Vertical work mainly involves the use of ropes, cables and other devices to suspend a person in the air and perform various tasks. Although it is associated with mountaineering as a modern sport, This work has its roots in antiquity, its execution being surprising. To work in a vertical work company it is essential to master climbing techniques, mountaineering, theatrical stagecraft and other relevant trades. Contrary to popular belief, rappelling is not a discipline, but a technique used in various trades, so claiming to be a “rappelling specialist” makes no sense.
Rope access techniques are linked to those of mountaineering, developed in Europe and adapted to urban and industrial environments. These techniques allow work to be carried out in places that are difficult to access., increasing safety and reducing accidents due to falls. Since the middle of the 20th century, The need for safety and effectiveness in industrial environments led companies in the United States and Europe to request interventions based on mountaineering for the repair and maintenance of towers., tall buildings, bridges, among others.
How is work carried out at height??
Work at heights are techniques used to perform tasks in high places.. Using ropes, anchors and advancement devices, Vertical work companies in Alicante gain access to various types of structures, like trees, wells, buildings, discs, bridges, among others, along with all the accessories necessary to carry out the corresponding tasks. The application of these techniques is recommended in those cases where the assembly of conventional systems, like scaffolding, is technically difficult or presents a greater risk compared to the use of these techniques, although economically the duration of many of these jobs may not be profitable.
There are two fundamental concepts in any work at height: safety chain and suspension chain. The first includes a set of tools that, through its properties, protect the worker against possible accidental falls. The second includes the set of tools necessary to position the worker safely.. The elements that make up both chains are:
- Static elements (resistant).
- Harness
- Ribbons and laces
- Connectors
- Anchors
- Semi-static ropes from 10mm to 13mm
- Pulleys
- dynamic elements (absorbents).
- Lockers/desensors
- dynamic ropes
- Individual protection elements.
- Casco
- safety shoes
- Protective gloves
Vertical work phases
Work at height involves the following processes:
- Planning the task to be carried out, which includes the security analysis and preventive plan.
- Placement of anchor points (header facilities) and progression in the property, building or object.
- Ascent or descent maneuvers to the workplace.
- Positioning at the work point.
- Carrying out the corresponding tasks.
- Pause after completion of tasks.
- Removal of anchoring systems (header facilities) and progression, unless the interventions require a periodicity that justifies their permanence.
Risks and risk factors
The main dangers associated with a vertical work company in Alicante are those related to possible falls of people or materials..
Falls of people from different heights usually occur mainly due to lack of adequate planning, improper use of personal protective equipment (EPI), insufficient supervision of them, the use of auxiliary materials in poor condition or poorly maintained, inadequate distribution of anchor points, and lack of training or insufficient training.
Falling materials on people and/or property are usually due to the presence of loose tools or the lack of adequate transport equipment during lifting or lowering operations., as well as the presence of people near or below the work area.
Other potential risks inherent to the activity of a rope access company include cuts or various injuries when using auxiliary or portable tools., burns caused by portable heat-generating tools, exposure to direct or indirect electrical contact due to proximity to high or low voltage power lines, whether aerial or on facades, and fatigue caused by discomfort, excessive prolongation of tasks or non-ergonomic working conditions.
More information?
In J.J.. Vertical, We are experts in vertical work in Alicante, Elche and surroundings. We are ready to ensure that every aspect of your project is handled with the highest level of professionalism and security.. With our team of certified specialists and our wide range of solutions adapted to your needs, we guarantee maximum safety and efficiency in each task.
Contact us today and discover how we can help you achieve your goals safely and effectively.
