Around the world, material cableways represent a strategic solution. They are essential in logistics, mining, energy, and construction. Designed to tackle difficult terrain, steep gradients, and long distances, they enable safe and efficient transport, contributing to a significant reduction in operational time and costs.
Despite their apparent simplicity, these systems involve considerable technical and regulatory complexity, an aspect that is all too often underestimated. The common perception tends to reduce the cableway to a basic system of rope and trolley, overlooking critical factors such as structural safety, proper sizing, regular maintenance, and compliance with applicable regulations.
In this context, SEIK adopts a deliberate and rigorous approach based on international directives and the guidelines issued by OITAF, the globally recognized authority for ropeway transport.
OITAF Guidelines as International Standards
OITAF (International Organization for Transportation by Rope) has been developing and updating technical safety and operations recommendations for ropeway systems for decades. Its publications serve as a key resource for:
- Safe and efficient system design
- Operational guidelines for daily use
- Preventive and corrective maintenance criteria
- Training of technical and operating personnel
At SEIK, we incorporate these directives at every stage of our work. We believe that adherence to internationally recognized standards is the first step toward ensuring durable and safe installations.
When Safety Is Neglected: The Verbano Case
A study published by La Stampa in 2022 highlighted an alarming situation in the Italian province of Verbano-Cusio-Ossola. Out of approximately 200 registered cableways, only 40 percent were operational, and more than 90 percent of those were non-compliant with current regulations (source: La Stampa, August 25, 2022). In many cases, cableways designed exclusively for materials were being misused to transport people, leading to serious safety risks.
Similar incidents have occurred in Switzerland and Austria, where improper use of material cableways led to accidents and legal consequences.
These examples demonstrate the critical importance of relying on professional and competent operators—not only for legal compliance, but to protect people, property, and the environment.
SEIK’s Technical, Legal, and Responsible Approach
SEIK’s method is based on a clear principle: SAFETY IS NO ACCIDENT
Each system is:
- Maintained through customized plans and regular inspections
- Analyzed in detail (load capacity, constraints, etc.)
- Designed to measure in full compliance with EU regulations and ANSFISA directives
- Built using certified materials and proven technologies
- Tested by authorized technicians and fully documented with traceable technical records
Additionally, we offer client training to ensure correct use of the system, helping avoid operational errors and preserve safety over time.
Conclusion: Expertise and Standards for Reliable Safety
Installing a material cableway is not a trivial choice. It involves technical and legal responsibilities that must be addressed with competence and precision.
SEIK provides not only high-quality products but also specialized consulting, proven experience, and sound engineering. Because in ropeway transport, simplicity should only be a matter of appearance, never of design.
If you want to check the compliance and safety of your system, or simply learn more about best practices in the field, contact us here. We’ll be happy to provide tailored technical support and custom solutions.
