Abstract: A load monitoring system (14) is provided for a mobile work platform that includes an operator platform (6), a base (2) and a lift mechanism (5) for lifting the operator platform relative to the base. The load monitoring system includes a load cell (12) for monitoring the load on the operator platform (6) and a control device (16) for controlling operation of the work platform, wherein the control device (16) is constructed and arranged to sense and monitor both static and dynamic loads on the operator platform.

Abstract: The fall arrester (10) is part of a climbing protection system for preventing a user of a ladder, a platform or the like from falling. The fall arrester (10) is movable along a guide rail (12) and has a rotatably mounted pawl (18) which, in the event of a fall, runs against catching stops (16) in the guide rail (12). A connecting element (40) is attached to the pawl (18) and the user can be secured to the connecting element (40) by a lanyard. The connecting element (40) is hinged to the pawl (18). The connecting element (40) can be hinged to the pawl (18) such that the connecting element (40) is coupled releasably rotation-resistant to the pawl (18) and the coupling (50, 52) is released in the event of a predetermined force on the connecting element (40). The connecting element can be formed as a damping element (40) which deforms in the event of a predetermined force.

Abstract: A safety device for an aerial lift (10) having a basket (20) with controls (23) which permit an operator to manoeuvre the basket (20), and a foot operable safety switch (24) which activates the controls (23), the safety device comprising an auxiliary safety switch (24) operated by a trip cord (27) arranged proximate to the controls (23) and which is connected in series with the foot safety switch (24) so that in the event that the cord is distorted the auxiliary switch (26) prevents activation of the control panel (23) and may additionally operate an alarm.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a life-saving apparatus and method for escaping from a second floor or a third floor of a burning building, wherein the life-saving apparatus includes a container, a set of wheels, an inflatable pillow, an inflatable slide, a set of canisters full of compressed gas, and a set of activators operatively connected to the canisters.

Abstract: An emergency rescue system for installation on tall buildings comprising an especially designed vertical rail on which a cab module moves up and down, propelled by a lightweight motor. The cab can hold over 1,000 pounds (e.g. six to seven persons). By itself, the cab weighs about 200 pounds and can be operated by a single person, is capable of moving very quickly, and preferably utilizes a small gasoline propelled engine.

Abstract: A safety device for an aerial lift (10) having a basket (20) with controls (23) which permit an operator to manoeuvre the basket (20), and a foot operable safety switch (24) which activates the controls (23), the safety device comprising an auxiliary safety switch (24) operated by a trip cord (27) arranged proximate to the controls (23) and which is connected in series with the foot safety switch (24) so that in the event that the cord is distorted the auxiliary switch (26) prevents activation of the control panel (23) and may additionally operate an alarm.

Abstract: Climbing aid comprises a traction carriage (14) having a motor for hanging the user and for automatic movement along a ladder. Preferred Features: The drive has a current supply module formed as an exchangeable accumulator. The carriage is detachedly held on the ladder and moves along a side rail and/or along a guide rail (16) of the ladder. The drive torque of the motor can be adjusted to the weight of the user.

Abstract: An aerial lift, a kit of parts for installing a safety device in the aerial lift and a method includes a moveable platform having a control panel operable to manoeuvre the platform provided near a first side of the platform and a proximity sensing means that remotely senses the presence of off-platform objects within a sensing zone opposite the control panel. A further method averts an accident when operating an aerial lift by remotely sensing whether or not an off-platform object is present in a sensing zone of proximity, and if an object is sensed in the sensing zone, signalling an alarm and/or shutting down the aerial lift to stop further movement of the platform.

Abstract: The invention provides a sawhorse comprising a base assembly movable between a folded position for storage and an open position for use and a workpiece support assembly having a workpiece supporting surface which faces upwardly when the base assembly is in the open position for use thereof, said workpiece support assembly being mounted on the base assembly for vertical movement in opposite directions with respect to the base assembly through a range of vertical positions. The base assembly and the workpiece support assembly has a cooperating structure operable to enable the workpiece support assembly to be manually moved in said opposite directions into a selected vertical position with respect to the base assembly, which adjustably engages the workpiece support assembly in the selected vertical position and which is operable to move the workpiece support assembly when the base assembly is in the folded position or in the open position.

