ACC/Specific/TBT-ACC-005

Suspended Access Platform Safety

Access & Temporary Structures › Specific › Suspended Access Platform Safety

Presenter		Project
Location		Date

Suspended access platforms (cradles) are used for building maintenance, cladding, and facade work.
They are suspended from roof-level davits or outrigger beams by wire ropes with electric hoists.
The main hazards are platform failure, wire rope breakage, overloading, and falls from the platform.
All cradle installations must be designed by a competent engineer and inspected before first use.
LOLER 1998 requires thorough examination every 6 months for all suspended access equipment.
Operatives must wear a full harness with a lanyard attached to an independent safety line.
Maximum platform loading including personnel, tools, and materials must never be exceeded.
Wind speed limits apply — most cradles must not be used above 25 mph wind speed.
Emergency lowering procedures must be understood by all occupants before ascending.
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require suspended platforms as a planned solution.

Prevent fatal falls	Platform failure or ejection from a cradle at height causes fatal injuries.
Equipment failure	Wire rope deterioration and overloading are primary causes of cradle accidents.
Legal compliance	LOLER and Work at Height Regulations impose strict duties on cradle operations.
Rescue planning	Stranded operatives need a pre-planned rescue procedure.

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See also: Temporary Access Safety Awareness | Harness and Lanyard Use

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