Professional window cleaning can be a dangerous occupation, with feet firmly remaining on the ground window cleaners are less likely to injure themselves & also unlikely to damage customer property.
Stormont Window Cleaning Specialists only use the reach and wash system making us completely ladder free!
The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSW Act) requires employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare of their employees and to ensure that those affected by their activities are not exposed to risk.
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require employers and those in control of any work at height activity to ensure that the work is properly planned, supervised and carried out by competent people. This includes using the right type of equipment for working at height. Always trying to avoid working at height where it is reasonably practicable to do so.
Where window cleaning at height cannot be avoided. It’s essential to discuss all window cleaning activities with the customer as they will know their home/business well. Working together to an agreed co-ordinated approach is critical for reducing underlining risks.
Workers working at height must have the right skills, knowledge and experience. The requirements for specific competencies will depend on the work being carried out, for example, a window cleaner involved on a high rise platform will require different skills, knowledge and expertise to a ground worker.
In addition to fatalities, professional window cleaners suffer serious injury every year as a result of falling,
Principal causes of death/injury are from ladder falls. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) publishes guidelines on the safe use of ladders and stepladders which is aimed at all people who might use a ladder from time to time, not just window cleaners. The predominant causes of a fall from a ladder are the window cleaner over-reaching, poorly maintained or old worn-out ladders, the user slipping off the rungs and the ladder itself slipping and falling. A casual approach in the use of ladders can sometimes be blamed which is why all window cleaners must be aware of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 and ensure that they are fully compliant.
Numerous reasons to fall, faulty or poorly maintained ladders, a careless approach to the task or a pure freak accident, there are medical conditions which should also be taken into consideration when thinking of using a ladder. It’s recommended that people who should refrain from using a ladder at any time include those who may suffer from epilepsy, psychiatric disorders, heart and lung conditions, problems with joint movements, those who misuse alcohol and/or drugs and those who may be on medication temporarily which might induce dizziness or drowsiness.
Stormont window cleaning specialists believe ladders are a thing of the past and as a result, we operate in a completely ladder free zone!
