A hop-up is a low-level working platform at the height of 0.5m. They are foldable platforms that allow for work in areas requiring slight elevation such as painting, decorating or installing or removing lighting fixtures. 
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 provide the basic principles in regards to working at height in every means and methods, whether from below ground to on top of buildings, and this would include the parameters set for hop-up platforms. 
 
Prior to any work at height, a risk assessment must be conducted to examine the risks and control measures for the activity. It must be checked if the hop-up is appropriate for the task at hand. The risk of harm to any workers and other site personnel near the hop-up must be taken into account. Any obstructions and hazards in the vicinity also need to be checked, such as the risk of plant activity or loose cables on the floor. To safely use hop-ups, the platform must be unfolded and placed in the work area. The location must be somewhere with stable even ground, no proximity near trenches or other holes in the ground that can make it unbalanced. The equipment set to be on the hop-up must not compromise the ability to conduct work. 
 
Both feet must be kept on the platform to ensure total balance and safety while conducting the necessary activities. Hop-ups have a weight capacity limit that cannot be exceeded, and this can vary depending on the type of hop-up being used, so precautions need to be in place such as the hop-ups available and the kind of equipment that would need to be used. Jumping on the platform and overreaching must also be avoided since this can damage it and result in unbalancing and thus the risk of falling from height. The recommended dimension of the hop-up to be 600mm x 600mm and not exceeding height at 500mm. 300mm wide hop-ups are available but are not as safe as the 600mm. 
Workers must be informed, instructed and trained in the safe use of hop-ups and general working at height, such as being informed via toolbox talks, this way they would be sufficiently competent in operating with the platforms. Users need to read the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure familiarity and the ability to operate the platform. 
 
What Can We Learn From This? – Toolbox Talk Details 
• The Work at Height Regulations 2005 provide parameters for the safe us of hop-ups 
• Hop-ups need to be positioned safely with no jumping or overreaching on it to occur 
• All users must be trained and competent in how to use hop-ups 
 
If you require any further informaition on our Health and Safety services click here. Althernately click on the tags below for further reading. 
 
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