SafeTec’s Safety Blog – Safety Articles and information on the lightweight and portable X-Decks, work platforms, scaffolding, ladders, aerial lifts, and scissor lifts.
I recently had the privileged of watching the X-Deck in use in a locked high radiation area at a nuclear plant in Florida. The original plan was to build a 6ft scaffold in an area that had been putting out high radiation. The scaffold builders had already practiced building the scaffold outside so they knew they had the hundreds of components they needed to build the scaffold. The original plan was for 4 guys to enter the room and spend an hour and fifteen minutes building the scaffold and making is seismic.
Then they decided to use their X-Deck. The lightweight, safety award winning, pop open, safety work platform.
Now only the X-Deck and the 4 handrails needed to be brought into the LHRA. Two men went into the LHRA and a third man stayed outside the room and fed them one by one the 4 handrails. The RP stayed outside the room and told the scaffold builders to stay away from certain hot spots. It ended up being a massive success. The total job only took eight minutes.
Here is the detailed breakdown from the work order:
Total dose for scaffold ( X-Deck) installed the LHRA Equipment Tank Room
MS = 6.3 Mrem
RP = 3.0 mrem
Total Job 9.3
Regular scaffold install > 100 mrem (estimated )
Break down of install
2 mins to erect deck and Handrails
6 mins to make X-Deck Seismic compliant
Total install time 8 minutes
For any information on the X-Deck Nuclear Edition models – Please contact us.
I understand that companies nowadays have been putting more focus on safe work practices by putting employees, especially those in more dangerous work environments, through a number of safety courses to ensure the employees are practicing safe work procedures that provide a safer work environment for everyone leading to less injuries in the work place.
However, one may need to ask themselves….are companies really looking out for the workers best interest or that of their own? By training employees with the correct way to perform a job they may be lowering the possibility of the worker getting hurt, however, with the injury of a worker comes a lot of other expenses…almost all on the companies behalf.
According to OSHA, It has been estimated that employers pay almost $1 billion per week for direct workers’ compensation costs alone. The obvious direct costs being having to pay workmans’ compensation, legal and medical expenses while the indirect costs such as hiring and re-training, implementing corrective measures, and production downtime can be just as expensive as the direct costs.
Also according to OSHA statistics (2012), the claims costs for falls by roofers and carpenters are more costly than other falls. However, using equipment such as ladders and unsafe scaffolds seem to be a never ending trend as they are seen as cheap options, especially when their are safer alternatives in todays day and age. This number is alarmingly increasing and putting a large enough dent in some companies pockets to the point that they are now beginning to ban the use of simple unsafe equipment such as the ladder, a basic piece of equipment used since the stone age.
Here is some food for thought….every time a worker uses a piece of equipment on the work site such as a ladder, scaffold, mobile elevated platforms, stepladders, etc., are the conditions of the environment and the equipment always ideal for safety of the worker? Are safety coordinators and equipment inspections prone to human error leaving the worker vulnerable from the start? How does a company truly look out for their workers as well as that of their own?
As time goes on and technology advances, there will always be equipment that is safer than their last version. However, finding the correct piece of equipment that is known to not only minimize risk and injury, but also not require ridiculous paperwork and out of pocket expenses is the ultimate goal of any company. Companies need to take more notice to market trends, not only in the newest, cheapest, equipment but also the alarming increase of injuries using traditional work methods. Sometimes the true key to reducing employee injuries and company expenses is paying more up front for a safer product. Although the upfront cost may be a few times more expensive than traditional equipment, the price you pay in the long run will ultimately keep dollars in the companies pocket.
I have been in the safety management role a little over 10 years now and as I am sure many of you know, everyone’s idea of “safety” has varying degrees.
While the safety of workers is a main concern for many companies, how they go about achieving maximum safety with the equipment being used comes down to a simple comparison of the equipment’s features and the application they are looking to accomplish,
As most companies tend to you standard ladders, stands, and platforms from Little Giant, Cotterman, and AllMetal, sometimes working with basic safety equipment isn’t always the safest route to go, or the most practical.
One of the biggest mistakes a company can make with their equipment is going with the cheaper options that provide the workers with the bare minimum. Aside from the possibility of slipping and falling, using a ladder that a worker must set up on uneven ground, walk up, and have a 3 – 5 foot area of reach that requires them to constantly stretch to maximum their reach and then move the ladder along the work area can be expensive, time consuming, and has a high risk of injury (Werner).
