The number one concern of airline passengers seems to be securing overhead storage space above their seats. Many do not read the safety instructions or listen to the flight attendant reciting instructions. As for fastening their seat belts? What a hassle!
Fortunately, manufacturers and aircraft operators have a stricter view of safety. The production and maintenance of fixed and rotary aircraft entail working at heights in complex environments. To help safeguard workers, they install safe access platforms and rigid rail systems.
Workers protected by regulatory-compliant fall protection systems are more confident and attentive to their jobs. The impact goes up and down the aisle with aircraft that are built and maintained with a higher level of safety.
The Essential Safety Features of Safe Access Platforms
Work platforms provide unmatched versatility when manufacturing and servicing aircraft. From the cockpit to the rudder, encompassing the fuselage, wings, engines, stabilizers, doors, and more, they enable workers to navigate all areas of the plane. Construction features include:
- Anti-slip, glass-reinforced nylon treads for steps and platform decks. Per OSHA 1910.25(b)(3) and (4), the stairs have uniform riser heights and tread depths between landings with stair landings and platforms at least the width of the stairs. The treads are also self-draining to prevent the buildup of water or other fluids.
- Strong, robust, and corrosion-resistant anodized aluminum or galvanized steel frames to stabilize the non-bounce steps and platform deck. Per OSHA 1910.23(e)(1)(iii), platforms must be capable of supporting at least four times their intended load.
- Aluminum or galvanized steel guardrails, subject to OSHA standards 1910.29(b) that specify in part:
- 42-inch height of top rails (+/- 3 inches) above the walking-working surface.
- Midrails are installed at a height midway between the top rail and the walking-working surface.
- Can withstand a force of at least 200 lbs. (890 N) applied downward or outward within 2 inches anywhere along the top rail.
- The top rail must not deflect to a height less than 39 inches above the walking-working surface when a 200-pound (890 N) force is applied downward.
The Versatility of Safe Access Platforms
Safe access platforms can be fixed (static) for permanent installation in manufacturing plants and hangars. Modular in design, they are ideal for hard-to-reach areas and where tasks are frequently conducted.
Modular platforms can be equipped with heavy-duty locking casters, providing essential portability for station-to-station work inside facilities or fast action on the tarmac.
A variety of custom features are also available with safe access platforms:
- Self-closing safety gates feature a spring-loaded mechanism so the gate closes immediately after the worker passes through. This safeguards the opening at the platform stairs or other areas as needed.
- Engineered for adjustable height capability to provide a multi-purpose work stand.
- Fitted with racks and shelves to store frequently used tools and equipment and enhance efficiency.
- Equipped with shop services (e.g., water, air, electricity) for improved capability and productivity.
An Overhead View of Fall Protection with Rigid Rails
Platforms enable workers to reach areas of the aircraft from all sides. Rigid rail systems provide fall protection when working from above. They have short fall arrest distances compared to traditional cable-based systems and are ideal for aircraft maintenance because they minimize swing falls and offer hands-free operation. They feature durable construction and are designed to maintain both a high level of safety and productivity.
The enclosed track design provides outstanding trolley movement and ensures the lifeline stays directly above workers. Fall distances are reduced even at a low height of four feet. With configurations supporting up to eight users, these systems can be configured in 6 to 100-foot spans with intersections, curves, and turntables.
A modular rigid rail system is ideal for tighter spaces, such as where overhead cranes operate. Track sections are typically up to 40 feet long. The track-and-trolley system is used with a self-retracting lifeline, and the 1:100 movement-to-weight ratio keeps the lifeline directly overhead, eliminating in-line swing fall. Modular rigid rail systems can be relocated after initial installation if the tasks and facility requirements change.
See Us for Your Safety Solutions
Safe access platforms and rigid rail systems enable workers to access all aircraft sections safely and efficiently, reducing the chance of injury while maintaining OSHA compliance. Their modularity also allows them to adapt as production and maintenance processes shift.
If you are responsible for safety 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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