Be sure when renting any piece of equipment that all manuals are maintained with the rented equipment. Make sure to check for the need for fall protection (use of a harness or strap) and scaffold training before using a lift. Fall protection and training (in accordance with CFR 1910.66) are required whenever an aerial lift is used.

OSHA Violations – Caught by Drive-By

OSHA cited two auto dealers for use of an aerial lift without proper training and fall protection (harness). One facility used an aerial lift to trim trees and another facility rented an aerial lift from a local vendor to change lights in the parking lot. The fines associated with these violations were between $8,000 to $9,000. In both instances, OSHA inspectors merely drove by and observed the violations on the way to other site visits.

Aerial Lift Training Requirements

Only trained and authorized persons are allowed to operate an aerial lift. Training should include:

• Explanations of electrical, fall, and falling object hazards
• Procedures for dealing with hazards
• Recognizing and avoiding unsafe conditions in the work setting
• Instructions for the correct operation of the lift (including maximum intended load and load capacity)
• Demonstrations of the skills and knowledge needed to operate an aerial lift before operating it on the job
• When and how to perform inspections
• Manufacturer’s requirements
• Inadequate ceiling heights
• Drop-offs, holes, or unstable surfaces such as loose dirt, slopes, and floor obstructions
• Overhead obstructions
• High wind and other severe weather conditions, such as ice
• The presence of others in close proximity to the work area.

Aerial Lift Safe Work Practices

• Ensure workers who operate aerial lifts are properly trained in the safe use of the equipment.
• Maintain and operate elevated work platforms according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Never override hydraulic, mechanical, or electrical safety devices.
• Never move the equipment with workers on an elevated platform unless the manufacturer permits this.
• Maintain a minimum clearance of at least 10 feet, or 3 meters, away from the nearest energized 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 or restraining belt with a lanyard attached to the boom or basket to prevent the worker(s) 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.

Although renting a lift may seem like a simple process, there are quite a few requirements and hazards associated with their use that can be overlooked. Employers must use due diligence before the use of scissor or aerial lifts to ensure employees are protected during their use to prevent injury.