So what is the best option that provides maximum safety, stability, and productivity?
A piece of equipment that was recently brought to my attention at a Safety Trade Show from a company out of Bardstown, Kentucky is the X-Deck. The X-Deck was specifically designed to address all of the issues mentioned above – safety being the biggest feature. I will briefly highlight some of the ways the X-Deck is able to maximize productivity in the work place, reduce risk of injury, and offer a convenient option that pays for itself in the long run.
The X-Deck is described as an “always assembled scaffold” that is ready for set up right out of the box and takes no longer than sliding out a pin, choosing the desired height, then securing the pin back in place – our shop workers are able to set it up in under 20 seconds.
With safety equipment comes the need for OSHA compliancy which usually comes with inspection, paperwork, and more paperwork. However, the X-Deck is OSHA compliant right from the start – requiring none of the usual processes to certify safety equipment.
In Maine, a small sign and digital graphics company that does vehicle wraps won the opportunity to sticker the sides of four large trailers for Pepsi co. They had purchased two of our 5 Step 18” X-Decks as well as a 10′ plank with a handrail at a regional trade show. With the two units and the plank, they could quickly set up over 30′ of elevated walkway to safely and easily do the job. When they arrived on site at Pepsi, they set up their X-Decks and got to work. After the job, the head safety guy for that location came out and told them that they had hired dozens of different graphics companies over the years, but this was the first time a company showed up with actual safety equipment. Because of the use of safety equipment they were awarded the contract for the entire fleet of over 400 trailers. The husband and wife owners of the business were so excited they called us up to tell us the story and to purchase 3 more sets of X-Decks and connecting planks.
As a dedicated user of the X-Deck for 8 years I can truly say that this product has saved my employees and I a lot of time. With its easy pop up design and multiple height levels for the platform I can tackle more square footage than with a standard ladder. This is ideal in today’s trucking environment. Getting my customer’s 18 wheeler back on the road in a timely fashion is my priority. Whether it is using my X-Deck for maintenance on the engine or just just getting the truck looking good again I get way more accomplished than continually going up and down a ladder. Take my word for it and pick up an X-Deck to replace your old ladder.
The X-Deck is extremely popular with aircraft, helicopter, and aviation mechanics. The largest US helicopter maintenance company that works on Robi
nson and Bell helicopters contracted out for most hospitals is a heavy user of the X-Deck safety work platform. At the recent Heli-Expo in Louisville KY we had dozens of maintenance workers approach us and let us know that their lives are significantly better working off of an X-Deck because at the end of the day they are not as fatigued as they had been working off of the bakers scaffold and traditional scaffolding they once had.
This goes hand in hand with a report given to us by the largest military jet manufacturer in the USA. Their Ergonomics and Safety department wrote up a report that there was a 25% reduction in fatigue compared to working off of concrete or steel. The reason for this is the deck of the X-Deck has a little flex and it feels like you are standing on comfort padding. This slight flex is very comfortable for the worker that has to stand up on the work stand for hours on end. At the end of the workers shift, the worker is not going to feel the leg, knee, and back pains they would of felt if they had stood on solid concrete, steel, bakers scaffolding, or any type of ladder.
Another ergonomic benefit to using the X-Deck is it allows the user to comfortably move around once up in the air. They can shuffle their feet, stretch their legs, or otherwise move around. A great feature to the X-Deck is its ability to hold multiple workers at the same time. Because of this, a worker does not have to strain themselves, but rather can get help and have multiple hands on their job at hand.
The X-Deck allows the worker to maintain three points of contact when ascending or descending the stairs. If a worker was to be up in the air and hurt their hand it is still possible to walk up and down the X-Deck hands free. This is impossible to do on any other type of scaffolding – bakers or otherwise.
Comes fully assembled and ready to use from day one.
Setting up handrails and outriggers are done in an instant.
You can safely walk up the rungs on the side or the end of the platform.
Amazing accessories that allow it to get into areas $40,000 Genie lifts cannot.
Baker Scaffolding
Every time it is used it must be assembled and inspected.
Must climb straight up and then dangerously step over the side rail.
Manual states that if you weigh more than 200 lbs you are not allowed to climb up outside ladder if your body gets more than 6″ away from the ladder.
