Safety First: What to Look For in a Construction Loading Platform
Preston Hire | New Zealand
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Construction loading platforms, also known as landing platforms, are designed to improve productivity on a worksite by providing a platform for the loading and unloading of building materials. They can also allow workers on the ground to offload items when required. Retractable loading platforms, like the SuperDeck?, allow materials to be loaded in and out of a building as required, providing greater ease and efficiency than fixed units.
Safety is paramount when it comes to choosing a loading platform as your employees’ safety should always come first. Knowing the safety features to look for can help when it comes to choosing a suitable deck hire for your next project.
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Safety components to look for in a loading platform
Galvanized steel is one of the most popular types of steel due to the increased durability afforded by its corrosion-protected surface. More resistant to damage, galvanized steel doesn’t rust. This is important as structures made from untreated steel can collapse due to corrosion stress from weathering and rust.
Guardrails are an essential component of any loading platform, providing a physical barrier to protect workers by reducing or eliminating the risk of falls. In short, guardrails protect against potentially catastrophic accidents when working on elevated worksites.
A safe landing platform has clearly designated safety harness anchorage points capable of withstanding the force caused by the fall of a person located anywhere on the platform.
Walking across smooth metal surfaces can be dangerous, especially when wet, as it is easy to slip. The raised pattern of chequered safety plating increases traction, facilitating a skid-resistant surface for both workers and loaded materials...