Window Talk Magazine - For Window Cleaners

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Window Talk - Published quarterly, Window Talk has all the latest trade news, Health and Safety guidance, reviews of new cleaning materials and equipment and articles on a host of other cleaning related topics. The Federation provides information on all aspects of the Window Cleaning Industry, and circulates this information to all its members. They assist in an advisory capacity wherever possible and represent the industry in important discussions with government and municipal bodies on all aspects affecting the industry. The Federation was established in 1947 as an independent, non-profit making organisation supporting the needs of window cleaners in the UK.

The FWC Seeks New Committee Members: The FWC wish to encourage all members to consider a position on the Executive Management Committee in 2012. All New and Retiring Committee Members are eligible, Just complete your Nomination form by clicking on the link above.  Alternatively, a hard copy is enclosed with your January Window Talk. Please click on this link here to complete your nomination form. Alternatively, download the PDF version here. Closing date to return nomination forms is: 23rd February 2012.

WINDOW CLEANER OF THE YEAR AWARD: This competition is open to all window cleaners who are registered members of the Federation of Window Cleaners; and all employees of registered members. Employees must have been nominated by their employer; and only one employee per company is eligible to participate. ORGANISED BY THE FWC – IN CONJUNCTION WITH QUARTZ BUSINESS MEDIA - FOR WINDEX 2012. Click on this link to download your entry form
The winner of this competition receives:

• One-night complimentary dinner and hotel for two people 
• 24 carat Gold plated Squeegee 
• Framed certificate
• One-years free membership, or equivalent value gift voucher
  In addition to free PR for the company!

Safer Window Cleaning

Safer cleaning: What health and safety considerations need to be taken into account when developing a window cleaning system? In an occupation where the risks include joint pains, Legionnaire’s Disease, back pain and even – in extreme cases – death, how can equipment manufacturers help to keep window cleaners safe?

Window cleaning is perhaps one of the most dangerous cleaning jobs around. While aggressive chemicals are rarely required for window-washing tasks, the risks of falling from height are very real. Accidents can occur when using any high-rise equipment such as cradles and platforms, but the old-fashioned ladder is probably the biggest culprit. In fact an estimated two-thirds of accidents that occur when working at height involve the use of ladders. This situation has improved following the implementation of the Work at Height Regulations 2005 which stipulate that if a high-rise task can reasonably be carried out from the ground, then that is how it should be done.

And in fact the advent of water-fed poles has made many window cleaning tasks achievable from the ground. But water-fed poles themselves present health and safety issues, such as pole sections falling to the ground and injuring passers-by, for instance; slips and trips in icy conditions, and operator injuries to the arm, hand or back. Other more serious implications can occur if, say, a window cleaner were to hit an overhead power line with his pole or contract Legionnaire’s Disease from the water system.

But the risk of such incidents is relatively slight and it is still better to work from the ground wherever possible, according to Unger’s marketing co-ordinator Axel Droste. “There are discussions ongoing with governments and regulators, but more and more people understand it is dangerous to work at height,” he said. “However, ladders are part of the window cleaner’s equipment and they are still used by more or less every company.”

He added that attitudes to safety vary from country to country. “In most European countries ladders are widely used but poles are becoming very common in the UK,” he said. “In Holland too, there are very strict regulations even when working with poles. For example it is forbidden to clean with water-fed poles above heights of 13 metres and there are also rules stipulating for how long you can clean."

According to Droste, window cleaning equipment is becoming safer all the time. “In the past water-fed equipment was generally confined to collapsible aluminium poles, but now there are various types of carbon fibre and glass fibre options on the market.” “These are safer, more ergonomic and more flexible since the weight is distributed evenly along the length of the pole, There is also less chance of trapping the fingers in these clamp systems than with traditional aluminium systems.”

Managing director of CAM Specialist Support Matthew Johnson agrees great strides are being made in window cleaning safety. “The practice of working at high levels has been transformed following the Work at Height Regulations 2005,” he said. “Ladders may not been outlawed, but they can only be used for short duration work. New, safer and more technically-advanced methods of working at height have been developed.”

Vital elements

CAM Specialist Support offers high-level window cleaning services along with site audits, risk assessments and courses on working from ladders and platforms. According to Johnson, well-maintained equipment and relevant training are vital elements in any high-level window cleaning task. “Statistically many accidents occur while ladders are being used, but this is usually due to poor training of users and poor maintenance of equipment,” he said. “Properly-maintained ladders can constitute a safe system of work subject to a risk assessment specific to the site in question.”

He says the same is true of other high-rise window cleaning methods. “Properly-maintained cradles and suspended access equipment coupled with training of operatives minimises the risks,” he said. ”And abseiling accidents are rare due to the rigorous training of operatives and inspection of equipment competent companies undertake. “Mobile elevated work platforms are constantly having their safety systems revised to prevent accidents, and rescue systems continue to be revised to allow for the safe rescue of an operative in difficulties.”

