Construction World April 2017

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

This lightweight, unobtrusive rescue device is contained in a small backpack attached to a full-body harness. It has been designed to be used in conjunction with a fall protection system or anchor point, Suraksha Mohun, product marketing manager, MSA Africa, notes. The patented components of the Latchways PRD fit neatly into the backpack, allowing workers to carry out their daily tasks unhindered. Indeed, the backpack becomes part of the daily Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required for those working at height. “There is a legal obligation to have a comprehensive rescue plan in place when individuals are working at height,” Mohun stresses. In the event of a fall, the MSA Latchways PRD suspends the worker, who is then lowered to the ground gently in a controlled descent. The device features a 20 m spool of Aramid rope, released at a controlled rate via an integral braking mechanism. The innovative design of the MSA Latchways PRD only uses quality components and a limited number of moving parts so as to guarantee 100% mechanical integrity. Revolutionising rescue at height Any safety-related incidents when working at height often necessitate self-rescue as the front-line or most rapid-response tactic. In this regard, MSA Africa is introducing its Latchways Personal Rescue Device (PRD), an integrated harness system.

Unlike competitor rescue kits, the MSA Latchways PRD requires no specialist training, as it is simply worn in conjunction with a standard fully-body harness, and is activated by simply pulling the release cord. Its user-friendliness is enhanced by the fact that pre-use checks are minimal. “Periodic inspection is required at least annually, or more frequently, to comply with corporate PPE inspection schedules,” Mohun highlights. The descent device, harness, and backpack should be checked for any signs of damage, corrosion, or chemical attack. The Latchways PRD range from MSA Africa includes a Workman Premier and Workman Utility full-body harness. A rescue pole is also available, which can be used by a third party to activate the Latchways PRD in the event of a worker at height being incapacitated. The rescue pole is 800 mm when retracted, and 3 400 mm when extended. 

Tagged green by global certification In the world of green, claims of eco-friendliness and biodegradability abound. Sadly, however, these claims can often not be substantiated, the products and services are not truly green, and consumers and businesses are duped into harming the planet in a different way.

Consumers and businesses are assured that Global GreenTag certified products have passed the world's toughest standards to protect them, their employees, and their families’ health and safety. The focus is placed on minimising the impact on a finite planet, putting the power of selection back into the hands of well-informed consumers. The GreenTag Programme is intended to fill a current void, nationally and internationally, for a consistent green product rating scheme that is scientifically derived, life cycle assessment based, and includes appropriate assessment of whole of life and holistic sustainability. “This is essential to real credibility in the industry, avoiding fly-by-night organisations that play on the need to retain precious resources in order to make a quick profit,” states Coetzee. GreenTag strives to simplify the green product sector research and help consumers and procurement professionals to make their decisions in full light of the ecological quality, health, resource and social impacts of their product or supply chain selection. “We’re proud to display the GreenTag logo on our labels, and are committed to continue manufacturing products that are worthy of the certification,” concludes Coetzee. 

For this reason, the Global GreenTag certification entails a stringent approval process that requires the substantiation of all green claims. This month, local manufacturer, Green Worx Cleaning Solutions, was certified by Global GreenTag as having truly green products. Global GreenTag is one of the world’s most robust, trusted and widely recognised ecolabels. “We independently assure that every product is fitness tested and certified under one of our two leading certification programmes that use world’s best scientific methods,” confirms the Global GreenTag website. “That’s why we have earned the

reputation and trust of thousands of buyers, hundreds of companies and numerous green building councils, certification bodies and governments around the world.” John J Coetzee, CEO at Green Worx, is proud of this achievement. “This certification is the culmination of many years of hard work. We don’t believe in ‘greenwashing’ – which not all South African manufacturers can claim. Our products, and all of the ingredients used to create them, have a great impact on dirt, and no impact on the environment. That’s our commitment to creating a world that is cleaner, greener and smarter.”

John J Coetzee, CEO at Green Worx.

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD APRIL 2017