22 Mar Aerial Work Platforms

Aerial Work Platforms

Aerial work platforms, including boom lifts and scissor lifts, provide efficient access to elevated work areas. When properly selected and operated, they can provide a stable work platform and eliminate the need for other access methods. However, improper use can expose workers to falls, tip-overs, crushing hazards, falling objects, and electrical contact.

Always follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and limitations for the specific equipment being used.

Before Operating the Lift

Only trained and authorized employees should operate aerial work platforms. Before each shift, inspect the equipment and perform required function tests. Check the controls, emergency systems, guardrails, tires, hydraulic components, alarms, and other safety devices.

Before moving or elevating the platform:

• Check for overhead obstructions and electrical hazards.
• Inspect the ground for holes, drop-offs, slopes, soft surfaces, and debris.
• Make sure the surface can safely support the lift.
• Stay within the manufacturer’s load and slope limitations.
• Keep workers and pedestrians clear of the operating area.
• Remove malfunctioning or damaged equipment from service.

Never assume that a lift designed for rough terrain can be safely elevated on any surface. Follow the manufacturer’s requirements for levelness, outriggers, stabilizers, and allowable slopes.

Scissor Lift Safety

Scissor lifts generally raise and lower employees vertically and are equipped with a guardrail system. When using a scissor lift:

• Keep guardrails and access gates in place.
• Keep both feet on the platform floor.
• Never stand or climb on the guardrails.
• Do not use ladders, boxes, planks, or other objects to gain additional height.
• Do not exceed the platform’s rated capacity.
• Travel with the platform elevated only when permitted by the manufacturer and workplace conditions allow it.
• Maintain safe clearance from overhead structures and electrical hazards.

Fall protection requirements should be based on the equipment design, applicable regulations, manufacturer instructions, and company procedures.

Boom Lift Safety

Boom-supported lifts can extend vertically and horizontally, creating additional hazards from ejection, crushing, and equipment movement.

When operating a boom lift:

• Wear required personal fall protection and connect it to the manufacturer’s designated anchorage.
• Never attach to an adjacent structure while working from the platform unless specifically permitted.
• Maintain safe clearance from drop-offs, holes, debris, and unstable surfaces.
• Watch for overhead structures that could trap or crush an employee between the platform and an obstruction.
• Never exceed the manufacturer’s limits for driving or repositioning the lift while elevated.
• Avoid sudden or unnecessary movements that could destabilize the platform.

Fueling and Charging

Turn equipment off before refueling and control ignition sources. Charge batteries in an appropriately ventilated area and follow the manufacturer’s charging procedures. Keep flames, sparks, and other ignition sources away from battery-charging and fueling areas.

Remember

Aerial work platforms are valuable tools, but their safety depends on proper training, inspection, positioning, and operation. Know the limitations of the equipment, inspect the work area before elevating, use required fall protection, and never improvise a way to gain additional height.