What do I need to consider when entering the shaft?

Don't forget: The operator is responsible for the safety of the shaft structures!

So keep an eye on the legal regulations for your project and think about certified, safe access options for your shaft. A labelled access aid is prescribed by the BVG (Berufsgenossenschaftliche Vorschriften; accident prevention regulations of the German employers' liability insurance associations). The products used must comply with the type approval.

Where stairs or ramps are not possible for structural reasons, fixed ladders, climbing irons, climbing boxes or other means of access must be provided.

Where fall heights exceed three metres, fixed fall protection must be provided. Back protection is not permitted in enclosed spaces, as this would greatly hinder the rescue of injured persons. The regulations and standards are fulfilled by tested safety ladders with safety guard rails. Shafts can be safely accessed in conjunction with a safety runner and a safety harness with a shock absorber. In addition, safe entry and exit must be ensured above the access point. These access aids must now protrude 1100 millimetres above the shaft cover. For ladders that exceed a height of ten metres, rest platforms must be provided at intervals of no more than six metres.

Access aids are available in a wide variety of designs, such as clip-on, hinged or retractable. For safety reasons, they should be fitted with grab rails and access bars. Safe access is combined with a safety step system. This system is also subject to strict safety regulations to protect the operating personnel.

Proven accessories include safety ladders, safety beams or safety runners, which can be fitted with safety fall protection rails if required and at your request. In addition to high quality and safety standards, consider the compatibility of all accessories and trust a full-range supplier with experience.

Should unavoidable hazardous situations with a risk of falling occasionally occur, a cover can be retrofitted at any time with a universal fall guard. Depending on the problem situation, various dimensions and load-bearing capacities are available. Shaft barriers can also be installed for fall protection.