ZARGES TACKLES SAFETY IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

Milton Keynes based Zarges (UK) Ltd (www.zargesuk.co.uk) has introduced a range of access steps and platforms that it hopes will help prevent injury and death to workers in the construction industry.

According to figures published by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) 2.2 million people work in Britain’s construction industry, making it the country’s biggest industry. It is also one of the most dangerous.

Construction has the largest number of fatal injuries of the main industry groups. In 2007/08 there were 72 fatal injuries giving at rate of 3.4 per 100 000 workers.

The HSE said that relative to other industries, a higher proportion of reported injuries were caused by falls from height.

According to Zarges, choosing the right equipment for each job and making sure it is used correctly would help to tackle the problem. Zarges (UK) has introduced a range of platforms and ladders specifically designed to address problems associated with construction.

Zarges produces modular systems consisting of a two-section push-up ladder with a maximum load capacity of 150 kilograms. The height of the ladder can be adjusted by means of a rope winch mounted on its side.

Safety is enhanced by use of a side support section featuring double-sided hand rails complemented by a choice of railings, platforms and chassis which are designed to suit an individual customer’s specific requirements.

Zarges (UK) marketing manager Russell Stuart said: “Safety is important and these modular systems are ideal for maintenance applications in the construction industry.

“Customers can put together their own ladders using modules combining ladder, railings, chassis and platform modules or we can offer special individually adapted solutions.

“Because the system is based on standard modules we are able to offer a flexible, comprehensive and cost-effective solution to specific individual requirements that will not compromise safety.”

Zarges’ wide and dynamic range of platforms, steps and ladder solutions are available in both modular and bespoke systems.

Russell added: “We provide the expert advice our customers need to get a system that is right for their requirements. Our module system has a huge range of variations based on standard models. They allow for precision height adjustment, different platform sizes, selection of handrails and railings, and a choice of broad or narrow chassis – all depending on the type of equipment chosen and its application.”