SafeTec’s Safety Blog – Safety Articles and information on the lightweight and portable X-Decks, work platforms, scaffolding, ladders, aerial lifts, and scissor lifts.
People have been using step ladders for hundreds of years and people have been falling off of ladders for hundreds of years. Ladders have historically and continue to be the greatest cause of workplace and home related injuries. Ladders are also a major contributor to workers back pain and permanent back damage. With dozens of safer options on the market, Canada’s CSA has begun recommending some of those options to Canadian companies. OSHA also has these same concerns and is following this trend.
Each year the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) collects work-related injury and illness data from employers. This data collection is called the OSHA Data Initiative or ODI.
15% of all work related fatalities are the result of falls (stats.bls.gov).
Slips and falls from step ladders have resulted in the greatest number of missed work days annually since 2002.
Workers over 35 are the most susceptible to injuries and the chance of injury increases with each decade.
Two-thirds of hospitalized injury incidents due to falls from ladders resulted in fractures.
Even with ladders being the number one cause of workplace injury, ladders still cause more injuries at home.
The rate of injurious falls from ladders in 2004–05 was 18.5 per 100,000 population. (http://www.nisu.flinders.edu.au/pubs/reports/2007/injcat105.pdf)
Scaffolding has been proven to be a safer option and practice. Following proper scaffolding procedure is important in reducing workplace injuries. Tagging and inspecting scaffolding is already required in the workplace.
Many companies have already started banning step ladder use. These companies, adhering to OSHA’s Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) with progressive safety programs, are leading the way to reduce the risk of these work related injury.
Best Practice:
For low level applications Canada’s CSA program has recommended the X-Deck safety work platform as a best practice over step ladders. The X-Deck provides all the safety without the need to be tagged and inspected like traditional scaffolding, yet it offers all the speed and portability of a ladder. (See www.safeplatforms.com)
For high level applications, tube and clamp scaffolding has been proven and, with proper tagging and inspecting, is a safe practice. (See www.safway.com)
Scaffolding or the X-Deck will always be a safer option over ladders and these options should be used 100% of the time.
A Common question a lot of safety people ask is how to classify the X-Deck?
~ Is the X-Deck a Ladder, Platform, Work Platform, Scaffold, Aerial Lift, Scissor Lift, Ladder Jack, Elevated Platform?
We have been called a lot of different things depending on the business and the safety director. I think the best definition for our product is the following as coined by a OSHA director at the Georgia Safety Show:
The X-Deck is ALWAYS ASSEMBLED SCAFFOLDING.
The reason for this is that all of our X-Decks come ready for use straight out of the box.
You do not ever need to disassembled an X-Deck, merely fold it flat when not in use.
One of the biggest benefits to this definition is that you do not need the scaffolding to be tagged and inspected before use, because it was not put together merely raised up to a height setting.
If it is going to be used between shifts, merely have the last guy lower it down between shifts.
Businesses still want a competent person to erect the X-Deck and they do this by having their employees watch a 2 minute training video.
This is the same interpretation that many nuclear power plants have adapted as well as the US military.
For a more generic definition of our product you can also use the standard scaffolding standards that are found below:
Regulations (Standards – 29 CFR)
Scaffold Specifications – 1926 Subpart L App A
We meet all OSHA standards including SWL (Certified for weight, 4X SWL). In addition to the strength requirements, we meet the height and width requirements and all handrail height and strength requirements.
We offer OSHA gates which are not required but sometimes suggested by OSHA.
We have been approved by the safety department of numerous large or fortune 500 companies, such as: Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Boeing Aviation, NASA, Kennedy Space Center, General Electric, Dynamic Industries, Cessna, First Energy – OH and PA, Surry Nuclear Power Plant – VA, Husky Energy – CAN, Palisades Nuclear Power Plant, TVA – Watts Bay Nuclear Plant and many others.
We were approved by the State of Georgia Department of Labor – OSHA division, for showing at their 2007 yearly convention. One of their seminars on ladders/scaffold featured the SafeTec products. We were also invited by the State of Ohio, Department of Labor to show at their annual Workman’s Compensation Convention 2006.
