A-Plant applies 'traffic light' system to all kit

A-Plant has adopted the new 'traffic light' labelling system for hand-arm vibration (HAV) levels on all its vibration-producing equipment and has improved its Site Safety Pack.

The labelling system, recommended by the Hire Association Europe, indicates the vibration risks of prolonged exposure as follows:

• l Green - HAV below 5m/s2 - max eight hours per day
• l Amber - HAV between 5 and 10m/s2 - max two hours per day
• l Red - HAV over 10m/s2 - risk must be assessed before use

The times relate to maximum daily exposure, which should not be exceeded.

If a worker uses equipment with an amber sticker for two hours, they cannot use any other vibrating equipment that day without further assessment because the maximum daily exposure could be exceeded. Health and safety regulations require a further risk assessment to be carried out before the two-hour time limit is reached.

A-Plant is using the system across its depot network and the stickers have space for equipment/model and fleet number as well as the noise output and dry weight, which also have health and safety implications.

The improved Site Safety Pack contains new information on dust and noise control and working at height as well as folders, posters, stickers and a 60-page health and safety handbook.

l A-Plant has taken delivery of four semi-sloping step frames with beavertails from Andover Trailers (pictured). The 13.2m-long trailers have low-profile necks and machines can get onto the top deck without climbing an angle greater than 9°.