Nationwide introduces ‘intelligent’ secondary guarding

The UK’s largest access rental company Nationwide Platforms has launched SkySiren PCS (Pre-Crush Sensor) for Scissors, described as an intelligent secondary guarding system designed to significantly reduce the risk of entrapment for scissor lift operators. 

Originally developed for boom lifts in 2011, SkySiren began as a conventional secondary guarding system that alerted others once an entrapment incident had occurred. The system then evolved into SkySiren PCS with the later addition of pre-crush sensing technology. This further improved safety by allowing the system to stop the machine and alert the operator before contact. 

SkySiren PCS for Scissors uses ultrasonic sensors to monitor the operator’s surroundings in real-time.

However, entrapment incidents involving scissor lifts remain a critical issue. According to the IPAF Global Safety Report 2025, 54% of all reported entrapment incidents in 2024 occurred on 3a MEWPs (scissor lifts). Overall, entrapment cases rose by 75% compared to the previous year, with a 62% increase in related fatalities.

To further offset the risk of entrapment, Nationwide Platforms’ BlueSky Solutions team has adapted its preexisting SkySiren PCS for use on scissor lifts. The scissor lift version is the only system on the market that works to prevent entrapment whether the machine is in drive or lift/lower mode, said the company. 

SkySiren PCS for Scissors uses ultrasonic sensors to monitor the operator’s surroundings in real-time. If the sensors detect an overhead or rear obstacle, they automatically slow and stop the MEWP before contact, giving the operator time to reassess and manoeuvre safely. Should the operator choose to proceed while a crushing hazard remains, the system’s pressure-sensitive bar acts as a secondary safeguard. Mounted in front of the platform controls, the bar triggers when the operator’s body is forced against it, immediately cutting machine movement, activating a strobe light, and sounding a high-decibel alarm until the hazard is resolved. This dual-layer approach ensures constant protection, even in dynamic and challenging environments.

The system also supports incident analysis with its operation recording feature, logging all movements and alerts for future review. Designed with maintenance efficiency in mind, it has a modular build for quick on-site repairs to minimise downtime.

Customer adoption 

According to Nationwide, several customers have been eager to adopt the technology, including Dornan Group, a Turner Company. Dornan Group is at the forefront of MEWP safety innovation and operates with world leading MEWP minimum standards. It has fitted the system to more than 150 MEWPs at a flagship London data-centre project, marking the largest single project order for scissor lift secondary guarding in the history of both Nationwide Platforms and the Loxam Group.

SkySiren PCS for Scissors is an industry first.

Simon Beckett, UK Sales Director at Nationwide Platforms, said, “As the UK construction landscape evolves, we’re seeing significant growth in large-scale developments such as mega-sheds, data-centres, new nuclear, and gigafactories. All of these rely heavily on internal scissor lifts for safe and efficient access, so there’s a need for more advanced operator protection systems.

“That’s why it’s been fantastic to see forward-thinking companies like Dornan Group embracing SkySiren®PCS™ for Scissors at scale, ensuring their teams work proactively and go home safely at the end of the day.”

Sean Wardle, Logistics Manager at Dornan, added, “Dornan has been delighted to work with Nationwide Platforms and implement their MEWP safety system on our projects. This advanced technology enhances safety and brings significant operational benefits.

“At Dornan, we recognise that ensuring the safety of everyone on site goes hand-in-hand with maintaining operational excellence. The adoption of smart safety solutions reinforces our commitment to creating a safer, more efficient working environment.

“We look forward to continuing to support forward-thinking initiatives that raise the bar for industry safety”.