Aerial Lift Safety Training Seattle

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

In order to safely operate an aerial lift, carry out an inspection on the following things prior to using the device: emergency and operating controls, safety devices (e.g., guardrails and outriggers), personal fall protection gear, and tires and wheels. Look for possible leaks in the air, fuel-system, hydraulic fluid. Check the device for loose or missing parts.

The areas where worker would make use of the aerial device must be inspected carefully for potential hazards, such as holes, bumps, debris and drop-offs. Overhead powerlines have to be monitored and avoided. It is recommended that aerial lift devices be used on surfaces that are level and stable. Do not work on steep slopes which go beyond slope limitations specified by the manufacturer. Even on a slope that is level, outriggers, brakes and wheel chocks must be set.

Businesses must provide their aerial lift operators with the right instruction manuals. Mechanics and operators should be trained by a licensed individual experienced with the relevant aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Guidelines:
o Before operating, close lift platform chains and doors.
o Do not climb on or lean over guardrails. Stand on the floor of the bucket or platform.
o Use the provided manufacturer's load-capacity restrictions.
o When working near traffic, make use of correct work-zone warnings, like signs and cones.

Electrocutions are preventable if safety procedures are followed. Stay as far away from power lines - at least 10 feet. Qualified electrical workers must de-energize and/or insulate power lines. Workers should use personal protective tools and equipment, like for instance insulated bucket. However, a bucket that is insulated does not protect from electrocution if, for example, the worker 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 full-body harness or a positioning device. If there is an anchorage inside the bucket, a positioning belt together with a short lanyard is acceptable.

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

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