Toolbox Safety Talk
Aerial lifts (man lifts) are one of the most common devices used to conduct work from elevated
locations and are commonly used to replace traditional scaffolding. Aerial lifts are defined as, “any vehicle-mounted device, telescoping or articulating, or both, which is used to position personnel.
Stueve Construction utilizes several aerial lifts (JLG, scissor lifts, articulating boom platforms, etc.) at our fertilizer plant construction sites.
GENERAL AERIAL LIFT FACTS
- All aerial lifts must have an ID plate – showing vehicle weight, lifting capacities, and other key safety data.
- Only two people may ride in an articulating lift at any time.
- Scissor lifts capacity will be list on the lift itself.
- Aerial lift operators must receive training and an evaluation of their driving skills at a minimum of every two years.
HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH AERIAL LIFTS
- Fall from elevated level •Objects falling from lifts •Tip overs
- Ejections rom the lift platform •Structural failures (collapses) •Electrical shock
- •Entanglement hazards •Contact with objects
- Contact with ceilings and other overhead objects
AERIAL LIFT SAFETY FACTS
- As with other powered vehicles, inspect the lift prior to utilizing it. Walk around and ensure there are no leaks, check to ensure all the controls are functioning correctly.
- Never walk under the boom to gain access to the platform.
- Only utilize the lift on level ground.
- Only stand on the platform floor. Never stand or sit on the railing.
- Do not use electronics while operating lift.
- Always look in the direction the machine is moving.
- Do not rest the boom or basket on a steel structure of any kind.
- Wear safety harnesses and tie-off to the manufacture provided anchorage point within the platform at all times when you’re in the basket. This includes when you are lowered and moving the equipment to another location.
- Keep your hands in the basket when raising or lowering the basket.
- Ensure that a fire extinguisher is mounted in the basket when performing activities that present a fire hazard such as welding or grinding.
- Except in a case of an emergency, ground controls shall not be operated on an occupied lift (lift occupant shall be in full control of the lift at all times.