Introduction
Experts in this field are human factor specialists who have focused their studies on how people interact with railings and balconies. Ergonomics relates to the effect of certain activities on the body, in this case, the effect that the height, maintenance, materials used and the installation of railings and balconies might have on people. Poorly positioned railings can result in damage to both the building where they are situated and the users, including falling injuries. There is a particular risk with young children, as railings must not be too widely placed, such that a child could slip through and fall. Balconies also must be able to appropriately support the weight that will be placed upon them.
Ergonomics expertise in this area is sought to promote the well-being of structures and people, and to ensure safe practices are being promoted and enforced. During construction of these features, there are strict codes and guidelines to ensure safety – for instance, railings in Australia must be at least one metre tall to prevent small children falling over the top. Expertise in this area can apply to identifying factors that may endanger people during the installation and maintenance of these features, enforcing government guidelines and rules on building sites, ensuring that special measures are taken when necessary (such as applying mesh to the inside of a pre-school railing), or assistance with formulating a workers compensation claim.
Experts in this area come from many professional backgrounds. Some will be trained ergonomists, some are WH&S experts, occupational therapists, human factor experts specialising in building construction, engineers focused on safe work environments, or builders specialising in ergonomics. They may also come from a medical background, from physiotherapists and chiropractors to doctors specialising in fall injuries. The specific specialisation and background needed will be determined by the factual situation which requires examination.
At the bottom of this profile are brief details of a number of the experts that Expert Experts represents. Call our office to discuss your requirements and to obtain a recommendation that suits your needs and budget.
Expertise in Action
Experts in the ergonomics of loading be called upon to assist in cases relating to construction and workplace policy, building design, injuries sustained due to improper design, installation and maintenance, and with workers compensation claims resulting from dangerous railings and balconies.
Sample Reports
For some fields of expertise we have some sample sections of de-identified reports. Please contact our office if you are interested in a sample.
Cost
The overall cost of expert opinion depends on the services required. Some of the key factors that affect the cost of advice include:
- The need for a view or inspection of a location
- The quantity of documentary material to be reviewed
- Whether there are reports of other experts to be reviewed and commented on in detail
- Whether there is a need for conferences with the expert either in person or by telephone/Skype
