Halloween is a time for spooking, but no one should ever fear for their safety while working at height. Safe practices, diligent inspections, and the right equipment ensure that every job is free from risks, among others on BMUs. Here are a few essential reminders for maintaining safety when working at height and specifically on cradles:
Halloween is a time for spooking, but no one should ever fear for their safety while working at height. Safe practices, diligent inspections, and the right equipment ensure that every job is free from risks, among others on BMUs. Here are a few essential reminders for maintaining safety when working at height and specifically on cradles:
1. Thorough Inspections Regular inspections are non-negotiable. All parts of the BMU, from the hoists and motors to the suspension ropes and cradles, must be carefully examined before use. Address any signs of wear or damage immediately to avoid potential hazards.
At Fallprotec, we acknowledge how crucial it is that each installation should be safe. We have therefore developed a feature in our dealer area, “Assistant”, sending automatic reminders to installers to check their installations at the recommended regularity. By saving your system in “Assistant”, you will not only be notified of the next inspection due date, you will also receive a step-by-step survey making sure you check it thoroughly and suitably. We also provide inspection manuals for all our products.
2. Secure Anchors Ensure your BMU and cradle are securely anchored to reliable and properly tested points on the building’s structure. Inadequate anchoring is a significant risk, and it is important to trust that your equipment is properly positioned and secured at all times. All Fallprotec cradles are checked upon installation, which means the dedicated anchoring systems are being controlled to ensure highest possible safety for the users.
3. Weather Awareness Unpredictable weather conditions can create additional hazards when working at height. Wind, rain, and reduced visibility all pose risks. Always monitor weather conditions before starting any BMU work, and never proceed if conditions are unsafe. Fallprotec products are tested for weather conditions going between -30°C to +50°C. However, it is forbidden to use a cradle by strong winds or stormy weather, as the risks for the user’s safety, the building integrity and the safety of passerby’s is too high.
4. Proper PPE and HarnessingWorkers must wear the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure all harnesses and fall arrest systems are in place and in perfect working condition. Double-check that harnesses are securely connected to anchor points—there’s no room for shortcuts here. Fallprotec provides PPE, helmets and harnesses in all sizes and for all types of tasks at height.
5. Training and Protocols Comprehensive training on BMU operation, safety protocols, and emergency procedures is essential. Employees must be equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle any situation safely and confidently. At Fallprotec, we offer training to all our dealers, and to the final users upon request. Moreover, we demand regular update on the training of our partners for them to keep their qualification of “Fallprotec certified installer”.
Safety is our number one priority, and we have it in mind in every product we offer. To know more about our solutions, take a look at our website.
Rémi Timmermans
Sales Manager