Abstract:
The importance of the stability of large and tall equipment when working on construction projects is undeniable. In addition to the obvious physical consequences, a rig toppling will certainly have a financial impact, it may lead to a delay to the project, have reputational ramifications and result in civil claims or even criminal prosecution.
A major cause of rig instability is a poor site surface or working platform. This may be due to a lack of design, poor quality installation, or a lack of maintenance or inspection. Given the consequences of a rig falling over, most would agree that each of these aspects should be carried out thoroughly and by competent people, yet on many sites, in many countries, this is still not done. Providing an adequate platform is fundamental, but we also have a duty to install economical solutions too. Overly conservative designs, coupled with a lack of any validatory testing on site, lead to grossly thick platforms which are wasteful in monetary and sustainability terms.
Nevertheless, there are examples of good practice, that if shared and followed, would do much to improve the quality of working platforms, not just for geotechnical equipment, but for all users of the site surface. However, because of the fragmented nature of the construction industry and its regional approach, it is not easy to effect a change for the better.
The second edition to the EFFC/DFI Guide to Working Platforms is not intended to prescribe or dictate the way in which working platforms should be managed, but rather it pools the experience from across the membership of the European Federation of Foundation Contractors (EFFC) and Deep Foundations Institute (DFI) to increase awareness of what can be achieved. In this, the second edition, more guidance on track loading as well as the design and testing of platforms is provided, which the authors hope will promote a far better understanding of the issues that must be tackled.
Whilst foundations contractors naturally focus on piling rigs and other geotechnical equipment, a working platform is used by everyone that accesses site. So, the considerations highlighted in this document apply equally to cranes, concrete pumps, mobile access platforms, concrete trucks, delivery vehicles and even personnel. A properly designed and installed working platform, that is economic and safe, benefits all and will enhance the efficient working of a site as well as ensuring a safe environment.