London Aerial Lift Safety Training

London Aerial Lift Safety Training - There are roughly 26 to 30 construction fatalities in North America due to the use of aerial lifts. Nearly all of the individuals killed are craftsmen like for example electrical workers, laborers, painters, ironworkers or carpenters. Nearly all deaths are caused by falls, tip-overs and electrocutions. The greatest danger is from boom-supported lifts, like bucket trucks and cherry pickers. The majority of the deaths are connected to this particular type of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other dangers consist of being thrown out of a bucket, being struck by falling objects, and being caught between the guardrail or lift bucket and a thing, like a joist or steel beam.

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

The place where the device will be utilized must be carefully checked for potential hazards, like for example holes, bumps, debris and drop-offs. Overhead power lines must be closely monitored or avoided. It is recommended that aerial lift devices be utilized on surfaces which are level and stable. Do not work on steep slopes which exceed slope limitations specified by the manufacturer. Even on a level slope, brakes, wheel chocks and outriggers should be set.

Employers are needed to provide aerial lift operators and maintenance mechanics with the proper instruction manuals. Operators and mechanics have to be trained by a certified person experienced with the relevant aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Guidelines:
o Close lift platform chains or doors prior to operating.
o Climbing on and leaning over guardrails is prohibited. Stand on the platform or floor of the bucket.
o Stay within manufacturer's load-capacity limits.
o When working near traffic, make use of proper 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. Trained electrical workers should insulate and/or de-energize power lines. People working must utilize personal protective equipment and tools, like insulated bucket. Nevertheless, an insulated bucket does not protect from electrocution if, for example, 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 utilizing a positioning device or a full-body harness. If there is an anchorage inside the bucket, a positioning belt together with a short lanyard is acceptable.

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

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