🏗️ Aerial Lift Safety
Topic: Safe use of scissor lifts, boom lifts, and aerial work platforms Duration: 5-7 minutes Required: Training required before operation
Types of Aerial Lifts
| Type | Best For | Key Hazards |
|---|---|---|
| Scissor Lift | Vertical access, flat surfaces | Tip-over, falls |
| Boom Lift (articulating) | Reaching over obstacles | Catapult, contact with objects |
| Boom Lift (telescoping) | Maximum reach | Same as articulating |
| Personnel Lift | Lightweight, indoor | Falls, contact |
Common Causes of Death/Injury
- Falls from platform — Leaning out, not using harness
- Tip-overs — Uneven ground, overloading, wind
- Struck by objects — Working near traffic, falling tools
- Contact with overhead hazards — Power lines, structures
- Catapult ejection — Hitting obstacles (boom lifts)
Pre-Use Inspection
Check before every shift:
Ground/Base
- Tires/wheels in good condition
- Outriggers work (if equipped)
- No fluid leaks
- Placards readable
Platform
- Guardrails secure
- Platform clear of debris
- Lanyard anchor point present
- Controls respond properly
Function Test
- Lift and lower smoothly
- Emergency controls work
- Alarms function
- All movements work from both upper and lower controls
Safe Operating Rules
Before Raising
- Check ground conditions — firm and level
- Set outriggers if equipped
- Check for overhead obstructions
- Know the lift's capacity (workers + materials)
- Extend guardrails, close gate
Fall Protection
Scissor Lifts:
- Guardrails are primary protection
- Harness recommended but not always required
- Never stand on guardrails or climb out
Boom Lifts:
- Body harness and lanyard REQUIRED
- Lanyard attached to manufacturer's anchor point
- Never attach to adjacent structure
Operating Position
- Keep both feet on platform floor
- Never sit or climb on guardrails
- Don't use ladders or planks to extend reach
- Keep platform floor clear
Movement
- Lower platform before driving (if possible)
- Check travel path for obstacles and holes
- Watch for overhead clearance while driving
- Go slowly on rough terrain
Tip-Over Prevention
Scissor lifts tip over when:
- Operating on slopes
- Extending outriggers improperly
- Wind is too strong
- Driving on uneven surfaces while elevated
- Pushing/pulling loads from platform
Know wind limits: Most lifts have wind speed limits (typically 28-30 mph). If windy, lower and wait.
Overhead Hazard: Power Lines
Minimum clearances:
| Voltage | Minimum Distance |
|---|---|
| Up to 50kV | 10 feet |
| 50kV to 200kV | 15 feet |
| 200kV to 350kV | 20 feet |
| Over 350kV | Determined by utility |
When working near power lines:
- Have a spotter
- Assume all lines are energized
- Contact utility if within 20 feet
Emergency Procedures
If platform becomes stuck:
- Stay calm
- Try lower platform controls
- Use emergency lowering (usually at base)
- Call for help
If lift starts to tip:
- Stay in the basket
- Hold on
- Bend knees to absorb impact
- Don't jump
What NOT To Do
❌ Never override safety devices ❌ Never use in high winds ❌ Never drive while elevated (unless designed for it) ❌ Never exceed platform capacity ❌ Never use untrained operators ❌ Never allow people under the platform while elevated
Discussion Questions
- Who is trained to operate our aerial lifts?
- What's the capacity of the lift we're using today?
- Are there any overhead hazards in our work area?
- What are the wind conditions today?
Today's Commitment
"I will inspect before use, wear proper fall protection, and never exceed the lift's limitations."
Sign-In
| Name | Signature | Company |
|---|---|---|
Presenter: _________________ Date: _________