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Svick1984  
#1 Posted : 07 June 2019 12:40:53(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Svick1984

Hi all, I have a query about rooftop walkways and fall arrest systems. Basically, we need to access our silo to put a camera in it (to measure the build up of glass sludge) so we can determine how often they need to be drained and cleaned out. Whilst access to it is fairly simple (use of a an approximately 10m fixed, hooped ladder - old, installed pre 2005 I believe - that leads directly to a metal rooftop walkway), the camera has to be lowered into the silo so we can perform the recording. However, I'm unsure whether or not a fall arrest system will need to be worn during any or all of the process? As far as I know, the HSE doesn't seem to have much guidance in the way of hooped ladders apart from RR258, but seemed a little inconclusive about how effective (or ineffective) they are in conjunction with the use of FAS. ALso, with regards WAHR and fixed ladders, there is no specific guidance (?) and just aims to reduce the risk and consequences of a fall by measures to control or prevent falls from height. I don't know if they are even suitable attachment points even if someone was to wear a FAS. As for the walkway itself, it prevents falls through use of the guardrail, but is this sufficient or do we need to actual incorporate the use of FAS? Thanks.

Bigmac1  
#2 Posted : 07 June 2019 14:13:53(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Bigmac1

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post

Hi all, I have a query about rooftop walkways and fall arrest systems. Basically, we need to access our silo to put a camera in it (to measure the build up of glass sludge) so we can determine how often they need to be drained and cleaned out. Whilst access to it is fairly simple (use of a an approximately 10m fixed, hooped ladder - old, installed pre 2005 I believe - that leads directly to a metal rooftop walkway), the camera has to be lowered into the silo so we can perform the recording. However, I'm unsure whether or not a fall arrest system will need to be worn during any or all of the process? As far as I know, the HSE doesn't seem to have much guidance in the way of hooped ladders apart from RR258, but seemed a little inconclusive about how effective (or ineffective) they are in conjunction with the use of FAS. ALso, with regards WAHR and fixed ladders, there is no specific guidance (?) and just aims to reduce the risk and consequences of a fall by measures to control or prevent falls from height. I don't know if they are even suitable attachment points even if someone was to wear a FAS. As for the walkway itself, it prevents falls through use of the guardrail, but is this sufficient or do we need to actual incorporate the use of FAS? Thanks.

Hooped ladders are a mean of access and not a working platform. These themselves should be on an inspection regime. Sounds as though they are not. Metal roof, is it in good condition, is it weight baring (How do you know?) Is the means of access the correct one? Maybe use a MEWP. 

You need to think about collective fall prevention before personal!! Then you want to think about fall restraint and not fall arrest, anchor points again need tested in conformance with the standard. 

Sounds like a dodgy "DO-IT" you need to think carefully and get the appropriate level of advice.

Svick1984  
#3 Posted : 07 June 2019 15:24:35(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Svick1984

Originally Posted by: Bigmac1 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post

Hi all, I have a query about rooftop walkways and fall arrest systems. Basically, we need to access our silo to put a camera in it (to measure the build up of glass sludge) so we can determine how often they need to be drained and cleaned out. Whilst access to it is fairly simple (use of a an approximately 10m fixed, hooped ladder - old, installed pre 2005 I believe - that leads directly to a metal rooftop walkway), the camera has to be lowered into the silo so we can perform the recording. However, I'm unsure whether or not a fall arrest system will need to be worn during any or all of the process? As far as I know, the HSE doesn't seem to have much guidance in the way of hooped ladders apart from RR258, but seemed a little inconclusive about how effective (or ineffective) they are in conjunction with the use of FAS. ALso, with regards WAHR and fixed ladders, there is no specific guidance (?) and just aims to reduce the risk and consequences of a fall by measures to control or prevent falls from height. I don't know if they are even suitable attachment points even if someone was to wear a FAS. As for the walkway itself, it prevents falls through use of the guardrail, but is this sufficient or do we need to actual incorporate the use of FAS? Thanks.

