Mississauga Aerial Lift Safety Training

Mississauga Aerial Lift Safety Training - There are about 26 to 30 construction fatalities in North America due to the use of aerial lifts. Most of the people killed are craftsmen like for example laborers, painters, electrical workers, ironworkers or carpenters. The majority of the fatalities are caused by tip-overs, electrocutions and falls. The greatest danger is from boom-supported lifts, like for example cherry pickers and bucket trucks. Nearly all fatalities are related to this type of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other hazards consist of 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 instance a joist or steel beam.

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

The places that worker will utilize the aerial device must be checked carefully for possible dangers, like for example bumps, holes, debris and drop-offs. Overhead powerlines have to be avoided and monitored. It is recommended that aerial lift devices be utilized on surfaces that are level and stable. Don't work on steep slopes that go beyond slope limitations that the manufacturer specified. Even on a slope which is level, wheel chocks, outriggers and brakes must be set.

Employers are needed to provide maintenance mechanics and aerial lift operators with the proper manuals. Operators and mechanics must be trained by a qualified individual experienced with the relevant aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Prior to operating, close lift platform chains and doors.
o Do not lean over or climb on guardrails. Stand on the floor of the bucket or platform.
o Use the provided manufacturer's load-capacity limitations.
o When working near traffic, use right work-zone warnings, such as cones and signs.

Electrocutions are preventable if safety procedures are followed. Stay as far away from power lines - at least 10 feet. Qualified electrical workers must de-energize and/or insulate power lines. Workers have to make use of personal protective equipment and tools, like insulated bucket. Then again, an insulated bucket does not protect from electrocution if, for example, the individual working touches another wire providing a path to the ground.

When within the bucket, workers must prevent possible falls by securing themselves to the guardrails by making use of a full-body harness or a positioning device. If there is an anchorage in the bucket, a positioning belt 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 vertical and horizontal reach limits of the device, and never exceed the load-capacity that is specified.

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