Understanding Davit Systems: Ensuring Safety at Heights and in Confined Spaces
Working at heights and navigating confined spaces are inherent in many industries, including construction and maintenance work. At Abtech Safety, we understand the importance of comprehensive fall protection systems like the versatile Davit System. In this article, we’ll explore what a Davit System is, its key components, and when you should consider using one.
Essential Fall Protection
Fall protection measures depend on the type of work and site-specific situations. This could range from employees descending from heights for window cleaning or accessing a confined space. Many companies employ fixed fall protection methods like handrails, wire and rail systems and fixed anchor points. But for more mobile scenarios, a Davit System is invaluable.
Defining a Davit System
A Davit System offers mobile fall protection. Using a swivel arm, this system safely lifts and lowers the worker. It's adaptable to the user's needs and is ideal for narrow spaces or rescue operations.
Components of a Davit System
A typical Davit System consists of:
A swivelling Davit Arm
A height-adjustable Mast
A fixed or mobile Base
These components come in different variants, and the system can be expanded with suitable fall arrest devices or descent systems.
When is a Davit System Used?
A Davit System comes into play when fixed fall protection isn't feasible or desired. For instance, in spaces too narrow for permanent fall protection or those unsuitable for attaching anchor points. Also, it proves useful for occasional tasks, like annual maintenance, or rescue operations when fixed fall protection is already in use.
Examples of Davit Systems
Moveable Base: The mast and arm of a davit system attach to a base. In scenarios where a fixed base isn't possible, a moveable base comes in handy. An example is our Counterweight Base System, designed for raising and lowering applications in confined spaces.
Fixed Base: A fixed base is useful when there's no room for a complete mobile system. The Barrel Mount from Abtech Safety is a great example, designed to fit shoring and provide robust support.
Reducing Fall Distance: Raising an anchor point can reduce fall distance, thereby enhancing safety. This can be achieved with a mobile davit mast, in combination with fixed or moveable bases and anchor points. The Exosphere is an example of a mobile Davit System.
Horizontal Applications: Davit Systems can secure be fitted to a tank collar or a secured base for horizontal access or fall protection for a worker entering a confined space horizontally. Horizontal assembly equipment by Abtech Safety includes the Horizontal Entry Clamp and Arm and the Horizontal Entry Post and Arm.
