Best Practices for Lift Equipment Page 2

Best Practices for Lift Equipment

1. Definitions a.Lift Equipment 1) a mechanical device used to provide temporary access for people or equipment to inaccessible areas, usually at heights b.Elevating Lift Platforms 1) A platform that is lifted by means of linked, folding supports in a criss-cross or “X” pattern 2) Also known as scissor lifts c.Aerial Devices 1) Equipment consisting of a platform or bucket at the end of a hydraulic lifting system 2) Also known as a cherry picker, boom lift, man lift, basket crane, bucket truck

2. Equipment Inspection a.An effective inspection is to be performed prior to each initial use of the day covering the following: 1) A visual inspection of all attachment welds between actuating cylinders and lifting parts; 2) A visual inspection of all pivot pins for security of their locking devices; 3) A visual inspection of all exposed cables, sheaves, and leveling devices both for wear and for security of attachment; 4) A visual inspection of the hydraulic system for leaks and wear; 5) Inspection of lubrication and of fluid levels; 6) A visual inspection of lifting parts and platform or basket for cracks and/or abrasions; 7) Operation of lift from the ground controls (if available) through one complete cycle;

Approved June 15, 2010 Best Practices for Lift Equipment Page 2

a) Listen for unusual noises and look for deviations from normal operation; 8) The equipment owners manual is to be consulted for questions or additional requirements regarding inspection of equipment; b. If defects are found, the inspector is to report them to the department supervisor and see that the equipment is taken out of use until the repairs are made.

3. Operator Safety a.Operators must be trained and certified or authorized 1) Only trained adults are to operate lift equipment 2) Students may work in lift equipment if accompanied by a trained adult b. Check the rated capacity of the platform or basket c.Never overload d. The guardrail or barrier must be upright and locked in place before operation e.Stand only on the platform f. Do not sit, stand, or climb on guardrails or protective barriers g. Distribute loads evenly h. Move slowly and cautiously on the platform when elevated i. Do not exert excessive side forces j. Shoes clean and dry k. Never alter or disable limit switches or other safety devices l. Do not raise a platform in windy or gusty conditions

4. Jobsite Safety a.Operate only on surfaces capable of holding the weight of the work platform including the rated load b. Elevate the platform only on firm, level surfaces c.Avoid potholes, debris, drop-offs, and surfaces that may affect the stability of the equipment d. Elevated driving must be done on firm, level surfaces e.Climb or descend slopes that are less than 20% f. Be aware of overhead obstacles g. Ensure the path of travel is clear of all persons h. Personnel on ground must stay clear of the pothole protection bar Best Practices for Lift Equipment Page 3

5. Overhead Power Lines a.Minimum general clearance: 6 feet b. Minimum platform clearance: 10 feet c.Clearance requirements increase with voltage increase d. Warning sign are required e.Line clearance tree trimming requires special training

6. Elevating Lift Platform Safety a.Keep a clean, uncluttered work area b. Be alert for below-par performance of the lift mechanism c.Immediately replace worn, damaged, or missing parts d. Do not use ladders, scaffolding or other devices to increase height or size e.Obtain manufacturer approval before altering or modifying f. Never alter or disable safety devices g. Keep hands and arms away from the lifting mechanism h. Work can be performed on the lifting mechanism with the safety restraint in place i. If provided, position outriggers on pads or a solid surface

7. Aerial Devices a.Only one person in the basket at a time b. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the maximum extension while driving c.Elevated employees are to be secured to the boom, basket, or tub d. Body harness with safety strap or lanyard e.No belting to an adjacent pole, tree, structure or equipment f. Baskets or tubs are not to be supported by an adjacent structure g. Barricade the area under and around the boom 1) Use caution tape 2) Saw horses

8. Forklifts a.Elevating lift platforms and aerial devices better suited for lifting employees to work Best Practices for Lift Equipment Page 4

b.A work platform is required 1) Must be secured to the forks or mast 2) At least 24 inches by 24 inches 3) Guardrails and toeboards required 4) Spaces or holes are to be no greater than one inch 5) Slip resistant surface c.Safety harness and lanyard may be used 1) Only when guardrails cannot be used d.Operator must have head protection e.The forklift operator is to remain at the controls f. Lifting mechanism is to operate smoothly g.The mast must be vertical h.The forklift must be in neutral, parking brake set i. Lift and lower smoothly j. Watch for overhead obstructions k.The operator is to keep hands and feet clear of controls not in use l. The elevated employee is to be lowered before the forklift moves significantly 1) Slight adjustments in location may be made while the employee is elevated