Unstable – Out riggers must be used for safety unlike the X-Deck that has a non tip design.
Any accessories are not as amazing.
We also have the brand new Nuclear Model X-Deck that was designed for the nuclear energy market to make securing it for seismic reasons very quick and easy.
According to energy industry comptrollers, the average 6 foot scaffold costs $6,000 with each work order.
The X-Deck costs more in material goods initially but is proven to reduce labor costs by 80%. Thus paying for itself after only two uses. Therefore, you will be saving money for every subsequent use.
Energy Industry Update
The X-Deck Pro Nuclear Edition was featured and presented at the FME Industry Working Meeting in Portland, ME from July 17 – 19th.
Contact us for a demo at your energy facility! The X-Deck is great for nuclear plants, coal power plants, renewable energy, solar energy, hydro energy.
We have great success stories from many nuclear power plants.
The X-Deck Pro Nuclear Edition
This specialty model features three different mechanisms to make it seismically compliant. The X-Deck Nuclear Edition also features the connectivity to your traditional scaffolding.
The seismic upgrades to the Nuclear Edition models are quite unique. It has been proven to be able to set up in less than two minutes and make it seismic in less than 4 minutes. Quickly and safely use your XDeck!
Compared to other platforms and low-level scaffolds you might be using, you will see on our website that all of our X-Decks are:
Always assembled out of the box allowing set up within seconds
OSHA compliant from the start requiring no inspections and less paperwork
Mobile and portable giving the workers more time to work and less time having to break down and re-setup equipment
Flex Technology allows workers to use decks for extended periods of time, reducing stress on their feet and back
Adjustable height settings allow 7″ increments between height placement
Designed with safety accessories such as Guard Rails, Work Trays, Wide Steps, Rung Safety Bar, etc.
Our most popular decks are the 6 Step 18″ platform and the 5 Step 36″ across all industries and for all applications. Please keep in mind we are able to fully customize any of our decks and accessories, including a detachable ladder that can be used on any side of the deck, double wide steps, kick plates, etc.
We are doing a special promotion that includes sending any model X-Deck with any of our accessories for 30 days at no charge for your shop guys to try out and compare to some of the current equipment being used. At the of the 30 days you can decide to keep it or send it back.
If interested I can send you the main point of contact’s information for any of the other energy facilities we are currently working with that use any of our decks and accessories, just let me know.
Please let me know if you have any questions or need further information or more pictures of any of the units/accessories.
The X-Deck is often used for photographers and videography. The X-Deck is lighter than a ladder so it is easier to carry around. Plus it allows the photographer or videographer to stand comfortably on an elevated platform. Bill Dance’s videographer uses his X-Deck on the fishing boat as it is driving around. The X-Deck even on a rocking boat will not tip and makes getting the shot easy as possible.
Photography is great on an X-Deck, because you can get the shot above the crowd. Photographers will often use a tripod or monopod when working off of an X-Deck. The X-Deck is very comfortable to stand on – so if you are watching an entire football game – you will feel comfortable on the deck of an X-Deck. Live action sports shooting requires a stand that is easy to move around, allows you freedom to move around on the work stand platform capturing your shot safely, and strong enough for multiple people and equipment.
We have even had large sports networks buy the 5-36 to set it up in front of a crowd of people and have their announcers sit on top of the deck of the work stand. We have seen up to 4 people in chairs and a small table set up on the deck of an X-Deck. This reduces set up time, because prior to this, they would have to set up scaffolding an entire day in advance. Now they can get to the game and set up in minutes.
Hollywood and film crews have used the X-Deck to get shots above a crowd. The X-Deck is a great tool for jobs on the move, because the X-Deck can fold flat for easy storage. If you have a truck or a van, the X-Deck can easily fit in the back.
We have had news crews use the X-Deck safety work platform to get photographs at news events.
The X-Deck has been popular for outdoor star parties. We have had owners of dobsonian and newtonian telescopes purchase the X-Deck for climbing up and looking down the eye piece. The great thing is the X-Deck is light enough to easily carry or put in a small trailer. Once you get to where you are going, the X-Deck pops open in seconds and you can comfortably stand on the ladder platform for hours on end. Since the X-Deck can hold multiple people you and your friends can take turns looking down the eye piece of your telescope. The X-Deck works great in soft wet ground and because of the wider base than the top it will not tip over even in a field that isn’t flat.
