The Challenge
Thales required safe and reliable access to their autonomous mine sweepers, but their existing access solution was no longer fit for purpose.
The previous stair platforms were manufactured from steel and, like many basic steps, did not provide the level of compliance required for the application. More importantly, the equipment was being used in a coastal environment, where exposure to salt air had caused significant corrosion to the existing steel platforms.
Thales needed a solution that would provide safe access to the vessels while also being easier to manoeuvre, more stable and capable of standing up to the harsh marine environment.
Finding a Better Way
Rather than simply directing Thales towards a product to purchase online, the SafeSmart team visited site to understand the application first-hand and review the access requirements with the team.
This onsite approach allowed us to draw on our expertise in safe access and work through the different options available. By looking at the challenges around the equipment, environment and day-to-day use, we were able to recommend a solution that offered significant advantages over their existing steel platforms.
While the final solution did end up being an established, off-the-shelf SafeSmart product, Thales benefited from the experience and knowledge of our team throughout the process, helping them understand their options and ultimately find A Better Way to access their equipment.
The Solution
SafeSmart supplied a 45° Stair Access SMP, providing a lightweight and robust alternative to the previous steel access platforms.
Manufactured from aluminium, the platform offers excellent durability in the coastal environment while eliminating the corrosion issues experienced with the previous steel equipment.
The 45° Stair Access SMP also provides several practical improvements for the Thales team:
- Lightweight aluminium construction – easier to manoeuvre and reposition around the mine sweepers.
- Larger wheels – making the platform easier to move while providing greater stability during use.
- Compliant handrailing – providing safer, more secure access for personnel working around the equipment.
- Swagged and perforated deck – ideal for the marine environment, providing a durable and slip-resistant working surface while allowing water and debris to drain away.
- 45° stair access – providing a safe and practical route onto the autonomous mine sweepers.
The result is an access solution that is safer, easier to move and significantly better suited to the demanding coastal environment.
The Result
By taking the time to visit site and understand the application, SafeSmart was able to help Thales move beyond simply replacing their existing access equipment.
The 45° Stair Access SMP provides a more compliant, stable and manoeuvrable solution, while its aluminium construction and perforated deck make it much better suited to the marine environment.
Most importantly, the project demonstrated the value of working with an access specialist. Rather than simply selecting a product from a catalogue, Thales was able to benefit from SafeSmart’s expertise to assess the challenge, explore the available options and identify A Better Way to access their autonomous mine sweepers.
