27 May 24
Xwatch Safety Solutions part of Hexagon introduced an innovative safety system for mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs), a significant advancement for workplace safety in construction and maintenance. This cutting-edge technology is designed to enhance operational safety and prevent operator injuries, especially the risk of being crushed against ceilings or coming into contact with live cables and other overhead hazards.
The system is compatible with various MEWPs, including scissor lifts, boom lifts, and truck mounts. It features a sophisticated height and slew limitation control that prevents the MEWP from breaching safe operational boundaries, a common cause of accidents in restricted or densely packed environments.
A key feature of this technology is its fail-safe, fully automatic operation. In the event of a control system failure, the MEWP defaults to a secure state, mitigating the risk of accidents. This feature allows more accessible access to the system’s functions, simplifying the operational process and reducing the need for extensive control system training.
Continuous monitoring of the machine's highest points enhances safety by preventing contact with overhead obstacles. This is crucial in avoiding collisions and the risk of operators being crushed or entangled with live cables. The system's ability to provide full power for moving away from a limit is critical for swiftly and safely managing potentially hazardous situations. The controlled motion technology also ensures stability and precision when the MEWP is extended to high elevations.
An optional chassis sensor further enhances the safety features by correcting for terrain slope, ensuring stability and level operation even on uneven ground. This adaptability is vital for outdoor use where ground conditions are unpredictable, enhancing safety across various environments.
Jemma Dycer - Hopkins (IOSH), Sales and Operations Manager at Xwatch confirmed that the system is approved for rail use, showing it's suitable for demanding applications and meets strict safety standards.