1) Before climbing up on your X-Deck, one needs to check if there are any cracked welds. If your X-Deck was overloaded, the most likely place a weld might be cracked is the most upper/topmost vertical spot where the round leg outrigger meets the square leg. Cracks are most likely to happen on either side of the weld- use a flashlight if lighting is not excellent.
2) As you are walking around your X-Deck make sure there is no obvious sign of damage or missing parts. If you see a cut wire or damage to the X-Deck or handrails, do not use your X-Deck.
3) If you found a cracked weld or damage, please contact us at Allstands so we can take care of your problem. 502-331-9759
Annual detailed inspection
1) Check your entire X-Deck for any cracked welds. Using a flashlight will help while looking under the deck at the top of the legs. Look your entire X-Deck over and don’t forget the handrails and the pockets that are welded onto the side of your X-Deck.
2) Stickers- If any stickers are illegible, contact us for replacement options.
3) Check the rubber feet for signs of wear. Rubber feet are cheap and it’s best to replace them if worn. The rubber feet can easily be removed with a pipe wrench.
4) Check for any signs of damage – cut cables, broken latch, missing pins, etc.
5) If you found a cracked weld or damage, please contact us at Allstands so we can take care of your problem. 502-331-9759
We are pleased to announce that we are introducing new models to the X-Deck product line. The new 28″ X-Decks will bridge the gap between the 18″ and 36″ models. The deck will be one solid deck instead of two decks like on the 36″ work platforms.
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.
2/24/2011
TA Truck stops was our first national sale almost 9 years ago.
Recently one of their accounts called up to reorder rubber feet for their X-Decks. Click Here to take a look at their testimonial.
This is proof positive of how long the X-Decks are built to last. Before switching to working off of the X-Decks they would work off of commercial grade step ladders. These step ladders only lasted an average of 3-5 months. As of today, the X-Decks have paid for themselves over 27 times over.
Argonne National Laboratory working with the Department of Energy have found an interesting way to use their X-Deck. They have mounted their equipment onto the deck of the X-Deck so they have a portable height adjustable work table to use to hold all their tools. This allows them to be mobile and still have everything they need ready to use on a moments notice.
Attached are two photos:
Department of Energy portable work platform smaller
When you buy an X-Deck you know that the product has been tested and is certified to meet applicable standards for safety and performance.
With multiple dealers across continents and countries, the X-Deck has all the needed paperwork and testing required. Be it CSA, CE, OSHA, ANSI or any other certification the X-Deck is built to last and perform to its advertised safety and performace standards.
Amateur telescope makers are loving the X-Deck safety work platform to get up and view their eyepieces that can be up to 10FT. off the ground. The X-Deck is getting a lot of interest from guys who have built Dobsonian Telescopes. One of the fun things about using the X-Deck for this type of viewing is the fact that since the X-Deck is height adjustable the star gazer can choose to stand or sit while looking through his telescope. This makes the X-Deck an observation stand that will allow an individual to be enclosed in a cage if they choose or even have a few people up on their stand to look out of their large aperture telescope!
Another benefit to choosing an X-Deck for use next to your high-performance telescope is that you will be using this at night and ladders are not as safe as the safety award winning X-Deck. This will also be more comfortable, because who would choose to stand on a rung of a ladder for a few hours vs standing on a large deck where you can move around or even have a chair.
Amateur astronomers will love how portable the X-Decks are. For star gazing outdoor events the X-Deck will bring a lot of attention and it will make your whole set up impressive.
This makes the X-Deck a must have for true Deep-sky observers.
2010 Red Fish Tournament – Javier Balderas and Rob Schumske with the Save the Ta-Tas foundation were “fishing for a cure” off of an X-Deck.
The primary goal of team “Save the Ta-Tas” was to raise awareness, prevention, and some money. Javier’s team was looking for people to sponsor them for $1-$5 per pound of redfish caught during the 2010 Saltwater Series Tournament season or they could name a one time maximum amount donation to contribute. Rob and Javier anticipated on catching 60-100 pounds of redfish during tournament hours in 2010 (The fished all 7spots). Official weights were tracked on the (www.redfishseries.com) Red Fish Series website. The Save the Ta-Tas foundation is a 501(c)(3), non-profit registered organization.
Javier said, “The X-deck was vital tool to us when we fished in LA to sight catch the fish we fished in the Delacroix Marsh.”
