The military and municipalities are the M&M staples of public service. Coincidentally, the famous M&M chocolate candies were patented in 1941 and sold only to the military until 1947, as their coated shell kept the candy from melting when shipped overseas. They have a special kind of “durability.”
M&Ms proved an adaptable solution during the Second World War, and eight decades later, military and municipal operations demand robust, flexible solutions to address worker safety challenges. Engineered platforms and guardrails offer comprehensive systems that meet stringent safety standards while ensuring versatility and durability for diverse applications.
Applications in Military and Municipal Settings
Engineered modular work platforms are used for the maintenance of aircraft, armored vehicles, docked ships, and other complex equipment. They are ideal because they can be readily customized to fit the layout and design of these unique military systems. For example, a wide range of unique platforms are designed to service specific fixed and rotary-wing military aircraft, including:
- Combat fighters, bombers, and attack aircraft
- Supporting (e.g., refueling tankers, transport)
- Reconnaissance and surveillance
- Special mission (e.g., patrols, search-and-rescue, training)
Municipal facilities host a wide range of buildings that require work-at-height maintenance tasks:
- Administrative and civic offices
- Public safety and emergency response facilities
- Community centers and recreational services
- Infrastructure and utilities
- Cultural and educational buildings
- Transportation facilities
- Health and welfare clinics and shelters
- Courts and detention centers
In addition to their use on engineered platforms, guardrail systems provide fall protection and mobility assistance from the ground floor to the rooftop in military installations and municipal facilities. They are installed on ramps, stairs, mezzanines, balconies, walkways, civic auditoriums, arenas, recreational facilities, roof edges, and other elevated spaces.
Guardrails Provide Safety Readiness
Modular guardrail systems are constructed of high-grade aluminum or galvanized steel for strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. These pipe-fitted structures are installed without welding or drilling, so ongoing operations have minimal disruption. Any accidental damage can be repaired quickly and economically.
The military and municipalities require workers to access rooftops to inspect and maintain building services equipment, clear snow and debris, make repairs, and perform other work-at-height tasks. Freestanding guardrail systems feature recycled PVC counterweight bases that do not penetrate the roof. The system’s modular design enables it to fit virtually any roof edge configuration.
- Permanent guardrails are ideal for rooftops with high-risk areas that workers access frequently.
- Portable guardrails are available for temporary or evolving projects, such as inspections or short-term tasks.
- Parapet railings are designed for roofs with parapets that do not meet regulatory requirements for height.
- Metal roof railings feature a two-part base design to install on standing seam or corrugated metal roofs without penetrating the roof.
Engineered Platforms Provide Precision and Performance
Engineered modular platforms provide safe, elevated access for various tasks, including maintenance, inspection, and production operations. They feature anti-slip nylon steps and platform decks supported by aluminum or galvanized steel frames for strength and stability. The nylon treads are also self-draining to prevent the build-up of shop fluids or precipitation when platforms are used outdoors.
Modular guardrails provide fall protection for workers on the platform, which can also be fitted with a self-closing safety gate to protect workers at the openings of stairs. Gates feature a spring-loaded mechanism that automatically closes once a worker passes through. Platforms also offer unmatched versatility to meet various needs:
- Fixed (static) platforms are designed for permanent installation and frequently performed or highly specific tasks.
- Mobile platforms feature heavy-duty locking casters for easy transport from station to station.
- Multi-purpose platforms and stands are designed for customized and hard-to-reach areas.
- HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning) and generator platforms are specially designed to service rooftop or ground-based HVAC and utility equipment.
- Hopper and dump trailer stands provide access to tall vehicles for inspections, maintenance, tarping, and loading-unloading operations.
- Flatbed trailer stands are mobile platforms that cover the entire length and height of flatbed decks.
Compliance Above All
More than other organizations, the military and municipalities must comply with Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) best practices. Engineered platforms and modular guardrail systems prioritize compliance. Significant facets of OSHA regulations include:
- Any working surface four (4) feet or higher must be protected with guardrails on all sides at least 42 inches tall (+/- 3 inches) above the walking-working surface. (OSHA 1910.29(b)(1))
- Guardrail systems must withstand a force of at least 200 pounds (890 N) applied downward or outward within 2 inches of the top edge at any point along the top rail. (OSHA 1910.29(b)(3))
- The maximum work-surface height of mobile platforms cannot exceed four times the shortest base dimension without additional support (OSHA 1910.23(e)(1)(vi))
- Platforms must be capable of supporting at least four times their maximum intended load. (OSHA 1910.23(e)(1)(iii))
- Platforms taller than 10 feet must have guardrails and toe boards on the exposed sides and ends of the platform. (OSHA 1910.23(e)(3)(iii))
- Standard stairs are installed at angles from 30 to 50 degrees. The stair treads should be at least 22 inches wide, with uniform step intervals of no more than 9-1/2 inches. The tread depth should be at least 9-1/2 inches. (OSHA1910.25(c))
ANSI/ASSP Z359.2-2023 fall protection program requirements emphasize collective fall protection systems, including guardrails, working platforms with guardrails or barrier protection, and other measures. (Collective systems protect multiple workers without needing special equipment or training).
See Us for Your Safety Solutions
By integrating engineered platforms and guardrails, military and municipal organizations can create safer work environments, enhance operational efficiency, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
If you are responsible for fall protection at your organization, contact Lighthouse Safety for OSHA-compliant safety solutions. We will discuss your concerns about regulations and what it will take for you to comply. Our services can include as little or as much as you need, from design, engineering, and fabrication to installation, training, inspections, and other support.
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