Mount Vernon Aerial Lift Safety Training

Marysville Aerial Lift Safety Training - Each and every year, there are about 26 construction fatalities due to the use of aerial lifts. Nearly all of the craftsmen killed are electrical workers, laborers, painters, ironworkers or carpenters. Most deaths are caused by electrocutions, falls and tip-overs. The greatest risk is from boom-supported lifts, like for instance cherry pickers and bucket trucks. Most fatalities are connected to this particular type of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other hazards consist of being struck by falling things, being thrown out of a bucket, and being caught between the guardrail or lift bucket and a thing, like for instance a steel beam or joist.

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

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

Businesses should provide their aerial lift operators with the right manuals. Mechanics and operators must be trained by a certified individual experienced with the applicable kind of aerial lift.

Aerial Lift Safety Guidelines:
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 restrictions.
o Use work-zone warnings, like for instance cones and signs, when working near traffic.

Electrocutions are avoidable if safety procedures are followed. Stay as far away from power lines - at least 10 feet. Experienced electrical workers should de-energize and/or insulate power lines. Workers need to utilize personal protective tools and equipment, such as a bucket that is insulated. However, a bucket which is insulated does not protect from electrocution if, for instance, the worker touches a different wire providing a path to the ground.

When in the bucket, workers need to prevent possible falls by securing themselves to the guardrails by using a full-body harness or a positioning device. If there is an anchorage inside the bucket, a positioning belt along with a short lanyard is adequate.

Tip-overs are preventable by following the manufacturer's directions. Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, never drive whilst the lift platform is elevated. Adhere to the vertical and horizontal reach restrictions of the device, and never go beyond the load-capacity that is specified.

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