Hooped ladders are a mean of access and not a working platform. These themselves should be on an inspection regime. Sounds as though they are not. Metal roof, is it in good condition, is it weight baring (How do you know?) Is the means of access the correct one? Maybe use a MEWP. 

You need to think about collective fall prevention before personal!! Then you want to think about fall restraint and not fall arrest, anchor points again need tested in conformance with the standard. 

Sounds like a dodgy "DO-IT" you need to think carefully and get the appropriate level of advice.

Thanks for the reply. I can't find where I said hooped ladders are a working platform (?) so little confused about the statement; all I meant was the ladders are used to gain access to the rooftop walkway (which is the working platform I believe). I also thought inspections were not required unless they were on new ladders, not ones installed before 2005? Again, apologies if I'm incorrect. Weight bearing I assume, but you're right, I don't know for certain. Completely unable to use MEWP given it's location, so it has to be the method I described unfortunately. And you're right, I meant fall restraint not all fall arrest. If no suitable anchor points (i.e. rated and tested) would that suggest the task has to be abandoned? Thanks again.

westonphil  
#4 Posted : 08 June 2019 11:14:22(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
westonphil

Originally Posted by: Bigmac1 Go to Quoted Post

...........you need to think carefully and get the appropriate level of advice.

Good advice.

Regards

peter gotch  
#5 Posted : 09 June 2019 11:19:26(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
peter gotch

We don't know the dimensions of the silo, nor where it sits within the space around.

Apart from the sound advice already given, I wouldn't automatically assume that a MEWP is impossible. There are all sorts of MEWPs that can be moved into quite small spaces and used in such spaces.

We also don't know whether the silo is in the open air or in an enclosed area, so we can't consider whether e.g. you might use a crane and man-riding basket.

billstrak  
#6 Posted : 10 June 2019 12:57:02(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
billstrak

it you are going to be regularly accessing the top of the silo, i would initially have both the fixed ladder and roof walkway thoroughly examined by a competent contractor.

Once it has been given the green light and is deemed fit for purpose I would install a latchway system for both the ladder and walkway and use a simple fall prevention harness and lanyard.

Maybe a bit over the top, however, you should also consider carrying out a RA and consider the competence and type of worker who will be going up there.......It may save a lot of pain in the long run

thanks 1 user thanked billstrak for this useful post.
Svick1984 on 20/06/2019(UTC)
fiesta  
#7 Posted : 14 June 2019 15:57:18(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
fiesta

Sorry I'm a bit late to the party on this one but would it be possible to carry out your inspection using a drone with a camaera - saves any need to go up there. Just a thought.

Andy

thanks 1 user thanked fiesta for this useful post.
Svick1984 on 20/06/2019(UTC)
RayRapp  
#8 Posted : 16 June 2019 19:34:48(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
RayRapp

If I have read the post correctly, using a fall restraint system will depend on the platform width and/or whether there is any edge protection to prevent a fall. You will have to consider the access to the silo, how easy or difficult is it to put the camera down the silo and is there any risk of a person falling into it?  

thanks 1 user thanked RayRapp for this useful post.
Svick1984 on 20/06/2019(UTC)
Bigmac1  
#9 Posted : 17 June 2019 08:25:01(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Bigmac1

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Bigmac1 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post

Hi all, I have a query about rooftop walkways and fall arrest systems. Basically, we need to access our silo to put a camera in it (to measure the build up of glass sludge) so we can determine how often they need to be drained and cleaned out. Whilst access to it is fairly simple (use of a an approximately 10m fixed, hooped ladder - old, installed pre 2005 I believe - that leads directly to a metal rooftop walkway), the camera has to be lowered into the silo so we can perform the recording. However, I'm unsure whether or not a fall arrest system will need to be worn during any or all of the process? As far as I know, the HSE doesn't seem to have much guidance in the way of hooped ladders apart from RR258, but seemed a little inconclusive about how effective (or ineffective) they are in conjunction with the use of FAS. ALso, with regards WAHR and fixed ladders, there is no specific guidance (?) and just aims to reduce the risk and consequences of a fall by measures to control or prevent falls from height. I don't know if they are even suitable attachment points even if someone was to wear a FAS. As for the walkway itself, it prevents falls through use of the guardrail, but is this sufficient or do we need to actual incorporate the use of FAS? Thanks.