Abstract: A rescue line apparatus is configured as a horizontal tether for being readily connected between a door and a portion of the door jamb or other entry location and extending a line as the user moves within the structure. The device allows the user to readily locate their way back for egressing the structure, and can be readily disengaged by the user, which activates a braking system that prevents unit “run-away”. A multi-attach anchor head couples the far end of the line to any desired structure, and has a beacon assembly which outputs a light pattern of sufficient brightness to be seen by the user when visually locating their attachment point within the structure. A multi-element visual indicator is configured for indicating line extension distance, and displaying tether line status. Many options promote safety and a fully cooperative environment.

Abstract: A system useful for dressing out or performing maintenance or other work on a structure in a vertical position includes an elevator system emplaced around the perimeter of the structure, the elevator system including at least three elevators, each having an elevator mast and an elevator cab, the elevator masts interconnected such that the elevator system is freestanding; a control station for controlling and maintaining the elevation of the elevator cabs; a scaffolding/platform system attached to the elevator cabs and providing a work surface that may travel to an elevation proximate an upper portion of the structure, the elevation of work surface controllable using the control station and determined by the elevation of the elevator cabs; the elevator cabs being positionable at various elevations to allow for work to be performed on the structure. The systems may be used for construction, modification, and repair of various vertical structures.

Abstract: A warning system for use with a climbing wall and an automatic belay apparatus for belaying a climber, the warning system providing a warning that a climber is not protected by the auto-belay apparatus. The warning system includes a sensor positioned to sense that a lower end of the climbing rope is secured to the climbing wall and the climber is not attached to the auto-belay system which indicates a dangerous situation, and a height sensor for sensing when the climber has reached a selected height on the climbing wall. A processor receives signals from the sensors and compares the signals to determine if the climber has reached the selected height with the lower end of the climbing wall still secured to the wall, and if so, then actuates a warning alarm.

Abstract: A railway signal mast assembly including a signal mast and one or more signal light support arms for supporting a railway signal light on the mast includes a collapsible worker support cage attached to the signal mast proximate each set of signal light support arms to allow a worker to access the signal light mounted thereon for purposes of installation and maintenance. Each worker support cage includes a worker support platform and at least one side rail each pivotally attached to the signal mast and pivotal between stowed and use positions.

Abstract: Disclosed herein, amongst other things, is a system for providing added safety for workers using rigging systems. In an embodiment, the invention includes a safety device for a roof rigging system including a rigger arm having a proximal end and a distal end; an attachment member disposed on the distal end of the rigger arm, the attachment member defining an aperture, the attachment member configured to engage a rigging line with the aperture; and a blocking member disposed on the distal end of the rigger arm, the blocking member configured to interface with the attachment member to prevent engagement of the attachment member with the rigging line by occluding the aperture when a counterweight is not attached to the roof rigging system.

Abstract: A system and method for providing home security services may include receiving, at a local alarm controller, a cordless sensor signal indicative of an alarm sensor being triggered. The cordless sensor signal may be communicated over one of multiple cordless telephone channels. In response to receiving the sensor signal, a signal indicative of the cordless telephone channel may be communicated to a mobile telephone of a user to notify the user that a sensor associated with the cordless telephone channel was triggered.

Abstract: An energy absorber for use in a personal fall arresting system wherein a pair of webbing are held together by tear away binder elements which are arranged to rupture under controlled conditions to prevent failure of the absorber when experiencing high load conditions.

Abstract: An aerial lift (10) having a basket or cage (20) having a control panel (23) for an operator standing in the basket to manoeuvre the basket to a desired location, a safety switch means (18,24,25) operable to prevent further movement of the basket in unsafe conditions, and a safety device comprising a load cell 56 or strain gauge on the cage (20) and an auxiliary safety switch (59) operatively connected to the load cell (56) via an amplifier (58) is connected in series with the safety switch means (18,24,28), the auxiliary switch (59) being operable to cut off power to the safety switch means (18,24,25) when the sensed load on the cage exceeds a predetermined value, typically if the load strikes a stationary object.

