Aerial Lift Safety Facilitator's Guide · of aerial lift you will be using. When using a scissor...

AerialLift

SafetyF A C I L I T A T O R ’ S G U I D E

Facilitator’s Guide

a Overview

b Getting Started

d Presentation Guidelines

f Lesson Plan

h Frequently Asked Questions

1 Introduction

2 The Equipment

4 Pre-start Inspections

9 Safe Use

13 Summary

15 Quiz

18 Quiz Answers

What’s Inside

© 2005 Summit Training Source® Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any formor by any means without written permission from Summit Training Source® Inc. If you wish to purchaseadditional copies, please call our office at 1-800-842-0466.

a© Summit Training Source, Inc.

Overview

When a work task must be per-formed in an area which is out ofreach, an aerial lift can be a usefultool. If not used correctly, however,aerial lifts can be dangerous. Therisks associated with aerial lifts canbe greatly reduced if an employeeis properly trained in how to usethe equipment. The manufacturer’s instructions provide specificinformation on how to operate the lift, and each person who usesthe equipment must be thoroughly familiar with the contents ofthis written guide. By knowing how to perform an inspection onthe lift to determine any potential defects and following propersafe work procedures, an employee can greatly reduce the risk ofinjury when using an aerial lift. This will not only help to keep theemployee safe, but also fellow co-workers within the area.

© Summit Training Source, Inc.b

Getting Started

Training Materials

Collect all of the necessary materials and supplies before trainingbegins. Here are some suggested materials and supplies:

• A training location that is free of distractions, has good lighting,and a comfortable temperature.

• Desks and chairs arranged so that everyone will be able to seethe viewing screen, the facilitator, and each other.

• The video, a VCR, and a TV with a remote. Make sure the videois rewound.

• An employee handbook and pen/pencil for each trainee. Eachhandbook includes a quiz at the back, which can be used to testcomprehension and document training.

• Other supplies and equipment you may need - blackboard chalk,paper, handouts, transparencies, overhead projector, markers,notepads, etc.

• Additional information, such as a copy of the regulation orother reference tools.

c© Summit Training Source, Inc.

Preparation

A successful presentation requires preparation and planning. Giveyourself several days before the training session to get organized.

• Locate and schedule the training site as soon as possible.

• Notify trainees of the training date and time, the trainingschedule, and proper dress.

• Obtain all necessary equipment and supplies.

• Make sure you know how to operate the TV, VCR, and otherequipment. Check to ensure that it is working properly.Replace or repair any damaged equipment.

• Review all training materials, including the Facilitator’s Guide,handouts, and any other reference materials.

• Prepare your presentation, including a lesson plan or outline ofthe training. Include the training goals and objectives. Somepresentation guidelines are included on the next page. Asample lesson plan has been included on page f of thisFacilitator’s Guide.

• A day or so before conducting the training session, you maywant to have participants take the quiz as a pre-test. The resultsof this test can help you to determine weak areas to focus onduring the training session.

• Preview the videotape. Note any key points you want toexpand upon in your training.

© Summit Training Source, Inc.d

Presentation Guidelines

How you present the training course can have a great impact onlearning. By following these simple presentation guidelinesand keeping your objectives in mind, you can effectively andefficiently get the most out of your training session.

Organize Training Time Efficiently

In today’s busy work climate it can be difficult to find the timeneeded for training, so it is important to be organized and well-prepared when you do schedule training sessions. Whether youuse Summit’s suggested lesson plan or not, it is important to havea lesson plan prepared that you can implement comfortably. Thisensures that time spent in training is productive and beneficial foreveryone.

Stress the Purpose and Goals of Training

Training needs to be goal-oriented. State the purpose of trainingin a clear, specific manner - whether it’s to reduce injuries, increaseproduction, improve quality, improve working conditions, etc.Review the goals and objectives of the training so trainees knowwhat is expected of them.

Capture Their Attention

Training needs to be interesting and compelling to hold trainees’attention. To help motivate learners, give them specific evidencethat their effort makes a difference and provide feedback on theirprogress. Also, remember that the first experience with a newsubject usually forms a lasting impression on the learner. Bymaking that experience a positive one, you can help ensure youraudience retains the information learned.

e© Summit Training Source, Inc.

Make New Learning Experiences Pleasant

For some adults, past experiences with education were unpleasantand not helpful. Adults learn best when they feel comfortable.By making the learning environment open and friendly, you canhelp adults to feel secure in their new learning experience. Offersupport and feedback as often as possible, and be ready to pro-vide extra attention to those who may require it.

