Working at Heights: China

China's window cleaning operations exemplify innovation and unwavering dedication to safety, setting high standards for the industry.

Window cleaners on the 101st floor of the Shanghai World Financial Center in China are seen preparing for their daily shift. Over 30 members of the team, working in pairs, take on this challenging task. They must obtain a high-rise operations license and have no high blood pressure or fear of heights to perform the job.

Strict safety regulations prohibit window cleaners from carrying items that could fall, such as mobile phones or wristwatches. They are also required to stop working in heavy winds for their own safety.

The Shanghai World Financial Center is the fourth-tallest building globally, standing at an impressive height of 1,614 feet. It opened to the public in 2008 and boasts the highest observation deck in the world. The Park Hyatt Shanghai, occupying floors 79 to 93, is the second-highest hotel globally.

Precautions for high-rise window cleaning include proper training, safety equipment usage, pre-job inspections, weather monitoring, and establishing exclusion zones. Additionally, communication systems, environmentally friendly cleaning agents, regular equipment maintenance, and an emergency response plan are essential components.