Abstract: A service platform (1), typically for servicing (including cleaning) wind turbine blades (200), comprising a cradle (2) having at least one mounting point (6) by means of which the cradle (2) can be lifted, and a plurality of elongate brushes (3) mounted from the cradle (2) so as to extend vertically from the cradle (2) when the service platform (1) is lifted using the or each mounting point (6). Typically, the service platform (1) will be lifted on an extendable boom (100).

Abstract: An active interface monitoring and warning system for fall arresting/prevention devices delivering specific fault condition messages to individuals who are subject to accidental falls or other safety hazards when performing construction or the like or when operating elevating construction machinery such as aerialift work platforms and the like. The invention further provides a data logging system to record and transmit operational conditions, fault conditions and safety infractions.

Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed comprising a platform operable to support a human. The apparatus also includes at least one cable suspending the platform. The apparatus also includes an elongation sensor engaged with the at least one cable. The elongation sensor is operable to emit a signal in response to elongation of the at least one cable. A method of using the apparatus is also disclosed. The method includes the step of positioning the platform adjacent to one of a machine and a path along which the machine moves. The method also includes the step of detecting a mass on the platform by emitting the signal from the elongation sensor in response to elongation of the at least one cable. The method also includes the step of disengaging the machine in response to the detecting step.

Abstract: A control system for a machine having an elevating operator cage, includes a control device (102), an input for activation signals (106), an input for control signals (108), an input for load signals (112) and an output for drive control signals (114), wherein the control device (102) is constructed and arranged to issue a stop drive control signal upon receiving a load signal, and to issue an override signal that overrides the stop drive control signal upon receiving an override input signal.

Abstract: A safety device for measuring and indicating the level of a ladder having rungs extending between a pair of elongated ladder rails, the safety device comprising a housing dimensioned to be inserted into one of the rungs of the ladder, an electronic sensor disposed in the housing, a controller disposed in the housing, which is in electronical communication with the sensor, at least one indicator, and a power supply for supplying power to the device. The electronic sensor measures the inclination of the ladder to produce a measured inclination which the controller compares to a stored predetermined level value to produce a comparison signal. The at least one indicator receives the comparison signal and indicates to the user the comparison signal.

Abstract: A climb assist system is disclosed that dynamically adjust the rate and level of assist of a climber as the climber needs may change over the period of traverse of the ladder. A sensor detects the state of a person, such as the load exerted by the climber on a ladder exerts on an assist rope, to provided an upward support force on the climber to compensate the climber's weight. Additionally, a sender is provided to transmit the load data to a receiver and a receiver to receive the data from the sender. A controller interprets the received data and thereafter provides control through a controlled motor and drive to provide energy to the assist rope.

Abstract: A tower boom path is controlled in a boom lift vehicle such that the tower boom nose pin follows a predetermined path. The boom lift vehicle includes a telescoping lift tower boom pivotally coupled at one end to a vehicle base. A main boom is pivotally coupled to the tower boom nose pin at an opposite end of the tower boom. Raising and lowering of the tower boom between a fully retracted position and a raised position is effected by pivoting the tower boom relative to the vehicle base and telescoping the tower boom. The raised position is defined according to any position up to a maximum angle of the tower boom relative to the vehicle base and a maximum boom length. In order to reduce vehicle weight and expedite the tower boom lift function, pivoting of the tower boom relative to the vehicle base and telescoping of the tower boom are performed simultaneously so that the tower boom nose pin follows the predetermined path.

Abstract: A load monitoring system (14) is provided for a mobile work platform that includes an operator platform (6), a base (2) and a lift mechanism (5) for lifting the operator platform relative to the base. The load monitoring system includes a load cell (12) for monitoring the load on the operator platform (6) and a control device (16) for controlling operation of the work platform, wherein the control device (16) is constructed and arranged to sense and monitor both static and dynamic loads on the operator platform.

