Preventing falls from an EWP or at least reducing the harm
? Don’t fall in the first place – correct set up. Drive it low and slow and check ground conditions. Pick the best routes or use packing to ensure stability. Don’t lean over the hand rails or stand on objects to gain extra height
? Always wear your safety harness and check it first. Make sure it is fitted correctly
? Never work alone. Death can occur in as little as 20 minutes from suspension trauma. Have a rescue plan in place and make sure it is effective for quick rescue. It should be practiced and understood by all involved. Ringing 000 can't be your primary means of rescue
? Ensure would be rescuers are familiar with the use of the ground controls and the individual EWP’s emergency lowering system. This can be an electric motor backup, hydraulic accumulator, hand pumping system or a bleed valve.
? Always use a harness with an energy absorber in the lanyard. This will dramatically reduce the forces on the body (See video at www.facebook.com/EWPTraing)
? Have the lanyard (no longer than 1.8metres) attached to the front and not the rear of the harness.
? Once rescued, loosen off leg straps and provide first aid or further medical treatment if required
More information is available at www.flts.net.au, [email protected] or www.facebook.com/EWPTraing
Training at your work place for less cost with minimal downtime.
6 年Mark, sorry I didn't get back to you earlier. The EWPA Association recommends a lanyard length of 1.8m but if working under 4m using an adjustable lanyard so you don't fall out. I'm sure you are aware that you fall from low heights you can hit the ground before the harness can take effect. Yes it is slightly more restrictive with a front attached lanyard but hanging suspended from the front is a lot more comfortable. Also all the pressure goes on the leg straps so increased risk of suspension trauma with no ability to raise the legs. And if you do become unconscious from suspension trauma, you head falls forward which can restrict airways. if the lanyard is attached to the front, your head falls backwards if you become unconscious leaving the airways open. I hope this helps and appreciate the exchange of ideas. Keep in touch.