Because aerial lifts are so commonly used in construction, it is frequently assumed that all workers are able to operate them. This assumption is very dangerous to everyone involved because aerial lifts differ from one another in terms of stability, controls, and operational limitations. Workers should be thoroughly trained in the operations of aerial lifts before use.
Please review the incident below. This happened on an LCS jobsite a few years ago.
Incident: 2 workers were operating a boom lift in close proximity to a building’s canopy structure. The operator of the lift attempted to drive the lift forward 1 ft to get closer to the canopy. The operator was unaware that the lift was in the high speed or rabbit mode and the lift moved forward 4 ft instead of 1 ft slamming the basket and the worker into the canopy pining one worker. The other worker was able to move the lift safely away to free the worker that was pinned. No serious injuries resulted from this incident.
Corrective Actions: The speed switch must be in the Slow Speed or Turtle Mode when we are operating a Boom Lift or Scissors Lift within 15 ft of any building structure, excavation, equipment, workers, obstruction, uneven terrain, debris, holes, and unstable surfaces.
Prior to Operating Aerial Lifts
· Workers should review safety precautions and the safety devices installed on a lift.
· Workers should be able to recognize whether a safety stop device has failed.
· Workers should inspect the lifts to ensure that any damage is properly repaired and maintenance is correctly completed.
· Workers should inspect the work area for floor holes or obstacles that could cause the lift to overturn.
Conditions to Avoid
· Driving the lift on a slope or uneven surface when the lift is fully extended
· Climbing on the guardrails or using the guardrails as a working surface
Finally, workers should be connected to elevated work platforms by fall protection harnesses and self retracting lifeline that is attached to the proper tie-off point in the cage.