We have also been accepted by Sears, Grainger, and Snap on Tools safety departments.
Introducing an exciting new development for the SafeTec work platforms – THE OMNI WHEEL!
The Omni Wheel is exciting because a common complaint people had with the standard wheel kits on the X-Deck safety work platforms was the fact that the wheels only went in one direction. This would mean that when you were pushing the portable platform and had to corner you would need to pick up one end of the X-Deck and then move the X-Deck before continuing.
The great thing about the Omni Wheel is that you can spin the X-Deck 360°! You can corner, push the X-Deck sideways or even diagonally!
New Omni Wheel designs are in the works to make Omni Wheels available for every different model.
Currently the Omni Wheels work best on hard smooth surfaces.
This is just another example of how the X-Deck safety work platforms are by far a safer solution than step ladders and a smarter quicker solution over standard scaffolding.
Below is a non-commercial video made by a customer:
SafeTec can custom make about any kind of custom work platform. Here at SafeTec we have done simple modifications to the X-Decks for individual customers that needed something extra for their job at hand and complete new builds. We have also built completely custom work stands that are creative and different from other products on the market. The reasons companies like coming to SafeTec for their custom projects is that we build innovative designs that are lightweight, portable, and different from everything else on the market.
Recently for the FAA, we have built a custom X-Deck. We took a standard 5-Step X-Deck and added the following features:
1) A Custom lift up deck – This was a deck on top of the standard deck that would flip up and out and extend the height by a foot and also the length on one side of the deck by a foot.
2) Custom Leg extensions to make the legs traverse a steel beam.
3) Custom handrails that fit their application.
As with all our products we deliver more than is required. We made a DVD to help the customer assemble and use the X-Deck.
Below is this DVD:
Part 1: Assembly Instructions
Part 2: FAA X-Deck Usage.
If you are interested in a quote for any custom work stand, platform, ladder or instant pop open scaffolding please contact us.
Does your baker’s scaffold, or adjustable work platform have an operator’s manual or instructional manual that has this label real big on the front cover?
The X-Deck does not have any of these labels!
One of the biggest problems with different kinds of telescoping scaffolding or other adjustable work platforms is the inherint danger in the product. Below I will list the traditional problems with this type of scaffolding in black and in blue will be the reasons that the X-Deck is better:
Traditional and other type of telescoping scaffolding requires complicated assembly that if not done properly may result in serious injury or death. Do you trust ALL your workers to ALWAYS properly assemble the scaffolding?
The X-Deck on the other hand is always assembled and thus eliminates the inherint danger.
On other scaffolding you have to make sure after you properly assemble the scaffold that you use the outriggers, because if you forget to slide them into place and use the scaffold it is likely to tip over. Also, because you are assembling this type of scaffold you might lose the outriggers all together.
The X-Deck on the other hand works great up to a 10 degree pitch (Which is almost all workplace or outside terrain.) at which point we have leg extenders that will allow you to use the X-Deck at these steeper angles.
Another problem with these telescoping work platforms is that the are always on casters. This causes the worker some additional worries, because if they forgot to lock the wheels in place the scaffold could roll off with them in it OR when they are working and they need to push on something they will roll backwards!
The X-Deck does not have these problems, because of our innovative wheel kits a worker cannot even walk up the X-Deck without automatically locking the wheels and becoming stationary on the grippy rubber feet.
Another problem with these adjustable work platforms is that you still have to climp up the outside. This makes carrying tools difficult and also a serious fall danger if their foot slips or they lose their grip. This is why scaffolding is so dangerous!!
The X-Deck eliminates these problems with the fact that you can walk up the rungs often hands free, because the steps are so wide and comfortable. The X-Deck also gives you many options for places to hold while walking up. This is the biggest difference… On other scaffolding you have to CLIMB UP, but on the X-Deck you only need to WALK UP!!
Remember, everyone makes mistakes. When you add the human element you add the chance for error. Even the best worker can forget a bolt or an outrigger when they are setting up other types of scaffolding. With the X-Deck though you can eliminate all these worries.
