Engineered encapsulation solutions: Safeguarding against dropped or falling object injuries.
In the dynamic construction site and industrial workplace environments, safeguarding against dropped or falling object injuries is part of every employer’s safety practices. These incidents, often underestimated, can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities, posing significant risks to workers and bystanders alike.
According to safety reports, a dropped object can cause an injury every 10 minutes. The impact of even a small tool being dropped, or falling, from a height can be catastrophic, emphasising the need for robust preventive measures.
What is an encapsulation product?
Encapsulation products are designed to prevent objects from falling or being dropped, which can cause injuries, damage, or safety incidents. They serve as effective solutions for preventing dropped or falling objects, particularly in situations where working at height or around flooring gaps is involved to ensure the safety of workers and bystanders below.
What type of encapsulation products are available from GRIPPS®?
This GRIPPS® range of engineered encapsulation products are specifically designed to enhance safety in potentially hazardous work environments. These products are simple to install and can be used in a variety of settings, offering durability and reusability.
What is a Gap Wrap?
The GRIPPS® Gap Wrap is a unique encapsulation device that prevents objects from being dropped accidentally within work site voids. The mesh of the Gap Wrap, available in three sizes, encases pipes from 2" to 36" (50mm to 914mm) in diameter and uses heavy-duty Velcro strips to tighten the opening to tubes. This innovative safety solution features a robust design with a vibrant red PVC edge binding, providing both strength and a clear visual warning for onsite workers. Easily fasten the Gap Wraps to the flooring using screws or zip ties through the conveniently placed corner eyelets.
What is a Gap Guard?
The GRIPPS® Gap Guard is a modular solution for preventing drops around handrails and grid mesh flooring. Highly flexible, durable, and reusable, these mats provide workers with a rapid solution to safeguarding work areas from drops. The Gap Guard features Velcro edging which enables the seamless attachment of multiple mats end-to-end along handrails or in grid formations, effectively covering expansive flooring areas.
What is a Gap Mat?
The GRIPPS® Gap Mat is a robust and fire-resistant drop-prevention solution equipped with dedicated anchor points for tethering to effortlessly secure tools or equipment. This innovative mat allows workers to work on grid mesh platforms, providing protection against tools and equipment slipping through the grating. Not only is it manufactured from an exceptionally durable mesh, but it is also reusable, offering long-lasting performance.
What is a Gap Screen?
The GRIPPS® Gap Screen is a cost-effective, fire-resistant barrier designed to prevent drops on handrails. This innovative solution enables workers to safely work on elevated platforms while safeguarding their tools and equipment from accidental falls or drops over platform edges.
What is a Modular Drop Mat?
The GRIPPS® Modular Drop Mat, manufactured from robust, self-extinguishing canvas, provides a secure personal workspace for tasks carried out on grid mesh or steel grate flooring. As grid mesh and steel grate flooring pose significant risks for dropped object incidents, the Modular Drop Mat effectively addresses this concern by enabling workers to perform various tasks without the worry of small objects slipping through the mesh. The raised edges of the mat prevent tools and objects from rolling off, and a reinforced zipper along each side facilitates the connection of multiple Modular Drop Mats for expanded coverage.
What are the advantages of using encapsulation products?
Implementing encapsulation products as a safety measure offers several advantages in protecting workers and bystanders from dropped or falling objects. These advantages include:
Enhanced safety
By securing tools and equipment, encapsulation products help reduce the risk of injuries caused by dropped or falling objects, ensuring a safer work environment.
Compliance
Many safety regulations and standards require measures to prevent dropped or falling objects. Engineered encapsulation products can support companies to comply with these regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
Productivity
When tools and equipment are secured, workers can focus on their tasks without worrying about dropping items or falling objects. This can lead to more efficient and uninterrupted work processes.
Financial
Preventing dropped or falling objects reduces the likelihood of damage to tools, equipment, and property, leading to lower repair and replacement costs. It also minimises the risk of costly workplace accidents and associated downtime.
Culture
A safer work environment boosts confidence and morale, as workers feel more secure knowing that measures are in place to protect them from potential workplace hazards.
Reputation
Demonstrating a commitment to safety can enhance a company's reputation, making it more attractive to clients, partners, and potential employees.
Implementing engineered drop prevention solutions like encapsulation products are essential for preventing dropped or falling objects in dynamic construction and industrial environments. These products, such as those offered by GRIPPS®, provide robust solutions to enhance safety, reduce injury risks, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. By integrating encapsulation products like Gap Wraps, Gap Guards, Gap Mats, Gap Screens, and Modular Drop Mats, employers can create safer workplaces, protect workers and bystanders, and maintain productivity and morale.
To find out more about how GRIPPS® encapsulation solutions can support your company’s safety journey, contact us today.
Sources
https://www.grainger.com/know-how/safety-health/management/kh-dropped-object-prevention
https://www.safetyandhealthmagazine.com/articles/21355-dropped-objects-prevention.