Hooped ladders are a mean of access and not a working platform. These themselves should be on an inspection regime. Sounds as though they are not. Metal roof, is it in good condition, is it weight baring (How do you know?) Is the means of access the correct one? Maybe use a MEWP. 

You need to think about collective fall prevention before personal!! Then you want to think about fall restraint and not fall arrest, anchor points again need tested in conformance with the standard. 

Sounds like a dodgy "DO-IT" you need to think carefully and get the appropriate level of advice.

Thanks for the reply. I can't find where I said hooped ladders are a working platform (?) so little confused about the statement; all I meant was the ladders are used to gain access to the rooftop walkway (which is the working platform I believe). I also thought inspections were not required unless they were on new ladders, not ones installed before 2005? Again, apologies if I'm incorrect. Weight bearing I assume, but you're right, I don't know for certain. Completely unable to use MEWP given it's location, so it has to be the method I described unfortunately. And you're right, I meant fall restraint not all fall arrest. If no suitable anchor points (i.e. rated and tested) would that suggest the task has to be abandoned? Thanks again.

Svick

I just read your comment about anchoring onto the ladeer as you were working off it not just climbing it!!!

With regard to inspecting the ladder, even more important due to the fact its old and rusty.

Also as Peter Gotch stated there are MEWPS that can access areas you wouldnt have thought possible.

Dave5705  
#10 Posted : 17 June 2019 09:27:25(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Dave5705

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Bigmac1 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post

Hi all, I have a query about rooftop walkways and fall arrest systems. Basically, we need to access our silo to put a camera in it (to measure the build up of glass sludge) so we can determine how often they need to be drained and cleaned out. Whilst access to it is fairly simple (use of a an approximately 10m fixed, hooped ladder - old, installed pre 2005 I believe - that leads directly to a metal rooftop walkway), the camera has to be lowered into the silo so we can perform the recording. However, I'm unsure whether or not a fall arrest system will need to be worn during any or all of the process? As far as I know, the HSE doesn't seem to have much guidance in the way of hooped ladders apart from RR258, but seemed a little inconclusive about how effective (or ineffective) they are in conjunction with the use of FAS. ALso, with regards WAHR and fixed ladders, there is no specific guidance (?) and just aims to reduce the risk and consequences of a fall by measures to control or prevent falls from height. I don't know if they are even suitable attachment points even if someone was to wear a FAS. As for the walkway itself, it prevents falls through use of the guardrail, but is this sufficient or do we need to actual incorporate the use of FAS? Thanks.

Hooped ladders are a mean of access and not a working platform. These themselves should be on an inspection regime. Sounds as though they are not. Metal roof, is it in good condition, is it weight baring (How do you know?) Is the means of access the correct one? Maybe use a MEWP. 

You need to think about collective fall prevention before personal!! Then you want to think about fall restraint and not fall arrest, anchor points again need tested in conformance with the standard. 

Sounds like a dodgy "DO-IT" you need to think carefully and get the appropriate level of advice.

Thanks for the reply. I can't find where I said hooped ladders are a working platform (?) so little confused about the statement; all I meant was the ladders are used to gain access to the rooftop walkway (which is the working platform I believe). I also thought inspections were not required unless they were on new ladders, not ones installed before 2005? Again, apologies if I'm incorrect. Weight bearing I assume, but you're right, I don't know for certain. Completely unable to use MEWP given it's location, so it has to be the method I described unfortunately. And you're right, I meant fall restraint not all fall arrest. If no suitable anchor points (i.e. rated and tested) would that suggest the task has to be abandoned? Thanks again.

