Galvanized steel wire is commonly used to secure advertisement buntings to roadside lampposts in Malaysia. When the buntings are removed, rusted wires and torn materials often remain at elevated positions, creating visual pollution and potential safety hazards. Conventional removal methods typically require workers to use ladders or stand on the rear of pickup trucks to reach wires installed at heights exceeding 4.0 metres. These practices expose workers to substantial risks, including falls, injuries caused by unstable ground conditions, and ladder instability.
This innovation introduces Foldable Skyridder, an improved foldable high-reach wire cutter designed to cut elevated galvanized steel wire without relying on string-pulling or lever mechanisms. The tool was developed to address operational limitations in removing bunting wires across multiple lampposts while reducing dependence on unsafe height-access methods. Its key features include a foldable structure for easier storage and transportation, an adjustable handle to accommodate different working heights, lightweight construction for improved handling, and a cutting mechanism capable of reaching elevated wire positions from ground level.
Foldable Skyridder aims to improve the efficiency of Skyridder 1.0 as a wire-removal activities while enhancing worker safety, reducing operational time, and improving the visual condition of roadside environments. The innovation offers a practical and cost-effective solution for local authorities, maintenance contractors, utility service teams, universities, and facilities-management organisations. By enabling safer removal of elevated bunting wires, Skyridder supports safer work practices, cleaner public infrastructure, and more sustainable urban maintenance operations.