Ask If There are any Questions

When most adults learn new information that conflicts with whatthey already know, they are less likely to integrate those newideas. It is very important to make sure participants fully under-stand the training and do not have any unresolved questions.Provide for a question and answer period so participants canresolve those questions and/or answer questions throughout thetraining session.

© Summit Training Source, Inc.f

Lesson Plan

As a qualified trainer, your job is to effectively communicate agreat deal of information in a well-organized manner. Bypreparing a lesson plan, you can ensure that each minute of thetraining session is productive. Summit has provided a suggestedlesson plan for your use.

1. Program Objective

This guide reviews Aerial Lift Safety. In it, we will cover:

• The Equipment

• Pre-start Inspections

• Safe Use

2. Show the Video: ”Aerial Lift Safety”

3. Discussion and Demonstration

To help relate the training to your site, you may wish to incorporateyour own discussion topics and exercises. Key issues you mightconsider include:

• What are the procedures to be followed regarding transferringfrom a lift to an elevated work area?

• What penalties could be involved if proper safety proceduresare not followed when using an aerial lift?

• What procedures should be followed in the event an operatorbecomes incapacitated while elevated on the lift?

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5. Questions and Answers

Provide for a Q&A session to answer any questions. It may benecessary to review some of the material when providinganswers. The employee handbook, equipment manuals, andother reference tools may be helpful.

4. Use Handbooks to Reinforce Training

The handbooks increase comprehension and reinforce theinformation learned in the video program by explaining the mainpoints and expanding on the original material. For increasedemployee information retention, go over one section at a timeand stop to answer questions. The quiz at the back of theFacilitator’s Guide is provided to document employee training.Answers to the quiz are provided on a separate page.

© Summit Training Source, Inc.h

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of fall protection equipment should be used with myaerial lift?The type of fall protection equipment you will need depends on the typeof aerial lift you will be using. When using a scissor lift, guardrails arean acceptable form of fall protection as long as the operator stays with-in the boundaries of the guardrail. When working with bucket trucks andboom lifts, a personal fall arrest system is required. This would consistof a harness and a short lanyard (2 feet in length) without any sort of“tear-away” shock absorber. This type of protection is intended to keepthe operator inside the bucket instead of free falling.

How do I know the lift I’m using is the correct one for thetask?There are a few important things to consider when trying to determinewhether an aerial lift is appropriate for a task. One thing to consider isweight capacity. You must be sure the total amount of weight for the per-sonnel, tools, equipment, and materials are within this weight limitbefore proceeding. Another thing to consider is, the grade of the groundyou’ll be working on. A level surface would be ideal, but if it does slopecheck to see what the limits are for the lift as set by the manufacturer.

1© Summit Training Source, Inc.

In a landscape like this it’s easy to believe

you’re free of danger… but looks can be

deceiving. When danger appears it pays to

be prepared. That’s true whether your job

takes you to the depths of the ocean… or

high above a factory floor.

When working from a height, aerial lifts – such as boom, reach, and scis-sor lifts – are generally safer to use than ladders. They provide an easymeans to reach work sites far above the ground, while supplying a levelplatform to stand on. But, unfortunately, aerial lifts are not accident-proof. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, in theconstruction industry alone, 26 workers die each year from using aeriallifts. Most serious and fatal accidents occur due to electrocutions, fallsand tipovers. The best way to eliminate these risks is to be aware ofthem, and follow safe work practices every time you use an aerial lift.

In this handbook, we will discuss:• The Equipment• Pre-start Inspections• Safe Use

Before a worker is authorized to use a lift, they must receive training froma qualified person. Because aerial lift designs are varied and ever-chang-ing, this training covers the operation, safety features and limitations ofthe specific model the worker will be using. The primary reference for thesafe operation of a lift is the operating manual supplied by the manufac-turer – this manual should stay with the lift at all times, and any workerwho uses that lift must have a thorough understanding of the manual’scontents. In addition to this, your employer may have other safety guide-lines that take into account the work environment, the nature of the tasks,and company policy. Despite these numerous variables in equipment andwork situations, however, there are some safety principles common to allaerial lifts.

Introduction

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Every aerial lift requires the use offall protection – the type you willneed depends on the lift you areusing. For scissor lifts, a guardrailis considered adequate fall protec-tion, as long as the worker stayswithin the boundaries of theguardrail. Even when this is thecase, some workers prefer, andsome facilities require, the addedprotection of a safety belt or har-ness attached to a lanyard. Whenusing most other types of aerial lift– such as bucket trucks and boomlifts – a personal fall restraint sys-tem is required. This consists of abody belt or harness and a 2 footlanyard. The lanyard secures theworker to an anchorage point onthe bucket – never attach the lan-yard to a pole, beam or any otherstructure outside the lift. Thelength of the lanyard is important:fall restraint systems have a shortlanyard without any sort of “tear-

away” shock absorber – this shorttether is intended to prevent a fallfrom occurring by keeping the per-son inside the bucket.

