Powered-access rental company Nationwide Platforms is using Quick Response (QR) code technology on the bases of most of its fleet of mobile elevating work platforms (MEWPs) so that users can quickly and directly access crucial information on lowering them in an emergency.
QR codes are barcode-like images that can be scanned by most smart phones or tablets using a freely downloadable app. When scanned, the codes direct the user to online guidance that instructs them how to lower the platform safely for each distinct model, or group of equipment models.
The company hopes that in addition to offering a practical tool, the initiative will have the wider effect of improving awareness of the importance of familiarisation with safety procedures. Print and web-based instructions are also available as standard.
Mark Keily, UK director of QHSE at Nationwide Platforms, said: “We are proud to have harnessed the power of technology to give our customers even more opportunities to get the guidance, which could truly make a difference in an emergency situation.”
The company’s executive director of operations, Peter Douglas, added: “The use of powered access is widely recognised as the safest and most effective means of working at height across the world.
“Now, not only do we hope that our customers can reap the benefits directly but also that the rest of the access sector can follow our path and help truly establish this pioneering, best-practice approach right across our industry.”
For more information, visit: www.nationwideplatforms.co.uk/EmergencyLowering
