Lifting Equipment Provider Compliances and Certifications
When you require lightweight, portable lifting systems for personnel lifting and fall arrest applications, a good way to determine the capabilities of lifting providers is to check their accreditations, compliances, and certifications. And to give you an idea of which accreditations to look out for, we’ve listed the top 4 that they should have:
1. EN795:2012 & PPE REGULATION (EU) 2016/425
What is it?
EN795:2012 is the British/European Standard that defines the technical requirements for performance for single-user and test methods for anchor devices that are intended to be removable from the structure. These anchor devices incorporate anchor points that are designed to have the components of fall protection systems attached to them.
This standard is harmonised with the PPE regulation (EU) 2016/425. This regulation lays down requirements for the design and manufacture of personal protective equipment (PPE) which is to be made available on the market, to ensure protection of the health and safety of users.
Why is it important?
Anchor devices are essential parts of fall protection systems, so it is essential that they function safely and correctly. EN795:2012 covers a range of tests that must be conducted on anchor devices before they are marked as compliant, including shock load, static strength, and corrosion resistance tests. The PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 is mandatory; therefore, it is a legal requirement to comply with it and go through EU Type Examination.
What does this mean?
If the product has been marked to comply with EN795:2012 under the PPE regulation with reference to a notified body, you can be totally confident that you can use them safely.
2. BS8610:2017
What is it?
BS6810:2017 is a British/European Standard that provides requirements and test methods for the structural anchor systems of personal fall protection equipment, with the goal of ensuring that they are safe. The standard is for manufacturers of anchor systems. It requires that the systems are tested along with the corresponding and appropriate base materials, which are also witness-tested by a notified body.
The standard covers different applications:
· Work positioning systems
· Fall arrest systems
· Restraint systems
· Rope access systems
· Evacuation systems
· Rescue systems
Why is it important?
There is already a European Standard in this area: EN795. However, when this was revised in 2012, testing of the structural anchor used to attach the anchor system to the building structure was left out. Therefore, a new standard was developed to fill the gaps and provide guidance on structural anchor and base material.
What does this mean?
BS8610:2017 is applicable to our T Davit for Rope Access system, and it means they have been subjected to rigorous testing, witnessed, and assessed by a European Notified Body. This provides complete peace of mind to all systems installers and anchor system users.
Here at REID Lifting, we are very proud to announce that we are the first in Europe and the UK to have this accreditation. Therefore, you can rest assured that the safety of our portable lifting systems is second to none.
3. IRATA ICOP
What is it?
IRATA is the Industrial Rope Access Trade Association, its International Code of Practice (ICOP) provides in-depth information on and clarifies the safest procedures for rope-borne work at height.
Why is it important?
IRATA’s International Code of Practice promotes and maintains high standards, safety, work quality and working practices for the industrial rope access industry. IRATA members have to comply with their robust membership entry criteria and go through regular audits to reinforce assurance of safe and responsible working.
What does this mean?
REID Lifting is an associate member of IRATA. We offer a range of systems that are suitable for working at height and rope access operations: T Davit, Porta Davit Quantum, Porta Base and Porta Gantry, all of which meet the requirements IRATA’s International Code of Practice (ICOP), with a minimum static strength of the anchor points of 15kN. Therefore, when any are specified for use in rope access work, they operate to the highest possible safety standards.
4. ATEX
What is it?
ATEX Product Certification is a certification scheme that is designed to ensure the free movement of Ex products within the European Union. Ex-products are those which are classified as safe for use in hazardous areas.
Why is it important?
The scheme defines essential health and safety requirements for Ex equipment, and these form the basis of an EU-accepted product conformity approval process. This process examines potential ignition sources on equipment that is intended for use in explosive atmospheres. Pending on the classification of the product, there are several routes to obtain certification.
What does this mean?
Any products with ATEX certification have undergone rigorous assessment. Category 3 and category 2 (mechanical risks only) are allowed to go through self-certification, and a notified body would then retain the technical file on behalf of the manufacturer.
As all our portable lifting systems have ATEX Product marking, it shows that they fully comply with the requirements of the applicable standards and directives, so they are suitable for use in explosive atmospheres.
Are you looking for a reliable, safe lifting provider? Look no further than REID Lifting. For more information or if you’re interested in buying our products, give us a call on 01291 620796 or send an email to enquiries@reidlifting.com.