Available as both an H-base and a counterbalance system, the Porta Base works with Reid’s T-davit and Porta Davit Quantum lifting units, as well as the company’s new double winch T-davit.
The system, which was developed in-house by Reid’s specialist engineering team in Chepstow, is designed to be a premium-quality, heavy-duty solution for both goods and personnel lifting, as well as offering an anchor point for full fall arrest. It provides goods lifting capacity of 600kg and personnel lifting capacity of 300kg, with a reach of 800mm when using the H-base and 1,200mm when using the counterbalance.
The Porta Base can be assembled quickly and simply in just a few minutes, adds the manufacturer. The H-base version has three fully detachable components, and the counterbalance version has five; both can be assembled without the need for any fixed socket installation, and without any specialist tools.
Reid expects the products to be chosen by end users who require a solution for difficult-to-access locations and confined spaces, while avoiding the cost of a permanent, fall arrest installation. The flexibility of the compatible Reid davits, which offer roof access and goods lifting, other key markets will be rooftop repairs, window cleaning, and glazing repair and replacement, says the company.
All the elements of the aluminium Porta Base are anodised and powder coated to maximise corrosion resistance, adds Reid. Both the H-base and counterbalance models include levelling feet for uneven ground and adjustable legs for increased radius, while the counterbalance version includes a detachable folding weight basket with integrated swivel locking castors, and a 270° allowable rescue rotation.
The system, which was previewed at last year’s LiftEx event in Milton Keynes, UK, is adjustable from 1,430mm–1,830mm, with a height of 1,600mm, and is fully tested and accredited to the requirements of EN795–2012 as an anchor point for fall protection.
Managing director Simon Luke said: “We have deliberately designed the new Porta Base to give our customers maximum usability and flexibility. It does more than other systems on the market, yet it is still lightweight and transportable enough to make it a practical and cost-effective option for a wide range of applications.”