Safety First: What to Look for in a Construction Loading Platform
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.
Safety components to look for in a loading platform
- Galvanized steel construction
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.
- Solid Guardrails
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.
- Fixed harness safety points
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.
- Chequered safety plating
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.
- Double locking gates
Double locking gates are designed to prevent workers and equipment or materials falling off the deck, risking serious injury or death to those working or passing by below.
- Built in props and screw jacks
A safe retractable loading platform should come with built in props and screw jacks to secure it to the building. This speeds up the installation, relocation, and removal process.
- Safety procedures of the hire company
Loading platform safety comprises both vital features of a unit and its safe operation, meaning that the work procedures of the hire company you choose are another important consideration. Do they have clear safe work procedures they follow to ensure proper operation of the landing platform? Do they conduct pre- and post-delivery inspections of their units? Do they conduct site inspections? Aspects like these should be taken into account when choosing a deck hire provider.
How can Preston Hire help you with your loading platform needs?
At Preston Hire, safety is a core value of our business, and we pride ourselves on presenting the best quality products and services. We undertake rigorous processes to determine the safety of our SuperDecks before they go out for hire, while they’re being used on site, and when they’re returned. Our innovative SuperDeck® retractable loading platform is the leading choice for multi-storey construction projects globally due to its exemplar safety features (it has all the above-mentioned vital components) and its ability to increase efficiency and timely project completion.
Preston Hire has SuperDecks available in a range of different sizes. Speak to our expert staff to learn more about how we can help you on 0800 440 558, or through our website.
Explore more about our innovative solutions:
Crane Loading Platform: Versatile platforms designed for seamless crane operations in construction.
Construction Loading Deck: Durable and efficient decks for multi-storey building projects.
Material Handling Platform: Simplify the transportation of materials on-site with secure platforms.
Prioritising worker safety with advanced design and robust construction.
