The leading cause of fatal accidents and the second leading cause of occupational accidents in the construction industry, falls from heights mobilize stakeholders in the sector. Merely complying with regulations, informing and training teams would be enough to reduce avoidable risks.
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Accidents
Passing through a roof or a frame, in the void on the exteriors, in a hole, a hopper or even a staircase, falls from heights are the second cause of work accidents, according to the 2019 statistics of the Cnam-TS. A quarter of these accidents result in permanent disability. It is also the leading cause of fatal accidents in the construction industry.
Regulations
According to article R. 4323-63 of the labor code, it is forbidden “to use ladders, stepladders and steps as a work station”. Nevertheless, it is possible to use it exceptionally if the risk assessed previously is considered low, the work is of short duration and not repetitive, or it is impossible to use collective protective equipment.
Equipments
Each piece of equipment has rules: fixed or rolling scaffolding must be assembled by trained personnel. Only an authorized worker can operate a mobile person’s platform (MEWP). For a light rolling individual platform (PIRL), the guardrails are never additional steps. Finally, PPE with a fall arrest system is just the ultimate choice.
Formation
The OPPBTP offers two one-day courses. One is intended for team leaders on “Controlling the risks of falls from a height” to learn to “anticipate and foresee solutions”. The other, entitled “Protecting yourself from the risk of falls from a height”, is aimed at team leaders and operators, and aims to “raise awareness” and “actively participate in prevention. “
Prevention
To assess the risks, the site www.chutesdehauteur.fr offers a prevention test in ten questions: awareness of the risk, anticipation of means of prevention, nature and condition of the protective equipment, type of training followed, ability to refuse a situation of work, etc.
The number
9 million days of work stoppages caused by falls from a height in 2018 (Source: ameli.fr)
Products
Uni-Safe, from Layher: Innovative hooks
This system consists of uprights, rails, light end guardrails and red clips used to connect the elements to each other. These hard and very resistant plastic safety hooks, fix the structure with a simple pressure of the hand. One person can assemble and disassemble the system without tools, and there is no sense imposed in the establishment. The width of the floor is adjustable. More compact than conventional equipment, the Uni-Safe device, which is compatible with Layher’s Universal range, halves the logistics volume.
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Gazelle RS, from Duarib: Easy mobility
This lightweight rolling individual platform (PIRL) has three working heights (2.60 / 2.70 / 2.80 m). Equipped with four swivel casters, it rotates 360 ° and its width of 78 cm makes it easy to move and the passage of the doors. It stabilizes automatically as soon as the user climbs, which deactivates the taxiing function. Convenient multi-function shelf and self-closing access door for complete protection.
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Meca Modul, by Tubesca-Comabi: An evolving concept
This concept of platforms, gangways and aluminum steps is quick and easy to deploy. The modules meet the requirements of standards EN 14122 and EN 14123, and evolve according to the specific needs of users. Whether it is access, work or movement, there is more than 80 possible configurations, with safety or comfort options: ramp, guardrail, safety gate, etc.
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Moonwalker, by Edma: Articulated stilts
Intended in particular for drywallers, these articulated stilts are fitted with soles that simulate a natural walk, by precise and little tiring movements. Adjustable from 45 to 76 cm, with tightening straps, they allow work safely until 3 meters from height. Designed in aluminum, these stilts weigh only 6.7 kg per pair and can support a maximum weight of 102 kg.
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