Dropped objects pose a significant threat to personal safety; they also have the potential to cause damage to structures, plant and equipment leading to loss of containment and consequential release to the environment.
AquaTerra Solutions provides qualified Inspectors to conduct dropped object surveys as a primary control measure to reduce the potential for dropped objects. Using rope access techniques our teams safely access all areas at height, ensuring a comprehensive baseline inspection of all items of equipment and highlighting potential hazards.
Our surveys can be specifically tailored according to individual client requirements, incorporating some or all of the following elements:
- Development of Dropped Object Principles and Strategy
- Initial Survey and Reporting
- Database Development and Management
- Training and Competence Assessment (Awareness and Inspection)
- Procedure and Workbook Development
- Audit and Review
Dropped Object Surveys can be carried out on any elevated structure where there is a risk of falling equipment, materials or tools. Typical items for inspection include:
- Fixings - Bolted connections, primary and secondary fixings
- Electrical and Instrument - Cameras/CCTV, junction boxes, light fittings, cables/cable trays, loudspeakers
- Structures - Windwalls and Signage
- Walkways - Gratings, handrails, toe boards, swing gates, ladders
- Personnel Security - PFP Equipment, security systems and attachment points
- Temporary Equipment - Portable tools/equipment/materials use and storage
- Other Equipment - valve handles/wheels, lock fittings, snatch blocks, sheaves, loop hoses, umbilicals/rollers, racks and storage facilities, etc
- Redundant Equipment - Obsolete and unnecessary equipment
All items which have the potential to become a dropped object are identified, photographed and reported. Each survey report can then be used to develop a register for remedial action and monitoring purposes, according to specific client requirements and operating processes.
Where appropriate, our personnel can remove potential hazards or effect immediate repairs and interim security pending full repair or replacement.
AquaTerra Solutions is a member of the DROPS forum and supports the aims and objectives of the UK's Dropped Objects Prevention Scheme (DROPS) and the Norwegian Samarbeid for Sikkerhet.