We have two mechanical fitters that work within a lifting platform”cage” attached to a tele-handler. The work they carry out is very general – fitting lights, maintenance, pipe work and may be required to reach outside the cage to work in required areas. Could we use a work restraint system which limits the fitters being able to pass the guard rails? Second question – Could we use dynamic climbing rope with a carabineer (attached to harness) and scaffhook (attached to guard rail) to achieve this system? Thanks for your help.

With regards to fall restaint - it is current good practice to always use fall restaints within any type of enclosed elevated work platform. The cage should have a purpose made and tested anchor point within it which is assess as part of the statutory thorough examination - normal at floor level. The HSE have been known to serve notices when its not used. It is worth noting that fall arrest systems anchored to the cage should never be used instead of restraints. The HSE will enforce if they come across this. Any fall control system used must be anchored outside the cage and be of a suitable length. Also just like the use of any fall arrest equipment an emergeny plan must be in place to ensure people can be lowered to the ground quickly is strung up. Tony