All aerial lifts have a load capacityrating that indicates the amount ofweight the lift can safely carry.Before work begins, you mustknow the rating of the boom andbasket you will be using, and makesure that the combined weight ofall personnel, tools, equipment andmaterials carried on the lift doesnot exceed this rating.

The Equipment

Before climbing onto a lift, several factors

must be taken into consideration to ensure

safe operation.


Aerial lifts are also rated for thegrade they can safely operate on –in other words, some lifts can onlybe used on surfaces that are level,while others are designed to beused on surfaces that are some-what sloping. Never operate a lifton a grade that exceeds the manu-facturer’s rating – this destabilizesthe machine, often resulting in atip-over. If the lift has outriggers,use them as required by the manu-facturer. Make sure the outriggerfloats are placed on a surface thathas enough strength to supportthem – to disperse the pressureover a larger surface area, blockscan be used underneath the floats.To prevent the lift from movingaccidentally, set the brake and usewheel chocks – this is especiallyimportant when the ground youare parked on is sloped.

Except for high voltage work, gov-ernment regulations do not specifyhow many workers the operationof an aerial lift requires. A goodsafety practice, however, is to havea person stationed on the groundwho is able to give aid in the eventof an emergency. Aerial lifts havetwo sets of controls – an upper andlower set. The upper controls areattached to the bucket and withineasy reach of the person who isriding in the lift. The lower con-trols are positioned at ground level– these controls are designed tooverride the upper controls in caseof a malfunction or other safetyhazard, but they must never beoperated without the permission ofthe worker in the basket – theexception to this is if the workerbecomes incapacitated by injury orillness.


The manual provided by the manu-facturer gives detailed informationon how to inspect the lift you willbe using. In general, check thatthere are no loose or missing partson the unit; and make sure thewelds on the boom are free ofcracks. Check that all warningsigns and decals on the lift arereadable – these display such criti-cal information as the make andmodel of the lift, the rated work-load capacity, the maximum plat-form height, and maximum operat-ing pressure of the hydraulic sys-tem. Inspect for leaks in the air,hydraulic fluid, and fuel systems,

and make sure hydraulic hoses arefree of kinks and pinch points. Besure that tires are at the correct airpressure and look for punctures,cracks, and tread wear. Checkfiberglass and other insulatingcomponents for damage or wear.

Pre-start Inspections

The operator of the lift is responsible for

inspecting the equipment before each day’s

use. This pre-start inspection includes both a

visual assessment and an operational check of

the entire unit.


Inspect that safety devices aresound – such as outriggers, stabi-lizers and guardrails. If you will beusing personal fall protection,check harnesses, belts and lan-yards according to the manufactur-er’s directions. Finally, test the

lift’s operating and emergency con-trols. Using the lower controls,extend the boom with the basketunmanned, and look for signs ofdamage or malfunction.

During this pre-start inspection, ifa problem is discovered thataffects the safe operation of thelift, tag-out the machine and reportthis to your supervisor immediate-ly. The lift must be taken out ofservice until it has been repairedby a person authorized to performmaintenance.


Besides this daily inspection, moredetailed inspections must be per-formed regularly by a qualified per-son. If the aerial lift you will beusing is a rental unit, the dealershould be able to provide recordsof the lift’s inspection and mainte-nance history. This is important,because a unit that is well-main-tained is far safer on the job. Youdon’t want to discover when youare high up in the air that the

equipment you’ve rented has notbeen serviced properly.

Hazards in the environment areevery bit as dangerous as faultyequipment; so it is also importantto inspect the area where you willbe working. Avoid tipovers bycarefully surveying the ground forholes, debris, ditches, and softspots in the earth due to mud oruntamped earthfills. To provide asafe base, the surface that the liftwill sit on must be able to ade-quately support the combinedweight of the equipment, the work-ers and any other tools or materi-als. Whenever possible, it is alsosafer to operate the equipment ona level surface – if the ground orfloor does slope it must not exceedthe limits set by the lift’s manufac-turer.