He applauds the advent of equipment such as water-fed poles to allow cleaning at heights up to 60 feet to be carried out from the ground. And equipment is improving all the time. “Manufacturers are continually seeking to make water-fed poles lighter and more rigid, and there are now systems that allow internal atrium glazing to be cleaned at high level using pole systems,” he said. But even with pole work training is required, adds Johnson. “Proper training in the use of squeegees and water-fed poles minimises the risk of Work Related Upper Limb Disorders (WRULD) injuries, and good health monitoring is required to avoid long-term chronic conditions developing.”

One organisation that keeps a weather eye on the safety of operatives is the Federation of Window Cleaners. This UK-based body offers safety training courses and regularly sets up 'Ladder Exchange' initiatives allowing employers to exchange any broken, damaged or bent ladders for a new one at a discounted price. The federation also warns against water-fed pole related injuries.  “Consideration must be given to the location of the building, terrain underfoot, weather conditions and overhead power sources,” it states. Less obvious risks include the consequences of manually handling heavy tank systems and other equipment, and the potential for contracting Legionnaires Disease.

Legionella bacteria can be found in low levels in most water sources and problems can occur when these bacteria receive the nutrients they need to multiply. Substances such as the sediment, scale, sludge and biofilms that can build up in the filters used to purify water can provide these nutrients. Legionnaires Disease can be contracted by inhaling the aerosol droplets that contain the bacteria. But the federation states any risk of contracting the disease is slight, and this risk can be reduced still further by frequently replacing filters and by keeping the system stored in a cool place when not is regular use.

OCS’s business support director Paul Thrupp agrees with the general view that falling from height is still the greatest immediate risk to the window cleaner. “However, the increased use of telescopic and water-fed poles has significantly increased challenges associated with manual handling,” he said. “There are also many other health and safety issues that must be considered such as repetitive strain and the dangers of heat stress or sun exposure.”

Proper training essential

He feels proper training is vital in order to reduce the risks of falls and of defective equipment being used. “This must also be supplemented by effective monitoring and management procedures,” he said. OCS has dramatically reduced its use of ladders and has made significant investments in telescopic and water-fed poles to allow most external cleaning tasks to be achieved from floor level, says Thrupp. “Ladders above the height of three metres are simply not used,” he said. “We also restrict the time that cleaners spend using water-fed pole systems, and our operatives take compulsory and frequent breaks to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injury.”

OCS is responsible for cleaning the windows of various difficult and demanding buildings that incorporate steeply curving facades and sloping glass exteriors. “For such a wide range of complex structures we need to adopt a variety of solutions including high-level abseiling, cradle-based access equipment, mobile alloy towers and mobile elevating working platforms,” said Thrupp. 

Training forms a major part of OCS’s ethos. “This is followed by monitoring and, where required, further training,” he said. “Refresher training is also provided on a frequent basis.”

According to Thrupp, OCS is actively looking for new techniques to eliminate working at height and to improve productivity. “The need to invest in work-at-height solutions cannot be avoided and this is clearly evident from the range of technologically-advanced access equipment such as equipment that can be used indoors, in restricted areas or on rough terrain, that is appearing with increased frequency.”

He added that telescopic and water-fed poles are improving and becoming increasingly ergonomic to reduce the impact of manual handling while increasing operating periods. “These have dramatically reduced the need for window cleaners to work at height, particularly on low-level buildings,” he said.

“However there is still a need for reviewing the systems employed, particularly with regard to safety access equipment as a whole. There will always be a requirement to use platforms, cradle systems or rope descent methods of some sort, and effective training is required to ensure these activities are completed safely.”

Legionnaires' Disease: Info' For Window Cleaners

Today's news concerning drivers & Legionnaires' disease concluding that Legionnaires' cases could be avoided by adding screen wash. A few water fed pole operators have also been known to add screen wash or GlassGleam 3/4 to their tanks. A few hints & tips following these headlines -

Legionnaires' disease link to lack of windscreen wash (LONDON) — Failure to add windscreen wash to a vehicle's windscreen wiper water could account for around 20 percent of cases of Legionnaires' Disease, according to the Health Protection Agency. The disease - caused by the Legionella bacteria - is commonly associated with water systems such as air conditioning units, showers and fountains. When inhaled the bacteria can cause pneumonia. However, this is the first time a link has been made between the disease and windscreen fluid. Adding screen wash could mitigate the transmission of Legionella bacteria to drivers and passengers, the HPA said, in a report published in the European Journal of Epidemiology last week. An HPA spokesperson said: "This preliminary HPA study suggests a strong association between a lack of screen wash in wiper fluid and the incidence of Legionnaires' disease. "Further studies are now needed to determine whether the use of screen wash in wiper fluid could play a role in preventing this disease."
The HPA carried out the study after finding that cases of the potentially fatal disease were five times more prevalent among professional drivers in England and Wales than expected. The agency contacted all survivors in England and Wales who had contracted Legionnaires' between July 2008 and March 2009. Willing participants were questioned on their driving habits, possible Legionella sources in vehicles and known risk factors. The study - which looked at 75 cases and 67 controls - also identified an increased risk of infection from driving through industrial areas, where there is likely to be a greater exposure to outside sources of Legionella. This was the most likely explanation for the higher percentage of cases among professional drivers, analysts said.
Driving or travelling as a passenger in a van, driving with a window open and driving for long periods of time also increased the risk of infection -- all factors which may be linked to driving through industrial areas. Also associated with an increased risk were driving an older vehicle and not using showers at home. However, the report's authors said the findings on windscreen wash were "the most intriguing", concluding that 20 percent of Legionnaires' cases could be avoided by adding screen wash. "This simple public health advice may be of worldwide relevance in reducing morbidity and mortality from Legionnaires? disease," the report stated. Between 400 and 550 cases of Legionnaires' Disease have been reported in England and Wales in the last two years, with around one third of those infected as a result of travel to another country.

