Below you'll find a list of all posts that have been categorized as “Blog”
Reflecting on Pro-Bel’s Role in Risk Management It’s the end of a successful 2015. As a Department Manager, I am inclined to sit back and reflect on what my department did well, what we did not do well, and how we can grow the business while continuing to exceed our customers’ expectations. This type of introspection forces me to look …
A significant change to the Ontario Building Code (OBC) was just revealed that positively affects the fall arrest anchor and tie-back equipment industry. Effective January 1, 2015, wood frame buildings could be built up to six stories tall in Ontario (an increase from four stories). Since roof anchor systems are required for maintenance and window washing equipment on buildings that are eight …
As architects continue to imagine and design complex projects, it is becoming increasingly common for fall arrest and tieback equipment to be located on building terraces. As the condominium market is still competitive, builders and developers are devising special features and incentives to lure buyers. Items like barbecues, bars, built-in kitchens, gardens, lounges, hot tubs, patio furniture, and even pools …
Whenever possible, it’s best practice to ensure that the installation of fall arrest and tie-back anchors for window washing, suspended maintenance, and fall protection systems is completed in the “new construction” phase. However, builders often make a misguided attempt to save the client money on construction costs without considering the potential impacts a retrofit will have down the line. There are …
The Inspections Department at Pro-Bel is an integral part of our company. It is dedicated to ensuring that fall arrest and tie-back anchors (for window washing systems and fall protection equipment) are inspected annually in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and Department/Ministry of Labour regulations. The Department ensures annual inspections of fall arrest and tie-back anchors, promoting safety for high-rise workers. Our …
Many people do not have first-hand experience with fall arrest and tieback roof anchors (for window washing systems and fall protection equipment) and are not versed in high-rate energy performance methods. Roof anchor strength and force standards are necessary for fall protection and suspended access systems. This blog explains the force and load standards set by OSHA and ANSI, the …
The selection of proper roof anchors is critical and requires an in-depth knowledge of fall window washing, suspended maintenance, fall protection codes, standards and rigging methods. Additionally, recognizing that each building is unique, most architects, developers, and general contractors find it daunting to select a professional roof anchor company. This blog outlines the essential standards and best practices for designing roof anchors …
Davit Systems are one of the most valuable assets when it comes to window washing and façade maintenance – but a davit isn’t just a singular piece. Davit arm assemblies, davit bases, and more, all have their part in a davit system. Davit Arm Assemblies Davit arms are used to rig over non-structural parapets, decorative elements, and balcony guardrails. These …
If you are washing windows in a downtown metropolis, you will certainly be working close to live power lines. Whether it is working from a: Bosun’s chair Ladder Temporary platform Scaffold working near hydro lines can be dangerous! Unfortunately, some property managers and maintenance workers do not fully understand the risks these lines pose. Making the Area Safe In Ontario, …
Pro-Bel was recently faced with the problem of installing a rigging sleeve on an existing building where we had no access to the ceiling below the roof. The interior atrium of the building could not be cleaned (or maintained) because there was no lift/platform that would reach the height required (and there was no other access point to install any …
We are often asked to provide our equipment for buildings with standing-seam roofs. In the past, this request would make even our most knowledgeable designers cringe, but alas, we have engineered a solution. What is a Standing Seam Roof? A standing seam roof consists of a series of sheet metal panels that are connected “above” the panels (creating a “standing …
Every type of roof structure presents its own unique challenges in new construction for companies that supply and install permanent equipment on them. With structural steel its reinforcing, with concrete it can be missing a pour. Hollow core precast can be looked at as one of the most challenging roof construction types for the installation of window washing, suspended maintenance …