Abstract: A wearable lightweight fire fighter's personal escape system and method includes a rope, having a distal and proximal end, organized in parallel segments disposed in an inner pouch. The inner pouch is entirely contained in an outer pouch that is appointed to be removably attached to a belt or harness, worn by a fire fighter. The proximal end of the rope exits through an opening in the inner pouch and outer pouch and is attached directly to a lightweight hook, or optionally enters a belay device. The hook has a sharp point for creating a purchase point on soft surfaces, a hook opening having sufficient diameter to surround radiators, steam pipe and the like, and capture rope that surrounds substantial objects. The hook has a central opening appointed for holding a firefighting tool to aid in creating a substantial object. The fire fighter escapes by creating a purchase point and repelling at a high speed or at a controlled speed by adjusting belay friction.

Abstract: This elevating platform comprises a chassis equipped with a motor drive unit and with ground-engaging means, a platform, elevator means for elevating the platform relative to the chassis, sensors, each delivering a signal representative of the configuration of the elevating platform or of its environment, and a control unit for controlling the elevator means as a function of a plurality of parameters, including parameters corresponding to the signals delivered by the sensors. The elevating platform further comprises selector means for selecting at least one priority parameter and a threshold value for said parameter. The control unit is suitable for determining operating conditions for the elevating platform under which the threshold value for the priority parameter can be reached, and for controlling at least the elevator means within the limit of these operating conditions.

Abstract: The present invention relates to ladders and, more particularly, various configurations of ladders including straight and extension ladders, as well as to methods relating to the use and manufacture of such ladders. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a ladder is provided that includes a first pair of spaced apart rails and a plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the first pair of spaced apart rails. The ladder also includes a pair of lateral support members, wherein each support member is selectively displaceable in a lateral direction relative to an associated rail. Additionally, the ladder includes a pair of adjustable legs, each leg having a first end slidably coupled to an associated rail of the first pair of spaced apart rails and being slidably coupled to an associated lateral support member.

Abstract: A mobile mount for attachment of a fall arrest system is provided for example for aircraft and includes a base carried on ground wheels and a support which is adjustable in height upstanding from the base and an arm cantilevered over the base. At least one receptacle is mounted on the arm of the support at a position located over the base for attachment to a personal fall arrest system including a harness for one or more persons, with the receptacle, base and support being designed and arranged to receive a loading from the personal fall arrest system sufficient to accommodate a fall of the person from the elevated structure.

Abstract: An energy absorber for use in a personal fall arresting system. The absorber contains upper and lower webbings which are each two ply members. The back ply of the upper webbing is mounted adjacent to the face ply of the lower webbing with said webbing being of about equal length and width. Exterior tear elements run back and forth sinusoidally between attachment points on the face ply of the upper webbing and the back ply of the lower webbing. Interior tear elements run back and forth sinusoidally between attachment points on the back ply of the upper webbing and the top ply of the lower webbing.

Abstract: A safety device for measuring and indicating the level of a ladder having rungs extending between a pair of elongated ladder rails, the safety device comprising a housing dimensioned to be inserted into one of the rungs of the ladder, an electronic sensor disposed in the housing, a controller disposed in the housing, which is in electronical communication with the sensor, at least one indicator, and a power supply for supplying power to the device. The electronic sensor measures the inclination of the ladder to produce a measured inclination which the controller compares to a stored predetermined level value to produce a comparison signal. The at least one indicator receives the comparison signal and indicates to the user the comparison signal.

Abstract: A fire escape apparatus for a building is provided.

Abstract: Systems and methods of using the system for providing warning to ladder users of hazardous locations along its span are disclosed. The system comprises a contact strip or contact device located on a specific rung, step or tread on or in close proximity to the hazardous location along the span of the ladder erected for use that when engaged by the weight of a person stepping on said rung, step or tread, the contact strip or device is engaged, activating an electronic warning signal. This signal can occur in a form or combination of forms such as, but not limited to, an auditory alarm, a vibration or a light. This contact strip or device and its accompanying warning signal are powered by a form of electric current provided from any regularly available forms of power such as but not limited to, removable batteries, re-chargeable batteries or power-packs that may be directly plugged into any permanent source of power.

Abstract: A safety device for an aerial lift (10) having a basket (20) with controls (23) which permit an operator to manoeuvre the basket (20), and a foot operable safety switch (24) which activates the controls (23), the safety device comprising an auxiliary safety switch (24) operated by a trip cord (27) arranged proximate to the controls (23) and which is connected in series with the foot safety switch (24) so that in the event that the cord is distorted the auxiliary switch (26) prevents activation of the control panel (23) and may additionally operate an alarm.