CTA Worker Dies Of Legionnaires' Disease (Chicago): The DuPage County coroner's office confirms that Robert Pierce, 37, died on Sunday. The Plainfield resident had been in an induced coma since contracting the rare disease two weeks ago. Pierce had been working with another CTA electrician on an 'L' train car washing machine in a CTA rail yard near Midway Airport when a blast of stagnant water struck him in the nose, mouth and face. The next day Pierce became very ill with an extremely high fever. To keep its buses and trains passenger-ready, CTA vehicles pass through high-power washers, where health officials say the bacterium that causes Legionnaire's Disease could grow.

What the Federation of Window Cleaners say about the subject:

Safety in window cleaning using Waterfed Pole Systems: Legionella Bacteria can be found in low levels in most water sources, the presence of a few bacteria is in itself unlikely to cause a problem, it is when they begin to multiply that the risk increases. Legionella requires nutrients to multiply; these can be provided by sediment, scale, sludge and biofilms. These materials build up in the filters used to purify water, if not replaced at specified intervals filters may become a fertile breeding ground for legionella bacteria. Water temperature is a particularly important factor in the survival and multiplication of legionella, when the temperature of water rises above 20 degrees the bacteria begin to multiply, the optimum temperature being 37 degrees.
Contracting the Disease: The disease is normally contracted after the inhalation of the bacterium in small droplets (aerosols) or in droplet nuclei that are in the residue after the water has evaporated. Watered poles produce aerosols and it should be noted that aerosols are not restricted to the point of production. Under suitable wind conditions, viable bacteria can travel up to 500 metres. Legionella will not normally multiply in cold water systems or even hot water systems when the water is heated at point of use, or when the system is in regular use. However, legionella will multiply when the right conditions exist, these are:
• When sediment, scale, sludge and biofilms build up in filters.
• When water temperatures rise above 20 degrees (optimum temperature 37 degrees).
Measures that should be taken to control the risk of legionella are:
• Replacements of filters at recommended intervals.
• Following the manufactures servicing recommendations.
• Keeping the system stored in a cool place when not is regular use
• If system cannot be stored in a cool place, drain tank and filters whenever the system is to be left idle for more than three days during warm summer months.
The release of legionella is also subject to the Control Of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002.
Used filters should be disposed of in accordance with local authority guidelines.


The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) information to assist disease recognition, investigation procedures to identify probable water sources, and control strategies. The primary focus of this document is on the control and prevention of contaminated water sources, not on case identification, an area of expertise primarily exercised by local health departments frequently in conjunction with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta. Appendices include details on conducting an employee awareness program, water sampling protocols and guidelines for acceptable levels of the organism in water, procedures for identifying new cases of the disease, and water treatment and control strategies for facilities where an outbreak has occurred. Included in the summary are:

• Introduction
• Disease Recognition
• Source Identification
• Investigation Protocol
• Investigational Guidelines
• Controls
• Bibliography

Legionnaires’ disease - A guide for employers: This short and simple guide is written to help you, as an employer, understand the health risks associated with legionella. It explains in general terms how to control those risks. You should consult the Approved Code of Practice (ACOP) and guidance Legionnaires’ disease: The control of legionella bacteria in water systems for the technical detail on how to manage and control the risks in your system (see Further Information section at the end of this leaflet).

Jeff Brown of the WaterFed Pole Training Academy contacted the HSE to find the truth on Legionnaires disease around four years a go:

Hi Jeff,

Your query concerning legionella bacteria and window cleaning has come through to me. You ask a number of questions in your message which may be better talking through over the phone. However, I am out of the office for two weeks beginning tomorrow so in case you don't pick this message up in time, here are some of my thoughts regarding your questions:

"Can pure water incubate the Legionnaires' Disease?"

The answer here is that legionella will not tend to multiply to dangerous levels in pure water because they need nutrients to grow and divide. However, most water will contain some impurities that will act as a nutrients source for legionella e.g., contamination in pipework - you'd have to go to some lengths to ensure that water is totally uncontaminated.

"What precautions must window cleaners take to prevent Legionnaires'
disease?"

