PowerQuick PQ 500-1, Manual

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PowerQuick Powered Ascender (24) PQ500-1 1-Sep-15
14.4.3.
Public Protection
When the PowerQuick Powered Ascender system is for technical rope access over an area open to traffic, either vehicle or
pedestrian, at least one of the following should be provided:
1. Barricades around the area to prevent access. The barricades should have warning signs indicating that a
person is working overhead and should generally be continuous and adequate, having regard to the
location and pedestrian and vehicle traffic needs.
2. For short duration work in low traffic areas only where the above are not practicable, an observer or sentry
may be situated at street level to control public movement, with appropriate signs provided.
14.4.4.
Tools
All tools and equipment must be suitable for the work intended and compatible with PowerQuick Powered Ascender rope access
work. In particular, they should not present a danger to the safe operation or integrity of the rope access system.
Where the workers carry tools and equipment, appropriate steps shall be taken to prevent them being dropped or falling onto
people below.
All electrical equipment, plugs, sockets, couplers, leads, etc. should be suitable for the environment in which they will be used.
Power tools weighing more than 10 pounds should be fitted with a separate suspension system secured to an independent
anchorage. Anchorages and suspension ropes used for equipment should be clearly identified to avoid confusion with those used
to support persons.
Moving parts of tools should be kept clear of the operator, power leads and the suspension equipment.
Appropriate grounding shall be provided for as necessary.
Any power tools that could cause injury to the users or access equipment should be fitted with an automatic shut off switch that
will cut off the power in the event of a mistake, accident, or emergency.
14.4.5.
Access Zone
An Access Zone shall be established.
1. Anchorages should normally be established outside the Access Zone so that the workers can don their
harnesses and helmets and attach themselves to the working line(s) before entering into the Access zone.
2. No one may enter the Access Zone for any purpose unless they are wearing a harness and are attached to
an anchored safety rope.
14.4.6.
Hazard Zone
Hazard Zone shall be established and marked, blockaded or identified to warn rope access personnel and passers-by of hazards
associated with the work being performed. No one may enter the Hazard Zone unless they are wearing appropriate Personal
Protective Equipment.
14.4.7.
Communications System
An effective communications system shall be established prior to beginning work and should remain effective for all the time that
work is actively taking place.
1.
Radio systems or hardline communications equipment should be used for communication purposes unless
the area of work is such that all those involved are always visible to each other and within audible range.
15.
Employee Selection and Capabilities
1. Employers should verify prior rope access training and/or experience.
2. Employer shall determine that personnel are sufficiently physically capable and free from any impairment that may
prevent them from working safely.
3. Employees should have a medical examination before employment in rope access work and at regular intervals.
4. The employer shall use a trained Rope Access Technician for system setup, system safety check.