Scissor and Boom Lift Safety: Tips for Reducing Risk and Avoiding Workplace Injury

Safety is paramount on any worksite whether you are at ground level or on a form of elevating equipment like a scissor lift. Of course, working from an elevated position brings a whole new set of safety challenges to overcome. But remember, every machine is different. Always familiarize yourself with your specific machine’s manual and operate it within the parameters outlined.

Ensuring Best Elevated Lift Equipment Practices

Before beginning work, a competent person should perform a risk assessment for the job and monitor that employees are using best practices including these three simple but important rules:

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  While working on any form of mobile elevating equipment, the Chief Prevention Officer mandates the use of an approved harness system. This consists of a full body harness or 5-point harness with a lanyard securely attached to the platform before operation begins(as per section 26.1(3) of O. Reg. 213/91 and 148(e) of O. Reg. 213/91). Tethering yourself to nearby structures or equipment is dangerous and should not be permitted.

• Make sure to pre-establish an effective and clear communication system through a combination of hand signals and two-way walkie-talkies. This will aid in assuring you and your co-workers understand what is going on at all times and will reduce any confusion, resulting in fewer injuries or accidents.

• Be sure all objects and equipment used on the platform is securely tethered. Ensure all power and tool cables are clear from snags and any extra weight does not surpass the recommended load capacity.

Knowing When to Delay or Cancel Work

• When elevation equipment is exposed to winds that exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations.

• When workers are exposed to extreme weather conditions such as thunderstorms, heavy rain, wind, heat or cold.

• When any equipment function is not working as expected or the operators manual/registration decals are missing. In these cases the equipment should be placed out of service.

Watch Out For the Safety of Others

All employees on a worksite should be looking after one another and not afraid to speak up when one is acting irresponsibly. Not adhering to a worksite’s safety rules and forgoing common sense will lead to expensive equipment damage or a workplace injury. Be sure to stop any behaviour that compromises safety around mobile elevating equipment including:

• Climbing up an already elevated platform/basket. Climbing or sitting on guardrails should also be prohibited.

• Disconnecting or altering any safety device (as per section 28 of OHSA).

• Any smoking near batteries or another fuel supply should be stopped immediately. This is extremely dangerous and may cause an explosion.

Advanced Consulting & Training Offers Scissor and Boom Lift Training

Familiarizing you and your staff on all proper safety protocols and best practices will reduce the risk of workplace injury or accident, costing you money, time and the trust of the industry. Advanced Consulting & Training would be happy to assist you in training your staff on proper elevation equipment safety. We offer courses in:

Aerial BoomLift Work Platforms

Aerial ScissorLift Work Platforms

Working at Heights

… and more!

Contact us today to find out how Advanced Consulting & Training can help you!