The X-Deck is lighter than traditional scaffolding. This allows for cheaper transportation costs and less worker fatigue.
The X-Deck is ONE PIECE. There is no complicated setup like traditional scaffolding. You do not have to have a certified inspector to check to see if the X-Deck is properly setup because after use the X-Deck stays in one piece and does not have to be taken apart. This also keeps you from losing necessary pieces.
The X-Deck is height adjustable. Although traditional scaffolding has some degree of adjust ability when it comes to different height settings the X-Deck adjusts up from its lowest setting in 7″ increments. This allows the worker to work at the PERFECT height for their application.
The X-Deck is FIRST AND FOREMOST A SAFETY PRODUCT. The X-Deck has been recognized for its contributions in safety from safety organizations, nuclear power plants, State run organizations, and other trade related fields. Unlike traditional scaffolding that forces you to climb up stairs on the outside and climb over a rail, the X-Deck allows you to walk up comfortably and without any strain. The X-Deck comes standard with a handrail which most traditional scaffolding lacks. The X-Deck has a built in ANTI-SLIP, ANTI-TIP design that allows workers to work the full length and get their work done without fear of losing their tread or the product wanting to tip over.
The X-Deck is extremely portable. The X-Deck can fold flat and pop open in seconds. It is simple and easy to setup. The X-Deck will allow you to get to your job site either carrying or rolling your X-Deck and then in a matter of seconds completely setup up the one unit or maybe even a second unit and a connecting board and get to the job at hand. This will allow you to easily move the X-Deck from job site to job site and be more productive.
YOU CAN SET-UP 20FT OF WALKWAY IN LESS THAN 1 MINUTE. One of the great things about the X-Deck is that with 2 units and a connecting board (Either 8′ or 10′), one man can set up the 2 units and join them together with this walkway to have 20FT of walkway in less than 1 minute. Once you setup this walkway you can bridge over top of things you normally could not get to and where the only previous option was to spend hours setting up traditional scaffolding. You can setup the 2 units and the plank in a straight line, or curve the line, or even turn the 2 X-Deck parallel and connect them with a plank making a “C” shaped walkway. Any configuration you can think of you can do with the X-Decks. Plus you do not have to stop at 20ft! You can keep connecting additional planks and X-Decks together and build a walkway that can encircle a house!
The X-Deck is stronger – MUCH STRONGER. While most scaffolding has a 500lbs capacity the X-Deck is certified to hold up to 2,000 lbs! This means you can feel comfortable getting more than one worker on an X-Deck or bring equipment up on the X-Deck with you. The X-Deck is stronger because it is hand made with only solid welds and not cheaply made by merely spot welding. The X-Deck is a stronger more quality product than any traditional scaffolding.
The X-Deck is built to last. Yes traditional scaffolding is a little cheaper, but you get what you pay for. The X-Deck has been tested and proven to last 5 to 10 times the life of traditional scaffolding. Depending on the usage of some traditional scaffolding they can be unsuitable for use as little as 6 months after purchase. The X-Deck WILL LAST 20 to 30 years of everyday industrial usage.
The X-Deck can be customizable to fit your specific application perfectly. With different options including deck width, step width, wheel kits, work trays, connecting boards, many handrail options, and our ability to do custom work for you makes the X-Deck the perfect tool for your job.
The X-Deck is SEXY. Not only is it sleek, chrome, simple to use, and a head turner, but it says something about who you are. You are someone that values strength, stability, and safety. You invest in safety and in making your company the best it can be. When you get to a job, pop open your X-Deck, and don’t even break a sweat or a smile you are going to look like the professional that you already are. Not only do you get a “step up” on your competition you will be the most memorable because you will be the safest, fastest, and best company around.
According to The National Safety Councils’ Magazine entitled “Safety & Health“; Scaffolding, Ladders and Fall Protection are three of the Top 10 most frequently cited OSHA categories. These citations are common incidents that range from blatant safety disregards to product misuse. Here is a list of the Top 10 Most Frequent OSHA Violations from 2008 which is taken from the National Safety Councils’ website (www.nsc.org).
