Can You Trust Mast Climbers?

Many construction professionals are afraid to use mast climbers. Why is this? Generally, it is based on misconceptions.

Some think of a glorified scissor lift. Or they think of a cradle (the type commonly used by window cleaners). The difference between these types of access and mast climbers is that mast climbers are secured to the building. This makes them much more secure. Data from The International Platform Access Federation shows that mast climbers are among the safest kinds of powered access.

After a tragic accident in May 2021 resulting in two fatalities, the safety of mast climbing work platforms faced more serious questions.

In response to the accident, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) issued a safety alert. Thankfully, this alert made suppliers and users of MCWPs pay more attention to safety, and take action to ensure it never happens again.

But the question lingers, are mast climbers safe?

This article discusses the safety alert and assesses the general safety of mast climbers by looking at the data, and addresses what needs to be done to guarantee the safe usage of MCWPs.

As a mast climber provider, safety is paramount. And we want you to have all the facts about mast climber safety.

HSE Review

The Health and Safety Executive Safety Alert regarding mast climbers can be found in full here.

The review found that the accident was caused by mechanical failure in drive units leading to uncontrolled falls. MCWP’s have two motors with centrifugal brakes which are supposed to protect against this. But what if the mechanical failure goes undetected or the brakes are damaged?

Here is the list of actions required by the HSE to guarantee safety:

…Ensure that:

there is a means to identify a loss of mechanical integrity in each drive unit where this is the system to prevent falling with Overspeed
each individual drive unit is fitted with a mechanical device, eg centrifugal brake, that automatically prevents the work platform from descending at excessive speed
damage to drive units due to platforms being powered onto buffers/base frames is prevented
platforms and associated equipment are not damaged by physical overloading
thorough examinations, inspections and tests, and visual and functional checks are appropriately planned and carried out

https://www.hse.gov.uk/safetybulletins/mast-climbing-work-platforms-mechanical-failure.htm

The full alert should be reviewed and read on the HSE website.

These requirements do point to something interesting.

Much of the safety of the mast climber depends on its usage and maintenance. These must be inspected by trained professionals.

There are now requirements for the mechanical safety measure of units which all providers must have in place. But the supplier's safety check thoroughness is less easy to regulate.

Unit inspections rely on the protocols of the company supplying the mast climber. Besides the mechanical safety measures, the supplier must carry out robust risk assessments, inspections, routine maintenance and thorough examinations to ensure the full safety of the equipment. If these are in place, mast climbers can be operated very safely.

Conclusion: Choose a Safe Supplier

The data shows that mast climbers are among the safest forms of motorised access. However, tragic accidents have occurred. Sadly, these are preventable accidents. Prevention depends on the thorough safety protocols of mast climber providers.

If you want a safe access solution, then you need to find a supplier who requires their machines to have a CE certification and conform to BS EN1495 standards. Additionally, they must have robust safety checks and training measures. As with all equipment, it is dangerous if used improperly. But, if used properly, it is the safest form of motorised access.

For more information about the safety measures that BFT have put in place, view our recently published article.

Understanding the Government Code of Remediation

The Government Code of Remediation is structured into four parts: the scope; undertaking remediation; living with remediation; and general compliance. Each part addresses key aspects of cladding remediation projects, to mitigate fire safety risks that are present within buildings that feature external cladding whilst ensuring the safety and satisfaction of residents. It applies to buildings regardless of occupancy levels, whether fully, partially, or temporarily occupied.

Resident-Centric Approach

The Code puts residents at the heart of remediation. It is a direct response to the Grenfell tragedy, designed to protect residents from potential fire hazards and ensure their concerns are acknowledged throughout the remediation process.

Roles, Responsibilities And Accountability

The Code mandates that roles and responsibilities related to remediation must be clearly outlined and understood by all parties involved in the project. This includes contractors, developers, building owners, tenants, residents, and management companies, so each party knows its duties and is held accountable. Parties involved in the project cannot avoid Code compliance by delegating or subcontracting their obligations.

Effective Communication and Active Engagement

It’s stated in the Code that good communication needs to be maintained from the outset of the project so that residents remain informed and sufficient transparency is achieved. Proper channels should be implemented to ensure that residents can meaningfully engage in the decision-making process. The Code acknowledges potential language barriers and encourages the use of electronic forums to ensure information is disseminated efficiently. Residents should be kept up-to-date with project developments, enabling them to contribute and participate in the design and delivery of the project.

Minimising Impact On Residents

A significant focus within the Code is on minimising the impact of remedial works on residents. Contractors and developers are expected to take measures to reduce disturbances from on-site activity, including noise, dust, and general inconvenience so that disturbances to the residents are kept to a minimum. Balancing health and safety considerations with cost and time factors is another key pillar of Part 3 of the Code. The goal is to create the least inconvenience to the residents and achieve potential cost savings for contractors and developers.

Mental and Physical Health Of Residents

Acknowledging the potential impact on residents' mental and physical health, the Code mandates careful consideration and documentation of these aspects throughout recladding projects. This additional step of record-keeping holds parties accountable for their actions and highlights the seriousness of their responsibilities.

Revaluating Your Access Method

The Government Code of Remediation sets a high standard for remediation projects with a key goal to minimise the effect recladding has on the residents. The core objective of the Code revolves around mitigating the impact on residents' homes and common facilities, while concurrently prioritising the safety and security of the building and its inhabitants.

In this context, the Code calls into question the appropriateness of using scaffolding for extended periods. A two-year presence of scaffolding, according to the principles outlined in the Code, appears incongruent with the commitment to minimise impact and ensure safety, particularly concerning security issues and prolonged inconveniences for residents.