Burlington Aerial Lift Safety Training

Burlington Aerial Lift Safety Training - Every year, there are roughly 26 construction fatalities attributed to the utilization of aerial lifts. Nearly all of the craftsmen killed are electrical workers, laborers, painters, ironworkers or carpenters. Most fatalities are caused by tip-overs, electrocutions and falls. The greatest danger is from boom-supported lifts, like cherry pickers and bucket trucks. Most fatalities are connected to this kind of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other hazards comprise being thrown out of a bucket, being struck by falling things, and being caught between the guardrail or lift bucket and an object, like for example a steel beam or joist.

In order to safely operate an aerial lift, perform a check on the following items prior to using the device: operating and emergency controls, safety devices (like for instance, outriggers and guardrails), personal fall protection gear, and tires and wheels. Check for possible leaks in the air, fuel-system, hydraulic fluid. Check the device for missing or loose parts.

The places where worker would make use of the aerial device should be examined carefully for potential hazards, like for instance holes, bumps, debris and drop-offs. Overhead powerlines have to be monitored and avoided. It is suggested that aerial lift devices be used on surfaces that are stable and level. Never work on steep slopes that exceed slope restrictions specified by the manufacturer. Even on a slope which is level, brakes, wheel chocks and outriggers should be set.

Employers are required to provide aerial lift operators and maintenance mechanics with the right instruction manuals. Mechanics and operators must be trained by a licensed person experienced with the relevant kind of aerial lift.

Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Close lift platform chains or doors prior to operating.
o Do not climb on or lean over guardrails. Stand on the platform or floor of the bucket.
o Stay within manufacturer's load-capacity limitations.
o Make use of work-zone warnings, like cones and signs, when working near traffic.

If proper procedures are followed, electrocutions are preventable. Stay at least ten feet away from whatever power lines and licensed electricians should de-energize and/or insulate power lines. People working should make use of personal protective equipment and tools, like insulated bucket. Nevertheless, an insulated bucket does not protect from electrocution if, for example, the individual working touches a different wire providing a path to the ground.

When inside the bucket, workers need to prevent possible falls by securing themselves to the guardrails by utilizing a full-body harness or a positioning device. If there is an anchorage inside the bucket, a positioning belt together with a short lanyard is adequate.

By following the manufacturer's instructions, tip-overs can be avoided. Never drive the lift platform when it is elevated, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer. Follow the horizontal and vertical reach restrictions of the device, and never exceed the load-capacity that is specified.

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