Fort Mcmurray Aerial Lift Safety Training

Fort Mcmurray Aerial Lift Safety Training - Each and every year, there are roughly 26 construction deaths due to the use of aerial lifts. Nearly all of the craftsmen killed are electrical workers, laborers, carpenters, painters or ironworkers. The majority of the fatalities are caused by electrocutions, falls and tip-overs. The greatest risk is from boom-supported lifts, such as bucket trucks and cherry pickers. Nearly all deaths are connected to this particular kind of lift, with the rest involving scissor lifts. Other risks comprise being thrown out of a bucket, being struck by falling things, and being caught between the lift bucket or guardrail and a thing, like for example a steel beam or joist.

In order to operate an aerial lift safely, carry out a check on the following items prior to using the device: emergency and operating controls, safety devices (like for instance, guardrails and outriggers), personal fall protection gear, and tires and wheels. Check for possible leaks in the air, hydraulic fluid and fuel-system. Inspect the device for loose or missing parts.

The areas that worker would make use of the aerial device must be examined thoroughly for possible dangers, like for example holes, bumps, drop-offs and debris. Overhead powerlines need to be avoided and monitored. It is suggested that aerial lift devices be used on surfaces which are stable and level. Do not work on steep slopes that go beyond slope limits which the manufacturer specified. Even on a level slope, brakes, wheel chocks and outriggers should be set.

Companies should provide their aerial lift operators with the right instruction manuals. Operators and mechanics have to be trained by a licensed person experienced with the applicable aerial lift model.

Aerial Lift Safety Tips:
o Close doors or lift platform chains prior to operating.
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 limits.
o Make use of work-zone warnings, like for example cones and signs, when working near traffic.

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

Falls are avoidable if the individual working remains secure inside guardrails or in the bucket 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 acceptable.

Tip-overs are avoidable by following the manufacturer's instructions. Unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer, never drive while the lift platform is elevated. Adhere to the device's vertical and horizontal reach limitations, and never go beyond the specified load-capacity.

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