LOBO in use:

Transport for London

The Problem

London Underground has more than 426 escalators, all needing maintenance on a regular basis. Many of these maintenance tasks are performed above and below escalators and in other awkward to access areas within the stations and tunnels. Infrastructure maintenance is required on a daily basis to keep the lights working and create a safe environment for the 1.265 billion passengers who travel on the network annually. However, routine maintenance and improvement work on all assets must be performed during the night.

The station must be closed, power switched off, and escalators powered down and locked before any cleaning or repair work can be performed. Simply replacing a light fitting can cost thousands of pounds as scaffolding has to be erected, the task performed, and the scaffolding dismantled all in the space of 4 hours.

The cost to achieve this, at night and within the 4 hour time frame is high and LU needed to find an alternative solution to reduce the cost of the scaffolding and provided a safe method of work for their maintenance teams. As much as £10,000 can be required to set up the scaffolding system for one night’s work. By using the LOBO System you can get your money back in one night!

The Solution

The LOBO System is a versatile work platform scaffolding product that combines the flexibility and strength of traditional scaffolding with the simplicity and mobility of tower systems. No tools are required. This combination provides the ultimate access system that is utilized in maintenance applications. A cantilever can be configured to gain access over stairs and escalators for maintenance. The LOBO System comprises of steel trestle legs, extensions and tubes that vary in size to enable a structure to be assembled into any shape or size, perfect for awkward areas where access is restricted.

The LOBO System can be assembled quickly, easily and safely around, under or above stairs, escalators and machinery – by your own in‐house maintenance crew. This means out‐sourced scaffolding labour costs can be reduced without comprising safety.

Areas, previously considered difficult to get to can now be accessed with ease for maintenance and cleaning purposes. In addition, LOBO is available 24/7 and so puts you in control of what and when you schedule your maintenance tasks.

The Benefits

The LOBO System is scalable, adaptable and adjustable to meet your ongoing and changing requirements. Simply add more components or alter your existing configuration to satisfy the demands of the next task. You can now protect your initial investment with a product that will meet all your access needs safely.

The LOBO System is a rigid and stable product, which meets or exceeds current safety regulations. Handrails can be fitted in seconds, at any point in the erection process. The LOBO System’s steel structure ensures many years of product life and a system that will not shake or rattle. The system also includes anti‐sway braces and outriggers for totally rigidity on taller systems.