Pre-start Inspections continued


During this inspection, check over-head for possible obstructions –when working outside, treebranches can cause injury or tan-gle the lift, but the most seriousdanger is power lines. Many peo-ple assume the black coating onoverhead power lines is an insula-tor that provides protectionagainst electric shock, but thisisn’t true – the coating’s only func-tion is to protect the lines fromharsh weather. Touching the lineis no different than touching a barewire.

For this reason, government regu-lations mandate that workersremain at least 10 feet away frompower lines that are 50,000 volts orless. When voltage is higher thanthis, the rule is ten feet plus anadditional 4 inches for every 10,000

volts over 50,000. When workingnear power lines, continuallycheck your position to make cer-tain you maintain a safe distanceand be aware that trees and over-cast days can make spotting powerlines and judging distances thatmuch more difficult. Also, remem-ber that trees themselves canbecome excellent conductors ofelectricity if their limbs come incontact with a power line.


When checking an area for hazards,it is important to consider trafficflow. Being struck by a secondvehicle is a major risk factor thatcan cause the lift to tip over orthrow the operator from the buck-et. As much as possible, avoid set-

ting up where other vehicles or con-struction equipment could crossyour path. When you must worknear other traffic, be sure to secureyour work zone by posting barri-cades, clearly marked signs andflashing warning lights.

Finally, if you’ll be using a lift out-side, weather conditions can alsocreate a dangerous environment –lightening is an obvious hazard, butrain, hail or snow can decrease vis-ibility and cause surfaces tobecome slippery, while windy con-ditions can cause the lift to tip.

Pre-start Inspections continued


Before mounting or dismountingfrom a lift, make sure that theplatform is in the lowered posi-tion. Any climbing should be doneusing the 3 points-of-contactmethod – that means that bothhands and one foot, or both feetand one hand should be in contactwith the equipment at all times.

Once inside the lift, remember tosecure the entry door or chainsbefore raising the equipment.When operating the controls use aslow, easy touch so that the plat-form’s movement is smooth ratherthan jerky. While extending thelift, always make sure that youstay within the vertical and hori-

zontal reach limits established bythe manufacturer. If at any timethe equipment appears to be mal-functioning, stop work immediate-ly and report the problem to yoursupervisor. Do not use the equip-ment again until the problem hasbeen checked out and repaired bya qualified person.

Safe Use

Prior to using a lift, warn people in the area,

and use barricades such as cones or caution

tape to keep pedestrians at a safe distance.


While working from an aerial lift,keep your feet firmly on the floor.Do not climb or sit on the edge ofthe basket, platform or guardrail,and do not use planks, ladders,scaffolds, boxes or any other suchdevice to increase your workingheight.

Avoid using the lift in ways thatincrease the risk of tipping over.For example, do not subject thelift to side loads by leaving a lad-der leaned against the lift, or byusing the boom to push the liftalong the ground. Unless the man-ufacturer has approved this proce-dure, do not use the lift as a crane– that is, do not attempt to liftloads by having them slung belowthe basket. Another risky behav-

ior is to attach wires, cables orsimilar lines to the platform asthese could possibly tangle orcatch on something when theequipment moves. And, increas-ing the surface area of a platformor load is dangerous because itcreates a “sail” when exposed tothe wind, resulting in less stabili-ty.

Safe Use continued


When using a lift, there are a cou-ple activities that may or may notbe allowed depending on your cir-cumstances. Government regula-tions do not prohibit a workerfrom leaving an elevated bucket togain access to an off-the-groundwork site, but it may be prohibitedby your employer. If it is allowed,and it becomes necessary to com-plete a task, check with youremployer on the exact procedurefor that facility and equipment.Obviously, if not done carefully,this can be a very dangerous activ-ity – never make the transfer offthe lift, unless you are protected100 percent of the time by effec-tive fall protection equipment.


Another potentially dangerousprocedure is moving a lift whilethe worker is elevated in the bas-ket – this is only allowed if the liftis designed for that purpose and ifyour facility does not prohibit thistype of operation. If it is anauthorized procedure, know themanufacturer’s exact guidelinesbefore proceeding. The route tobe traveled must be surveyedimmediately before the move,with a check for traffic, holes oruneven surfaces, and obstructionsoverhead. While the lift is inmotion keep your focus on thedirection you are traveling and

maintain a safe distance frompotential hazards. Keep the speedwithin the limits set by the manu-facturer – usually 3 miles per houror less. This slower speedreduces the possibility of “bounc-ing” the platform, and of momen-tum carrying the vehicle fartherthan intended.