??

With the greatest of respect, you say you would inspect a new or recently new ladder, but not one that is nearly 15 years old and exposed to the elements and all that life can throw at it?

I don't know what to say...

Svick1984  
#11 Posted : 20 June 2019 07:40:19(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Svick1984

Originally Posted by: Dave5705 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Bigmac1 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post

Hi all, I have a query about rooftop walkways and fall arrest systems. Basically, we need to access our silo to put a camera in it (to measure the build up of glass sludge) so we can determine how often they need to be drained and cleaned out. Whilst access to it is fairly simple (use of a an approximately 10m fixed, hooped ladder - old, installed pre 2005 I believe - that leads directly to a metal rooftop walkway), the camera has to be lowered into the silo so we can perform the recording. However, I'm unsure whether or not a fall arrest system will need to be worn during any or all of the process? As far as I know, the HSE doesn't seem to have much guidance in the way of hooped ladders apart from RR258, but seemed a little inconclusive about how effective (or ineffective) they are in conjunction with the use of FAS. ALso, with regards WAHR and fixed ladders, there is no specific guidance (?) and just aims to reduce the risk and consequences of a fall by measures to control or prevent falls from height. I don't know if they are even suitable attachment points even if someone was to wear a FAS. As for the walkway itself, it prevents falls through use of the guardrail, but is this sufficient or do we need to actual incorporate the use of FAS? Thanks.

Hooped ladders are a mean of access and not a working platform. These themselves should be on an inspection regime. Sounds as though they are not. Metal roof, is it in good condition, is it weight baring (How do you know?) Is the means of access the correct one? Maybe use a MEWP. 

You need to think about collective fall prevention before personal!! Then you want to think about fall restraint and not fall arrest, anchor points again need tested in conformance with the standard. 

Sounds like a dodgy "DO-IT" you need to think carefully and get the appropriate level of advice.

Thanks for the reply. I can't find where I said hooped ladders are a working platform (?) so little confused about the statement; all I meant was the ladders are used to gain access to the rooftop walkway (which is the working platform I believe). I also thought inspections were not required unless they were on new ladders, not ones installed before 2005? Again, apologies if I'm incorrect. Weight bearing I assume, but you're right, I don't know for certain. Completely unable to use MEWP given it's location, so it has to be the method I described unfortunately. And you're right, I meant fall restraint not all fall arrest. If no suitable anchor points (i.e. rated and tested) would that suggest the task has to be abandoned? Thanks again.

??

With the greatest of respect, you say you would inspect a new or recently new ladder, but not one that is nearly 15 years old and exposed to the elements and all that life can throw at it?

I don't know what to say...

I'm not saying they shouldn't be, I was just clarifying that the Regs don't say you have to if it's installed before 2005? But yes, point taken; it's outside and hasn't been (to my knowledge) inspected ever so a risk assessment would probably dicate they should be inspected. I'm assuming if they were installed post 2005, they would have to be inspected no matter where they were situated, how often they were used or how old they were?

Svick1984  
#12 Posted : 20 June 2019 07:48:49(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Svick1984

Originally Posted by: peter gotch Go to Quoted Post

We don't know the dimensions of the silo, nor where it sits within the space around.

Apart from the sound advice already given, I wouldn't automatically assume that a MEWP is impossible. There are all sorts of MEWPs that can be moved into quite small spaces and used in such spaces.

We also don't know whether the silo is in the open air or in an enclosed area, so we can't consider whether e.g. you might use a crane and man-riding basket.

Dimensions I'm not fully sure of, but I'd say they were about 15-20m tall but the silos have no 'roof' as such and are in an enclosed area. I suppose it might be possible to reach one of the silos from the outside walls with a cherry picker, but I'm not certain - given the location  - it could do both.

