Tukwila Aerial Lift Safety Training

Tukwila Aerial Lift Safety Training - There are approximately 26 to 30 construction fatalities within North America attributed to the utilization of aerial lifts. Nearly all of those killed are craftsmen like electrical workers, laborers, painters, ironworkers or carpenters. Nearly all deaths are caused by tip-overs, electrocutions and falls. The greatest risk is from boom-supported lifts, like bucket trucks and cherry pickers. Nearly all fatalities are connected to this particular type of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other hazards consist of being struck by falling objects, being thrown out of a bucket, and being caught between the lift bucket or guardrail and a thing, like for example a joist or steel beam.

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

The areas that worker would make use of the aerial device must be checked carefully for possible dangers, like for instance bumps, holes, debris and drop-offs. Overhead powerlines have to be monitored and avoided. It is recommended that aerial lift devices be used on surfaces which are level and stable. Don't work on steep slopes that exceed slope restrictions which the manufacturer specified. Even on a slope that is level, wheel chocks, outriggers and brakes must be set.

Employers are required to provide aerial lift operators and maintenance mechanics with the proper manuals. Mechanics and operators should be trained by a qualified individual experienced with the applicable aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Guidelines:
o Before operating, close doors and lift platform chains.
o Leaning over and climbing on guardrails is prohibited. Stand on the floor of the bucket or platform.
o Stay within manufacturer's load-capacity limits.
o Utilize work-zone warnings, like for example cones and signs, when working near traffic.

If proper procedures are followed, electrocutions are avoidable. Stay at least ten feet away from any power lines and licensed electricians must de-energize and/or insulate power lines. Workers should utilize personal protective equipment and tools, such as a bucket that is insulated. Nonetheless, a bucket which is insulated does not protect from electrocution if, for example, the individual working touches another wire providing a path to the ground.

When within the bucket, workers have to prevent possible falls by securing themselves to the guardrails by utilizing 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 horizontal and vertical reach restrictions, and never exceed the specified load-capacity.

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