Aerial Lift Safety Basics
Overview
Aerial lifts provide access to elevated work areas but come with significant fall hazards and electrocution risks. These versatile machines require specialized training and strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent serious injuries and fatalities.
Why This Is Important
Aerial lift accidents result in an average of 26 fatalities per year, with falls accounting for 70% of these deaths. Electrocution from contact with power lines represents another 12% of aerial lift fatalities.
The combination of height, mechanical complexity, and environmental hazards makes aerial lift operation particularly dangerous. Unlike fixed scaffolding, aerial lifts can tip over, malfunction, or position workers dangerously close to electrical hazards.
Best Practices & Safety Tips
Required Training
Only trained and authorized personnel may operate aerial lifts. Training must be specific to the type of lift being used.
Pre-Use Inspection
Perform daily inspections of all controls, safety systems, and structural components before each use.
Fall Protection
Always wear a full-body harness connected to the designated anchor point in the basket — never to the boom.
Electrical Awareness
Maintain minimum 10-foot clearance from power lines, or follow utility company requirements for your specific equipment.
Ground Stability
Ensure the lift is on firm, level ground and use outriggers or stabilizers according to manufacturer specifications.
Weight Limits
Never exceed the manufacturer's weight capacity including workers, tools, and materials in the basket.
Weather Conditions
Don't operate aerial lifts in high winds, storms, or other adverse weather conditions that could affect stability.
Ground Communication
Maintain communication with ground personnel and establish emergency procedures before beginning elevated work.
Platform Safety Guidelines
- Keep Both Feet on Platform - Stay on the platform floor, don’t climb on rails, and never place ladders or other devices on the platform for additional height
- Safe Positioning - Position the lift to avoid having to lean over the platform rails to reach your work area. Reposition the lift instead of overreaching
- Secure Tools and Materials - Use tool lanyards and secure containers to prevent dropped objects
- Emergency Procedures - Know how to operate ground controls and emergency lowering procedures
Discussion Questions
- What types of aerial lifts do we use most commonly, and what are their specific safety requirements?
- How do we identify and maintain safe distances from electrical hazards in our work areas?
- What should you do if the lift malfunctions while you're elevated?
- How can we improve our pre-use inspection process to catch potential problems early?
Action Items
- Verify all aerial lift operators have current training and certification
- Review pre-use inspection checklists and ensure they’re being completed
- Identify electrical hazards in work areas and establish safe approach distances
- Practice emergency lowering procedures with ground personnel
Related Safety Topics
Takeaway: Aerial lift safety requires proper training, careful planning, and strict adherence to manufacturer guidelines and safety procedures. The elevation these machines provide comes with serious risks that demand respect and constant vigilance to prevent falls and electrocutions.