Maintenance In Spring Time

Outdoor Maintenance In Spring Time

The arrival of spring time in the UK allows householders and property owners the opportunity to carry out maintenance work on buildings and garden areas which have been put off because of winter.

Essential work on buildings and gardens can be started because of the milder weather conditions which spring brings with it.

Spring time in the Uk in particular is seen as the “starting” time for people to carry out scheduled and timed maintenance as well as carry out repair work.

Out Buildings and Gardens

A lot of out buildings are constructed with flat roofs which require inspection on a regular basis and any defects repaired as soon as possible. Depending on whether the roof is a first floor or second floor will dictate if any access equipment is required to carry this out.

With regards to working safely at heights it is essential to choose the correct type of access equipment before going ahead. For single storey roof work a suitable alloy tower or stagings can be used provided they employ suitable safety guard rails or barriers.

For second story roofs another approach could be taken. Although fixed access equipment can be used such as scaffolding and alloy towers consideration should be given to using alternative products such as a powered access platform. A scissor lift or other type of platform allows the user a far greater degree of flexibility when it comes to positioning access equipment where multiple locations are involved. Being self powered by either electric (battery) or diesel (engine driven) an access platform can be “driven” into position to allow inspection or maintenance and repair work to be carried out in a safe manner.  

It is important the operator of the platform wears a suitable fall arrest harnest with the appropriate lanyard or restraint system when working at heights on a platform. In the event of a fall this can prevent serious injury especially at substantial heights above ground level.  

Preparation For Outdoor Events

Outdoor Event Equipment

When organising an outdoor event such as a country show or fair specialist equipment may be required to prepare the venue site in readiness for the erection of a marquee or other required temporary building.

To establish what equipment is required it is best to organise a site assessment which as well as determining what will be needed, should also throw up any safety issues or risks which need to be addressed. The site survey will allow a decision to be made as to whether the site needs to be cleared of grass to allow access and erection of the required building. If it is found this is the case the best equipment for grass clearance would be the use of a portable grass brushcutter or suitable lawnmower.

Once cut the grass should be removed from site and the area levelled to allow clear access and a relatively flat surface to install a temporary flooring surface.

Another consideration should be given to overhanging tree branches and bushes. If overhanging tree branches are present these will present a large obstacle when it comes to erecting the marquee or tented building. Apart from siting the building in a different location the only other option is to remove the offending branches or bushes and make suitable clearance.

Anything above ground level has to be tackled with care especially with regards to safety when working at heights. Above approximately one metre in height it would be recommended to hire a suitable access platform or cherry picker.

This piece of equipment would allow the operator to work safetly with possibly a chainsaw or pruning type saw to undertake the neccessary work.

If the venue building is to contain any type of catering equipment for cooking or heating purposes, advance planning is needed with regards to possible fire risks depending on the type of fuel being used.

It goes without saying that adequate fire fighting equipment should be freely sited including one or more suitable fire extinguishers and also possibly a fire blanket for use with stoves and cooker units.

If any gas powered catering equipment is to be used extra care needs to taken as to where to store the necessary gas bottles and cylinders. Propane in particular is very flammable and should be stored well away from any possible sources of ignition.