Are you debating if rope access window cleaning is the best option for you?
Rope access window cleaning (also known as abseiling) can provide you with an exceptional clean for your high-rise building
We’ve outlined crucial aspects you’ll need to consider before your rope access window cleaning begins so you can decide if it’s the right option for you.
Continue reading to learn more…
Anchor Point Testing For Commercial Window Cleaning
Anchor points (also known as eyebolts) are crucial for safe and effective commercial window cleaning. This is because, with window cleaning, anchor points allow an abseiling team to ascend and descend safely.
An abseiling team are able to secure their equipment to all the correct spots on the exterior of your commercial building using anchor points.
You must keep in mind that anchor points must be completely reliable, which is why testing is so important. When there are hazardous anchor points, major health and safety issues might arise, including:
- Health and safety concerns: that may result in injury to abseil cleaning staff.
- Lack of conformity: Health and safety legislations are important for every business and ensuring the safety of working conditions is a big part of this.
- Damage to your building: because of an incident that can occur without anchor points being sufficiently tested.
Your building will require satisfactory anchor point testing with rope access cleaning since failing to do so could result in not just structural damage but also human costs in the form of injuries and fatalities.
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Rope Access Cleaning: Training Considerations
Working at a height is required when abseiling. As a result, a variety of safeguards are in place to guarantee that the abseil window cleaning is carried out as safely as possible.
This includes doing a project site survey and risk assessment to identify any obstacles and ensure that work can begin safely.
When looking for companies that offer abseiling as a service, look for certifications and qualifications in the following areas:
- Level 3 Rope Technicians (This means they are at the highest level of professional schemes IRATA – Industrial Rope Access Trade Association)
- Safe Contractor Approved
- Federation Of Window Cleaners
- CHAS accredited
- ISO 14001
- ISO 9001
Before any company undertakes a clean, they must conduct a site evaluation in order to analyse any potential concerns associated with the structure.
This will also help to define the cleaning strategy and determine which approach will be most effective, not just for the building but also for the tenants.
If abseiling is the cleaning method of choice, a full PPE inspection should be performed to ensure that all safety equipment is fully functional.
Rope Access Window Cleaning Costs
Using a cradle (also referred to as a BMU) is often the only alternative to rope access cleaning, but it’s not as straightforward as it sounds.
BMU equipment is expensive to buy and use, and it requires a significant upfront commitment.
Since some structures don’t allow for the installation of a BMU because it requires access to attach a pulley, abseil cleaning may be the only safe and cost-effective option.
Conclusion
Rope access cleaning presents complete flexibility for not only the operatives but the building’s occupants too. It provides an outstanding clean and can be used on any building as it has no height restrictions.
Make sure the rope access cleaning company you choose has the necessary accreditations, safety precautions, and anchor point testing.
Another thing to consider is that if your building has a distinctive design, abseiling is likely to be the only window cleaning option that will work for you.
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