Please pass on the word if you know any one willing to donate directly online www.savethetatas.com click on the contribute button and enter the word “fishing” in the comments box while making your donation.
Warren Harrison of High Def Highlights made a fan video of the X-Deck for his application of sports filming and videography. The X-Deck is an ideal safety work platform for live events, because it is lighter than a ladder and safer to use than scaffolding. It can set up in seconds and allow a filmmaker to get shots that make for a professional shot.
Check out the video and check out High Def Highlights!
There are a lot of inexpensive platforms on the market and they come with their limitations. From baker-scaffold to low cost small work platforms. Many will not withstand the stress and have a lilmited life span and over time fail. These work platforms are also often found to be unsteady and can results in falls.
A recent customer had an unfortunate incident with a Werner Platform. The platform broke and hurt the customer causing him to rethink purchasing an inexpensive made products and invest in a safer better made product – the X-Deck. I have attached Jeffrey M. Harnish’s testimonial and pictures of what happended when he stepped onto this Platform.
Mr. Harnish is the President of East Coast Claims Service located in North Scituate, RI. After speaking with Mr. Harnish I was shocked that the Werner ladder rated for 225 lbs collapse when a man weighing a mere 230 lbs steped onto it. Luckily his new light duty X-Deck is certified to hold 1,200 lbs with a SWL of 300 lbs. It is safely meeting their weight and stress requirements.
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.
Surry Nuclear Power Plant Kicks Off Winter Outage With The X-Deck Work Platform
Kenny on an X-Deck
Above: Kenny Sloane, Plant Manager, of Surry Nuclear Plant addresses the crowd pre-outage on a 5-Step 36″ wide X-Deck.
Kenny in a pre-outage speech had the following to say about the X-Deck work platform:
“Ladies and Gentlemen, at this outage we are going to set a record. Our goal is to reduce the outage days from 24 days to 22 days. One of the reasons I know we can accomplish this goal is because of this SafeTec X-Deck platform like the one I am standing on. These stands will allow us to do our jobs safer and more efficiently. Reducing DOSE time and allowing us to complete this project at least two day early. We have our SafeTec representatives standing by to demonstrate the operation of these platforms. I encourage each and every one of you to stop by and let our SafeTec representative show you the proper operation of these units. I am sure you will see how valuable these platforms will be in reaching our goals.”
Surry Nuclear is a division of Dominion located in Virginia.
We thank Kenny and his leadership team for their support of the X-Deck work platforms.
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.
Center Grove Marching Band To Use The X-Deck Platform as a Drum Major Podium
The X-Deck works great as a band tower, because it is lightweight and portable. This makes the X-Deck a great addition for marching bands that have a need for a few portable platforms. The X-Deck is height adjustable so it allows the conductor to lead their team from the height of their choosing. The X-Deck makes a wonderful drum major podium, because you can create a routine that does not require a stationary podium.
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.
SafeTec is proud to support Dustin Kelm for his unishow. Dustin Kelm is an amazing unicyclist and public speaker. He is able to capture the attention of the crowd with his story all the while balancing himself on his unicycle.
You will also notice that dustin uses the X-Deck for his performances. He sets them up at different heights and then uses the planks to connect them together as he rides up from one to another.
Dustin Kelm jumping off of unicycle
You can book Dustin to come speak to your local school or church by contacting him on his website. www.unishow.org
Accidents are more expensive than most people realize because of the hidden costs. Some costs are obvious — for example, Workers’ Compensation claims which cover medical costs and indemnity payments for an injured or ill worker. These are the direct costs of accidents.
But what about the costs to train and compensate a replacement worker, repair damaged property, investigate the accident and implement corrective action, and to maintain insurance coverage? Even less apparent are the costs related to schedule delays, added administrative time, lower morale, increased absenteeism, and poorer customer relations. These are the indirect costs — costs that aren’t so obvious until we take a closer look.
Studies show that the ratio of indirect costs to direct costs varies widely, from a high of 20:1 to a low of 1:1. OSHA’s approach is shown here and says that the lower the direct costs of an accident, the higher the ratio of indirect to direct costs.
OSHA’s Ratio of Indirect to Direct Costs
OSHA’s Ratio of Indirect to Direct Costs
Source: Business Roundtable, Improving Construction Safety Performance: A Construction Industry Cost Effectiveness Project Report, Report A-3, January, 1982.