Workplace Safety Compliance
OSHA’s 10 Most Frequently Cited
Violations of 2008
Including links to training programs available through the National Safety Council
(OSHA’s list covers the period of October 1, 2007 through September 30, 2008.)
These common violations and safety issues derived from scaffolding and ladder use can be solved by using an X-Deck Work Platform. The X-Deck combined the portability and ease-of-set-up that one would expect from a step-ladder with the safety and increased productivity that is commonly found in scaffolding. The X-Deck; “Simplifying Safety.“
The home of The X-Deck has launched with W.W. Grainger one of the largest broad line suppliers of facilities maintenance product.
W.W. Grainger is featuring the Pro-Line series of products, including the new portable X-Deck featuring its 36” wide by 63” long deck capable of holding up to 4 workers.It has a safety hinged wheel system and a dolly as options to enable workers to move the platform with one hand.
“W.W. Grainger, Inc. (NYSE: GWW) with 2007 sales of $6.4 billion is the leading broad line supplier of facilities maintenance products serving businesses and institutions in the United States, Canada, Mexico, China and Panama. Through a highly integrated network including more than 600 branches, 18 distribution centers and multiple Web sites, Graingers’ employees help customers get the job done.www.grainger.com“
As of January 2, 2009 The X-Deck has been listed on Grainger’s web-site and the orders and inquiries have already began.We are listed under “Work Platforms and Scaffolding” You can go directly to our page by clicking HERE.
Grainger has a large outside sales force.They also have full time sales personnel at most large government and military facilities. SafeTec also plans on joining with both Sears and Snap-On-Tools as additional distribution partners in 2009.
How can you justify the expense of an X-Deck versus a step ladder?
Conventional step-ladders have been around for generations and have been the primary means of reaching anything above head-level. Although unsafe and sometimes dangerous, ladders have been used for any job that requires reaching higher heights… until now. No longer will ladders be the only way of reaching new heights… Introducing the X-Deck!
The X-deck is a revolutionary new product that provides the easy set-up of a step-ladder with the safety and productivity of scaffolding. The X-Deck sets up in seconds which allows the operator to spend more time focusing on tasks at hand instead of worrying about the hassle of complicated set-up instructions. The all-aluminum construction of the X-Deck extends its life to 5-10 times the life when compared to a conventional step-ladder which can sometimes be useless to a user in 6 months or less depending on usage. The X-Deck comes in a variety of sizes and height configurations which are fully adjustable and fold flat to 5 inches for easy storage. Each X-Deck has an anti-tilt, non-slip work surface that is one of the safest in the industry. Even chemical spills or slippery oil spills do not affect the grip of the Aluminum work surfaces.
The load capacity to weight ratio of each X-Deck in astonishing and exceeds any other comparable platform. Each platform in the Pro-Line category can support an amazing 2000 pounds regardless of whether its our small platform which weighs 43 pounds or our biggest platform that weighs 103 pounds. The load carrying capacity of each deck allows multiple users to aid in completing tasks which helps diminish the amount of time needed to complete jobs. The main focus with the X-Deck line is safety and productivity. This can be seen by the OSHA, ANSI and CSA certification that comes with each platform. Other accessories such as work trays, wheel kits and connecting planks also add to the ease of operation that is standard on every X-Deck.
People often wonder about what industries have purchased the X-Deck work platform. We have had some of the most interesting customers to date from the obvious like construction companies and aviation companies to the very bizarre like stand up comedians and cat trainers.
