An updated version of King’s GTS 44/3 triaxle stepframe, with options designed for use in the access industry, was exhibited on the King stand at Vertikal Days, theAccess Industry Exhibition which took place at Haydock Racecourse on the 16th and 17th June 2010.
The trailer displayedhas now joined20 existing King units in the fleet of Nationwide Platforms, part of the Lavendon Group, and the UK’s largest access platform hire company.
A key feature of this improved design is the handrail system fitted to both sides of the top deck of the trailer. The handrails are mounted on to telescopic outriggers such that the trailer can travel within the 2.55m overall width limit, but when loading and unloading the driver can deploy the handrails to provide a 300m wide access system to access and exit from the top deck.
King has taken into account relevant standards available generally within the industry and the system conforms to current British standards, including BS6399 Part 1, which outlines the code of practice for stairs, ladders and walkways, and includes such items as toeboards, rail heights and sections, and side loadings.
A number of working at height safe systems of work are currently appearing on trailers, but manynew additions can create more hazards from trips and falls, and so King were keen to design a system which complies with established standards.
The specification of trailer also includes a number of features which assist access hire companies with speed and safety of loading. The ramps fitted to the trailer are MANTIS automatic double fold 3.75m long with knife edge approach, making loading of small scissors with solid tyres easier. Loading angle is 9 °. The neck of the trailer is two stage to ensure that low ground height scissors have adequate clearance when loaded on the top deck.