17.12.2013
Do ladders and platforms mix?
An interesting Death Wish this week from France, showing a ladder being used to extend the reach of a truck mounted aerial work platform.
The unit was spotted by one of our readers in a shopping mall, the work involved reaching up into the lattice support structure behind a large advertising sign. While the platform was high enough for the job, it could not reach up very far into the lattice work. So what to do?
The two men took the platform up into the bottom of the sign’s structure, and then used a folding ladder to reach from the platform to the work point. The question is should this be an approved practice or not? Naturally in most cases where we see this, the answer is clear and easy – No! We have previously posted Death Wish photos of people using a ladder simply because the platform they are using its too low – and there is nothing to stop it slipping sideways.
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A Death Wish or the safest, most practical solution?
In this case it looks planned and the ladder and man are completely surrounded by tubes to stop him or the ladder falling, he also appears to have attached his lanyard to the structure in case he should slip. His colleague in the platform appears to be watching out for him intently, and one assumes holding the ladder in place. There is little chance of it slipping as it is footed against the platform. So, assuming it was well planned, it looks like it might be the safest way to do the job. Although technically it is not, as he has left the safety of the platform.
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The space looks to be too tight for any lift, apart - perhaps - from a mast type push-around (AWP)
One has to ask what the alternative solution might be? Many workmen would have climbed out of the platform and onto the structure, which would carry increased risk.
Moving down to the base of the machine, things are lacking a little. The machine is cordoned off, but not particularly well, however it looks to be off the road and protected from passing traffic by substantial concrete bollards. Sadly no outrigger mats are in use - even though this unit is equipped with small jack pads.
So a Death Wish? Well it goes into the series, but it is a highly questionable one. Comments appreciated.
schwabe
Well, I believe a platform equiped with a Jib (turnig over 140°) might just be right to replace the ladder, because to me it looks like, the basket would have well fitted between the bars. Many platforms have exchangable baskets, too. In case that might have been the problem... but that's just my opinion.