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Market Report: Work At Height Raised awareness Youngman continues to develop its range in order to offer hirers and end users solutions for specific work at height applications. Tradesmen working at height need to select the most appropriate equipment for the jobs they are performing, following an assessment of the likely risks, in line with the Work at Height Regulations (WAHR). Given the diversity of tasks and working environments, a wide range of products and options are needed to choose from, ranging from access towers and platforms, to combination ladders, steps and accessories. “There is greater awareness amongst operatives on site of the need to comply with the WAHR,” states John Bungay, Business Development Director of Youngman Group, whose latest introductions were displayed at the Executive Hire Show last month. “In addition, we are receiving more requests not just for specific products, but also for information and training. It is against this backdrop that we continue to develop new products and services.” Youngman’s new Guardian incorporates a guard railed platform, together with a tool tray and a locking gate for operator security. The height of the platform is adjusted and locked in the same way as on a standard ladder and the high-visibility stabilisers are configured so that they do not need to be readjusted as the height changes. Two versions are available, namely a 4-6 tread model with a maximum working height of 1.52m, and a 7-9 tread version offering a 2.23m maximum platform height. Also new is the StairWell for working on stairways. Derived from the existing StairMax, it offers a greater maximum platform height of 4.2m and has a walk-through feature for access to the stairs while the product is in position. Its 850mm width makes it suitable for use on large stairways, such as in commercial premises, and a narrower version will be launched shortly. Youngman’s display included a new, larger version of the Odd Job fixed height low-level work platform. Called the Pro Job, it has a platform area of 450 by 1100mm. Also new is the Transforma, a four-rung ladder offering 16 different usable positions. The main operating modes are as a stepladder, extension ladder, stairway ladder or as two trestles. An improved version of the Combi 100 three-section combination ladder was also unveiled, now being able to be used as a stairway ladder. An additional option for the market-leading Boss aluminium tower system is a high-clearance frame that does away with the need for diagonal braces at the bottom of the tower. This allows users to walk underneath more easily, and facilitates use in locations such as shops and factories. Youngman also showed an enhanced version of its glass fibre Zone 1 Boss tower for use in locations near a live electrical supply or in sterile areas like food processing factories. It has been re-engineered for greater toughness and durability, but components are compatible with existing Zone 1 Boss parts. An instructional DVD explaining the system was premiered at the Show, and is the first of a series that will include other Boss products and the compact MiniMax tower system. Also new is the Boss Lift Shaft Prop to stabilise and secure a Boss tower within confined spaces. The props, which are designed for quick and easy adjustment, require a distance of 300-750mm between the corner of the tower and the corner of the lift shaft, and should be fitted every 4m. “Hirers attending the Show said they want to use the DVDs to educate branch staff,” says John Bungay. “As well as The Knowledge, our training initiative that helps people meet WAHR requirements, there is a real need for specific product education. Many end users seek information not knowing the exact product they require, and if hirers understand how a piece of equipment addresses a specific workplace challenge, they can advise their customers accordingly.” • T
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745900 Executive Hire News › Archives › March 2008 › Market Report › Raised awareness
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