Once a task is completed, checkthat the area is clear of workersand obstructions before loweringthe platform. If you need to addfuel to a lift, shut off the enginefirst. When fueling engines orcharging batteries, choose a wellventilated area away from flames,sparks, fumes, or other fire andexplosion hazards. Before leavingan aerial lift unattended, secure itby setting the parking brake andremoving the key – this preventsan unauthorized person fromattempting to use the lift, and put-ting themselves and others at risk.

Safe Use continued


Summary

Aerial lifts provide a solid, com-fortable base to stand on whenworking above ground level – buta clear understanding of potentialhazards is essential. Wheneveryou use an aerial lift, follow theseguidelines:

• Operate the equipment withinthe manufacturer’s specifications.

• Use the appropriate fall protection.

• Inspect the lift prior to use.• Check the work site for

potential hazards.• Avoid activities that could

destabilize the machine and cause a tipover.

• And, finally, only travel in or transfer off of an elevated liftif authorized by the manufacturer and your employer.

If you have any questions aboutthe proper use of aerial lifts atyour facility, ask your supervisor.Whether your job takes you underthe sea or high off the ground –the environment you work indetermines many of the hazardsyou’ll face while on the job. Butyou can prevent accidents andinjuries from occurring with athorough knowledge of the equip-ment you’re using and a strongcommitment to safety.


Notes


Quiz

To review your knowledge of Aerial Lif t Safety , answer thequestions below.

Your Name Date

1. Which of the following would be authorized to use an aerial lift? Select all that apply.

a. A qualified personb. An employee with no training, but has worked around lifts

beforec. An employee who has received training from a qualified

persond. Anyone can operate a lift without prior training

2. All aerial lifts require fall protection to be used.a. True b. False

3. What do you need to consider when determining how much weight your lift will need to be able to safely carry? Select all that apply.

a. The weight of each person on the liftb. The weight of the tools to be usedc. The weight of equipment and materialsd. Aerial lifts do not have a weight limit

4. Any type of aerial lift can be used in an area where the ground slopes.

a. True b. False

5. What can be done to prevent the load from accidentally moving? Select all that apply.

a. Park it on a sloped surfaceb. Park it on an uneven surfacec. Set the braked. Use wheel chocks


Quiz continued

6. When should the lower controls on the lift be used to operate the lift? Select all that apply.

a. The lower controls should always be used when operating the lift

b. When the upper controls malfunctionc. When the operator in the basket has given a person

permissiond. When the operator on the lift becomes incapacitated by

injurye. All of the above

7. The operator of the lift is responsible for a visual assessment and an operational check of the entire unit before each day’s use.

a. True b. False

8. When inspecting a lift, which of the following should you be sure tolook for?

a. Loose or missing partsb. Warning signs and decals on lift are readablec. Check for leaks in hosesd. The guardrails, outriggers, and stabilizers are in good

conditione. All of the above

9. If you notice a problem during the pre-start inspection, you may continue using the lift and then tag it for repair once you are finished.

a. True b. False

10. According to government regulations, how far away must a worker remain from power lines that are 50,000 volts or less?

a. 5 feetb. 10 feetc. 10 feet plus 4 inchesd. 20 feet


11. When climbing onto the equipment you must use the 3 points-of-contact method to help ensure your safety.

a. True b. False

12. It is safe to use any lift as a crane to lift materials up to the work areaby placing them below the basket.

a. True b. False

13. Government regulations do not prohibit a worker from leaving an elevated bucket to gain access to an off-the-ground work site, but your employer might.

a. True b. False

14. If a lift must be moved while a worker is elevated in the basket, howfast is the worker allowed to travel in the lift?

a. Assuming this procedure is allowed, the operator must stay within the speed limit set by the manufacturer

b. The lift must never be moved with someone elevated in the basket.

c. The regular posted speed limit for normal traffic in the aread. At least 25 miles per hour or more

15. Before leaving an aerial lift unattended, you should secure it by setting the parking brake and removing the key.

a. True b. False


Quiz Answers

1. a A qualified person

c An employee who has received training from a

qualified person

2. a True

3. a The weight of each person on the lift

b The weight of the tools to be used

c The weight of equipment and materials

4. b False

5. c Set the brake

d Use wheel chocks

6. b When the upper controls malfunction

c When the operator in the basket has given a

person permission

d When the operator on the lift becomes

incapacitated by injury

7. a True

8. e All of the above

9. b False

10. b 10 feet

11. a True

12. b False

13. a True

14. a Assuming this procedure is allowed, the operator

must stay within the speed limit set by the

manufacturer

15. a True


Notes

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Aerial Lift Safety Facilitator's Guide · of aerial lift you will be using. When using a scissor...

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