Prior to beginning a project, it is not enough to just select the best boom lift for your needs. Even the most skilled boom lift operators can’t guarantee the safety of their colleagues when they’re working at a height.
In contrast to the particular training that window cleaners and painters receive, few recognize that using a boom lift on high-rise structures requires additional caution.
Telescopic and articulating boom lifts are the most commonly utilized types of boom lifts nowadays. There are a lot of similarities between them. Up to 120 feet may be reached by the former, and it can do so from practically any angle. Sections in the latter make it easier to reach sites that are otherwise inaccessible.
No matter what sort of lift you use for your project, you will need to take extra precautions to ensure that it is safe to use.
Safety Concerns When Using Boom Lifts
Electrocution falls and equipment overturns are the most common boom lift safety hazards. This can be due to a variety of factors, including the selection of the incorrect tools for the work and/or a lack of focus.
Boom lift safety tips: 10 things to keep in mind.
- Do not use the boom lift if you notice that it appears to be malfunctioning or somewhat damaged; instead, notify the operator of your concerns.
- Protective gear, including hard hats, steel-toe boots, safety glasses, and gloves, must be worn at all times while working in hazardous conditions.
- Always ask the operator to perform a pre-operational test before using an aerial lift. Check to see if it is operational.
- Work on the boom lift with your feet firmly planted on the platform at all times. Always maintain your sense of equilibrium.
- Extra care should be taken when the boom lift raises or lowers the platform. The railing must be accessible for you to grab on to.
- Consider avoiding the use of a boom lift under adverse weather circumstances, such as high winds and heavy rains, if you can.
- Never raise anything with the boom lift. Never put heavy equipment to work for anything other than what it was intended.
- The boom lift platform is not a place for ladders, scaffolding, or chairs to help you achieve additional height.
- Make sure you’re not perched precariously on top of a moving platform.
- Tend to your immediate surroundings at all times. Obstacles, debris, holes, and other hazards can make the road dangerous at times. Be aware of potential dangers that may be lurking above you.