Abstract: An audible position indicating system for stairs or ladders includes a switch located on each step which is activated by a person's foot to produce a signal for the step. A sound recording means has one or more sound recording devices having a recorded message thereon and operatively connected to an audio speaker positioned adjacent the plurality of steps. A person is audibly advised of his position on the ladder or stairs as he ascends or descends the ladder or stairs.

Abstract: A safety device includes a locking mechanism connected to a first portion and a braking mechanism connected to a second portion. The locking mechanism includes at least one pawl and a biasing member urging the at least one pawl into an engaging position. The braking mechanism includes at least one tooth having an engaging surface, and the at least one pawl engages the engaging surface in the engaging position. The engaging position prevents rotation of the first portion in the first direction and allows rotation of the first portion in the second direction. A force of at least 250 pounds on the first portion allows the braking mechanism to rotate thereby allowing the first portion to rotate in the first direction. The braking mechanism is prevented from rotating when the force has been released from the first portion thereby preventing rotation of the first portion in the first direction.

Abstract: A collapsible stepladder including a first and a second ladder leg, where the legs are hingedly connected to each other in one end, and each of the ladder legs includes several ladder sections. Each section includes two ladder bars arranged parallelly to each other and interconnected at one end by a rung to form a U-shaped ladder section. Furthermore, each ladder section is telescopically inserted into a lower ladder section to form a collapsible ladder including at least three ladder sections, where the stepladder is provided with release mechanisms on each of the ladder legs that can be operated from the same side of the stepladder.

Abstract: An emergency egress system includes a controller that is located within a dwelling, adjacent to a window thereof, and has a user interface. The controller is coupled to an external power supply source, including solar and alternating current power supply sources. Light emitting objects are vertically and horizontally seated about a window perimeter, facing towards the dwelling's interior. A dedicated communications link transmits a distress signal to a monitoring system and is coupled to an alarm, including a smoke-, a fire-, a carbon monoxide- and a security system-alarm. A ladder assembly is positioned adjacent to the window. A mechanism is included for automatically opening the window and the ladder assembly, allowing the occupant to exit the dwelling through the window via the ladder assembly. The automatic window biasing mechanism and the light emitting objects are responsive to a distress signal emitted from the at least one alarm.

Abstract: A method of providing situational awareness at an incident scene. Sensor data can be received from at least one sensor (104, 106, 108) located at the incident scene and position data can be received for at least one resource (306, 308, 310, 312). Based on the received data, at least one optimal exit route (318) at the incident scene can be calculated. The present invention also relates to a system (118) that provides situational awareness at an incident scene. The system can include a communications adapter (204) that receives sensor data from at least one sensor located at the incident scene and position data for at least one resource located at the incident scene, and a processor (202) that calculates at least one optimal exit route for the resource to exit a location at the incident scene based on the received sensor data and position data.

Abstract: A rescue device for use by a user in a material slide includes a bundle having an inflatable bladder in a storage position. Optionally, a harness is coupled to the bundle. In one example, the bundle is adapted to be selectively secured to a backpack. A tether constrains the inflatable bladder. In another example, the tether constrains the bladder to remain within a predetermined distance from a connection device. In another example, the tether constrains the inflatable bladder in a deployed position to around a head of the user. The inflatable bladder, when deployed, is generally buoyant in the material slide and pulls the user proximate to a top surface of the material slide. Optionally, the inflatable bladder, when in a deployed position, is immediately adjacent the user to aid in protecting the user against blunt force trauma from the material slide.

Abstract: A warning system for use with a climbing wall and an automatic belay apparatus for belaying a climber, the warning system providing a warning that a climber is not protected by the auto-belay apparatus. The warning system includes a sensor positioned to sense that a lower end of the climbing rope is secured to the climbing wall and the climber is not attached to the auto-belay system which indicates a dangerous situation, and a height sensor for sensing when the climber has reached a selected height on the climbing wall. A processor receives signals from the sensors and compares the signals to determine if the climber has reached the selected height with the lower end of the climbing wall still secured to the wall, and if so, then actuates a warning alarm.

