Article

In sectors where safety at height is paramount, permanent anchorages play a crucial role. Whether it is monorails, davits, lifelines or fixed anchorage points, these devices not only ensure the protection of workers but also transform risk management in large infrastructures.

In this case study, we will look at how a company implemented permanent anchoring systems to secure its facilities, and how this decision impacted productivity, compliance with standards, and risk reduction.

The context: A security and risk management challenge

The company in question is a company specializing in the maintenance of large industrial complexes, including refineries and processing plants. These facilities include many high-rise structures requiring frequent interventions, such as inspections, maintenance or repairs.

Until recently, the company mainly used scaffolding and temporary anchoring systems, with point solutions to ensure the safety of workers at height. However, these devices were not always suitable and several minor incidents highlighted the need for a more robust and permanent solution to ensure continuous safety and reduce the risks associated with operations at height.

The need for change: Reduce risk and improve efficiency

Faced with these repeated incidents, the company made the strategic decision to install permanent anchors on several of its industrial sites. The objective was twofold: to improve worker safety while reducing costs related to temporary systems, construction stoppages, and accident risks. The company also wanted to ensure better compliance with safety standards, such as CSA Z259, and avoid potential sanctions related to non-conformities.

The solution: Installation of permanent anchors

The company has therefore deployed several types of permanent anchors, including horizontal lifelines, vertical lifelines and fixed monorails, on roofs, metal structures and risk intervention areas of its facilities.

These devices were chosen according to the specific needs of each site, with particular attention paid to compatibility with workers’ personal protective equipment (PPE) and long-term safety requirements.

Results: Enhanced security and risk management

Since the implementation of permanent anchors, the company has seen significant results in terms of security and risk management:

Reduction of accidents: The incidents related to work at height have greatly decreased. Thanks to permanent anchors, workers now have a more secure environment, with systems always ready for use, thus eliminating human errors related to the incorrect installation of devices.

Increased compliance: By installing anchors that comply with safety standards, the company has ensured strict compliance with current regulations. It thus avoided potential fines and strengthened its reputation with regulators and business partners.

Improved productivity: One of the major benefits of permanent anchors has been the reduction in downtime related to the installation and dismantling of temporary devices. Workers can now access the work areas at height more quickly, which has accelerated maintenance and inspection operations.

Cost reduction: In the long term, permanent anchorages have proven to be a more economical solution than temporary systems. The company was able to reduce costs related to accidents, work stoppages and repeated installations of temporary devices. In addition, the longevity of permanent anchors allows savings by avoiding frequent replacements.

Strengthening safety culture: The installation of permanent anchors also made it possible to raise awareness among teams about the importance of safety at height. Workers now feel more confident during their interventions, which has helped to improve team morale and reduce turnover.

A transformation of the management of riques

The installation of permanent anchors in the infrastructures of this company has profoundly transformed its risk management. By providing continuous protection, increasing productivity and reducing operational costs, permanent anchors have proven their strategic value.

For any company that manages complex infrastructures or frequent height interventions, these devices represent a cost-effective and efficient solution to secure workers and ensure sustainable regulatory compliance.

Permanent anchorages are not only a technical response to the challenges of safety at height. They are a strategic investment that allows minimizing risks, improving long-term asset management and strengthening the overall performance of the company.