Introduction
During the installation and dismantling of the Access Platform Decking system, access is required through the upper floor levels and as such, an access hatch is often required. Inadequate and unplanned access hatches often can’t be easily identified by the installers of Access Platform Decking systems or other operatives and may not be secured from moving or opening which can create an unprotected opening which operatives can fall through.

Without early consideration and use of designed and tested Access Hatches can lead to inadequate access provisions being put in place which may contravene the requirements of the Work at Height Regulations and lead to an unsafe working area where falls may occur. Edge Protection may be required if there is a need for the Access Hatch to remain open and the void is large enough for an operative to fall through.