Aerial lifts can greatly reduce the risk for falls as well as strain or sprain injuries when work can be positioned exactly where it is needed. However, they must be used in a safe manner and adequate training must be done.
Steps to take before using an aerial lift:
- Each operator of an aerial lift must be authorized by the company and trained by a qualified person
- Each lift has its own design and the operator should be trained on the specific equipment they will be using
- All operator and base controls should be inspected prior to use
- Be aware of appropriate fall protection for the lift being used and ensure it is utilized when in operation
- Any hazards on the ground should be located prior to start such as holes, material, debris etc.
- Any energized lines should be located before work on a lift begins
- All power should be de-energized, and work should be done at a minimum 10ft away from the lines
- All anchoring equipment should be used even on level surfaces
Tips while operating lift:
- Operators should always have on any necessary fall protection before operating equipment
- Ensure all chains are engaged or gates and doors are closed and latched before operating
- All guardrails should be inspected for condition before use
- Never climb on guardrails
- Operator should always be looking in the direction of travel
- Ladders or other steps and material should not be used in the lift to gain additional height
- Operators should be aware of the load limit for their equipment and not exceed
- Do not operate lift on questionable terrain or near energized electrical lines
- Have a fire extinguisher available in the basket when doing any operations that may create a fire hazard
- Ensure ground controls are not used except in a case of emergency
