Working Platforms

Presented by: David Sandstrom & Andy Sullivan

Menard USA

Specialty contractors in the deep foundations industry are working with associations across the country including ADSC, PDCA, and DFI to provide guidance for safe designs, maintenance and administration of safe working platforms. The work includes developing outreach and education for general contractors, insurance organizations, state OSHAs and architects.

Sites with problematic soils may require a significant effort to stabilize the ground to support the foundation system of a structure. Regardless if the approach is conventional pile systems (i.e., drilled shafts, micropiles, driven piles, etc.) or ground improvement (i.e. rigid inclusions, aggregate piers, dynamic compaction, etc.) the surface of the ground must be improved prior to construction to support the equipment that is required for pile or ground improvement installation. The development of a competent working platform that is stable and free draining is critical for the safety of the workers and for expediting the work schedule. Minimizing the importance of proper working platform jeopardizes the lives of the workers and the success of the project.

Menard will provide a discussion regarding the proper procedures for designing a safe working platform. The presentation will include general guidelines for when an engineered platform may or may not be required. Determination of appropriate equipment track pressures to use in the design process and a brief overview of various references used throughout the industry to aid in the design process.

The second portion of the presentation will provide operational best practices in constructing and maintaining a working platform. Discussions on early communication, scheduling and planning, adherence to construction specifications, installation procedures, etc. Lastly a discussion on what can go wrong or the potential consequences of a poorly constructed working platform.