Permanent works

Permanent work at height, made with equipment such as cradles, platforms, winches, fall arresters, And bosun chairs, refer to activities carried out using fixed or semi-fixed systems installed on a building. This equipment, often grouped under the term BMU (Building Maintenance Unit), are essential for the maintenance of facades, the cleaning of windows or the maintenance of complex infrastructures.

What is a BMU (Building Maintenance Unit)?

A BMU is a permanent device integrated into buildings to facilitate work at height.

Associated equipment:

• Suspended platforms or cradles for transporting workers and equipment;
• Motorized winch and lifting systems;
• Built-in safety mechanisms (emergency brakes, anti-fall devices).

Common applications of a BMU :

• Window cleaning: Main use for buildings with glass facades;
• Inspection and maintenance: Inspection and repair of structures, maintenance of joints or exterior lighting systems;
• Aesthetic works: Painting, restoration, or installation of advertising panels.

BMUs are essential for modern buildings, where access to the façade requires reliable, secure solutions adapted to architectural constraints.

Common equipment for permanent work with BMU:

1. Nacelles: Suspended platforms capable of carrying 1 person and equipment used for window cleaning, facade inspection, small repairs;
2. Suspended platforms, suspended scaffolding or flying bridges: Larger structures than cradles, able to accommodate 2 or more people, designed for jobs requiring more space or multiple operators; Attached to winches for raising and lowering; Perfect for long or complex jobs; Ideal for panel installation, structural maintenance.
3. Winches: Motorized lifting mechanisms integrated into BMUs to raise or lower nacelles, platforms or other equipment with emergency braking systems;
4. Fall arrest systems: Safety devices that prevent falls in the event of failure of other systems; integrated into winches, they are essential to protect suspended workers.
5. Saddles: Suspended seats that allow operators to work in tight or hard-to-reach spaces; used for light work such as painting or spot cleaning.

Differences between temporary and permanent work :