any general pointers on the problem below, even if it’s to tell me I’m barking up the wrong tree: Client wants us to install some light equipment in an open drainage channel approximately 6m deep, with the top at ground level. One person will have to enter the channel to fix it in place. There are no existing access points such as fixed ladders or stairs, and the client says we must access it by “crane”, but beyond that are making themselves scarce! They have pointed us in the direction of a company they have used on a previous occasion some time ago. That company has submitted a preliminary quote, and have suggested a 25 ton crane, and bosuns chair with a certified banksman. Their plan at the moment is to lower the guy in to floor level (doesn’t need to be suspended whilst working), have him install the equipment (which will take about an hour max) and then lift him out. We will, of course, have a risk assessment and method statement from them for the lifting operation, but for all I know at this moment, a bosuns chair could, for some arcane technical reason, be the worst possible option. Even if it’s not, does OUR guy need special training just to sit in it? I know how to check for general H&S competence indicators, but the specifics are giving me a headache. How far down the “the specialist contractor told me it was so” road can I go? Bearing in mind that we are a company that has next to no knowledge of such things, how do I (sensibly) determine the contractor’s competence in his own speciality, without doing an apprenticeship in such work?! Or maybe I could call in a(nother) specialist contra..........

Posted By Robert K Lewis There are many specialised MEWPS used for such as bridge inspection that may well be useful for you in this task. I personally would consider these before a crane solution. Bob

Posted By Robert K Lewis Just reflecting a little on the workplace - your description suggests a deep narrow topped cut in the ground of unknown length with no fixed access. It is a drainage channel and this suggests to me something like a confined space. Just as thought!! Still think mewps are much better than cranes and chairs. Probably far preferable to rope access as well. Depends on available space. Bob

Posted By Adrian Steve Have you tried rope access technicians you can contact an association called IRATA which is the association of industrial rope access technicians you should be able to goggle them. Adrian