Aerial Lift Safety Training Surrey

Aerial Lift Safety Training Surrey - There are around 26 to 30 construction fatalities in North America due to the use of aerial lifts. Nearly all of the people killed are craftsmen like for example painters, electrical workers, laborers, carpenters or ironworkers. Most fatalities are caused by electrocutions, falls and tip-overs. The greatest risk is from boom-supported lifts, like cherry pickers and bucket trucks. Most deaths are related to this particular type of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other risks include 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.

The safe operation of an aerial lift requires a check on the following items before making use of the device: emergency and operating controls, safety devices, personal fall protection gear, and tires and wheels. Check for possible leaks in the air, hydraulic fluid and fuel-system. Inspect the device for loose or missing components.

The areas that worker will utilize the aerial device should be checked thoroughly for possible dangers, like 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 stable and level. Don't work on steep slopes that exceed slope limits specified by the manufacturer. Even on a slope which is level, wheel chocks, outriggers and brakes must be set.

Companies must provide their aerial lift operators with the right guidebooks. Mechanics and operators need to be trained by a qualified person experienced with the applicable aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Close lift platform chains or doors prior to 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 limits.
o Use work-zone warnings, like 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 insulate and/or de-energize power lines. Workers must use personal protective equipment and tools, like a bucket which is insulated. Nonetheless, an insulated bucket does not protect from electrocution if, for instance, the worker touches another wire providing a path to the ground.

Falls are avoidable if the worker remains secure in guardrails or inside the bucket by utilizing a positioning device or a full-body harness. If there is an anchorage within the bucket, a positioning belt along with a short lanyard is adequate.

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

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