Roundtuit  
#13 Posted : 20 June 2019 08:08:50(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Roundtuit

If these are open top vessels #7 Fiesta suggested a drone mounted camera - eliminate the person being at height

Roundtuit  
#14 Posted : 20 June 2019 08:08:50(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Roundtuit

If these are open top vessels #7 Fiesta suggested a drone mounted camera - eliminate the person being at height

Dave5705  
#15 Posted : 20 June 2019 08:24:55(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Dave5705

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Dave5705 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Bigmac1 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post

Hi all, I have a query about rooftop walkways and fall arrest systems. Basically, we need to access our silo to put a camera in it (to measure the build up of glass sludge) so we can determine how often they need to be drained and cleaned out. Whilst access to it is fairly simple (use of a an approximately 10m fixed, hooped ladder - old, installed pre 2005 I believe - that leads directly to a metal rooftop walkway), the camera has to be lowered into the silo so we can perform the recording. However, I'm unsure whether or not a fall arrest system will need to be worn during any or all of the process? As far as I know, the HSE doesn't seem to have much guidance in the way of hooped ladders apart from RR258, but seemed a little inconclusive about how effective (or ineffective) they are in conjunction with the use of FAS. ALso, with regards WAHR and fixed ladders, there is no specific guidance (?) and just aims to reduce the risk and consequences of a fall by measures to control or prevent falls from height. I don't know if they are even suitable attachment points even if someone was to wear a FAS. As for the walkway itself, it prevents falls through use of the guardrail, but is this sufficient or do we need to actual incorporate the use of FAS? Thanks.

Hooped ladders are a mean of access and not a working platform. These themselves should be on an inspection regime. Sounds as though they are not. Metal roof, is it in good condition, is it weight baring (How do you know?) Is the means of access the correct one? Maybe use a MEWP. 

You need to think about collective fall prevention before personal!! Then you want to think about fall restraint and not fall arrest, anchor points again need tested in conformance with the standard. 

Sounds like a dodgy "DO-IT" you need to think carefully and get the appropriate level of advice.

Thanks for the reply. I can't find where I said hooped ladders are a working platform (?) so little confused about the statement; all I meant was the ladders are used to gain access to the rooftop walkway (which is the working platform I believe). I also thought inspections were not required unless they were on new ladders, not ones installed before 2005? Again, apologies if I'm incorrect. Weight bearing I assume, but you're right, I don't know for certain. Completely unable to use MEWP given it's location, so it has to be the method I described unfortunately. And you're right, I meant fall restraint not all fall arrest. If no suitable anchor points (i.e. rated and tested) would that suggest the task has to be abandoned? Thanks again.

??

With the greatest of respect, you say you would inspect a new or recently new ladder, but not one that is nearly 15 years old and exposed to the elements and all that life can throw at it?

I don't know what to say...

I'm not saying they shouldn't be, I was just clarifying that the Regs don't say you have to if it's installed before 2005? But yes, point taken; it's outside and hasn't been (to my knowledge) inspected ever so a risk assessment would probably dicate they should be inspected. I'm assuming if they were installed post 2005, they would have to be inspected no matter where they were situated, how often they were used or how old they were?

Well this is a learning event for me. Where does it say that ladders installed or bought pre the regs in 2005 do not need to be inspected? I interpreted the regs to mean that all ladders should be regularly inspected (from 2005 onwards), not only equipment bought after 2005.
Svick1984  
#16 Posted : 20 June 2019 09:50:45(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Svick1984

Originally Posted by: Dave5705 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Dave5705 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Bigmac1 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post

