Langley Aerial Lift Safety Training

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

In order to operate an aerial lift safely, perform an inspection on the following things prior to making use of the device: operating and emergency controls, safety devices (such as, outriggers and guardrails), personal fall protection gear, and wheels and tires. Check for possible leaks in the air, fuel-system, hydraulic fluid. Inspect the device for missing or loose parts.

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

Employers are needed to provide aerial lift operators and maintenance mechanics with the proper manuals. Mechanics and operators need to be trained by a licensed individual experienced with the relevant aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Before operating, close doors and lift platform chains.
o Do not climb on or lean over guardrails. Stand on the floor of the bucket or platform.
o Stay within manufacturer's load-capacity limitations.
o Utilize work-zone warnings, such as signs and cones, when working near traffic.

Electrocutions are preventable if safety procedures are followed. Stay as far away from power lines - at least 10 feet. Trained electrical workers should insulate and/or de-energize power lines. Workers should utilize personal protective equipment and tools, like a bucket that is insulated. Nonetheless, an insulated bucket does not protect from electrocution if, for instance, the individual working touches a different wire providing a path to the ground.

When in the bucket, workers must prevent possible falls by securing themselves to the guardrails by making use of 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 while the lift platform is elevated. Adhere to the device's vertical and horizontal reach limits, and never go beyond the load-capacity which is specified.

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