The more accidents that occur in a workplace, the higher the costs — both in increased insurance premiums and greater indirect costs.
To help assess the impact of occupational injuries and illnesses on your profitability, try out OSHA’s “$afety Pays” Program. It uses a company’s profit margin, the average cost of an injury or illness, and the indirect cost multiplier to project the number of sales you would need to cover those costs. Also, use a worksheet to help determine the costs of injuries and illnesses and their impact on your business operations.
SafeTec recently attended the Louisville Mid America Truck Show in Kentucky. Although attendance was down dramatically over last year the response from fleet owners, maintenance shop foreman, and others directly responsible with fleet maintenance and safety was positive.
Everyone at the show is always amazed at the safety of the X-Deck safety work platform. The most amazing thing is not that you can walk to the end of the work platform and it will not tip or budge, but the fact that with no one on the portable X-deck you can do pull ups on the handrail and it will not tip over.
The 6-Step 18″ was by far the product of choice at the Louisville Truck show. That model puts a worker eye level with the top of an 18-wheeler. This allows for improved productivity and safety with trailer maintenance.
The most promising development from the trade show is the proposed development of a 5-Step lightweight for companies like Carrier and Thermo King for refrigeration work platforms. The proposed 5 Step will be half the weight while only reducing the capacity strength by 25%. This will make a light duty 5 Step ideal for single person aerial jobs.
SafeTec Industries recently returned from the Las Vegas Aviation Industry Expo. At this trade show, SafeTec representatives met with members of the military, regional FBOs, and other airline companies to discuss all that SafeTec can do in the terms of manufacturing such items as the X-Deck.
Just like at every other trade show, the X-Deck draws a crowd. People stop to watch the demo and then are amazed after a few people climb up on one X-Deck and then they feel how light they are.
The product that drew the most attention this year at the show was by far our new 36″ wide model X-Decks. We had a few military customers that were floored by the ease of use and convenience of the 5-Step 36″ X-Deck as compared to their B1-B4 stands.
SafeTec is proud to introduce the newest accessory that will debut in its impressive line-up within the next 8 weeks. It is a revolutionary dolly and wheel kit system that will allow the user to effortlessly move a platform equipped with this system with minimal effort. Operation consists of lifting the wheel kit and and pulling down on the dolly handle. This raises the platform onto the rubber wheels and allows the platform to moved in an erect or folded state with ease. This system will be available for both the 18″ and 36″ platforms (although somewhat different) and will come as a set that is pre-assembled for the user. This system increases productivity and efficiency while maintaining a safe working environment.
Physical or mental exhaustion can be threatening to your work performance. Too many people try to push themselves too far. It is important to make your priorities and to stick to them. Make sure that you get a full nights rest and come to work to be on the top of your game.
Tips for avoiding fatigue:
* Have others check your work.
* Watch for symptoms of fatigue in yourself and others.
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.
Distractions can occur from an unlimited number of outside influencers. These distractions can be as simple as a cell phone going off to thinking about the next job and not the job at hand.
Tips to avoid distractions: * Go back 3 Steps when you return to a job.
* Use a detailed check list.
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.“
Amazing user video of Dustin Kelm unicycling on a few 12″ wide X-Decks. He connected them together with 8ft. x 12″ wide planks at different height settings.
This was a flyer that was published in a national safety magazine.
Injuries… Work Comp…Productivity Concerns?
The SafeTec Platforms are certified, tested, and proven. In compliance with OSHA, ANSI and CSA International Standards. Invest in Safety – Invest in the X-Deck
We have been through the safety departments of several major companies safety departments. We presently sell to NASA, Kennedy Space Center, Disney, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grummon, General Mills, General Electric, Bath Iron Works, United States Air Force at Ft. Knox – we have also been approved through the Sears and Grainger safety departments and are approved vendors for both.
We were named as a new safety product by the Georgia and Ohio department of Labor (OSHA) in 2006 and 2008. The Georgia Dept. of Labor had a seminar on platforms/ladders and featured our X-Deck as a safe alternative. Program given by Ralph Blessing, safety director for McKenney’s Mechanical – Atlanta office and OSHA instructor. They also asked the US Dept. of Labor – OSHA in Washington DC if they saw any problems showing our product at their safety show. The U.S. Dept of labor found no problems. Bovis Lend-Lease named us as the “Best Practice” over step ladders.
