Windsor Aerial Lift Safety Training

Windsor Aerial Lift Safety Training - Every year, there are around 26 construction deaths due to the use of aerial lifts. Most of the craftsmen killed are laborers, electrical workers, carpenters, painters or ironworkers. The majority of the deaths are caused by falls, tip-overs and electrocutions. The greatest hazard is from boom-supported lifts, such as cherry pickers and bucket trucks. Nearly all deaths 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 objects, and being caught between the lift bucket or guardrail and a thing, like a steel beam or joist.

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

The location where the device would be utilized must be carefully checked for possible hazards, like for example holes, bumps, drop-offs and debris. Overhead power lines should be closely monitored or avoided. It is suggested that aerial lift devices be utilized on level, stable surfaces. Do not work on steep slopes which 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. Operators and mechanics should be trained by a licensed person experienced with the applicable type of aerial lift.

Aerial Lift Safety Guidelines:
o Close doors or lift platform chains prior to operating.
o Leaning over and climbing on guardrails is prohibited. Stand on the platform or floor of the bucket.
o Make use of the provided manufacturer's load-capacity restrictions.
o Use work-zone warnings, like for instance cones and signs, when working near traffic.

If right procedures are followed, electrocutions are avoidable. Stay at least 10 feet away from any power lines and licensed electricians should de-energize and/or insulate power lines. Workers should utilize personal protective tools and equipment, like for example insulated bucket. Nevertheless, an insulated bucket does not protect from electrocution if, for instance, the person working touches another wire providing a path to the ground.

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

Tip-overs are preventable by following the manufacturer's directions. Unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, never drive whilst the lift platform is elevated. Follow the vertical and horizontal reach limits of the device, and never go beyond the load-capacity which is specified.

Click to Download the pdf