Hello,

I'm currently researching the various options for maintenance workers accessing the top of the rear of refuse vehicles.



Unfortunately the task cannot be eliminated as there are times access is required due to valve blocks, greasing points, sensor and electrical maintenance.

I'm looking at the bi-line type system (restraint system consisting of 2 fixed wires and a harness) as this will assist with road side breakdowns and it is a permanent feature of the vehicles. However, I'm conscious that this does not eliminate the safety critical moment of accessing the top of the vehicle from wheeled mobile access ladders unprotected.

An overhead gantry would help with this as operatives could clip on to an overhead safety line and be protected the moment you step on to the ladders and traverse onto the vehicle protected.

So my rather lengthy question is "Is there a system out there that covers all eventualities?"

It appears that if the vehicle is in a workshop environment an overhead gantry would be ideal. As soon as there is a road side situation a vehicle fitted with a wire system would be required.

If we had the money to implement both systems could they be used in conjunction with each other? I'm aware that having a bi-line system also introduces a trip hazard.

I have considered recovering the vehicle so that all repairs could be carried out in the workshop and therefore use the gantry, but apparently this is not an option from an economic and practical point of view.

If I sound confused it's probably because I am. If anybody could share their knowledge for this scenario I would be thankful.

Regards - Cakey

Thanks for the input Safety Harness Steve.

You're quite right, there are a mixture of vehicles so one size doesn't fit all unfortunately. I've been in contact with vehicle body manufacturers and that's where they have a distinct advantage.

Some of the vehicles do have centre anchor points on the top of the hopper, but in the event of a fall this could result in the pendulum effect occuring. Ideally I would prefer an anchor point above head height whilst in the workshop and a restraint system off site.

Awaiting others who may have been in this quandary.

Hey there,

At a minesite I worked on here in Western Australia we had a subcontractor that had a similar problem with accessing the top of their explosive delivery trucks. The solution that they came up with was a collapsible handrail that provided edge protection along each side of the truck.

This collapsible handrail was raised and lowered by pneumatic rams which were controlled at ground level, enabling the operators to raise the handrails before ascending the ladder to access the truck roof.

Perhaps something similar could be of use in your situation?

Cheers,

Dave


oh and g'day to all you Poms :) I often lurk here but this is my first time posting.. love the new layout too..