Port Coquitlam Aerial Lift Safety Training

Port Coquitlam Aerial Lift Safety Training - There are roughly 26 to 30 construction fatalities within North America attributed to the use of aerial lifts. Nearly all of the people killed are craftsmen like laborers, painters, electrical workers, ironworkers or carpenters. Nearly all fatalities are caused by tip-overs, electrocutions and falls. The greatest risk is from boom-supported lifts, such as cherry pickers and bucket trucks. Most fatalities are connected to this particular type of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other risks comprise being thrown out of a bucket, being struck by falling objects, and being caught between the lift bucket or guardrail and a thing, like for example a steel beam or joist.

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

The places where worker would make use of the aerial device must be examined thoroughly for possible hazards, like for instance holes, bumps, debris and drop-offs. Overhead powerlines need to be monitored and avoided. It is suggested that aerial lift devices be used on stable, level surfaces. Do not work on steep slopes which exceed slope restrictions specified by the manufacturer. Even on a level slope, outriggers, brakes and wheel chocks must be set.

Businesses should provide their aerial lift operators with the correct instruction manuals. Operators and mechanics have to be trained by a qualified individual experienced with the relevant kind of aerial lift.

Aerial Lift Safety Guidelines:
o Close doors or lift platform chains before operating.
o Do not lean over or climb on guardrails. Stand on the platform or floor of the bucket.
o Stay within manufacturer's load-capacity limits.
o When working near traffic, use proper work-zone warnings, such as signs and cones.

If proper procedures are followed, electrocutions are avoidable. Stay at least ten feet away from whichever power lines and qualified electricians should insulate and/or de-energize power lines. Workers have to make use of personal protective tools and equipment, such as insulated bucket. Nevertheless, an insulated bucket does not protect from electrocution if, for instance, the person working touches another wire providing a path to the ground.

When in the bucket, workers should prevent possible falls by securing themselves to the guardrails by utilizing a full-body harness or a positioning device. 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 instructions. Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, never drive whilst the lift platform is elevated. Adhere to the vertical and horizontal reach limits of the device, and never go beyond the load-capacity which is specified.

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