Aerial Lift Safety Training Kitchener

Aerial Lift Safety Training Kitchener - Every year, there are approximately 26 construction fatalities due to the utilization of aerial lifts. Nearly all of the craftsmen killed are electrical workers, laborers, ironworkers, carpenters or painters. Most deaths are caused by falls, tip-overs and electrocutions. The greatest danger is from boom-supported lifts, such as bucket trucks and cherry pickers. Nearly all fatalities are related to this particular kind of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other dangers include being struck by falling things, being thrown out of a bucket, and being caught between the guardrail or lift bucket and an object, like a steel beam or joist.

To be able to safely operate an aerial lift, perform an inspection on the following things before utilizing the device: emergency and operating controls, safety devices (such as, guardrails and outriggers), personal fall protection gear, and tires and wheels. Inspect for possible leaks in the air, fuel-system, hydraulic fluid. Inspect the device for missing or loose parts.

The places where worker would make use of the aerial device should be inspected carefully for potential dangers, such as bumps, holes, debris and drop-offs. Overhead powerlines need to be avoided and monitored. It is suggested that aerial lift devices be utilized on level, stable surfaces. Don't work on steep slopes which exceed slope limits specified by the manufacturer. Even on a slope that is level, brakes, wheel chocks and outriggers must be set.

Businesses should provide their aerial lift operators with the right manuals. Mechanics and operators should be trained by a licensed individual experienced with the applicable aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Close lift platform chains or doors before operating.
o Leaning over and climbing on guardrails is prohibited. Stand on the floor of the bucket or platform.
o Make use of the provided manufacturer's load-capacity limitations.
o Utilize work-zone warnings, like for instance signs and cones, when working near traffic.

If correct procedures are followed, electrocutions are preventable. Stay at least 10 feet away from whatever power lines and licensed electricians must de-energize and/or insulate power lines. Workers should utilize personal protective tools and equipment, like for instance insulated bucket. However, an insulated bucket does not protect from electrocution if, for instance, the individual working touches a different wire providing a path to the ground.

When inside the bucket, workers have to prevent possible falls by securing themselves to the guardrails by using a full-body harness or a positioning device. If there is an anchorage within the bucket, a positioning belt with a short lanyard is adequate.

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

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