As well as nutrients, legionella bacteria require temperatures to fall between 20C and 45C for them to grow and divide. Clearly in warm weather, like we've had lately, there is potential for stored water to reach these temperatures. Therefore the approach to take in order to control risks from legionella would be one that took into account both cleanliness of the system and water temperatures i.e., keep system (pipework, storage tanks, purification equipment) clean
if possible, take steps to keep stored water temperature below 20C.

I hope this has helped. I'll be in the office until about 4.30 today if you wish to discuss this matter further with me (see number below).
Regards, Paul

Dr Paul J McDermott
HID SI4 (Biological Agents Unit)
0151 951 3405
Ref: AREL-6RLDHP

On a personal level, I've found that capped pure water can & will stay useable without any chance of infection for over 4 years if stored in an airtight plastic drum in the shade.

UK Window Cleaning Show Begins Tomorrow

Windex 2010 is for everyone involved in the window cleaning industry and its subsidiary services. Windex 2010 offers companies in the window cleaning industry the opportunity to demonstrate and sell products and services to the buyers of window cleaning equipment and services a truly targeted audience. The past three WINDEX exhibitions have demonstrated just how effective a well-targeted, industry supported exhibition can be.

Situated at the centre of the country, the Ricoh Arena is within two hours’ drive of almost 75% of the country’s population. It is also set at the heart of the motorway network and less than 30 minutes away from two major train stations and international airports. Located just two minutes off the M6 junction 3. The purpose built exhibition hall is capable of holding a variety of events from trade and public exhibitions, conferences, banquets and concerts. It offers: A column-free exhibition hall, Food kiosks, Air conditioned and heated, Hotel on site, Bar and Bistro, 100 seat restaurant, Car parking on site for 2000 vehicles, Internet connection and a Casino on site.

The organisers of Carpex & Windex 2010, being staged at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry on 18 and 19 March 2010, have revealed that the number of pre-registered visitors has topped all previous events – and there are still four months to go. Over 2000 visitors have already registered their details, with many more expected in the run-up to the combined events.

Stand space is also being snapped up well ahead of the deadline. Martin Scott, exhibition sales director, said: “There are only seven stands left for Carpex/Windex 2010, so I urge any companies interested in taking part to contact me without delay. The launch of the Carpex/Windex Innovation Awards to find the best new carpet cleaning and window cleaning product has proved very popular, and has attracted several new exhibitors in recent weeks. All exhibiting companies are entitled to submit a product into the awards scheme.”

Companies can enter the Innovation Awards via the exhibition websites, and short-listed finalists will be judged by an expert panel at the show. The only conditions of entry are that the product must be ‘new’, and can’t have been exhibited at any previous show in the UK. The winning products will be announced during the event, and awards will be presented to the successful companies.

Why you should visit?

• To see new products and innovations
• Catch up with the latest industry trends
• Discover new or alternative suppliers
• Meet existing suppliers
• Make purchasing decisions

Free Seminars
DAY ONE:

All Windex seminars are free to attend. Register FREE to attend

10.30 – 10.50 Why you should join the Federation of Window Cleaners
Gary Johns

11.00 – 11.30 Avoiding repetitive strain injuries from the use of a squeegee
Craig Mawlam - Chairman Ionic Systems

11.40 – 12.00 Choosing the correct van insurance policies for window cleaners with wfp systems
Sarah Richards – Alexander Swan

12.10 – 12.40 Working at height regulations

Andrew Willis outlines the basics of complying with this statutory law and provides an example of how even the HSE sometimes get it wrong. Why do property owners fail to take ownership of providing a safe place to work. He also explains how his own experience over the last five years shows that over 98% of window cleaning companies currently have unnecessary working at height liabilities.

Andy Willis - is a leading Working at Height Consultant and City and Guilds A1 Assessor

13.00 – 13.50 City and Guilds NVQ Level 2 Window Cleaners 2009-2010 Awards

IMPACT43 in association with South Thames College incorporating Merton College are hosting the awards to show recognition for the hard work and effort during 2009-2010 from both window cleaning candidates and their employers

14.10 – 14.30 An overview of powered access platforms and usage in the cleaning sector
Guy Willett – Smart Platform Rental

14.40 – 15.10 Presenting a real life example and an insight into the cleaning contractor’s experience of work at height issues

Austin Green compares the structure of his company and the service needs of medium and small contractors. Looks at sensible practicable risk management within working at height cleaning activities. How risk liabilities can be removed or reduced so that window cleaning is performed safely. Examples of the hurdles and hoops to jump through at the tender stage to being awarded a contract. The demands and requirements of service delivery and how property owners and contractors need clearer and transparent joint responsibilities.

Austin Green - Managing Director of Central Window Cleaning Services Limited (part of Initial Rentokil)

15.20 - 15.50 NVQ – Training

Mark Gillman looks at how the City and Guild NVQ level 2 Window Cleaning is becoming a directive from property owners. Outlines the overall success of the NVQ over the last two years. Some amusing comments from industry forums showing a diverse gap between domestic windows cleaner’s views on training and the need for qualification to that of commercial window cleaners. Finally reasons for taking advantage of funding whilst it lasts.

