Working around open trenches, excavations and horizontal confined spaces presents unique challenges when it comes to worker access, fall protection and emergency rescue. Where permanent anchorage is not available or practical, having a suitable portable system can make a significant difference to how these tasks are planned and carried out.
At NZ Access, we're pleased to introduce the BTS Mobile Anchor Cube and Anchor Post (MAC) Kit with IKAR Fall Arrest Block and Recovery Winch ā a versatile portable system designed for applications involving unprotected edges, horizontal confined space entry and personnel recovery.
The system can also be used with our BTS 6G Davit Systems, providing an additional portable base option for suitable temporary access and rescue applications.
For product specifications and pricing, visit:
BTS Mobile Anchor Cube (MAC) Kit ā NZ Access
A Portable Solution for Open Edges and Excavations
Ā
Ā
Civil construction, infrastructure and utility projects often involve work around trenches, excavations and other areas where workers may be exposed to unprotected edges. Establishing suitable anchorage can be challenging, particularly on sites where permanent systems are not available or required.
The BTS Mobile Anchor Cube provides a counterweighted anchorage solution that does not require permanent fixation. Its substantial base incorporates lifting and forklift pockets, allowing the unit to be transported and positioned around a site using suitable handling equipment.
When configured with the BTS Portable Horizontal Anchor Mast and compatible fall protection equipment, the system provides attachment points for personal fall protection. It can be set up for fall restraint using a suitable Type 2 self-retracting lifeline (SRL), helping restrict a worker's movement before reaching a fall hazard, or for limited free-fall arrest and rescue/recovery when configured with an approved Type 3 device.
This makes the MAC a useful option to consider for suitable civil construction, roading, excavation and infrastructure maintenance applications where temporary fall protection is required.
Horizontal Confined Space Entry and Rescue
The MAC system can also be configured for horizontal confined space entry and rescue applications, including access into structures such as tanks, pipes, culverts and similar environments.
These tasks can present particular challenges when it comes to establishing suitable anchorage and planning for the retrieval of a worker in an emergency. Having an appropriate fall protection and recovery arrangement in place is an important part of preparing for confined space work.
When configured with the compatible IKAR HRA fall arrest block and recovery winch, the system combines fall arrest capability with a mechanism for raising or lowering personnel during a rescue or recovery operation.
The integrated recovery function provides an additional option for sites where a planned method of personnel retrieval is required. As with any confined space application, the equipment must be selected and configured for the specific work environment, with an appropriate risk assessment, rescue plan and trained personnel in place before work begins.
Compatible with BTS 6G Davit Systems
Another feature of the MAC base is its compatibility with our BTS 6G Davit Systems, providing another portable base configuration for suitable temporary access and rescue applications.
This offers additional flexibility for contractors and maintenance teams working across different sites and infrastructure environments, where the access requirements may vary from one project to the next.
Rather than relying solely on permanently installed anchorage, a suitable portable base can provide an alternative where the site conditions and application allow. The correct base, davit and associated equipment must be selected for the intended configuration and approved for use together.
For organisations managing a range of confined space, civil construction and infrastructure projects, this versatility makes the MAC system worth considering as part of a broader portable access and rescue equipment setup.
Key Features of the BTS Mobile Anchor Cube
The MAC system combines a counterweighted base with a portable anchor mast and compatible fall protection and recovery equipment.
Key features include:
-
Counterweighted base: Designed to operate without permanent fixation, subject to the specified site and substrate requirements.
-
Portable configuration: Built-in lifting and forklift pockets allow the base to be transported and positioned using suitable handling equipment.
-
Two anchor points: The mast provides two rated anchor points, with a maximum of one user per attachment point and a maximum user weight of 136 kg, including clothing, tools and equipment.
-
Type 2 and Type 3 configurations: Can be set up for fall restraint or limited free-fall arrest and rescue/recovery using compatible approved devices.
-
IKAR recovery capability: The supplied IKAR HRA fall arrest block incorporates a recovery mechanism for personnel retrieval.
-
BTS 6G compatibility: Can be used with compatible BTS 6G Davit Systems in an approved configuration.
-
Established technical standards: The MAC is tested to AS/NZS 5532:2013, with the product documentation also referencing OSHA 1926.502.
The supplied IKAR HRA is available with different cable lengths, allowing the appropriate option to be considered for the intended application.
Important Considerations Before Use
As with any fall protection or confined space system, the MAC must be selected and used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and the requirements of the specific worksite.
The base is designed for use on a firm, level surface within the manufacturer's specified tolerance. The supporting substrate must be capable of safely supporting the required load, and the ground conditions must be assessed before the system is installed.
The unit must not be moved while in use. A competent person must approve the installation and configuration, and users must be appropriately trained in the equipment and the procedures relevant to their work.
A suitable rescue plan must be prepared before use. The system and associated equipment must also be inspected before each use and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements.
The MAC is intended for personal fall protection and personnel recovery, not materials handling. Its suitability for a particular application should always be confirmed before deployment.
Discuss Your Application with NZ Access
At NZ Access, we work with contractors, infrastructure operators and maintenance teams throughout New Zealand to help identify suitable height safety, confined space and rescue solutions.
The BTS Mobile Anchor Cube adds another option to our range of portable engineered systems, particularly for applications involving open edges, excavations and horizontal confined space entry where a suitable portable anchorage arrangement is required.
If you're planning a project involving confined space access, excavation safety or temporary fall protection, our team can discuss your requirements and help determine whether the MAC system, a BTS 6G Davit configuration or another engineered solution is appropriate for your application.
Contact NZ Access on 0800 083 348 or email sales@nzaccess.co.nz to discuss the system and your project requirements.