Working at heights is, arguably, one of the most dangerous aspects of any job. This is especially true in the transportation industry where drivers and operators often must climb to the top of a tank truck or bulk carrier where the work surface can be narrow and confined, trip hazards exist, and challenges such as the weather and human error can lead to potential falls. Regardless of the cause, the outcome could result in severe injury or death. Fortunately, there is a solution that can protect workers from sustaining a fall: the Standfast TRAM Fall Prevention System.
The TRAM – is designed to protect workers in all types of environments and offers continued fall protection throughout the course of a job or task at height, including access and egress from a ladder, where 80% of falls occur. Operation of the TRAM is simple and the secure tethered system allows the operator to move along the walkway and perform necessary checks with ease and confidence.
In addition to the ease of operation, TRAM does not require any scheduled preventive maintenance such as lubrication or adjustment. Installation of TRAM requires as little as six man-hours for a standard system with rail and as little as two man-hours for the Standfast Fixed-Base System, used for side-access single compartment tank trucks. The system is completely mechanical and does NOT rely on an external power source, pneumatics, or hydraulics, and is therefore not subject to failure due to climate or loss of power.
Handrail systems available on the market today come in the form of fixed, mechanical or pneumatic. Regardless of type, handrail systems supply zero fall protection while on the ladder, are typically more expensive, requiring three to four times the number of man-hours to install, and have proven to be less reliable.