PTSG has become synonymous in the construction and FM sectors for its ability to access any building quickly, easily – and most importantly, safely – to carry out a full range of specialist services.
Abseiling (Rope Access)
Rope Access is generally considered to be the most effective way to access the façade of a building to vary out specialist services such as cladding cleaning and window cleaning.
PTSG’s IRATA-trained engineers are the “spidermen” of the FM industry, covering all corners of a building’s façade with astonishing agility and speed. While their gravity-defying manoeuvres are likely to give many of us vertigo just watching, don’t be fooled – every individual works to exacting safety measures which all but eliminate accidents or near misses.
PTSG has a large team of steeplejack engineers that covers the four corners of the UK. Using rope access, engineers design and install unique access systems to suit clients, each of whom has its own distinctive building(s).
This may be a modern skyscraper but it may also be a church steeple or an industrial chimney stack. Working from fail-safe anchors and using high-strength industrial ropes, they can work on large areas smoothly and effectively, moving both vertically and laterally with ease. Rope access technicians are also trained to work along beams and other supports. Using a system of slings and attachments PTSG can carry out a wide range of installation, maintenance and construction tasks which would otherwise require the use of more costly towers or mobile platforms.
Abseil anchors are installed in pairs as required by LOLER (Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations Regulations) for a main and backup rope, davit arms offer the most in terms of adaptability, capable of being used with winches, manual or electric to position glass or other materials in to place. Another benefit to davits is they allow abseilers to access the façade of a building without abseil ropes putting pressure on the coping/parapet or other obstructions such as handrail.
Building Maintenance Units (BMUs)
Mounted permanently at roof level, a BMU is the safest and most comprehensive type of suspended access system, providing full lateral, horizontal and vertical movement of the working platform. BMUs are automatic, remote controlled or mechanical devices which carry window washing operatives or mechanical robots to maintain or clean the covered surfaces. Units range from small, simple devices used by a single operative to larger outreach units used on high-rise buildings.
Working with our manufacturing partners, our bespoke designs are created and rigorously tested prior to being delivered to the building. We are also called upon to create innovative roof systems enabling BMUs to be stored away neatly within the building.
No organisation has greater expertise in designing and installing cradles or building maintenance units (BMUs) than PTSG. We are a collection of highly professional, creative and talented engineers and designers who have delivered advanced, complex and iconic access systems for the UK’s premium clients and most recognisable buildings in the capital, including “The Cheesegrater” (Leadenhall Building), “The Gherkin” (30 St. Mary’s Axe), “The Vase” (One Blackfriars Tower) and “The Scalpel” (52 Lime Street).
Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs)
MEWPs, also known as cherry pickers, can be transported, set up and utilised quickly and easily with flexibility, depending on the demands of the job. Larger platforms can be road-towed for set-up on site, or vehicle-mounted platforms offer another solution.
For tighter spaces or building interiors, spider lift access platforms are lightweight with low ground pressure. They can be used internally or externally without damaging floors or pathways and will fit through standard sized doorways and gates.
Even jobs in extreme conditions are accessible with all-terrain vehicles that have four wheel drive and four wheel steering options to access hard to reach places, and levelling controls that stabilise on steep sloped ground.
In most jobs, time is money and powered access platforms will improve speed and efficiency. They are convenient and safe, reducing time spent on risk assessments and setting up equipment, such as scaffolding, onsite.
They require fewer technicians to operate them, saving on labour costs, and are flexible and easy to move mid-job. They can also lift heavy weights and specialist equipment that might be costly to move around using traditional lifting methods.