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

7. MAINTENANCE7.1 General7.1.1 All parts of the suspended working platform, including the outriggers,parapet wall clamps, the suspension gear, the working platform and thewhole of the mechanical and electrical apparatus required in connectionwith the operation and safety of the suspended working platform shouldbe properly maintained. In particular:-(a)(b)all such parts on which safe operation depends should be maintainedin proper working order so that they perform the function for whichthey are intended; andbroken or worn parts, worn switch contacts, damaged electricaldevices and sticky switches, which may interfere with safe operation,should be replaced.7.1.2 No maintenance or alteration of the suspended working platform shouldbe carried out whilst the suspended working platform is in use.7.1.3 All parts should be properly maintained by a competent person inaccordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.7.1.4 All moving parts should be inspected for wear and replaced as necessary.Only spare parts supplied by manufacturer should be used forreplacement. Such parts should be suitably lubricated. Care should betaken to ensure that the lubricant is not transferred to the ropes if thiswould adversely affect operation of the suspended working platform.7.1.5 Roof fixings should be included in the maintenance inspections and anydefective parts should be repaired or replaced as necessary. In particular,the welded joints of the outriggers and the parapet wall clamps should bechecked to ensure that they are free from corrosion and cracks. Rustyparts should be reconditioned or replaced as necessary. Professionalengineers should be consulted for maintenance of structural anchorages.7.1.6 Electrical equipment including the cables of the suspended workingplatform should be visually inspected and checked before putting intouse. They should also be regularly examined, tested, serviced andmaintained by qualified electricians or other competent persons.46