New video sets out anti-entrapment risks

Mr Baker continued, “There are many systems in the market that have their own unique benefits, however when you watch the video it is easy to see the various entrapment issues facing the operator as the effects of motion through lift and travel are transmitted through the machine when either going over obstacles, or when working close to overhead objects. For me a protection system that prevents injury is the only sensible option.”

The video features the SanctuaryZone Tier 1 anti-entrapment device, which AFI offers on its machines.

“Hopefully at the very least this video will be used as a training option through toolbox talks, enabling managers and operators alike to better understand the potential for injury and plan their risk assessment and method statement accordingly,” Mr Baker added.

One of the risks comes from a machine travelling on undulating ground. The video points out that an 85 ft (25.9 m) boom elevated at 45 degrees, and at full outreach, travelling over a 4 ft (102 mm) rise in the ground will raise 40 ft (1016 mm) in just 1.23 seconds. As AFI points out, that would quickly put the operator at risk of being crushed against an overhead obstacle if the machine was not fitted with a recognised anti-entrapment device.

Mr Baker added, “It’s critically important to point out that these figures have been worked out with the machine in a static, non-moving position. If you take into account the movement by the machine, either through travel, lift or a combined factor, this could quicken the time to impact dramatically. Many people totally misunderstand the speed at which an incident can occur and the potential consequences to the operator.”