Tips to Prevent Aerial Lift Accidents

on

Tips to Prevent Aerial Lift Accidents in the Workplace

In this article, you will learn tips on how to prevent aerial lift accidents in the workplace. No one wants a death wish, however, most simply just want to get the job done. Aerial lifts can be the most reliable and most effective method of doing so. Climb in, rise up, tackle the job, get down, and go home only sounds easy.
Tips to Prevent Aerial Lift Accidents in the Workplace
In real life, people just don't always go by the safety book, and in fact, sometimes it ends in heartbreaking with alarms and tears. Accidents occur when using aerial lifts because working at height is naturally a risky business, but many lift accidents can be prevented.

Fatal accidents involving aerial lifts statistically remain very low, with less than .2% of all USA occur when utilizing an aerial lift.

Tips for aerial lift accidents that are repeated with related kinds of incidents happening over and over for example: 
  • Climbing out an elevated lift
  • Not operating a safe distance from power lines
  • Being struck by passing trucks or buses
  • Overturning the machine on unleveled ground
  • Overriding safety features
  • Operating in windy weather
  • Exceeding weight limit
  • Not wearing harness secure lanyard
  • Not wearing safety gear
  • Not inspecting prior to use
  • Driving lift elevated
These examples are just a few of the most common situations. Notably, the rate of fatal accidents involving aerial lifts is far higher in North America than in Europe.

Understanding how, when, and where accidents occur helps the aerial lift operator be aware of potential accidents. Have safer employment practices, inform supervisors of any risk the job might have and choose the right type of aerial lift for the situation.

MEWP Electrocutions in the Workplace

MEWP electrocutions are one of the sixth most common causes of electrocutions in the workplace throughout the US. Electrocutions are known when working at high heights on MEWPs. 20% of all reported fatalities are due to MEWP electrocutions in the workplace. Working from or moving a MEWP in an environment with overhead power lines can be extremely dangerous.

Only 30% of all MEWP electrocutions are maintained by linesmen or telecommunications professionals. Therefore the majority of these accidents are the MEWP operators who engaged in non-electrical work.

Learn more about the new Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWP'S) ANSI A92 standards and classifications.

How to Work Near Power lines?

The safest method how to work near power lines consists of eliminating the risk of electrocution by preparing the power lines to be de-energized and checked before beginning work. The idea of thinking that it’s a "quick job" and all you need to do is "just keep your distance" can be deadly.

Minimum Approach Distance (MAD)

Lack of awareness of the safe Minimum Approach Distance (MAD) and stand-off distance when positioning the machine. All overhead power lines and additional electrical equipment should be handled as live unless notified “isolated” and “safe” by the electric company.

Insulated Aerial Device (IAD)

If “isolated” and “safe” is not an alternative, utilize a special insulated aerial device (IAD), which are specifically designed for jobs near and on electrical hazards. Selecting the right MEWP for the task is crucial if operating near live power lines.

2012 International Powered Access Federation (IPAF)

In 2012 International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) and its affiliate companies worked collectively to record accidental event data. International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) conducts an ongoing project to analyze all reported accidents and to share the results with the access industry.

From accident reports, we can develop better training and recognize where there are potentially heightened risks. Since 2012, IPAF and its member companies have fought together to report accident data. IPAF manages a continuous project to investigate each recorded accident and share results with the industry.

Aerial Lift Training and Certification

All Purpose Crane Training provides aerial lift training and certification for major businesses and individuals. We offer aerial lift training and certification on scissor lifts or boom lifts for the industry. We maintain all aerial operator certifications keeping companies and individuals up to date and meeting the latest aerial lift standards and regulations. Please contact us at (888) 501-1355 toll-free for prices and get answers to your questions at no cost.

Share Aerial Lift Safety Tips

Now that you learned got some tips and knowledge on how to prevent aerial lift accidents in the workplace, please feel free and share these aerial lift safety tips for safer workplaces.

Related Search Terms


Comments

Post a Comment