Rope Access VS BMU
Rope Access technical and commercial leaders always faced one common question related difference between Rope Access and BMU/Cradle. We do explain with printed presentation. Just to keep in mind to represent both method.
Rope Access VS BMU/Cradle (Building Maintenance Unit)
In selecting the appropriate access system, the following control measures should be used:
• Eliminate the risks
• Use appropriate administrative measures
• Personal Protective Equipment’s (PPE)
• Using an access system that provides
- Work Method Statement
- Risk Assessment Sheet
- Efficiency and Effectiveness
INSTALLATION TIME
BMU/Cradle System : The financial implications along with the time frame to install these systems are always significant, sometimes extortionate & often disproportional to the amount of labor time required to complete the task.
Rope Access : A minimal set up time required, technicians can have their ropes installed & be working within an hour offering rope access a serious advantage over cradles & scaffolding.
TIME FACTOR
BMU/Cradle System : Time factor shortcoming. BMU or Cradle or Scaffolding needs 2 to 3 workers on each drop.
Rope Access : Rope Access Technician is equivalent to 1 operating BMU (2 workers on) per drop.
Multiple Rope Access Technicians work at the same time.
HIGH COST
BMU/Cradle System : High cost of yearly maintenance, High cost of Spare Parts, High cost of 3rd party inspection. Time needed to order the specific spare parts & ship them
Rope Access : Rope Access Technique is more cost efficient if we compare it to the spare parts, maintenance cost, 3rd party inspection, and the cost of operating included in BMU
CLEANING SITE
BMU/Cradle System : The heavy metal and equipment’s can cause disturbance and alter the view especially in projects like hotels, hospitals, VIP residents.…
Rope Access : At the end of the working day all ropes are removed & the building or structure is left with no obvious signs of refurbishment works, allowing minimal disruption to the client’s day to day business.
SAFETY
BMU/Cradle System : Records clearly implies that BMUs, Cradles, & Scaffolding have a probability of breaking down and causing workers to fall or even parts of the machine to drop from height & be dangerous …
Rope Access : According to statistics and accident figures, Rope Access is the safest technique to be applied on heights.
SECURITY
BMU/Cradle System : Records clearly implies that BMUs, Cradles, & Scaffolding have a probability of breaking down and causing workers to fall or even parts of the machine to drop from height & be dangerous
Rope Access : Rope Access is safer than any other techniques used at heights. All tools used in this method are firmly connected with rope to the harness.
TRAINING
BMU/Cradle System : Minimal training needed for workers to acquire a certification thus not enough awareness and training on safety and risk assessment.
Rope Access : Rope access is fully recognized by the Health & Safety Executive & follows guidelines set out by IRATA - Industrial Rope Access Trade Association
ACCESSIBILITY
BMU/Cradle System : Cannot reach all areas or difficult spots.
Rope Access : Rope access provides cleaning & maintenance to all the difficult areas which are unreachable with BMU.
LIFE SPAN
BMU/Cradle System : BMU systems have a short life span.
Rope Access : Ropes are regularly inspected and replaced as per company’s procedures.