Below is a list of different industries that have purchased the X-Deck:
Air Force
Airlines
Amusement Parks
Aluminum Extruders
Armored Car Companies
Artists
Auto Manufacturers
Auto Repair
Aviation Manufacturers
Aviation Repair and Maintenance
Balloon Artists
Beer Companies
Boat Manufacturers
Boat Repair and Maintenance
Brick Layers
Bus Repair
Cash Washes
Cat Trainers
Cement Companies
Cleaning Companies
Coaches
Coal Power Plants
Construction
Convention Centers
Communication Companies
Computer Manufacturers
Dentists
Disk Jockeys
Drum Majors
Engine Manufacturers
Environmental Agencies
FAA
Farmers
Film Production Companies
Fire Truck Manufacturers
Firetruck Maintenance and Repair
Fisherman
Food Manufacturers
Gas Companies
Glass Installers
Government Agencies
Gun Companies
Haunted Houses
Hardware Companies
Heating and Air Conditioning Companies
Helicopter Manufacturers
Helicopter Repair and Maintenance
Home Owners
Horse Farms
Hospitals
Ice Sculptors
Ice Cream Manufacturers
Internet Search Companies
Investment Companies
Ladder Companies
Landscapers
Large Hadron Collider Companies
Printing Shops
Mardi Gras’ Attendees
Monorails
Motorcycle Manufacturers
MRI Equipment Installers
Museums
Musicals and Plays
NASCAR Teams
Navy
Newspapers
Nuclear Power Plants
Off Shore Oil Rigs
Oil Companies
Painters
Pawn Shops
Pharmaceutical Companies
Plastic Companies
Plumbers
Police Departments
Recycling Companies
Rental Companies
Restaurants
Road Builders
Roofers
RV Owners and Repair facilities
Safe Manufacturers
Safety Supply
School Systems
Shopping Malls
Sign and Digital Graphics installers
Space Companies
Stand Up Comedians
State Parks
Television Networks
Trash Companies
Truck Repair and Maintenance
Unicyclists
Universities
Utility Companies
Warehouse Stocking
Water Companies
Zoos
One of the greatest things about working at SafeTec Industries is that the job is always different day to day. As you can see with our wide range of clients, talking to them about their needs and their applications for the X-Deck makes it very entertaining. So forget about ladders that are unsafe, scaffolding that is hard to move around and takes forever to set up, or other ariel lifts that do not have the versatility and go with the lightweight, strong and portable safety work platform, the X-Deck.
The SafeTec X-Decks are often used to replacement Baker Scaffolding. On occasions, Baker Scaffold can be used successfully and safely and sometimes it cost less. However, when considering scaffolding, you always need to first address the safety issues to insure you are safe and compliant with OSHA and all local standards. In the U.S. we can buy Baker Scaffold as low as $149.00, but don’t be fooled by a cheap price. Many job sights do not allow the use of this scaffold because of the safety issues. In addition, in many situations it is hard to move during new construction because the floors often have materials on them and it is difficult to pick up to lift it over items. It is also difficult to carry up stairs. There are tipping and stability problems that need to be addressed with Baker Scaffold. It is often difficult and dangerous to climb and mount. The lack of handrails also eliminates it from many job sites or workers need to tie-off when working. The wheels do not lock automatically and this also can lead to injuries. As you know one fall can cause substantial damage both to the person and to the companie’s bottom line. Finally, some Baker Scaffold has a life of one year or less if used regularly.
Some better made Baker Scaffold cost $600.00 to $1500.00 in the US. It may last longer than the cheaper models but it has the same safety issues.
SafeTecs’ X-Deck normally attracts the attention of end users that realize that a safe product will in the long run save you money and lower or eliminate injuries. The modular full metal cage handrails add safety and eliminate the need to tie-off. The X-Deck is lightweight and easy to use and operate. It’s has great mobility will improve efficiency. Lastly, our product normally will outlast a Baker Scaffold many times over and so the cost per use is usually less. With safety, efficiency and longevity of the X-Deck it is your best buy.
The X-DECK’s stability allows the user to utilize the full length of the deck without ever worrying about tipping the platform over. The allows for an almost 200 percent lateral increase in work productivity over that of a conventional ladder.
TRUCK MAINTENANCE
Maintenance becomes more efficient and productive when using the X-DECK. Multiple technicians can use the deck at one time allowing for faster completion of tasks. The X-DECK provides the user with the characteristics of a scaffolding operation (i.e. large work space and multiple employees using it simultaneously) with the ease and speed of set-up of a ladder. Therefore the user is getting the best of both worlds that out lasts its competitors many times over.
SERVICING
Servicing becomes a breeze when using the X-DECK. The optional handrails, wheel kits and work trays make the platform highly mobile and very efficient.
