Top 5 Aerial Lift Safety Tips

Aerial lifts make elevated jobs much easier to complete. These vehicle-mounted devices have extendable platforms which are used to elevate personnel to various heights. They are great for accessing high job sites and hard-to-reach projects where the use of scaffolding isn’t the ideal option. As you operate these machines, safety must be the ultimate priority.

This can be achieved as the aerial safety checklist should be completed prior to starting the job. Along with this as you commence your project, the entire area should be checked and this must include identifying if there are any overhead wires which could get in the way. As the workers are mounting the platform they should be certain to have their safety harness in position. Following these tips can make your aerial lift experience as safe as possible. Read on to learn more about the various safety precautions you should take while using your aerial lift. 

Following these tips can make your aerial lift experience as safe as possible. Read on to learn more about the various safety precautions you should take while using your aerial lift.

Keep a clear base and circumference.

Aerial lifts are often moving a project or construction site to assist workers, whether for construction, inspection, installation, or even repair services. Before using an aerial lift, the operator and workers should carefully survey the area where they are working. Before operating an aerial lift, always make sure that the base is clear of any significant debris or scrap that can cause instability in the vehicle. As the lift is extended, the circumference of the lift should be clear, and similarly as it is collapsed back into position. Operators should also avoid moving the lift while its platform is extended. The lift operator should remain several feet away from overhead hazards, such as power lines.

Hire trained lift operators.

It is a good idea to make sure that your employees and contractors are appropriately equipped to safely operate the aerial lift. This will also include the wearing of proper protective gear to prevent and reduce the chances of injury. Here can be a guide on what type of clothing should be worn on site as well. Aerial lift safety can be generalized, but there are still specific tips that should be followed for every job. 

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has reported that the leading causes of death on aerial lifts are falls, electrocutions, and collapses. Most of these fatalities could have been prevented if operators had followed the safety tips found in the owner’s manual. Aerial lift operators should also be properly trained and familiar with the safety features of each type of equipment.

Wear your harness.

When operating an aerial lift, it is imperative to wear your safety harness, which fits around the body of the operator. It is essential to use a body harness because it can prevent you from falling out of the aerial lift if you are struck by an object. Aerial lifts are great conductors of electricity and should be used with caution when working near overhead power lines. The height of an aerial lift’s platform should be gauged according to the worker’s height and even include a three-foot safety margin. 

Aerial lifts can be dangerous because they can fall on a high incline, and the operator should avoid being too close to the edge of the platform to prevent an accident. The use of an aerial lift safety harness can reduce occupational injury, prevent falls especially from extended heights and also minimize ergonomic strains. The aerial lift can actually be considered much safer than working from scaffolding in many instances.

Weight compliance

Aerial lifts have different heights and weight limits, so ensuring you do not exceed these limits is crucial to the safety of everyone involved. Be sure to keep workers within the guardrails, and make sure that they do not overload the platform. Aerial lifts are designed to carry workers, hand tools, and equipment, and so on, but the manufacturer puts a weight limit on them for safety reasons. 

If you plan on using an aerial lift for work on an incline, you need to be cautious and not exceed the weight limits. This may change based on the angle of incline and weight allotment may need to be recalculated.

The Environment

It is important to be mindful of the weather conditions under which the lift and the personnel are operating. For example it is recommended to avoid windy conditions when working on an aerial lift. Strong winds may cause instability and can even lead to tipping over the aerial lift. Windy conditions are further aggravated by snow and ice, so it is crucial to avoid using an aerial lift during such conditions. Experts strongly recommend against working on an aerial lift when weather conditions are bad.