The Client
With origins dating back more than 500 years to the days of Henry VIII, Royal Mail is one of the oldest organisations in the world. Royal Mail still operates within the UK but is now part of the larger IDS Group comprising of Royal Mail, Parcelforce and GLS.
Royal Mail is known as a pioneer in the postal service, with the introduction of the Penny Black stamp in 1840, and their distinctive red pillar boxes in 1852. They are one of the largest employers in the UK with more than 130,000 employees, and over 1,400 delivery offices.
The Brief
Heightsafe have worked with Royal Mail for the past 18 months, providing site surveys and access solutions across their extensive portfolio of sites.
Our installation division recently provided a variety of Safe Access System installations at several Royal Mail sites in Northern Ireland.
Some of their existing systems did not comply with Royal Mail’s internal requirements for all sites; which includes full height gates, ladder security gates on all access ladders, and toe boards for all areas where fixed guardrail has been installed at a level where personnel walk beneath.
The Solution
Heightsafe installed Kee Guard Freestanding Weighted Guardrail on most of the external roofs of the delivery offices, opting for a non-penetrative, collective solution for the areas.
Top-fixed Guardrail was installed on various mezzanine levels internally due to a lack of space for the weighted feet amongst the various plant systems, which still offers collective Edge Protection for personnel who require access.
Kee Walk Step-Over Platforms were used in these areas to provide safe access over and around the various systems, pipes and wires.
Toe boards were installed on all these areas, to prevent anything falling to the busy depot below while maintenance may be being carried out.
Access Ladders complete with Full height Access Gates were installed, as per Royal Mail requirements for their sites, as well as Ladder Security Plates to all access ladders, which prevents any unauthorised access to plant areas.
The Outcome
Royal Mail wanted collective solutions that meant no special training was required to access the roof areas and utilise the Work at Height Systems. Heightsafe were able to provide such a solution in Kee Guard Freestanding Weighted Guardrail.
All personnel who require access to plant systems and roof areas can now do so safely, and anyone not required to be in those areas will not have access due to the ladder security gates in place.
Heightsafe continue to update existing systems on many other Royal Mail sites across the UK as part of our ongoing works.
Contact Us to Arrange a Site Survey
Heightsafe can offer comprehensive site surveys to determine what systems are currently on site, and whether they will need replacing or amending in line with current British Standards and the requirements of the clients.
Contact us to set up a survey for your site on 020 3819 7199 or fill in an enquiry form here.
