The most cited OSHA standard in 2015 concerns fall protection (29 CFR 1926.501). Slips, trips and falls should of course be avoided in any workplace, but they are especially dangerous for those working from a height. This increased risk means it is essential for employees on roofs to have access to proper safety equipment.
A Problem to Solve
A private school in Dallas, Texas realized during a routine safety assessment that they needed to invest in such equipment. It was necessary for the school’s maintenance crew to access multiple points around large air-conditioning units and other mechanical devices on the roof. The crew needed a coordinated safety system so they could perform regular maintenance despite treacherous gaps in the building’s roof.
They needed a safety solution that could solve many difficult problems. To begin with, the air conditioners’ access points, along with the access points for other equipment on the roof, were at varying levels. A total of seven different maintenance locations needed to be accessed, and the school wondered if it was even possible for one solution to accommodate seven different heights.
Next, the roof itself posed another set of challenges. Whatever access system was installed would have to uphold the structural integrity of the roof. Cave-ins are a real concern when adding weight to any rooftop, so the school needed safety equipment that was heavy-duty without being simply heavy. Finally, because their access system would be outdoors, the equipment should be manufactured to survive the elements. Dallas is prone to very volatile weather throughout the year, including severe thunderstorms, hail and even tornadoes. The school needed something that was constructed from a material that could easily withstand these harsh weather conditions.
ErectaStep: Best in Class
The school did their homework when searching for the best solution to their safety problem. Their research was driven by the need for a fully-engineered, turn-key system that could be delivered quickly. After further educating themselves about ErectaStep’s solutions, there was no question that this was the only product that made the grade.
ErectaStep’s five components can be configured in infinite ways. This means that, regardless of varying heights or difficult-to-reach access points, an ErectaStep solution can help you work safely and securely. The school was impressed that their customizable solution allowed them to easily access the seven different maintenance locations. Some of the components had to be customized to their exact specifications, which was simple with the PerfectaStep solutions.
And because each ErectaStep component is manufactured with industrial-strength, lightweight aluminum, the entire system could be easily installed while still maintaining the structural integrity of the roof. The school could also be sure that their ErectaStep solution would easily weather the harsh Dallas elements. The powder coating applied during the manufacturing process provides excellent durability and toughness due to its impact and wear characteristics. This coating also maintains incredible corrosion, chemical, UV and weather resistance.
Finally, ErectaStep was a very cost-effective solution – much to the delight of the school. All components are pre-engineered, in-stock and ready to ship. Prices are reduced because the entire process is streamlined. This means you don’t have to worry about the health of your bottom line, and your employees can get back to work quicker and safer than ever before.
Contact an ErectaStep representative today to learn how our modular safety solutions can keep you safe and compliant.
