Safety Corner: Aerial Lifts
Safety is an essential topic when it comes to any workplace. Here at Critical Systems Inc. it has a special spotlight, since we work with various gases, electricity, metals, and even super-heated plasma! In fact, we hold a meeting every two weeks to spotlight relevant topics to workers at CSI. The Safety Corner segment of CSI’s blog is to talk a little bit about those topics. These will be shorter, bite-sized articles that give an idea of all the different areas in which we need to stay safe.
A is for Aerial Lifts
Aerial lifts are vehicles that elevate personnel, such as extendable boom platforms, articulating boom platforms, vertical towers, and ladders. They have become popular on construction sites due to their mobility and flexibility, but they also pose many hazards. This post will discuss these dangers and safety measures for operating aerial lifts safely.
Hazards of Aerial Lifts
Falls from heights: The most prevalent danger associated with aerial lifts is falling from high altitudes. Workers may fall while entering or exiting the lift or while working at heights. Objects dropped from lifts can also cause harm. Tip-overs and ejections from platform are other risks. Structural failures (collapses), electrical shock (electrocutions), entanglement hazards, contact with objects, and overhead clearances are all possible.
Safety Measures for Operating Aerial Lifts Safely
Before using an aerial lift, get trained and retrain when switching to a different type of lift. Perform pre-start inspections of vehicles and components before each shift, as well as work zone checks for holes, bumps, ditches, high winds, and other potential dangers. Proper fall protection should be used while on platforms, and load capacities should be checked. Do not hoist suspended things or materials, keep access gates and openings closed, avoid leaning over guardrails and handrails, and be aware of overhead power lines and other workers entering the site. Establish a closed work area using hazard tape or ropes whenever possible.
Aerial lifts are useful tools that have replaced ladders and scaffolds in many construction sites, but they can also be dangerous if proper safety measures are not followed. By being trained, performing pre-start inspections, and following all safety guidelines, you may safely operate an aerial lift while minimizing dangers.