We meet all the standards (OSHA and ANSI) on Scaffolding and platforms including:
Strength (SWL) – we have been tested and certified by an outside independent testing agency
Handrails – height and strength (200 lbs from all angles)
Base to height ratio’s
3 points of contact for mounting and dismounting
OSHA compliant gates
ANSI – welding and ladder standards (all work by certified welders and certified equipment)
Tread-plate is an aggressive, non-slip design
We also have a anti-tip design that far exceed our competitors.
Check your local and state standards for all compliance issues.
If there anything specific you need me to address or any other issues. Please contact us.
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.
This occurs due to failure to have training, information, and / or ability to conduct a task.
Ask when you don’t know.
Use current manuals
Accidents and Injuries often happen when we try and do things that we do not know how to do. If you do not know the answer to a question tell them you will get back with them when you find out the answer.
A simple tool is often the best tool. The X-Deck is as simple to adjust as a ladder but with the safety of scaffolding. Scaffolds are often complicated with many different parts. Traditional scaffolding also often has to be inspected by a trained professional.
Invest in safety and education and you will never go wrong.
Overconfidence from repeated experience on a specific activity.
Expect the unexpected
Remember to upgrade your ladders and scaffolding to the X-Deck work platform. Just because you have always worked off of a ladder does not mean it is the right tool for the job. Injuries happen when people do not expect them. Plan ahead – and remember that one ladder injury costs way more than investing in a safety product like the X-Deck. In the end an X-Deck pays for itself many times over.
STRENGTH, STABILITY, AND SAFETY: These words accurately describe the X-Deck work platforms. The easy to use, one-piece platforms are lightweight and portable. They fold flat for ease in carrying and storage. The wheel kit option allows you to move the platform with a finger. They set up in seconds and by attaching a plank, you can have continuous low-level scaffolding in a snap. Adjusting the height also takes just seconds and allows you to work at a safe, efficient and comfortable level. Our lowest setting is only 16”, which is great for that little extra reach and our highest setting is 6’ 10” that allows a 5’10” person to reach over 14’. These lightweight, one-piece, anti-tip, portable platforms are height adjustable and set up fast and easy. The lift assist spring makes set up easy. Work longer with less fatigue and at a more comfortable height and footing than traditional and specialty ladders.
Value-Investment:
From a survey of users, we found that most people save from 20 minutes to 2 hours per day by switching to the X-Deck Platforms. Using a shop rate of $50.00/hr. and using the low estimate of 20 minutes per day, the platform would create a savings of over $4100/yr., per platform. Your yearly savings with minimum wage employees would be $1200-$2500 per year by using the X-Deck platforms. Our Pro-Line includes larger, stronger models or choose larger decks, steps, even handrails! They set up and fold flat in seconds and are height adjustable. All Pro-Line models are certified to hold 2000 lbs. (SWL 500 lbs)
Cost Savings:
The X-Deck Platforms normally outlast traditional ladders by up to 10 times. In addition, your added safety of this platform will normally reduce workman’s compensation and other related injury expenses. The insurance industry has estimated over 600 people a year die in North America from ladder falls and over 240,000 people are taken to emergency rooms with serious injuries. With proper use of the X-Deck Platform we can practically eliminate these deaths and injuries. The X-Deck Platforms are Certified, Tested, and Proven. Compliance with OSHA, ANSI and CSA International Standards
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.
Having a lack of resources is a huge safety hazard.
This can be a lack of people, equipment, documentation, time, parts, etc., to complete a task. Coming to work with the right tools for the job is key to the job’s success.
Safety Tips:
* Order parts before they are required.
* Have a plan for pooling or loaning parts.
If you invest in a X-Deck for any elevated work projects you are always prepared to get the job done safely and in the least amount of time.
SafeTec is pleased to announce that we are going to be adding helpful updates daily to our website to help you our customer with news and announcements.
Here is a list of topics that you will come to find at the SafeTec blog:
Deals and promotions
New products and features
New dealers and outlets for retail
General safety tips
Helpful OSHA tips
Company press releases
And many other helpful topics
Please bookmark our website and check back frequently. We will work hard to make sure we bring you the best and most relevant information. As well as information on ladders, scaffolding, portable work platforms, and safety and health.
ndirect to Direct Costs