Mark Gillman NVQ – Mark is Health and Safety Manager of EMPRISE Plc and a City and Guilds Internal Verifier)

DAY TWO:

10.30 – 10.50 Why you should join the Federation of Window Cleaners
Gary Johns

11.00 – 11.20 Marketing your window cleaning business
Matthew Johnson – Cam Cleaning Services Ltd

11.30 – 12.00 Working at height regulations
Andrew Willis – Working at height consultant and City and Guilds A1 assessor

12.10 – 12.30 Window Cleaning Insurance
Allied Insurance Services

13.50 – 14.20 Employment Law
Bhaskar Choudhury - AMACUS LEGAL
Source new ideas

Sponsors & Supporters
FWC

Windex 2010 is supported and sponsored by the FWC. The professional Employers Trade Association for window cleaners for over 60 years!

The Federation of Window Cleaners aims to:

• Provide information on all aspects of the Trade.
• Increase public awareness of the need for high standards of safety.;
• Represent the Industry with government and municipal bodies.
• Support Members with FREE 24 hour legal advice
• Encourage members in attaining Health & Safety Training & Education
• Promote the protection of the customer against Fraud & Misrepresentation.

Ladder Safety Video

The Federation of Window Cleaners produced this DVD to educate it's members on the importance of Ladder Safety. It shows the importance of a thorough inspection of the site and of the equipment. Moreover the importance of safety in securing the ladder and its correct use….with an emphasis on the potential consequences. Traditionally, window cleaners have used all manner of ladders and platforms to reach the higher windows, but the introduction of new technology and the Working At Height Regulations in 2005 have shown us that if it’s not essential to work at height…then don’t! Enjoy both parts of the safety video below.

Safety Guidelines Using Waterfed Pole Systems

Safety in window cleaning using Waterfed Pole Systems (Initial Draft - 06/08/04)

Introduction: Traditionally window cleaners have relied upon portable ladders, platforms, scaffolds, bosun’s chair and cradles for access for window cleaning. In recent years many window cleaners have adopted the use of waterfed pole systems that facilitate the cleaning of windows up to 60ft/20 metres high from ground level. Avoiding the need to work at height is an obvious immediate attraction, however, there are various considerations to be taken into account.
These will include:
• Provision of uncluttered access to building facades.
• Designers of buildings to ensure reasonable access.
• Acceptance by everyone, including homeowners, that if they want clean windows they will have to accept that windows will be left in a wet condition and that the process may take 2-3 cleans before acceptable standards are achieved.
• Window cleaners accepting waterfed pole cleaning.
• Waterfed poles are not suitable for all types of windows and access.

Legal changes resulting from the Work at height regulations pending 2005 will further tighten safe practice. All those involved in window cleaning need to adapt if deaths and injuries are to be reduced. This information sheet sets out practical precautions to help window cleaners reduce risks to as low a level as possible, taking into account the needs of the job. It has been prepared in co-operation with the Federation of Window Cleaners and Waterfed Pole manufacturers.

Scope: For the purpose of this guidance, the term “waterfed pole” is defined as a telescopic pole
fitted with a brush and a means of delivering purified water for window cleaning. The use of purified water is an integral part of the cleaning process. The term “Load” is defined as the water treatment system/water delivery tank, waterfed poles and other ancillary accessories such as hose reels and warning signs.

Avoiding Risk: The use of waterfed poles removes the need to work at height and providing the window to be cleaned can be viewed from the ground without obstruction, it is possible to clean using a waterfed pole. Although adopting waterfed use may remove the risks involved when working at height consideration must be given to both operational risks and other obvious risks that apply to waterfed pole use.

When assessing operational risks consideration must be given to the location of the building,
its design site conditions obstacles, terrain underfoot, weather conditions and overhead power sources. The suitability of the operator with regard to their level of fitness and medical history and the need to identify any muscular or skeletal disorders that may develop as a result of operating a pole using poor technique. Less obvious risks include the consequences of carrying tank systems and equipment that are heavy, unstable, unsecured or incorrectly installed within a vehicle, as well as the small/slight potential for the spread of legionella disease caused by poorly maintained filter systems. Buildings on both industrial estates and domestic properties can present different risks than those in busy town or city locations, consideration must be given to the time of cleaning and traffic conditions and preventing public access to the working area. Warning signs should be displayed to warn of trip hazards presented from trailing hoses and the slip hazard presented by wet. Slippery surfaces. Hi-viz clothing should be worn by operators, especially when near to pedestrian and vehicular traffic. Consideration should be given to adverse weather conditions. Consideration should also be given to size of working and in the event of the waterfed pole being dropped or blown over.

