Aerial Lift Safety Training Cambridge

Aerial Lift Safety Training Cambridge - There are around 26 to 30 construction fatalities within North America due to the use of aerial lifts. Most of the people killed are craftsmen such as electrical workers, laborers, painters, carpenters or ironworkers. The majority of the fatalities are caused by electrocutions, falls and tip-overs. The greatest danger is from boom-supported lifts, such as bucket trucks and cherry pickers. Nearly all deaths are related to this particular type of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other hazards consist of being thrown out of a bucket, being struck by falling things, and being caught between the lift bucket or guardrail and a thing, such as a joist or steel beam.

The safe operation of an aerial lift needs an inspection on the following things prior to using the device: emergency and operating controls, personal fall protection gear, safety devices, and wheels and tires. Look for possible leaks in the air, fuel-system, hydraulic fluid. Inspect the device for missing or loose parts.

The places that worker would utilize the aerial device should be inspected thoroughly for possible dangers, such as bumps, holes, debris and drop-offs. Overhead powerlines need to be monitored and avoided. It is suggested that aerial lift devices be used on surfaces that are level and stable. Never work on steep slopes that exceed slope limits specified by the manufacturer. Even on a level slope, brakes, wheel chocks and outriggers must be set.

Companies must provide their aerial lift operators with the correct manuals. Mechanics and operators should be trained by a certified person experienced with the relevant type of aerial lift.

Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Before operating, close lift platform chains and doors.
o Do not lean over or climb on guardrails. Stand on the platform or floor of the bucket.
o Stay within manufacturer's load-capacity limits.
o When working near traffic, make use of appropriate work-zone warnings, like for example signs and cones.

Electrocutions are preventable if safety procedures are followed. Stay well away from power lines - at least 10 feet. Trained electrical workers must insulate and/or de-energize power lines. Those working should use personal protective tools and equipment, such as a bucket which is insulated. Then again, a bucket that is insulated does not protect from electrocution if, for example, the person working touches another wire providing a path to the ground.

When inside the bucket, workers should 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 together with a short lanyard is adequate.

Tip-overs are avoidable by following the manufacturer's instructions. Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, never drive when the lift platform is elevated. Adhere to the device's vertical and horizontal reach limitations, and never go beyond the specified load-capacity.

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