Aerial Lifts

Aerial Lifts - 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.
  • Always treat power lines, wires and other conductors as energized, even if they are down or appear to be insulated.
  • 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 workers.
  • Maintain a minimum clearance of at least 10 feet from the nearest overhead lines.
  • Use a body harness or restraining belt with a lanyard attached to the boom or basket to prevent workers from being ejected or pulled from the basket.
  • Set the brakes and use wheel chocks when on an incline.
  • Use outriggers, if provided.
  • Do not exceed the load limits of the equipment. Allow for the combined weight of the worker, tools and materials.
  • Belting off to an adjacent pole, structure or equipment while working from an aerial lift is not permitted.