Dedicated Evacuation Platform: Rescue Platforms to Save a Life — Crane Gear
Large construction jobs inevitably have places where access is challenging. Below ground work has the hazard of a medical emergency coming up. And how will you extricate that person? Roping out someone on a stretcher and giving life saving assistance is not gonna be easy. This could also apply on a working deck. the three floors above the construction hoist on a high rise are places we could find injury as well. Roping down is possible at a good pace. But what’s faster is a tower crane. You just need a safe box to make it happen.
In a suspended platform you can get the injured person to the aid unit safely, and as fast as possible. There is no way to beat the crane for speed. And often, seconds matter. The stretcher version is set up for just being a stretcher carrier. It has one reason for existing. But we also have other suspended platforms that can serve a dual purpose and be at the ready for saving a life.
I am of the opinion that you always need a rescue means on site if there are elevations you can’t walk a stretcher out of. You never know when the emergency will hit. I was on a job once where a man shot himself with a nail gun and hit the femoral artery. Fortunately someone acted with immediacy and got him tourniqueted. But it’s this sort of “it’s happening” scenario that will make you wish you have the tool one day. If you are in the habit of having it, you’ll be happy you started that habit.
Four Person Suspended Platform that has a side gate for gurney’s and backboards. It can be powder coated in white and afforded a medical cross sign to become a DEP
Dedicated Evacuation Platforms: An Overview
Dedicated evacuation platforms (DEPs) are specialized systems designed to ensure safe and efficient evacuation of people from high-rise buildings, construction sites, and other locations where traditional evacuation methods may not be feasible. These platforms are engineered to meet specific safety regulations and WCB requirements, providing a reliable means of transport during emergency situations. DEPs are typically hoisted by a crane or tower, allowing responders to access upper floors quickly and assess the situation.
In emergency scenarios, every second counts, and having a DEP on hand can make a significant difference. These platforms are meticulously designed to handle the complexities of high-altitude rescues, ensuring that both the injured and the responders are safe throughout the process. By adhering to stringent safety standards, DEPs offer peace of mind and a dependable solution when traditional evacuation routes are compromised.
Types of Evacuation Platforms
There are various types of evacuation platforms available, each designed to cater to specific needs and situations. Some common types of evacuation platforms include:
Crane-mounted DEPs: These platforms are designed to be hoisted by a crane, providing a safe and efficient means of evacuation from high-rise buildings and construction sites. They are ideal for scenarios where quick vertical transport is essential.
Tower-mounted DEPs: These platforms are designed to be mounted on a tower, offering a stable and secure means of evacuation from locations with limited crane access. They are particularly useful in areas where cranes cannot be easily deployed.
Aerial work platform DEPs: These platforms are designed for use with aerial work platforms, providing a safe and efficient means of evacuation for workers in bucket trucks and similar work environments. They ensure that workers at height can be quickly and safely evacuated in case of an emergency.
Each type of DEP is tailored to specific operational needs, ensuring that no matter the situation, there is a suitable solution available to facilitate a safe evacuation.
Choosing the Right Evacuation Platform for Your Needs
When selecting a dedicated evacuation platform, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of your site and the type of evacuation scenario you may encounter. Some factors to consider include:
Location: Assess the location of your site and the potential evacuation scenarios. For instance, a crane-mounted DEP might be more appropriate for high-rise buildings, while a tower-mounted DEP could be better suited for areas with limited crane access.
Capacity: Evaluate the number of people who may need to be evacuated and the weight capacity of the platform. Ensuring the platform can handle the required load is crucial for a safe evacuation.
Safety features: Look for safety features such as emergency braking systems, non-slip surfaces, and secure harness points. These features are vital for ensuring the safety of both the evacuees and the responders.
Customization: Consider the ability to customize the platform to meet the specific needs of your site. Customization options can include size adjustments, additional safety features, and specific design modifications to suit unique site requirements.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select a dedicated evacuation platform that meets your specific needs and ensures a safe and efficient evacuation in emergency situations. Investing in the right DEP not only enhances safety but also provides peace of mind, knowing that you are prepared for any emergency.
