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#1 Posted : 20 August 2008 13:38:00(UTC)
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Posted By David MacFarlane Hi all, We are required to work on top of a 10m high roof in order to install vents,etc. There are no anchor points or mansafe systems in place at present to allow us to use, nor is there any edge protection. Can anyone recommend a temp system that we could use that would be feasible for say a couple of days work maximum. We will be using a scissor lift to gain initial access. There is also a very slight pitch on the roof. Thank you DM
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#2 Posted : 20 August 2008 13:51:00(UTC)
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Posted By peter gotch Hi David All very much dependent on variables such as how close to roof edge the vents etc will be, and the pitch/material of the roof [latter in case any precautionary kit is liable to slide off roof] You should probably be looking at some portable roof edge protection units and/or portable fall arrest anchorages [as illustrated in HSE guidance book HSG33]. Regards, Peter
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#3 Posted : 20 August 2008 14:18:00(UTC)
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Posted By Dave Merchant A restraint system based on ropes should be possible, and would be the preferred option over anything fall-arrest. Anchor points for restraint are easier to find on the structure itself (as they don't need the same strength ratings), and at a push you can even run the ropes over the edges and use something off the roof as your anchorage. If you're not used to working with restraint systems then I suggest you talk to a training company, who'll also be able to show you the best way to work on a particular building. Deadweight anchors (EN795-E devices) should never be used on a pitched roof, even at a shallow angle. It's not just a case that they slide - pitched roofs often have a much lower design capacity.
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#4 Posted : 20 August 2008 14:22:00(UTC)
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Posted By David MacFarlane Thank you for your input guys. Much appreciated! David
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#5 Posted : 20 August 2008 14:48:00(UTC)
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Posted By graeme12345 David, someone (owner or whoever rents the premises) will have to maintain the vents, can you not include (permanent) this protection as part of your contract for your client?
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#6 Posted : 20 August 2008 15:09:00(UTC)
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Posted By willhiem I'd go for a counter weight handrail system, you can restrict work to one area and then move along as work progresses but it requires a good level of supevision to make sure people dont do what people do and thats cause hassle. you might get some other ideas in this publication also... http://publications.hsa....dex.asp?locID=6&docID=86
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#7 Posted : 20 August 2008 16:08:00(UTC)
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Posted By David MacFarlane It is certainly an issue that the owner of the building should be thinking about, the ideal solution for us would be to work off a permenant roof edge protection system. Thanks to all. D.
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#8 Posted : 20 August 2008 16:58:00(UTC)
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Posted By willhiem David, I 've come to the realisation that the only way anyone is going to put in a permanent system is if they are forced to by people being up there every day, if its yearly maintenance they probably will just make do with the temporary protection. another point, if you're using MEWP's to gain access to the area ensure they're the appropriate ones to use which facilitate safe measures for disembarking onto the roof some MEWP's out there dont allow this. I'm sure you knew all that anyway but just covering it in case.
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#9 Posted : 22 August 2008 07:46:00(UTC)
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Posted By Richard Hinckley David, this a problem that we are asked to advise on, on a daily basis. If you would like to email me I can give you some advice on temporary fall protection equipment and also temporary rope rigging that could be considered for fall restraint. Regards Richard
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#10 Posted : 22 August 2008 10:17:00(UTC)
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Posted By graeme12345 David, I would look at the cost of erecting temporary protection each time in relation to a one off price for a permanent solution, and give your results to the client for them to make up their own minds. Bearing in mind they will have to maintain the building / vents so permanent protection could be cost effective
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#11 Posted : 22 August 2008 10:31:00(UTC)
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Posted By A Campbell There are aplenty of fall temporary fall protection/restaint products available. The important thing is that if you choose to use these products on an ad hoc basis possibly due to deciding it is more reasonably practicable than a fixed system. Just as important is the awareness of working at height, even with such systems awareness, recognising the risks, controling/eliminating them and if dicided how to use such equipment, choosing fixed points etc can be done... just need to look at all parameters i'd suggest
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#12 Posted : 01 September 2008 00:22:00(UTC)
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Posted By pat merchant David as long as you are controlling the risks i,e 2m away from open edges and skylights,on a safe roof that can support people, equipement and have safe access and egress there should be no problem. remember to have a rescue plan in place when working on roofs.there are lots of kit available for temp roof work but the thing is to be reasonable and practicable in what you do so as to ensure the safety of not only those on the roof but those below. Pat
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