Our Desksurfer is designed to provide safe, controlled access when working at height in environments where traditional scaffold towers or large platforms are not practical. It is compact, mobile, and engineered to reduce the temptation to improvise with steps, chairs or unstable equipment.
The Desksurfer uses a mast and winch system to raise and lower a guarded working platform. The operator remains within a protected space, with guard rails in place to prevent falls. The unit is mounted on castors for manoeuvrability, each fitted with brakes to secure the base during use.
It is not a substitute for planning. It is a tool that supports proper planning.
Before use, a pre-use inspection is essential. The Desksurfer must be positioned on firm level ground. The castor brakes should be fully engaged to prevent movement and the outriggers correctly positioned to ensure stability.
The pre-use inspection should include checking the cable for frays. If there are more than three visible frays, the cable should be replaced. Inspect the mast for lodged debris or visible damage. Confirm that the winch runs smoothly when raising and lowering the platform.
If the mast moves freely and the winch operates without sticking, that indicates the mechanism is functioning as intended. If resistance is felt, stop and investigate. Forcing the system can cause internal damage.
The operator should ensure that the safe working load is not exceeded. The operator and any tools and materials being used must not exceed 150kg. Overloading places strain on the Desksurfer and increases the risk of failure.
Once the unit is secure and inspected, the operator raises the platform to the required height using the manual winch. The winch and cable should not be used to raise and lower a person, tools, or materials. They are only there to raise the mast and platform without a load. Once the gravity latch passes the required height, the platform should be lowered until the gravity latch is supporting the platform, not the winch and cable. The movement should be steady and controlled. There should be no sudden drops or jerks.
If the platform lowers too quickly, that signals a fault. Under no circumstances should oil be applied to the winch unit. Lubrication of the winch can compromise its braking mechanism. If contamination such as oil or debris has entered the system, the unit should be withdrawn from service and assessed.
The operator then climbs the mast and enters the platform closing off the entrance with the two hook-on safety bars.
Lowering the platform follows the same principle. The operator unhooks the two safety bars and exits the platform backwards and descends facing the mast.
Back on the ground, the operator can lower the platform. This requires the operator to raise the mast until the gravity latch can be held clear of the rungs, then lowering the platform whilst holding the gravity latch clear, allowing it to pass the rungs until it reaches its lowest level. The gravity latch should then be released to allow the lowest rung to support the mast to avoid undue strain on the cable during transit.
Like any equipment for work at height, the Desksurfer requires regular servicing. Annual inspection helps identify wear before it becomes a hazard. Failure to maintain the unit can lead to sticking mechanisms, unstable movement, or compromised braking. These faults may not be obvious at first glance, so routine checks reduce that risk.
Ability International offers ongoing support and servicing where, in most cases, engineers attend your site to inspect and service units in place, limiting disruption to operations.
The Desksurfer works best when it forms part of a wider safe system of work. It does not remove the need for risk assessment. Before any task, consider overhead hazards, floor conditions, and surrounding foot traffic. If the unit is used in a busy environment, barriers will be required to create a controlled work zone.
Supervision also matters as even experienced operators can become complacent. A brief review of controls before starting work reinforces good practice. Training ensures that users understand not only how to operate the unit, but why each step matters.
If you want to ensure your Desksurfer is set-up, operated and maintained correctly, contact Ability International today for expert guidance, servicing and practical support you can rely on.
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