When it comes to building renewal projects, one critical aspect that can’t be overlooked is how to access a building. At WCP Building Renewal, settling on the right method of access is essential for ensuring the safety of our workers, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for the client.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the common methods of access—ladders, scaffolding, swing stages, boom and scissor lifts, and bosun chairs—and discuss the pros and cons of each, along with their safety ratings.
A Note on Safety
No access system is entirely risk-free. Every method has its own inherent risks, and ensuring the safety of workers involves not only choosing the right access method but also providing proper training, and adhering to safety codes and permit requirements.
Ladders
Typical Use
Ladders are typically used for simple scenarios, such as tasks not exceeding 30 feet in height, interior work or restricted exterior job sites. They are a practical choice for straightforward projects where mobility is essential and height requirements are minimal.
Pros
- Portability: Ladders are portable and can be easily moved to different locations, making them a versatile choice for various building renewal tasks like painting and minor preparation work.
- Cost-Efficiency: Ladders are relatively inexpensive compared to other access methods, making them a cost-effective option for shorter-term projects or areas where no other access method is viable.
Cons
- Limited Reach: Ladders have a limited reach and are labour intensive. Therefore, they are suitable only for low to medium-height tasks to a safe maximum of roughly 30 feet.
Safety Rating: 3 / 5
- Ladders can be safe when used correctly, but they have a higher risk of falls compared to some other methods. Safety measures like anchor systems, rope and lanyards, fall protection, proper training and secure placement are essential.
Scaffolding
Typical Use
Scaffolding sometimes referred to as stage scaffolding, is ideal for scenarios where economies of scale are achievable, and the scope of work requires full and consistent access to all substrates. It’s commonly used in medium to high-rise buildings, shopping centers, malls and structures where no other method of access is feasible.
Pros
- Platform Stability: Scaffolding provides a stable platform for workers, allowing them to move around and work comfortably at various heights. Scaffolding or “hoarding: can also be used to protect pedestrians from job sites hazards increasing the overall safety of a job site.
- Versatility: Scaffolding can be customized and adapted to fit the specific needs of a project, including complex building structures, such as existing buildings with load bearing walls that need special attention.
Cons
- Complex Setup: Erecting scaffolding is time-consuming and costly and requires skilled labor for assembly. It may be cost prohibitive and not suitable for short-term projects.
Safety Rating: 4.5 / 5
- Scaffolding, when properly assembled and maintained, provides a safe working platform and guard rails. However, accidents can occur due to improper setup, tripping hazards, lack of PPE or lack of maintenance.
Swing Stage
Typical Use
Swing stages are primarily used for high-rise buildings, where precise access to various parts of the structure is essential. They offer an efficient and versatile solution for tasks at elevated heights.
In simple terms, a swing stage is a suspended platform that hangs from the top of a tall building. Workers stand on it to access and work on different parts of the building’s exterior. They can raise, lower, and move the platform to reach various areas while wearing safety harnesses.
Pros
- Precise Positioning: Swing stages allow for precise positioning of workers, making them ideal for accessing specific areas of a building.
- Efficiency: They can be set up relatively quickly, improving project efficiency.
Cons
- Cost: Swing stages can be costly to rent or purchase. Ongoing maintenance and safety inspections are necessary. Requires specific electrical systems access
Safety Rating: 4.5 / 5
- Swing stages offer good safety when maintained and used according to safety guidelines. Proper training and regular inspections are essential for safe operation.
Boom and Scissor Lifts
Typical Use
Boom and scissor lifts are commonly used for low-rise buildings, such as warehouses and shopping centers, where reaching elevated areas is necessary but the structure’s height is not extreme. Articulating boom lifts are commonly used to access work areas above protruding objects such as canopies and overhangs.
Pros
- Height and Reach: Boom and scissor lifts provide excellent height and reach capabilities, making them suitable for accessing tall or elevated areas.
- Safety Features: These lifts often come equipped with safety features such as guardrails and harness attachment points.
Cons
- Operational Costs: Renting or owning boom and scissor lifts can be expensive, and ongoing maintenance is required.
Safety Rating: 4 / 5
- Boom and scissor lifts have good safety records when used as instructed. Their safety features contribute to their high rating, but operator training and proper use are crucial. Driver error, uneven ground, and vehicular traffic impact this access method’s safety rating.
Bosun Chairs
Typical Use
Bosun chairs are often used for high-rise buildings, where accessing difficult-to-reach areas on the building’s exterior is necessary. They provide precise control for tasks at considerable heights.
Pros
- Highly Specialized: Bosun chairs are specifically designed for tasks like window cleaning and maintenance on the sides of buildings.
- Precise Control: Workers have precise control over their position, allowing them to access even challenging spots.
Cons
- Limited Application: Bosun chairs are highly specialized and may not be suitable for a wide range of building renewal tasks.
Safety Rating: 4.5 / 5
- Bosun chairs are designed with safety in mind, and accidents are relatively rare when used by trained professionals. Their high rating reflects their safety features and specialized use.
In wrapping up, the choice of the right access method for your building renewal project hinges on several factors unique to your project’s needs. Each method offers distinct advantages and disadvantages, tailored for specific scenarios, whether it’s a low-rise warehouse, a high-rise tower, or specialized tasks. Prioritizing safety, complying with safety codes, adhering to permit requirements, and ensuring efficient access to critical areas like load-bearing walls and electrical systems is the key to a successful building renewal project, and the team at WCP Building Renewal is here to provide expert guidance.
For more information reach out to WCP Building Renewal at 604.420.5552 or at [email protected].
