Before operating an aerial lift:

  • Check operating and emergency controls, safety devices, and personal fall protection gear, wheels and tires, and other items specified by the manufacturer. Look for possible leaks (air, hydraulic fluid and fuel-system) and loose or missing parts.
  • Check where you will use the lift. Look for a level surface that won’t shift. Check the slope of the ground or floor; do not work on steep slopes that exceed slope limited listed by the manufacturer. Look for hazards, such as, holes drop-offs, bumps, and debris, and overhead power lines and other obstructions. Set outriggers, brakes, and wheel chocks – even if you’re working on a level slope.

Safe Work Practices:

  • Make sure to properly train workers who will operate lifts on the safe use of equipment.
  • Maintain and operate elevating work platforms in accordance with the manufacturers 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.
  • Maintain a minimum clearance of at least 20 feet away from the nearest overhead lines.
  • Always treat power lines, wires, and other conductors as energized, even if they are down or appear to be insulated.
  • Use a body harness with a lanyard attached to the boom or basket to prevent the worker from being ejected or pulled form the basket. Only attach it to an approved anchor point.
  • Set the brakes, and use wheel chocks when on an incline.
  • Use outriggers if provided.
  • Do not exceed load limits of equipment. Allow for the combined weight of the worker, tools, and materials.