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Aerial lifts are essential tools used to access elevated work areas safely and efficiently. These versatile machines come in various types, such as boom lifts, articulating boom lifts, scissor lifts, and telescopic boom lifts, each designed for specific applications and environments.

In recent years, more construction companies and contractors have turned to aerial lifts instead of traditional scaffolding or ladders. This shift is due to the enhanced mobility, flexibility, and reach that aerial lifts offer, making them ideal for reaching difficult or high places with ease.

Among the top manufacturers in the industry, JLG and Terex’s Genie brands stand out for their reliable and innovative designs. Their equipment is widely used across different sectors, from construction to maintenance and utility work.

However, like any heavy machinery, aerial lifts can pose serious risks if not operated correctly. Common hazards include falls from height, objects falling from the platform, tip-overs, ejection from the lift, structural failures, electrocution near power lines, and entanglement with moving parts.

To ensure safe operation, OSHA has developed detailed guidelines for using aerial lifts on job sites. These regulations help prevent accidents and promote a safer working environment.

Pre-Lift Inspection

Before every use, it's crucial to perform a thorough inspection of your aerial lift. Check the following components to make sure everything is in good working order:

  • Vehicle Components:
    • Fluid levels (oil, hydraulic, fuel, coolant)
    • Signs of fluid leaks
    • Condition of wheels and tires
    • Battery and charger status
    • Functionality of lower-level controls
    • Operation of horn, gauges, lights, and backup alarms
    • Steering and brake systems
  • Lift Components:
    • Operational and emergency controls
    • Availability of personal protective equipment (PPE)
    • Integrity of hydraulic, air, pneumatic, fuel, and electrical systems
    • Condition of fiberglass and insulating parts
    • Presence of readable warnings and markings
    • Security of mechanical fasteners and locking pins
    • Status of cables and wiring harnesses
    • Stability of outriggers, stabilizers, and support structures
    • Missing or damaged parts
    • Safety of guardrail systems
  • Work Zone Inspections
    • Identification of drop-offs, holes, or unstable ground
    • Verification of adequate ceiling heights
    • Assessment of slopes, ditches, or uneven terrain
    • Removal of debris and floor obstructions
    • Awareness of overhead power lines and communication cables
    • Evaluation of weather conditions (high winds, ice, etc.)
    • Monitoring of nearby personnel in the work area

Safety Practices When Operating An Aerial Lift

Fall Protection

  • Keep all access gates and openings closed during operation.
  • Always stand on the platform floor with both feet firmly planted.
  • Never climb on or lean over guardrails.
  • Avoid using planks, ladders, or other makeshift platforms.
  • Use a full-body harness or restraining belt with a lanyard connected to the boom or bucket.
  • Do not secure yourself to external structures while in the bucket, as movement could cause ejection.

Operation/Traveling/Loading

  • Never exceed the load capacity—consider the total weight of people, tools, and materials.
  • Do not use the lift as a crane; this can damage the equipment and endanger workers.
  • Avoid carrying items larger than the platform size.
  • Do not drive with the platform raised unless the manufacturer allows it.
  • Only operate lower-level controls when authorized by those in the lift (except in emergencies).
  • Stay within the lift’s vertical and horizontal reach limits.
  • Avoid operating in high winds beyond the manufacturer’s recommended limits.
  • Never override safety devices such as hydraulic, mechanical, or electrical systems.

Overhead Protection

  • Be aware of overhead clearance and potential obstacles like ceilings or beams.
  • If possible, avoid positioning the lift between overhead hazards.
  • Assume all overhead power lines and cables are live and maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet.
  • Ensure that power line workers de-energize any nearby lines before starting work.

Aerial Lift Stability

  • Extend outriggers on stable, level surfaces or use pads for support.
  • Engage brakes when using outriggers to prevent movement.
  • Use wheel chocks on sloped surfaces when it’s safe to do so.
  • Set up warning signs or cones to alert others of the work area.

Group Discussion Topics

  • Is the aerial lift in good condition? Check tires, hydraulic lines, and signage daily.
  • Are there any overhead hazards, such as power lines or gas pipes, near the work area?
  • What is the condition of the ground where the lift will be operated?
  • How many people will be on the platform? Does the combined weight meet the load limit?
  • What factors might lead to the lift tipping over?

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