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Aerial Lift Safety

Thermographers who inspect large structures or elevated components often utilize aerial lifts or platforms to gain line-of-sight access to the inspected object. This week’s Tip focuses on safe work practices for this unique job challenge.

Aerial lifts include boom-supported aerial platforms, such as cherry pickers or bucket trucks. The major causes of fatalities are falls, electrocutions, and collapses or tip over.

When utilizing an aerial lift, always observe the following safe work practices:

• Ensure that workers who operate aerial lifts are properly trained in the safe use of the equipment
• Maintain and operate elevating work platforms in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
• Never override hydraulic, mechanical, or electrical safety devices
• Never move the equipment with workers in an elevated platform unless this is permitted by the manufacturer
• Do not allow workers to position themselves between overhead hazards, such as joists and beams, and the rails of the basket. Movement of the lift could crush the worker(s)
• Maintain a minimum clearance of at least 10 feet, or 3 meters, away from the nearest overhead lines
• Use a body harness or restraining belt with a lanyard attached to the boom or basket to prevent the worker(s) from being ejected or pulled from the basket
• Set the brakes and use wheel chocks when on an incline. Use outriggers, if provided

Lastly, never exceed the load limits of lift equipment. Be certain to allow for the combined weight of the worker, tools, and materials. For more information on workplace safety standards and fall protection, visit www.osha.gov.

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