Henchman offers gardeners wider choice and safety with launch of Aluminium Hi-Step range
Article date: 16 May 2007
A new range of lightweight aluminium hedge cutting platforms has been launched by Henchman for the UK gardeners following extensive consumer research.
For more than 10 years the firm has dominated the market with its steel Hi-Step platforms. Consumer demand for a lighter and more manoeuvrable system, and increasing concern at the use of ladders to access high hedges and trees – particularly when using cutters or saws – has driven the launch.
Tom Dorich, marketing manager for Henchman, explained: “We have re-engineered Hi-Step hedge cutting platforms to be available in aluminium as well as steel. Because of its height, the Hi-Step Major is produced only in aluminium.
“Our driving objective for both materials is ensuring that our equipment is stable under all conditions so that gardeners are thoroughly safe when working at height. The legs and feet of all Hi-Steps are individually and minutely adjustable. This provides a stable and safe platform, even when working on soft and/or sloping ground.”
The company also produces a comprehensive range of professional platforms in both aluminium and steel. These are used by gardeners working in estates, local authorities and parks and by commercial gardening contractors. The choice of steel or aluminium reflects an expected increase in demand following the introduction in 2005 of the Work at Height Regulations.
This demands a risk assessment to be carried out when anyone is working at a height where a fall might cause injury. Any such assessment is unlikely to favour the use of conventional ladders in a garden, particularly when working with sharp tools.
“Although this legislation does not apply to private individuals working in their own gardens, the safety implications should be taken into account by everyone,” added Tom.
*The four Hi-Step products enable a range of working heights between 5 feet (1.5 metres) and 16 feet (4.8 meters). They all enable the safe maintenance of high hedges and trees. Fixed guardrails allow gardeners to lean out, keeping both hands free to handle cutting tools, without fear of toppling.
The aluminium Hi-Steps offer easier manoeuvrability around the garden or woodland. They are also suitable for many other jobs around the home and garden such as reaching and cleaning out guttering or cleaning greenhouses and conservatories.
