Water fed poles are becoming the tool of choice in window cleaning
February 1st 2004

There have been two revolutions in the window cleaning industry. The chamois gave way to the squeegee, in the 1960s, and now the squeegee is giving way to the water fed pole. The move to using poles is gathering pace rapidly with Tucker UK sales doubling in the last year. The Tucker situation is equally impressive in Europe where Holland has seen dramatic changes in just three years with markets opening up in Belgium and Germany

All four of these countries will be represented, by a Tucker agent, at Interclean, Amsterdam, from May 11th to 14th (Hall 3, Stand 03.323). On a 76 square metre stand, Tucker Pole UK will be highlighting their new patented mobile tank and the Dutch will be showing developments they are making with their mobile systems.

It is interesting to note that the use of poles, official approval and the legal implications vary considerably around Europe and what is acceptable here is not necessarily appropriate in other parts of the EC. In Holland the use of any high level poles involves a licence and the height and ergonomics has been a subject of considerable government scrutiny. For the first time water fed poles have been included in the 2004 Dutch Labour Agreement for use up to 10 metres. It is hoped to increase this height to 13 metres and above in subsequent years.

This highlights the more relaxed attitude and self regulation approach of authorities here in the UK. However, this is no excuse for complacency. There have been accidents associated with mobile tanks, in recent years, and the cowboy element attached to any young new industry is beginning to concern the major players in the business.

It has been recognised for some while that a trade association, for the water fed pole industry, is long overdue. The NFMWGC, the federation for window cleaners, must be applauded for recent steps taken in organising a meeting with pole manufacturers to discuss guidelines for the

preparation of a Health & Safety Executive document on the use of poles. However, it is generally accepted that much more needs to be done. There is some urgency as Holland now has policies in place. It would not be in our interests to have these come in through the back door via Brussels.

Tucker Pole Systems UK agree in principle with Ionics, and others, that standards need to be formulated and implemented to give the pole industry much more professionalism and credibility. There are several areas of concern. For instance, although price differential is expected, the current wide variation for equipment and installation is giving rise to confusion on comparability and doubts about quality and performance.

Its likely that 2004 will see a shake out as the industry develops further. Without doubt water fed poles have a huge future in all

aspects of high rise cleaning. If we are all to benefit from the industry then there has to be a positive move forward. Tucker intends to champion change wherever necessary and implores everyone seriously involved in this industry to do likewise.

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