Mobile Access Towers manufactured to BS EN 1004:2004 provide a working platform for those operating at height. Normally constructed from aluminium, mobile access towers are easily erected and relocated to different work positions. The working platform is made up of manufacturer specific boards from which the worker operates, contained by handrails intermediate rails and toe boards.
The Work at Height Regulations consider Mobile Access Towers erected in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions as preventing the fall and therefore sit just below the optimum of avoiding work at height.
Mobile Access Towers are used in a wide range of industries; facilities management, construction, industry, aircraft maintenance, schools, public buildings and retail. They should only be erected by a competent person or an individual under the supervision of a competent person. Competence is defined as someone who has been trained and has technical knowledge and experience.
The industry association associated with Mobile Access Towers is PASMA. It was originally formed in 1974 and was made up of major UK manufacturers of alloy access towers. Its objectives were to promote the safe use of access towers and the interests of its members to the regulatory authorities. This still remains a key function of PASMA, although membership now extends to hirers, sellers and trainers. PASMA authors a training scheme available through approved training centres-one of which is Shire4Education.
The body also publishes the PASMA Code of Practice, a reference document for managers, supervisors and health & safety professionals.
• For more information on our PASMA training courses click here. (PDF 128Kb)