From the ground up: Proper safety begins before you step inside your aerial lift
Published in: Arbor Age
Date: 3/1/2002
By: Peterson, P.D.
A VARIETY OF VARIABLES IN TREE CARE — WEATHER, DISEASE, AND DAMAGE – have a lot to do with how safe it is to climb your patient. As a result, many arborists rely on aerial lifts for a secure platform from which to work. However, there are several factors to be taken into account when using lifts. Although most operators have enough sense to follow basic safety rules, many never even think about a basic component of any safety program — maintenance.
All the safety harnesses in the world won’t keep you from harm if your lift is in disrepair. For example, suppose you are using an electric lift to trim trees in a parking lot. You haven’t gone over the machine’s daily checklist because you were late to work, As a result, you’re not aware that there is a problem with the unit’s brakes. Just when you are maneuvering to trim the last branch, you release the foot pedal, expecting the machine to stop. Instead, it coasts right into the trunk of the tree — either making you thankful you were wearing a safety harness, or eternally sorry you weren’t.
These pitfalls can be avoided by following the manufacturers recommended maintenance schedule. Whether you are working with an electric rough-terrain scissors lift or a bucket truck, always perform recommended maintenance on time and on a schedule. Keeping a log book on each lift is an excellent first step to making life a lot easier and safer.
“Make sure all operators are properly trained,” said Pete Vair, safety programs manager for Skyjack, an Ontario, Canada-based lift manufacturer. “OSHA requires the employer to provide training, [and] ANSI requires dealers to provide training.”
If you rent an aerial lift, you should ask for and receive training on it from the business you rent it from. If you are unfamiliar with the lift you are renting, take the time to fully familiarize yourself with its controls, safety features and operating characteristics. The time to find out the controls are the opposite of what you are used to is not when you are nearing a power line.
A Thorough Inspection
“Daily inspections are necessary,” said Vair. “Make sure all repairs are done by qualified personnel. Read the operators manual. Follow the daily checklist.”
According to Ameriquip, a La Verne, Calif aerial lift manufacturer, the following items should be included on a daily checklist:
* Inspect and test arm interlock switch
* Inspect bucket leveling linkage arms.
* Inspect critical welds.
* Test ground and bucket controls.
* Inspect safety belt and lanyard.
* DO NOT operate lift without fall restraint.
* Inspect and test outrigger operation.
* Sound test tilt alarm.
* Inspect trailer hitch and safety chains. [Trailer mounted lifts]
* Fill fuel tank
* Check engine oil level and hydraulic oil level.
(This is a partial listing of their daily checklist — as you can see, it’s not a five-minute job.)
The weekly checklist involves the following:
* Securely tighten all hardware.
* Inspect decals. Replace if necessary.
* Check battery connections and electrolyte level.
* Check tire pressure.
The list escalates at the monthly level to include:
* Inspect all structural members.
* Inspect hoses and wiring for wear.
* Inspect bucket for damage and cracks.
* Inspect hydraulic swivel for leaks.
* Grease all pivot points.
(Again, this is only a partial listing of the checklist. As you can see, a logbook or other method for keeping up with maintenance is a must.)
Insulated lifts require additional testing. A dielectric test — to test the insulation of the lift — must be done on a regular basis. Contact your lift supplier for the requirements specific to your machine.
Along with inspection of your lifts, Vair recommends inspecting all safety harnesses at the beginning of each shift. Any worn harnesses should be replaced, not repaired.
“Harnesses are required by law on [boom lifts] but are not required on scissor lifts as long as the rail system is properly maintained in all aspects.”
If you don’t have the time or mechanical ability to maintain your own lifts, there are several companies that specialize in lift maintenance. A simple Internet search will turn up several firms. Any repairs done to your lift should be done in accordance with OSHA regulations, and only by qualified people. For example, if your outrigger arm needs some welding done on it, you must use a certified welder — preferably one with experience in lift repair.
If you rent your equipment, ask your supplier for written proof that they have a regular maintenance program.
You can’t afford to ignore or neglect lift maintenance. It could cost you in fines, downtime, and possibly your life.
P.D. Peterson is an independent expert in the field of outdoor power equipment. He can be reached via e-mail at fromtheworkbench@hotmail.com.
COPYRIGHT 2002 Adams Business Media