Since its inception, Pro-Bel’s purpose has been to protect workers from falls. Selecting fall protection, suspended maintenance, and window-washing equipment to create an effective and efficient system is highly specialized and requires in-depth knowledge of rigging methods/practices and safety regulations.
There are two common misconceptions related to the design of these systems.
1) There is one standardized system. Actually, each building is different in many ways and requires an individual approach and review (from the layout, quantity, and type of equipment.
2) A design needs to meet the code. While it is crucial that a design meets all codes, guidelines, regulations, and standards, it is also important that the systems work. It is not uncommon to see a design that meets code requirements but does not allow a worker to perform their duties effectively and efficiently. It is imperative that a design considers how workers will use equipment to alleviate functional issues.
Local jurisdictional authorities are concerned with fall protection and closely monitor current codes.
– ANSI I-14.1 is a leading standard in the United States
– OSHA has several code requirements (including New York Code Rule 21 and CAL-OSHA)
– CSA in Canada has very strict requirements relating to such equipment (along with specific provincial requirements such as the Ontario Ministry of Labour and British Columbia WCB rules).
Those are just a small sample of the federal, provincial/state, regional, and international requirements. The interpretation of each is certainly a daunting task!
It is for the reasons noted above that Pro-Bel offers architects, building owners, construction managers, engineers, and general contractors a free design service for fall protection, suspended maintenance, and window washing equipment/systems. This service includes a proposed layout, a customized specification, and equipment details that consider codes, cost, effectiveness, and efficiency.