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As autumn and winter approach, not only does the weather change for logistics companies, local authorities, truck stops, haulage firms and garages, but so does the risk profile. Moisture, frost and snowfall cause massive sheets of ice to form on truck tarpaulins and vehicle roofs within a matter of hours. Even a few centimetres of frozen water can break loose while driving and hit following vehicles with enormous force. Every year, the police and testing organisations issue urgent warnings about the consequences: shattered windscreens, serious accidents and, in some cases, life-threatening injuries. For companies in the transport industry, this not only poses a safety risk, but also potential liability and reputational damage.

Legal consequences and responsibility of operators

The Highway Code requires drivers to ensure that they have a clear view and that their vehicle is roadworthy before setting off. Anyone who sets off without de-icing their vehicle risks a warning fine. If falling ice sheets cause a hazard or an accident, the driver faces a fine of up to 120 Euro and a point on their licence in Flensburg. In the event of personal injury, criminal charges may also be brought. In frosty conditions, tarpaulin covers form hollows in which water freezes into sheets of ice. Vibrations and airflow cause these sheets to break off suddenly and hit vehicles behind.

For companies, this means not only safety risks, but also liability and reputation risks – including downtime, insurance claims and investigations. Companies must instruct their drivers and provide them with suitable equipment to carry out the legally required de-icing safely. This makes the provision of professional solutions, such as a de-icing scaffold, not only a matter of safety, but also a legal necessity.

The KRAUSE solution: the modular ice-free scaffolding system

KRAUSE addresses these hazards with an ice-free scaffolding system that has been carefully designed in accordance with building regulations and is practical to use. It makes de-icing a predictable and standardised routine. The working platform is located at a height of around three metres and allows comfortable access to tarpaulin and box body superstructures. A slip-resistant staircase, robust coverings and all-round side protection guarantee maximum safety, even in wet and slippery weather conditions. Depending on the space available, the structure can be installed either free-standing with outriggers or attached to a wall.

Flexible lengths and year-round use

A key advantage of the system is its modular design. The scaffolding lengths can be adjusted in 3-metre increments. This allows for customised solutions for small spaces as well as large depots. Standard lengths range from 6 to 18 metres. Another special feature is the double walking surface: with the help of the railing extension set, the lower level can also be used. This transforms the ice-free scaffolding into a multifunctional work platform that can also be used outside the frost season for maintenance, cleaning or inspection work. This makes the investment a year-round benefit.

Accessories and customised extensions

In addition to the railing extension set, which enables year-round use of the lower platform level, the ice-free scaffold system can be expanded with coordinated accessories and adapted to the operator's needs. A specially developed ice sweeper with holder facilitates the safe removal of ice sheets and snow. Barrier sets with warning signs secure the work area against unauthorised access. Robust steel plates are available for difficult surfaces, increasing stability. This versatility makes the system a practical solution that can be used in a wide variety of industries.

Fields of application

Whether at car parks, service stations, freight forwarders' or municipal depots, or in logistics centres – wherever lorries and buses operate in winter, ice sheets are a constant problem. The KRAUSE ice-free scaffolding system offers a safe and standardised solution here. Operators not only increase safety for drivers and other road users, but also reduce liability risks and downtime. Municipal examples show that stationary de-icing systems are quickly accepted and used intensively, as drivers have few legal and safe alternatives on the road.

Why act now?

With the first night frosts, the risk increases dramatically. Every year, the media and testing organisations urge caution, and police reports document specific damage ranging from shattered windscreens to injuries. The cost of a single incident often exceeds the expense of proper, safe de-icing logistics. Protecting your vehicles and employees reduces liability risks and increases operational readiness during peak periods.

Falling ice sheets are not a theoretical problem. They are documented, expensive, dangerous and preventable. Legally, the obligation to de-ice is clear, and organisationally, it can be quickly integrated into everyday life with standardised, safe access. The KRAUSE ice-free scaffolding system combines a modular design, weather-resistant work surfaces and comprehensive accessories to create a solution that prevents accidents in winter and provides added value as a fully-fledged work platform for the rest of the year. Those who plan now reduce risks before temperatures drop and create routines that last.