Toolbox Talk – Safe use of a Man-Cage

Our toolbox talk discusses the topic of the safe use of a man-cage. The safe use of a man-cage is important as it is classified as working at heights, which is seen as a high risk activity. “Man-Cage” means a platform enclosed on all sides. Whether closed or open at the top, designed to raise and lower persons utilizing a lifting machine, but does not include mobile elevated platforms and suspended access platforms. 

Regulation 18(8)

No user shall require or permit any person to be moved or supported through a lifting machine. Unless that machine is fitted with a man-cage designed. It should be manufactured according to an approved SANS standard approved for that purpose by an inspector and after a risk assessment has been done. 

3 Requirements: 

• The cage must be designed and manufactured to an approved SANS standard 
• The cage must be approved by an inspector of the DOL for the purpose it will be used for 
• A risk assessment must be done every time before it is used, by a responsible person

Perform Work Safely:

• Shall remain on the floor and inside of the platform. The person shall not use any other means to achieve a higher position such as a ladder
• The platform shall be in the correct position so that the person does not need to lean out to perform the work
• All persons occupying the work platform shall be secured to the work platform by means of a full body harness or any other PPE suitable for working at heights
• The platform shall be lowered to the floor level so that the person van enters and exit safely. 
• Only 2 people can occupy the platform at a time

All persons involved with work platforms should be properly trained, including action to be taken in the event of an emergency 

Communication: 

• Persons shall be lifted and lowered smoothly, with caution, and only at their request. 
• There shall be adequate communication between the truck operator (Specifically for mobile crane usage) and persons on the platform. Hand-held communication devices or a system of signals should be used where communication is difficult. 
• Where the platform is lifted to a height greater than 4m above the truck operator, or the work platform is used in a noisy environment, then it is likely that communication aids will be required.
• When using hand signals, SANS 10296 shall apply.

To review the full toolbox talk focused on the safe use if a man-cage, follow the link below.

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