Aerial Lift Safety Training Alberta

Aerial Lift Safety Training Alberta - There are around 26 to 30 construction fatalities in North America attributed to the use of aerial lifts. Nearly all of those killed are craftsmen such as laborers, painters, electrical workers, carpenters or ironworkers. Nearly all fatalities are caused by falls, tip-overs and electrocutions. The greatest hazard is from boom-supported lifts, like for instance cherry pickers and bucket trucks. Nearly all deaths are related 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, like a steel beam or joist.

In order to safely operate an aerial lift, perform an inspection on the following items prior to using the device: emergency and operating controls, safety devices (e.g., guardrails and outriggers), personal fall protection gear, and tires and wheels. Inspect 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, like bumps, holes, debris and drop-offs. Overhead powerlines have to be avoided and monitored. It is suggested that aerial lift devices be used on surfaces which are stable and level. Never work on steep slopes that exceed slope limitations which the manufacturer specified. Even on a level slope, brakes, wheel chocks and outriggers must be set.

Companies should provide their aerial lift operators with the correct guidebooks. Operators and mechanics must be trained by a certified individual experienced with the applicable kind of aerial lift.

Aerial Lift Safety Guidelines:
o Close doors or lift platform chains before operating.
o Climbing on and leaning over guardrails is prohibited. Stand on the floor of the bucket or platform.
o Stay within manufacturer's load-capacity restrictions.
o When working near traffic, use proper work-zone warnings, like for instance signs and cones.

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

Falls are avoidable if the person working remains secure in guardrails or in the bucket by using a full-body harness or a positioning device. If there is an anchorage inside the bucket, a positioning belt with a short lanyard is acceptable.

Tip-overs are preventable by following the manufacturer's directions. Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, never drive when the lift platform is elevated. Follow the vertical and horizontal reach limits of the device, and never exceed the load-capacity that is specified.

Click to Download the pdf