Platform Surveys & Inspections

Permanent platforms

New fixed access platforms should be surveyed after assembly or installation and before first use. Existing platforms that were not built to a recognised design standard should also have a baseline survey.

Periodic survey frequency should be based on risk and determined by a competent person such as a structural engineer. A prior-to-use inspection should also be carried out, and additional inspection is required after exceptional circumstances that could affect the platform's integrity.

Temporary access platforms

Temporary platforms should be erected by suitably trained persons, inspected on completion and then inspected at appropriate intervals. Temporary platforms used for stack sampling must provide a safe working area and be adequately supported or tied to a permanent structure.

Mobile elevated working platforms

The STA guidance identifies important limitations for the use of mobile elevated working platforms for stack testing, including working-space, load and emergency-escape considerations.

Fragile roof surfaces

Process operators should assess fragile surfaces and provide suitable controls where monitoring teams need to cross or work near fragile roof areas.