Abstract: The angle meter and spirit level apparatus can be affixed to a ladder and used to determine the angle at which the ladder is placed. The apparatus is also self-verifying in that it provides a way to know that the apparatus is operating properly. The apparatus also allows for a ladder or other similar device to be used as a carpenter's level or mason's level to determine true horizontal and also to determine the slope from the horizontal.

Abstract: A device supported by a ground surface and a structure for at least one of elevating and descending a user. The device includes a first guide rail having a first channel extending along a length thereof and a second guide rail having a second channel extending along the length thereof. At least one connector connects the first guide rail with the second guide rail at a predetermined location along a length thereof so that said first channel and said second channel face inwards towards each other. A platform for supporting the user having a predetermined amount of weight is connected within each of the first and second channels and between the first guide rail and second guide rail. The device further includes means for moving the platform along the length of each of the first channel and the second channel.

Abstract: A back pad system for use in connection with a safety harness which includes at least two spaced back straps and a connector adapted to be connected to a line or lanyard includes a back pad having passages through which the two back straps can be passed to be crossed over the connector, an attachment to which the connector can be moveably attached, and at least one member that captures the connector in an upright position upon application of force such as manual force (either directly or indirectly) to the connector to move the connector to the upright position. A back pad for use in connection with a safety harness includes at least two spaced back straps and a connector adapted to be connected to a line or lanyard. The back pad includes a base comprising passages through which the two back straps can be passed to be crossed over the connector and at least one load indicator.

Abstract: A safety system for preventing crane operator injury. Two ergonomic tracks are attached on either side of the working crane. A fall transmitter is used whenever a crane operator is not on the floor. The fall transmitter has speed and travel distance governors that limit the speed and travel of certain aspects of the crane. In a further embodiment, a second fall transmitter is utilized by the second crane operator to assure that both operators are aware of and agree to any crane movement prior to commencing such movement.

Abstract: An emergency ladder system for providing an exit from non-ground level floors of a building in the event of an emergency such as a fire includes an alarm system having fire detectors positioned in a building. The alarm system is operationally coupled to a ladder positioned in a compartment, typically underground. Upon detection of a fire in the building, a door covering the compartment is automatically opened, an audible alarm sounds, and the ladder is extended to reach an opening in an upper floor of the building to provide an escape route from the building.

Abstract: A device used to ensure that a ladder is properly leveled includes an L-shaped base having one arm oriented at a right angle with respect to a second arm in one plane and at a 75° angle with respect to the second arm in a second plane. One arm includes a clip element for releasable attachment to a ladder. Bubble levels are located in each arm and are used to ensure that a ladder on which the device is mounted is level in two planes.

Abstract: A tree-step system includes a fastener configured to be coupled to a vertical member, and a step component including a body, a weight-bearing member coupled to the body, and a light source associated with the weight-bearing member, wherein the light source indicates a location of the weight-bearing member.

Abstract: An energy absorber comprises a housing (1), a store (15) of plastically deformable material (8) mounted in the housing and having an endstop (27), an attachment (3) for attaching the energy absorber to a structure, another attachment (10) for attaching the plastically deformable material (8) to a structure, and the housing mounting a pair of spaced pins (5, 6) around which the deformable material (8) from a coil is plastically deformed in different directions in a sequential manner to absorb energy. A pair of pins (7, 33) or a guide element (51) and a pin (33) are contacted by the endstop (27) to limit the plastic deformation.

Abstract: A method and a system for emergency evacuation of building occupants and to a method for modernization of an existing building with the evacuation system. The system is used in a multi-story building having a plurality of floors and with at least one elevator positionable at selected landings of the floors. A first device is provided for measuring the number of persons in the building and a second device is provided for detecting an emergency condition in the building. At least one control unit is provided for determining or for estimating a number of building occupants in the building. The control unit defines at least one evacuation zone in the building during the emergency condition. Based on this information, the control unit defines at least one designated floor in the building during the emergency condition. Then the system evacuates the building occupants with the elevator car and/or a stairway from the evacuation zone to the designated floor.