
Aerial Lift Safety Training Casa Grande - There are about 26 to 30 construction deaths in North America attributed to the utilization of aerial lifts. Nearly all of the individuals killed are craftsmen like for example laborers, painters, electrical workers, carpenters or ironworkers. The majority of the fatalities are caused by falls, tip-overs and electrocutions. The greatest danger is from boom-supported lifts, like bucket trucks and cherry pickers. Most fatalities are related to this particular type of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other dangers include being thrown out of a bucket, being struck by falling objects, and being caught between the guardrail or lift bucket and an object, like for instance a joist or steel beam.
In order to safely operate an aerial lift, perform a check on the following things prior to utilizing the device: operating and emergency controls, safety devices (like for example, guardrails and outriggers), personal fall protection gear, and wheels and tires. Check for possible leaks in the air, fuel-system, hydraulic fluid. Check the device for loose or missing components.
The places that worker will use the aerial device must be examined thoroughly for potential hazards, like for example bumps, holes, drop-offs and debris. Overhead powerlines need to be monitored and avoided. It is recommended that aerial lift devices be used on surfaces which are stable and level. Don't work on steep slopes which exceed slope limitations which the manufacturer specified. Even on a slope which is level, outriggers, brakes and wheel chocks should be set.
Employers are needed to provide aerial lift operators and maintenance mechanics with the proper guidebooks. Mechanics and operators should be trained by a qualified person experienced with the applicable aerial lift model.
Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Before operating, close doors and lift platform chains.
o Climbing on and leaning over guardrails is prohibited. Stand on the floor of the bucket or platform.
o Use the provided manufacturer's load-capacity limitations.
o Make use of work-zone warnings, like for instance signs and cones, when working near traffic.
If right procedures are followed, electrocutions are preventable. Stay at least 10 feet away from whatever power lines and qualified electricians must insulate and/or de-energize power lines. Workers must make use of personal protective tools and equipment, such as insulated bucket. Nevertheless, a bucket which is insulated does not protect from electrocution if, for instance, the person working touches a different wire providing a path to the ground.
Falls are preventable if the worker remains secure in guardrails or within the bucket by making use of a full-body harness or a positioning device. If there is an anchorage within the bucket, a positioning belt together with a short lanyard is acceptable.
Tip-overs are avoidable by following the manufacturer's directions. Unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, never drive whilst the lift platform is elevated. Adhere to the horizontal and vertical reach limits of the device, and never exceed the load-capacity that is specified.