110460
A world leader in metal casting required a work platform for safe hearth access. The platform had to fit in a narrow space for positioning and storage.
Spika's client was working on improving the safety of their operations and had a need for a walking/working platform around a large furnace, or hearth. At the time, they were using ladders to access the hearth or simply standing on the hearth itself. Space was limited for positioning the platform, as well as for storing it when not in use.
The client needed a slim platform that could fold down when not in use and be easy to operate by just one person. Once unfolded and positioned for use, handrails for fall protection needed to be easily installed from below before the technician ascended the platform.
Spika’s client had spent some time researching options online. When they came to Spika, they were excited by the company’s willingness to invest in preliminary design of a solution before any financial investment.
Spika began conceptual development of the work platform by partnering with the client to fully develop the scope of work. The client detailed the steps of the operations to be performed, and the Spika engineer developed a proposal to meet the space, operational, and safety requirements of the project.
The resulting work platform was comprised of two independent platforms with decks that manually rotated into vertical position for maneuvering into place around the hearth, as well as for storage. Manual screw jacks assisted in rotating the decks up. When placed into operation, the two halves latched together to form a rigid work surface surrounding the hearth.