Hazards associated with the use of waterfed poles:
• Trip hazards to general public presented by trailing hoses.
• Slip hazard presented from wet pathways.
• Slip hazard for operator while concentrating on work.
• Falls from height when working from flat roofs.
• Electrocution from pole coming into contact with overhead power source.
• Injury to others from falling poles or fabric of the building that may be dislodged.
• Injury to others from falling poles caused by incorrect handling or failure of pole.
• Injury through incorrect manual handling of poles and other equipment.
• Spread of legionella disease through poor maintenance of the system.
• Hazards from carrying tanks, systems and equipment that are overloaded, unstable, unsecured or incorrectly installed within a vehicle.

Road Safety: Journeys to and from the workplace are subject to documented risk assessment. Assessment of these risks will include security of the load to ensure that it does not shift under normal driving conditions, emergency braking or during a collision. Responsibility rests with the
driver of the vehicle; however, business owners have a responsibility to provide suitable vehicles, equipment and means of securing the load. Consideration should also be given to the potential for the overloading of the vehicles fitted with water tanks for when a water tank is full a vehicle is likely to be close to its maximum payload capacity. To assess road safety risks consideration should be given to:
• The design of water treatment/delivery tanks.
• The manufacture of water treatment/delivery tanks.
• The installation/anchorage of water treatment/delivery tanks.
• The payload capacity of the vehicle and the potential of overloading.
• The security of waterfed poles, hose reels and ancillaries etc.
• Driving conditions and braking distances.
Design and manufacture of tank systems and equipment should comply with HASAWA 1974
and PUWER.

Both professional and self-installations in vehicles should meet the requirements of:
• The Road Traffic Act.
• The Road Vehicle (construction & use) regulations.
• The Code of Practice “Safety of Loads on Vehicles”.
• BS: 12195 Load Restraint Regulations.

Legionnaires Disease: Legionella Bacteria can be found in low levels in most water sources, the presence of a few bacteria is in itself unlikely to cause a problem, it is when they begin to multiply that the risk increases. Legionella requires nutrients to multiply, these can be provided by sediment, scale, sludge and biofilms. These materials build up in the filters used to purify water, if not replaced at specified intervals filters may become a fertile breeding ground for legionella bacteria. Water temperature is a particularly important factor in the survival and multiplication of legionella, when the temperature of water rises above 20 degrees the bacteria begin to multiply, the optimum temperature being 37 degrees.

Contracting the Disease: The disease is normally contracted after the inhalation of the bacterium in small droplets (aerosols) or in droplet nuclei that are in the residue after the water has evaporated. Watered poles produce aerosols and it should be noted that aerosols are not restricted to the point of production. Under suitable wind conditions, viable bacteria can travel up to 500 metres. Legionella will not normally multiply in cold water systems or even hot water systems when the water is heated at point of use, or when the system is in regular use. However, legionella will multiply when the right conditions exist, these are:
• When sediment, scale, sludge and biofilms build up in filters.
• When water temperatures rise above 20 degrees (optimum temperature 37 degrees). Measures that should be taken to control the risk of legionella are:
• Replacements of filters at recommended intervals.
• Following the manufactures servicing recommendations.
• Keeping the system stored in a cool place when not is regular use
• If system cannot be stored in a cool place, drain tank and filters whenever the system is
to be left idle for more than three days during warm summer months. The release of legionella is also subject to the Control Of Substances Hazardous To Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002.

Used filters should be disposed of in accordance with local authority guidelines. Choice of tank system and equipment Will be determined by:
• The duration and extent of work.
• The height of windows to be cleaned.
• The site conditions.
• The means of purified water delivery required.
For some jobs waterfed poles may be used in support of other access methods, for domestic
properties to reach conservatory roofs or other windows inaccessible to ladders. On high rise
buildings to reach the lower elevations and link bridges or on glazed structures in support of
abseilers.

Waterfed poles may also be used from MEWPS. In addition to normal guidelines for MEWPS
operation, consideration should be given to securing the pole to the MEWP basket to prevent it falling if dropped. Procedures should be implemented to prevent snagging of any hoses trailing from the MEWP basket to the water delivery system. Procedure should include a banksman with a sharp knife to cut hoses in the event of a snag. For many buildings, however, waterfed poles may be used for the entire cleaning operation. Due to the physical rigor or prolonged use of consideration should be given to the weight of the pole, the lightest pole being the one that adequately reaches the top of the window but does not over reach i.e. do not use a 45ft pole to clean a window which is 20ft high. Composite poles will be best suited for use on sites such as those near to railways and electricity generating stations or substations or any other site that poses an increased risk of electrocution.

Purified water may be delivered to the waterfed pole by flexible hose from a variety of sources, those include de-ionising cylinders/columns or cartridges, vehicle and trailer mounted systems and static systems incorporated into the building design. Delivery hoses pose a trip hazard that can be minimised if brightly coloured hose is used and warning signs are displayed were ever hoses cross a walkway. Care should be taken to ensure that the weight of the filled water tank does not exceed the vehicles payload or towing capacity and allowance should be made for the weight of other equipment that may need to be carried as well as the weight of personnel travelling in the vehicle.

