FALL PREVENTION & ARREST
PERSONAL FALL PROTECTION Personal fall protection refers to equipment that requires the individuals to act for the equipment to be effective, for example putting on a harness correctly and connecting to a fixed system, or suitable anchor point.
Examples of personal fall prevention equipment suitable for use when working on Wind Turbine Generators (WTG) includes fixed Wire and Rail Systems. With fixed systems the worker is able to climb whilst the system works in the background to ensure safety as intermediate supports are passed without adjustment. A fall arrester is integrated into the top of the system to ensure falls are arrested automatically.
Further examples of personal fall protection equipment include fall restraint and fall arrest systems. Fall restraint systems allow individuals to operate at heights, but restrict them from reaching a point at which a fall can occur. Fall arrest systems on the other hand provide a freedom of movement, but in the case of a fall the arrest system will activate in the event of a fall to prevent serious injury.
It is important to note that all of the examples provided need to be used in conjunction with a key piece of personal fall protection, an appropriately selected and fitted safety harness.
Companies such as Safety Technology Ltd offer training in the appropriate selection of PPE for individuals working specifically on wind turbines.
INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE OF EQUIPMENT
Fall prevention and arrest does not stop however, at the selection of equipment, in order to ensure that the safety of the workers is guaranteed by these systems it is essential to factor in a maintenance programme. Regular inspections and necessary maintenance of both collective and personal fall protection equipment is essential in ensuring that it remains in good, safe, functional order.
RESCUE OF A FALLER
Another important consideration to take into account when selecting and using fall prevention and arrest systems is the rescue of a faller from the equipment in the event of a fall. It is essential that rescue plans are drawn up to ensure the safety of the rescuer, covering speed of rescue, rescue method, additional equipment needed, co- operation with emergency services, first aid and training, as recommended by HSE.
TRAINING
It is vital when planning for fall prevention and arrest that all individuals working at heights are adequately trained in work at height safe practices and evacuation, as well as selection, inspection and use of the safety systems they are relying on. Individuals working on WTGs are required by the industry to be certified in the RenewableUK and Global Wind Organisation (GWO) accredited Work at Height and Rescue training.
This 2 day course covers safe practices for working at heights on WTGs, along with modules such as PPE selection and inspection. This industry recognised training can only be delivered by accredited providers such as Safety Technology Ltd.
A HELPING HAND
As a specialist in fall prevention and arrest when working in WTGs, Safety Technology Ltd supply an extensive range of protective equipment needed to safeguard workers.
The Welsh headquartered company are able to assist in all aspects of fall prevention and arrest, from advising in the selection and installation of systems and equipment, to providing equipment inspections and maintenance services and delivering industry required safety training in working at heights and equipment use.
Katie Dawes
Safety Technology Ltd Click to view more info
www.windenergynetwork.co.uk
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