Seattle Aerial Lift Safety Training

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

The safe operation of an aerial lift requires a check on the following items before utilizing the device: emergency and operating controls, safety devices, personal fall protection gear, and tires and wheels. Look for possible leaks in the air, fuel-system, hydraulic fluid. Inspect the device for loose or missing parts.

The areas where worker would make use of the aerial device should be checked thoroughly for potential dangers, such as bumps, holes, drop-offs and debris. Overhead powerlines need to be monitored and avoided. It is recommended that aerial lift devices be used on stable, level surfaces. Never work on steep slopes which go beyond slope limitations which the manufacturer specified. Even on a slope that is level, brakes, wheel chocks and outriggers must be set.

Businesses must provide their aerial lift operators with the correct guidebooks. Operators and mechanics must be trained by a certified individual experienced with the applicable aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Close doors or lift platform chains before operating.
o Climbing on and leaning over guardrails is prohibited. Stand on the platform or floor of the bucket.
o Utilize the provided manufacturer's load-capacity limitations.
o Utilize work-zone warnings, like for example signs and cones, when working near traffic.

If proper procedures are followed, electrocutions are preventable. Stay at least ten feet away from any power lines and qualified electricians should de-energize and/or insulate power lines. Those working should utilize personal protective equipment and tools, like for example insulated bucket. Nonetheless, a bucket which is insulated does not protect from electrocution if, for instance, the individual working touches a different wire providing a path to the ground.

Falls are preventable if the individual working remains secure in guardrails or in the bucket by using a positioning device or a full-body harness. If there is an anchorage inside the bucket, a positioning belt with a short lanyard is adequate.

Tip-overs are avoidable by following the manufacturer's directions. Unless the manufacturer specifies otherwise, never drive when the lift platform is elevated. Follow the horizontal and vertical reach restrictions of the device, and never exceed the specified load-capacity.

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