Issues with any safety equipment can creep up over time, even with Desksurfers, but knowing what to look for and how to address problems can prevent any accidents and minimise downtime. Here’s our quick guide to identifying and troubleshooting common faults with Desksurfers and related equipment.
Check Your Cables for Frays
The cables on your Desksurfer are vital for smooth operation. If you spot more than three frays, don’t take chances, replace the cable immediately. Worn cables are a major safety risk, and a sudden failure could leave you with the platform stuck in a raised position. Another common issue is cables getting jammed in the top of the cable wheel, stopping the platform from moving up and down properly. If you’re struggling with movement, check the wheel first.
Keep Masts Clear
The masts on your Desksurfer are what guide the platform up and down. Any damage here can be serious. Inspect for bends, cracks or anything lodged in the mast channels. Any debris between the moving sections could cause a jam, making movement jerky or unpredictable. If the platform doesn’t glide smoothly, investigate immediately before it gets worse.
Ensure Free Winch Movement
The winch is essential for raising and lowering your Desksurfer. A properly functioning winch moves freely when raising and lowering the mast. If it’s sticking, grinding or feels stiff, you’ve got a problem. Misuse such as raising the mast with a load on board, or operating it without checking for overhead obstructions can lead to damage, so address any issues early to avoid a full mechanical failure.
Castor Brakes Must Hold Firm
Your Desksurfer needs to stay put when you want it to, so if the brakes on the castors aren’t working, then that’s an instant no-go. A rolling platform is a disaster waiting to happen, especially at height. Test the brakes regularly, and if they don’t engage properly, investigate the cause which could be wear, dirt build-up, or a mechanical fault caused by lack of maintenance.
Keep Coupler Bolts Lubricated
Your Desksurfer is fitted with couple-on outriggers. The eyebolts that secure them need to be regularly lubricated as they dry out in air conditioned offices. A quick squirt of white or silicone grease every six to twelve months will do the trick. If left to dry out, the wing nuts can give the impression they are tight, when in fact they are simply not doing up, they are just binding. This could mean the outriggers are actually loose and the Desksurfer is unstable.
Keep Locking Mechanisms Smooth
If your Desksurfer or other tower system has hooks or locking mechanisms, check how they engage. They should lock smoothly and securely. If they’re jamming or feel stiff, a simple application of lubricant will usually solve the issue. Never force a stuck mechanism, just fix the root cause instead.
Cracked Welds Mean Stop Everything
A cracked weld is a serious structural issue. If you spot one, do not use the equipment. Even a small crack can grow quickly under stress, leading to catastrophic failure. Inspect your Desksurfer and other access equipment for signs of cracking, especially in high-stress areas. If in doubt, take it out of service.
Lubricate Sticking Hinges on Able Ladders
Roof access ladders like the Able Ladder need to unfold smoothly. If yours is sticking or resisting movement, it’s time for lubrication. Don’t ignore a stiff ladder as it could jam when you need it most, or worse, fail unexpectedly. A little regular maintenance here goes a long way.
Stay Safe, Stay Proactive
Regular checks and quick responses to faults will keep your Desksurfer and other equipment safe and functional. Don’t wait for a problem to escalate. Stay ahead of maintenance issues and ensure every component is working as it should.
To find out more about Desksurfer maintenance and the best practices for work at height, contact Ability International today.
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