Maintenance: Waterfed poles are work equipment subject to the requirements of the provision and use of work equipment regulations 1998 (PUWER). Waterfed poles should be subject to:
• Pre-use visual inspection – Obvious defects i.e. worn/fractured/dented/bends in pole sections, loose clamps head/brush fittings, worn butt rings etc.
• Regular documented management inspections that take into account the degree of use and type of pole. In practise three monthly inspections are recommended.
• Procedures should be in place for handling any defects found that would include repair or replacement.
The use of waterfed poles requires little skill but can be physically demanding unless the correct techniques are employed. Waterfed poles in a poor state of repair will require more physical effort to operate. Regular replacement of filters ensures both the quality of the water produced for cleaning and the effective control of legionella bacteria. Manufacturers will specify the appropriate intervals for filter replacement; generally smaller filters shall require more frequent replacement than larger filters. In order to ensure that the installation in the vehicle continues to meet the requirements of regulations an annual inspection should be carried out by a competent person and any remedial work signalled by the inspection should be carried out.

Use of waterfed poles: When extending waterfed poles it is desirable to raise the pole vertically, when this is not possible it will be necessary to extend the pole to the desired length horizontally along the ground. Raising the pole from this position will be a two-person operation, one to stabilise the base and steady the pole while the second “walks” the pole up.

Manual Handling: It feels more natural to operate a waterfed pole by movement of the arms alone and this is acceptable for poles that extend to a height of 10 metres. For waterfed poles that extend beyond 10 metres excessive strain may be exerted upon the upper body when operated for extended periods. It is recommended that when operating poles that extend above 10 metres use of arms be reduced by greater use of leg/whole body movement. With experience comes the ability to work with the natural balance of the pole, less effort is expelled once the operator has mastered the balance technique and has learned to use the stored energy generated in the bending and flexing of pole as it is guided through the cleaning task. Even with the benefit of training these techniques take time to master and they are easier to acquire when shorter poles up to 10 metres are used. It is important both for development of new skills and in order to deliver acceptable cleaning standards, that new staff become experienced using short poles before moving up to poles that extend above 10 metres.

Measures to reduce fatigue:
• Operate poles with greater use of the legs, by stepping a single stride forward and back use of the arms may be significantly reduced
• Pole sharing with other members of the team.
• Switching from the left hand side of the body to the right, and visa versa.
• Taking regular breaks to undertake other tasks.
• Taking periodic breaks free from activity.

Adverse Weather: In windy conditions extra care should be taken especially when moving from a sheltered elevation to one more affected by the wind. Waterfed pole use is not recommended in winds above 25mph. Regardless of wind strength, watefed poles should never be left unattended
in an elevated position. Purified water is a poor conductor of electricity, however waterfed poles of aluminium construction should not be operated in any environment where they may contact or come within 2 m of a source of high voltage electricity. Any waterfed pole should not be operated when a risk of an electrical/lightning storm exists. During cold spells the likelihood of purified water freezing in the delivery hoses will adversely affect the use of waterfed poles. Systems that deliver hot water may be affected to a lesser extent and precautions should be taken to ensure that any water that may fall on to walkways is prevented from freezing by the prior application of sodium grit. Working in exposed positions The need to concentrate on overhead activity may expose the operator to further hazards that may include:
• Trips or falls.
• Falls from flat roofs.
• Collision with pedestrians or road traffic.

Risk Assessment: The purpose of risk assessment is simply to identify particular risks on any job in order to take precautions to minimise them, typically these may include:
• Instruction in the need for the operator to be vigilant with regard to the surroundings.
• Providing adequate PPE and/or roof edge protection or other systems.
• Giving consideration to the day and time of cleaning.
• Provision of hi-viz clothing.
• Cordoning off work areas to prevent public access.

Lone Working: Lone workers are defined as employees who work by themselves without close contact or direct supervision (this section does not apply to self employed window cleaners). No
window cleaner should work alone in any area or location that would involve increased risk to their safety. E.g. on a busy street or near electric. If working in a team on a single site, regular (hourly) checks should be made on any lone worker. If a window cleaner is dropped on a job to work solo, intervals between contacts should not exceed one hour. If a window cleaner is working solo for a full shift or day, a one hour contact system should be established, e.g. mobile phone or radio.

Personal protective equipment (PPE): PPE is not directly relevant to the use of waterfed poles and is limited to protection against adverse weather conditions. Hard hats may however be appropriate when use of waterfed poles may dislodge defective parts of the building fabric.

Training & Competence: All waterfed pole users should be suitably trained and competent. They should have appropriate knowledge, experience and practical skills for the work being undertaken. Personnel with different levels of responsibility, such as managers, will require different types of competence. There are at present no nationally recognised qualifications with regard to Use of Waterfed Poles. New employees will therefore claim competence on joining a company. Management must access proof of competence at the earliest opportunity. This competence is best assessed on a live contract.

