In a recommendation document released in 2012 the CIA recommend the TRAM as a safe system of work while on top of a road tanker.
The Workplace (Health, Safety & Welfare) Regulations 1992, which applies to all workplaces since 1996, makes specific reference to the subject of accessing tops of tankers. Appropriate safety standards and procedures need to be in place in order to minimise the risk of a fall and cause serious and sometimes fatal injuries. Working at height is a key focus topic for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) who over the past years have been working in a number of industry sectors to promote safe working standards whilst at height.
The TRAM safety system is designed so that the user is firmly attached to the vehicle unit at all times providing a safe means of accessing and working on the top of tankers. The safety system includes a mechanical component that slides along a fixed rail and specially designed safety harness attached by two lanyards. The TRAM system provides a handhold that moves with the operator (both vertically and horizontally).
TRAM can be employed at loading or unloading gantries as well as on road tankers and tank containers.
In 2005 the Health and Safety Laboratory (HSL) on behalf of the HSE published a report on the Safety of workers when accessing the top of tank containers.
For more information on the CIA Recommendations, the TRAM system or to get advice please click on the buttons opposite.