Code of Practice for Safe Use and Operation of Suspended Working ...

5.5 Counterweight5.5.1 Where counterweights are used to achieve the stability againstoverturning, the design of the suspended working platform should ensurethat the balancing moments cannot be adversely affected by easy removalof any counterweight.5.5.2 The materials used for counterweight are such that they cannot beremoved or discharged accidentally. Water or other liquids, earth, clay,sand, chipping or aggregates cannot be used as counterweights(regulation 7(a) of SWPR).5.5.3 Every portable counterweight should have its weight permanently anddistinctly stamped, engraved or embossed in it (regulation 7(b) of SWPR).5.5.4 All counterweights should be securely attached at the inner end of theoutriggers to prevent tampering by any person (regulation 7(c) of SWPR).5.5.5 When counterweights are used to achieve stability of the roof trolley, theframe should be so designed that counterweights cannot be easilyremoved. The counterweights should form an integral part of the rooftrolley and should be secured to the structure.5.5.6 The counterweights should be so placed that in the event of the failure ofthe working platform (e.g. tilting), the counterweights should be capableof sustaining the loads and the working platform.5.6 Suspension5.6.1 Every working platform should be supported on two independentsuspension wire ropes at or near each end such that in the event of thefailure of one suspension wire rope, the other wire rope is capable ofsustaining the weight of the working platform and its load and preventingit from tilting (regulation 14(2) of SWPR).28