Hi all, I have a query about rooftop walkways and fall arrest systems. Basically, we need to access our silo to put a camera in it (to measure the build up of glass sludge) so we can determine how often they need to be drained and cleaned out. Whilst access to it is fairly simple (use of a an approximately 10m fixed, hooped ladder - old, installed pre 2005 I believe - that leads directly to a metal rooftop walkway), the camera has to be lowered into the silo so we can perform the recording. However, I'm unsure whether or not a fall arrest system will need to be worn during any or all of the process? As far as I know, the HSE doesn't seem to have much guidance in the way of hooped ladders apart from RR258, but seemed a little inconclusive about how effective (or ineffective) they are in conjunction with the use of FAS. ALso, with regards WAHR and fixed ladders, there is no specific guidance (?) and just aims to reduce the risk and consequences of a fall by measures to control or prevent falls from height. I don't know if they are even suitable attachment points even if someone was to wear a FAS. As for the walkway itself, it prevents falls through use of the guardrail, but is this sufficient or do we need to actual incorporate the use of FAS? Thanks.

Hooped ladders are a mean of access and not a working platform. These themselves should be on an inspection regime. Sounds as though they are not. Metal roof, is it in good condition, is it weight baring (How do you know?) Is the means of access the correct one? Maybe use a MEWP. 

You need to think about collective fall prevention before personal!! Then you want to think about fall restraint and not fall arrest, anchor points again need tested in conformance with the standard. 

Sounds like a dodgy "DO-IT" you need to think carefully and get the appropriate level of advice.

Thanks for the reply. I can't find where I said hooped ladders are a working platform (?) so little confused about the statement; all I meant was the ladders are used to gain access to the rooftop walkway (which is the working platform I believe). I also thought inspections were not required unless they were on new ladders, not ones installed before 2005? Again, apologies if I'm incorrect. Weight bearing I assume, but you're right, I don't know for certain. Completely unable to use MEWP given it's location, so it has to be the method I described unfortunately. And you're right, I meant fall restraint not all fall arrest. If no suitable anchor points (i.e. rated and tested) would that suggest the task has to be abandoned? Thanks again.

??

With the greatest of respect, you say you would inspect a new or recently new ladder, but not one that is nearly 15 years old and exposed to the elements and all that life can throw at it?

I don't know what to say...

I'm not saying they shouldn't be, I was just clarifying that the Regs don't say you have to if it's installed before 2005? But yes, point taken; it's outside and hasn't been (to my knowledge) inspected ever so a risk assessment would probably dicate they should be inspected. I'm assuming if they were installed post 2005, they would have to be inspected no matter where they were situated, how often they were used or how old they were?

Well this is a learning event for me. Where does it say that ladders installed or bought pre the regs in 2005 do not need to be inspected? I interpreted the regs to mean that all ladders should be regularly inspected (from 2005 onwards), not only equipment bought after 2005.

Apologies, I can't seem to locate where I thought I'd found this in the regs, so I might be confusing it with CE marking (?). In fact, would you construe reg 12, part 3 to apply to fixed ladders (as schedule 6 doesn't specifically mention 'fixed' ladders)?

Additionally, I'm having difficultly convincing my boss that we should do an inspection; please can anyone point me towards guidance that states how often and by whom the inspections should be done by? I know the WAH and PUWER regs says 'suitable intervals' and a person who is 'competent but is there an general industry standard that gives a general timeframe and guidance on whom to select? I can do a general visual inspection, but I'm sure it needs to be more comprehensive; what should be my benchmark for establishing whom is competent to do so?

Once I've got over that hurdle, I can look at the FRS (hopefully).

Svick1984  
#17 Posted : 20 June 2019 09:56:18(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Svick1984

Originally Posted by: Roundtuit Go to Quoted Post

If these are open top vessels #7 Fiesta suggested a drone mounted camera - eliminate the person being at height

Yes I agree, this would be a good solution potentially, but:

a) I don't know think it can just be a check done from overhead; I think the camera needs to be deposited inside the tower/water to get a true reading of whether it requires a clean. Could a drone handle the equipment and allow it to be deposited and withdrawn from the silo?

b) The boss has decided he wants the towers to be scrapped (using some sort of apparatus, that hasn't been defined) when the check is done; something is lowered into the water allowing and stirred up allowing it to aggregate (?) and I suppose, help with better settlement and get anything on the sides that is sticking loosened up.