The following criteria should be used at initial and ongoing assessments:
• Daily pre use check
• Manual handling
• Ground conditions
• Cordoning off
• Common Hazards
• Dos and don’ts
Any gaps in knowledge should be assessed and suitable training and/or supervision be
provided until competence is achieved.

Waterfed pole specific training covering all aspects covered in these guidance notes in
greater detail is available from The British Window Cleaning Academy (Accredited City &
Guilds NVQ centre).

Competent Person: A competent person may be defined as a designated person suitably trained or qualified by knowledge and practical experience to enable them to:
• Carry out their required duties at their level of responsibility.
• Fully understand any potential hazards related to their work.
• Detect any defects or omissions in that work, recognise any implications for health and safety, and be able to specify appropriate remedial action needed including refusal to do work if the danger is too great.
• Know their limitations and not be frightened to ask for help. In other words a competent person should not only be able to discover defects, but tell what effect they are likely to have.
Dos and Don’ts
• Don’t use a defective waterfed pole.
• Don’t use a waterfed pole in high winds.
• Don’t use a waterfed pole near to overhead power lines.
• Don’t use a waterfed pole during thunder and lightening.
• Do carry our pre-use checks of equipment.
• Always cordon off and/or display suitable warning signs when working in public areas.

The full pdf file can be downloaded from the FWC website.

Wagtail Fun & Cleaning Difficult Windows

This is my last post before I head out to the Federation Window Cleaning Show in Blackpool, UK. All those that will be there don't forget to say hello & ask for a card off me. I have some exiting developments here at "Robinson-Solutions Towers," hopefully you will be part of it. More news coming soon!

Mark Henderson of "Puliziavetri," his window cleaning company in Italy & of Window Cleaning Resource UK fame have some new videos. Mark & his colleagues, Davide & Davide show off their skills in the next couple of videos. The first video being part of the "Wagtail World Window Cleaning Challenge" - to clean a shop window in under 30 seconds flat - see here & here for more details. The second video has a commentary by Mark. If you like these videos, you may be interested in a special DVD deal available only on this blog here.

Luis of "Limpiezas Maturana" in Madrid shows you how he deals with those bars & wires covering the windows. Yep - we like to make life difficult in Spain.

Federation of Window Cleaners Show UK 2009

Only 1 week to go before Window Cleaners from all over the UK will converge in Blackpool on Friday (9th October 2009) as the town welcomes everyone in the Window & General Cleaning Industry to the Federation of Window Cleaners Trade Exhibition and Window Cleaning Competition. The event, is primarily focused on the window cleaning industry whilst incorporating its associated trades and services. A full day of events with specialist suppliers exhibiting their latest equipment, see live demonstrations outside plus an opportunity to try out the latest products. Floor plan here. With the industry changing in the last few decades, now using sophisticated systems to clean windows up to 60 feet up. Many of these systems along with

traditional tools will be on demonstration at the show, giving you the opportunity to handle the products and talk to the suppliers face-to-face. Click the suppliers names above to take you to their websites.

Industry experts will be presenting Free Seminars during the day. So be sure to book a seat to avoid disappointment.

• "Why Train" - Andrew Willis - Impact Group Training
• "Ladder Safety" - Andrew Lee - FWC Safety Officer
• "What to look for in buying a waterfed Pole system" - Bryan Dolby - FWC Chairman

The exhibition and window cleaning competition is FREE to enter for everyone in the window cleaning trade. Especially welcome, are those who are thinking of setting up a window cleaning business and simply want to learn more about the trade....Plus a chance of saving £10 on the annual joining fee. Click Here for a booking form to apply for your FREE entry badge, or just email info@f-w-c.co.uk

Window Cleaning Competition's - Presented by the fastest window cleaner on the planet...Terry Turbo Burrows!! How fast can you squeegee three windows..? come along and have a go at this Guinness Record window cleaning competition...you may just be lucky. It is Free to enter for all professional window cleaners over the age of 16 years. Britain's fastest Window Cleaner Terry Turbo Burrows can clean the three window in 9.24 Seconds...although you do not have to beat this on the day to win the Open Speed....But you do have to be the fastest time on the day!! Britain's fastest Lady window cleaner is Janine Guiseley was the first lady to be entered in the Guinness Book of Records with 23.38 Seconds in 2005....again you do not have to beat this title to win a prize...Just have fun on the day.

• ¨ Open Speed - 1st Prize - £150.00 ¨ 2nd Prize - £100.00 ¨ 3rd Prize £75.00
• ¨ Women's Speed - 1st Prize - £ 75.00 ¨ 2nd Prize - £ 50.00 ¨ 3rd Prize £20.00
• ¨ Children's Event - 1st Prize - £ 15.00 ¨ 2nd Prize - £ 10.00 ¨ 3rd Prize £ 5.00

Special Show Offer!....reduced price "Cleaning Windows Safely" course arranged for the day prior to the show...Limited spaces, so book now to avoid disappointment Click Here for details. Or call 0161 432 8754 Click picture below to enlarge.