Guys, looking for some others input.

We have carried out a RA on a W@H task that involves dipping 2x 8 meter veritcal tanks
# tanks are not connected together so operator has to ascend both tanks
# access is from vertical ladders with back restraints starting about 1.8 metres from ground
# these tanks MAY be moved away from this site if the client begins operating the site for themselves, all still under consideration
# we have decided to purchase 2 fall arrest and lanyard systems for climbing ladder.

After conducting the RA and appreciating that the client may cancel the contract within the next 12 months it was decided that if we purchased the PPE this would be suffice until such time as we know what the future holds. Is this a valid reasoning?

I personally think that when the access to any W@H is vertical and by a fixed ladder a harness is required, however 1 of our Ops Managers disagrees he says that they have been fitted with back restraints and that is sufficient, ,my argument was that it does not stop you from falling, a harness system does not stop you either but does stop you hitting the ground.

Hoping that some can give their opinions, is this a valid reason not to engineer a better system for accessing the top of the tank until such time as the business knows what is happening with the contract.

Chris

By "back restraints" I assume you mean ladder hoops?. If so, as you rightly indicate, they are not a fall prevention device and do nothing to prevent a fall. The only way I can see to comply with WAH regs is to fit ladders with vertical safety running line or similar equipment and provide appropriate safety harness with relevant type lanyard if the tanks are to be accessed. (Safe system of work at height also required for fitting the equipment to ladders.)

is this ladder internal?

But they are useful to lean against, to rest.




Alan, who says vertical ladders DON'T comply with WAH regs?

The regulation says

"9.Where a ladder or run of ladders rises a vertical distance of 9 metres or more above its base, there shall, where reasonably practicable, be provided at suitable intervals sufficient safe landing areas or rest platforms."


JohnW

Not really, we are based up in the north east corner of south Australia, the facility is a oil tank farm connected to 5 oil wells, the pipe work makes it an issue as it is laying on the ground.

Chris