Limpet offers all-in-one solution for working at height

The Limpet is an all-in-one fall prevention/arrest, rescue and climb-assistance system. Designed initially for use with wind turbines, the Limpet's manufacturer is now exploring other uses for the device, which could include people working at height on construction sites such as tower crane operators, scaffolders and roofing contractors.

The 240V system (complete with its own UPS back-up) is anchored to the structure and contains up to 130m of 7mm-diameter heat-resistant rope capable of supporting workers weighing between 40kg and 140kg (6 to 22 stone). Intelligent electronics within the system mean it can assist in climbing ladders by automatically lifting up to 90% of the worker's weight. Once at height, the rope runs freely unless it detects sudden movement, at which point it will instantly lock (within a metre) to prevent falls of any distance.

A remote control system can be used to spool in or out as the wearer works at higher or lower levels and can be used lift/lower an injured worker 120m to safety in three minutes. Two remotes controls are provided with each system: one for the worker and the other for their accomplice or to be kept in the site hut for emergencies.

A single system costs around £8,000 depending on specification and Johnny Watson, managing director of Limpet Technologies, said: "We are aware of the need for sites with a tower crane to have a rescue plan and are looking at possibility of the Limpet fulfilling that and many other roles in the construction industry where falls from height remain a major cause of death and serious injuries."