9 BASIC SAFETY TIPS TO OPERATE BOOM LIFT

Boom lifts are essential equipment for construction projects. 

But If not operated safely, they can lead to injuries and accidents. 

To ensure everyone stays safe and your project runs smoothly, we have put together 9 crucial safety tips that you need to follow while operating boom lifts.

Let’s go…

1. INSPECTION OF THE WHEELS:

The Aerial Work Platforms must be thoroughly inspected before every use. The first thing we should check are the wheels. The wheels must be in good condition, free of cuts and nicks. In case of an air fill tyre, we must check the inflation level is correct as per the owner’s manual. All the wheel nuts and lugs should be checked for tightness. There should be no damage on the rim and there should be no exposed braiding.

2. ENGINE INSPECTION:

The second thing we should check are the engine parameters. We should check the engine oil, coolant level and the fuel level. Additionally, we should check that there are no leakages around the engine. Lastly, we should check if the battery condition is satisfactory. 

3. CHECK ON THE HYDRAULIC SYSTEM:

The third thing to check is the hydraulic system. Firstly, the level of the hydraulic oil should be correct and secondly, there should be no leakages, cuts and bulges on the hoses and cylinders.

4. CHECK THE CHASSIS AND THE BOOM:

The fourth thing we should check is the chassis and the boom. They should be free from damages, cracks, and excessive corrosion. There should be no cracks in the welds and the pins, retainers and chains should not show signs of excessive wear.

5. PLATFORM CONDITION:

The fifth thing to check is the condition of the platform. The floor of the platform should be in good condition without any cracks or holes. The platform gate should open and close securely. The harness anchor point should also be in good condition.

6. WARNING SYSTEMS:

The sixth thing to check is whether all the warning systems are working. All the safety lights should be checked thoroughly for functionality. The reverse alarm should also be checked. The alarm for the movement of the platform should also be checked properly.

Check whether all the functions such as forward reverse, up down, etc. are working properly and the machine is functioning smoothly.

7. WORK AREA INSPECTION:

This is the seventh thing you need to do to ensure safety with boom lift. Here are a few work area inspection you must keep in mind  –

1. The machine should have a clear access path to the work site. The access path should be clear of any obstacles that may hinder free movement.
2. The ground stability of the work area must be checked properly. The weight of the machine and the load should be summed up and considered while making this calculation.
3. The working radius of the machine must be checked and there should be no obstacles to hinder the movement of the machine.
4. While working in vehicular traffic areas we must safely cordon off the area with traffic cones, safety flags, warning tape and the relevant safety signage.
5. While working at elevated heights, we must check the wind speeds and operate within the manufacturer’s suggested specifications.
6. We must keep an extra eye out for hazardous obstacles such as power lines and windmills. 

8. CHOOSE THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT:

The safety of operating a boom lift is influenced by the quality and maintenance of the equipment. Even with careful precautions, using faulty equipment can introduce risks and compromise safety.

Here are few ways to choose the right equipment:

1. Based on the job we are doing, we must choose the right type of platform for the job. 
2. All load charts must be thoroughly referred to before choosing the equipment.
3. Properly calculate the total weight of the load that the machine is supposed to handle.

9. SAFETY OF THE OPERATOR:

Here are a few points for ensuring safety of the operator.

1. All operators of Aerial Work Platforms must be IPAF trained and certified.
2. Always use safety harnesses in all situations.
3. Always respect the payload of your machines. We must never exceed the safe working load of a machine under any circumstances.
4. Always follow all site safety instructions without fail.
5. Never use an aerial work platform as a device to do heavy lifting. These machines are not designed to carry loads.

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of operating a boom lift rests on these 9 fundamental safety tips. Your safety is our top priority. If you’re ready to soar to new heights? 

Take the first step—get a quote for hiring a boom lift and ensure your projects rise above, safely and efficiently.