Dave5705  
#18 Posted : 20 June 2019 13:38:40(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Dave5705

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
In fact, would you construe reg 12, part 3 to apply to fixed ladders

Yes. Absolutely, 'Exposed to conditions causing deterioration' can mean many things, like poor handling (in the case of leaning ladders) and weather (in the case of fixed). 12 monthly should be a minimum. Use of fall arrest during climbing- regulation 6(40)(a)(ii) states that (3) include existing states of access and egress, so to me that is yes you should unless you can argue it is not reasonably practicable to do so. 

As for competent, I would say in your case you should be looking for signs of deterioration, rust, flaking paint would be the first clue. Do you not have any engineering expertise in your company? You must decide how good or poor the condition is (and log it). If you are concerned for any reason then take it higher up the chain and get it inspected. I'm sorry, I don't know your site or equipment and can't really imagine this in my head. A picture paints a 1000 words?

Svick1984  
#19 Posted : 20 June 2019 14:41:05(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Svick1984

Originally Posted by: Dave5705 Go to Quoted Post

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
In fact, would you construe reg 12, part 3 to apply to fixed ladders

Yes. Absolutely, 'Exposed to conditions causing deterioration' can mean many things, like poor handling (in the case of leaning ladders) and weather (in the case of fixed). 12 monthly should be a minimum. Use of fall arrest during climbing- regulation 6(40)(a)(ii) states that (3) include existing states of access and egress, so to me that is yes you should unless you can argue it is not reasonably practicable to do so. 

As for competent, I would say in your case you should be looking for signs of deterioration, rust, flaking paint would be the first clue. Do you not have any engineering expertise in your company? You must decide how good or poor the condition is (and log it). If you are concerned for any reason then take it higher up the chain and get it inspected. I'm sorry, I don't know your site or equipment and can't really imagine this in my head. A picture paints a 1000 words?

Thanks again for the response; would you mind if I pm'd you with further details (i.e. picture, details of the checking that I am currently doing etc)?

Svick1984  
#20 Posted : 20 June 2019 14:46:00(UTC)
Rank: Forum user
Svick1984

Originally Posted by: Dave5705 Go to Quoted Post

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
In fact, would you construe reg 12, part 3 to apply to fixed ladders

As for competent, I would say in your case you should be looking for signs of deterioration, rust, flaking paint would be the first clue. Do you not have any engineering expertise in your company? You must decide how good or poor the condition is (and log it). If you are concerned for any reason then take it higher up the chain and get it inspected.

Some engineering expertise yes; I myself am not an engineer, but I'm fairly confident with the kind of checks I believe need to be done, though I wasn't sure if it had to be someone who was officially recognised to be able to inspect.

Dave5705  
#21 Posted : 20 June 2019 16:03:10(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Dave5705

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
Originally Posted by: Dave5705 Go to Quoted Post

Originally Posted by: Svick1984 Go to Quoted Post
In fact, would you construe reg 12, part 3 to apply to fixed ladders

Yes. Absolutely, 'Exposed to conditions causing deterioration' can mean many things, like poor handling (in the case of leaning ladders) and weather (in the case of fixed). 12 monthly should be a minimum. Use of fall arrest during climbing- regulation 6(40)(a)(ii) states that (3) include existing states of access and egress, so to me that is yes you should unless you can argue it is not reasonably practicable to do so. 

As for competent, I would say in your case you should be looking for signs of deterioration, rust, flaking paint would be the first clue. Do you not have any engineering expertise in your company? You must decide how good or poor the condition is (and log it). If you are concerned for any reason then take it higher up the chain and get it inspected. I'm sorry, I don't know your site or equipment and can't really imagine this in my head. A picture paints a 1000 words?

Thanks again for the response; would you mind if I pm'd you with further details (i.e. picture, details of the checking that I am currently doing etc)?

Of course, I'll help if I can
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