4 Things to be considered before buying loading platform –

Loading Platforms are used on construction sites for shifting and transfer of materials at different levels of the building. It can be installed and demounted conveniently. It is efficient and safe transporting technique

​A) Working at Height –
When working at height, all workers must be aware of recommended safe practices and correctly inducted in line with the main contractor’s best practice for the individual project, which should take into consideration the methods and risks associated with that project.
When using a loading platform for loading out it is common that site operatives will require access to the loading platform, and they will therefore be working at height, so it is essential that the edge protection on the leading edge of the building is fitted right up to the side of the platform and that suitable harnesses and other relevant Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be provided.

B) Lift Plans for Loading Platform – 
Loading platforms protrude from the edge of a structure when in use, so this can cause a potential hazard when used around other lifting equipment, these could include, but are not limited to -

• personnel lifts and hoists
• personnel access movable or stationary scissor lifts
• temporary cranes
• crawler and tower cranes

However, any logistics manager will tell you that when planning materials and personal movement around site it is important to look at the logistics site schedule and come up with a plan for all stages of a project before installing loading platform.

​C) Installation and Relocation – 
When choosing a location for the loading platform it is important that this is done as a collective decision, involving all relevant lifting personnel who may be using the platform or working in the vicinity.
To achieve maximum efficiency and productivity from a loading platform, contractors will choose to relocate it multiple times during the project, after the initial installation. This may be relocating to a higher level as the structure is built or just to different faces of the building, to increase speed of loading-out.
It is also necessary to provide training for safety to the personnel to ensure that all site lifting personnel are competent with relocation and installation.

D) Getting the Right Training –  
As it is mentioned in Lifting Planning Section, it is so important that all lifting personnel are properly briefed on what equipment is in use on site so they can identify the potential risks and limitations that may bring.
Our engineers offer training to Appointed Persons (APs), Lifting Managers and Slinger. We can offer tool-box talks or awareness training to other personnel on site, including Logistics Managers and Project Managers. It is possible to train anyone about C loading platforms but to carry out a relocation or installation, the individual must have a slinger ticket, at the very least.
We cover many aspects in the training as follows -

• How to carry out daily checks to the condition of the loading platforms.
• How to install and relocate a platform.
• How to get the highest productivity from loading platform considering all the safety that would require.

​Our engineers have a lot of practical experience and training and will offer you best practice knowledge on the use of loading platforms. It is important that person should use this knowledge to carry out a lift plan and RAMS for the individual project, in line with the main contractor’s guidelines.