Are the mobile tanks fitted in vehicles for high-level pole window cleaning safe?
August 1st 2004

The simple answer is yes! Yet having read so much about crash tests and the corporate manslaughter bill, from one company, you would think it was a major problem in our industry. Tucker Pole Systems UK viewpoint is that it is not. However, like any issue that has been stirred up like a hornets nest there are now aspects of the industry that need to be addressed sooner rather than later

It is very understandable that many larger cleaning companies are highly concerned by the publicity and are looking at the pole companies to review methods of working and to take the right safety approach. Over the last four and a half years Tucker Pole Systems UK have continually improved their tanks. We would like to emphasise that we have no concerns about any tank we have ever fitted. Our policy is straightforward:

1 Tucker Pole has always made sure that tanks are secured safely using a combination of vehicle manufacturers information and data from the tank constructors. Tucker Pole tanks have always had proper baffles fitted to restrict water movement.

2 Tucker Pole has always advised the fitting of a bulkhead between the drivers cab and the onboard equipment. After all even a pole sliding forward, under heavy braking, can be as dangerous as a moving tank.

3 Tucker Pole has never been comfortable with DIY installations. Although the cost saving implications are appreciated, very few window cleaners really have the knowledge required to install tanks. A mobile tank system also has electric requirements. An approved auto-electrician undertakes this work.

Earlier this year Tucker Pole Systems UK formally introduced a new tank format in co-operation with a fabricating company with 35 years experience in mobile tank design. The same construction techniques have been adopted by the specialist vehicle division of Land Rover who are mounting these tanks into their four-wheel drive, all terrain, vehicles for the Fire Service and Forestry Commission. The tanks have been thoroughly road tested to meet the most stringent demands in strength and performance. We are so pleased with the concept that the format is being patented.

It must be appreciated that high-rise pole window cleaning systems are still relatively new in the UK and the industry is developing quite differently to other countries. Many of the companies involved in the industry are combining technologies, not all of which they have previous experience. This can be dangerous when industry standards have yet to be formulated and there is no support of a trade association.

Individual company spending on research and development is commendable but the results should have a positive reflection on the industry. It is sad that the opposite currently seems to be the case. We believe that the time is right to bring the industry together and that this should be a priority. Tucker Pole Systems UK are delighted that the National Federation of Master Window & General Cleaners (N.F.M.W.G.C.) are introducing corporate membership and that they have a priority to establish a platform which the water fed pole industry can use to formulate standards and introduce guidelines for manufacturers, installers and operators to follow. Tucker Pole Systems look forward to working with a team to bring about these changes. For further information contact Alan Matthews using the enquiry bar:

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