Page History

4.1          Where regular access to the top of CTUs is required, alternative access solutions should be considered. Some operators have provided more substantial access ladders attached to trailers as shown in figure 8.9. This type of ladder satisfies the step dimension recommendation and can be adjusted so that the lowest step is just off the ground. However there are no guard rails on the ladder or on the work platform so the operator may still be at risk of a fall. As an alternative, mobile steps similar to those shown in figure 8.10 can be used which can be positioned beside the CTU and from which the operator can safely step.

4.2          At facilities where regular access is required the CTU should be positioned next to a fixed access gantry (see figure 8.11). Once the CTU is positioned next to the gantry the operator can lower the counterbalanced handrail/barrier to provide additional safety while working on the CTU top.

4.3          If the CTU is mounted on a chassis, the operator should not attempt to access the top of the CTU unless the tractor unit has been disconnected or immobilized to prevent accidental movement of the CTU.

4.4          A fall arrest system may be the best item of personnel safety equipment that can be employed. Operators should wear an approved harness and attach themselves to the overhead cables. In figure 8.12 a number of “T” shaped stanchions are positioned about the area where an operator will work on the top of the container. The connecting overhead cables have counterbalanced arrest drums supported from them to which the operator will attach a harness.

Figure 8.12 Fall arrest stanchions

4.5        The top of the CTU should not be overcrowded. The walkways are limited in size and strength. Furthermore with too many people on the top of the CTU moving about can be hazardous.