Nationwide Platforms has launched a secondary guarding system that can stop a trapping or crushing incident prior to a collision.

Dubbed SkySiren Pre-Crush Sensing (PCS), the system has been designed to automatically stop a mobile elevating working platform (MEWP) boom before the operator comes into collision with an object that may result in a trap or crush incident.

Claimed to be first in the UK to offer a double-protection barrier against trapping and crushing incidents, the system combines the company’s SkySiren secondary guarding device with its new PCS system that uses ultrasound sensors to detect objects posing a trapping or crushing hazard for the operator.

Nationwide Platforms health, safety and environment quality director Mark Keily said: "SkySiren PCS is unique in that it provides two levels of protection.

"SkySiren PCS is unique in that it provides two levels of protection."

"The PCS system is designed to prevent a trapping and crushing incident happening in the first place. SkySiren then provides a proven safety back-up."

The PCS system has eight ultrasonic sensors installed behind and in front of the operator on the boom platform, which generate high-frequency sound waves around the MEWP operator.

When the platform moves to within a defined distance of an object, the sensors detect the sound waves that are reflected back from it, and trigger a signal to stop the MEWP.

While moving within the ‘sensing zone’ around the object, the operator is continuously alerted by a flashing red light and a personal alarm, and will have to simply reset the safety foot pedal in a bid to start the machine again, and move towards the working position.

If the user operates the platform in a way that risks entrapment, the SkySiren pressure sensor bar located across the control panel ensures his safety by stopping the MEWP and subsequently raising the alarm with a strobe light and a klaxon.

The system also warns operators about potential hazards so as to help them remain more alert in high-risk areas. Trapping and crushing incidents are claimed to be one of the major causes of serious injuries and fatalities involving MEWPs.