Aerial Work Platform Safety

Date: 2025-12-12

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

To ensure all personnel understand the safety regulations and guidelines for operating aerial work platforms (AWPs) and working at elevated heights, thereby preventing accidents and injuries.

Introduction

This toolbox talk covers the essential safety practices for operating aerial work platforms (AWPs), including bucket trucks and scissor lifts. It is crucial to understand the hazards associated with working at height and how to mitigate them to prevent serious injuries or fatalities.

Key Points

Harness and Lifeline: Always wear a full body harness and lifeline properly when working in an aerial lift. Attach the lanyard to the designated anchor point on the boom or basket. This prevents ejection from the platform in case of sudden movement or collision. [1]
Stable Ground: Ensure the equipment is on stable ground before elevating the platform. Avoid slopes, sandy or wet areas, and uneven surfaces. Use outriggers correctly to stabilize the lift. [1]
Clearance from Power Lines: Maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet from power lines. Electrocution is a significant hazard when working with aerial lifts. Be aware of overhead lines and ensure that neither you nor the equipment gets too close. [1]
Safe Work Zone: Set up a safe work zone to protect the aerial lift from being struck by passing traffic. Use advance warning signs, cones, or barricades to alert drivers to the presence of workers. [1] [1]
Regular Inspections: Inspect and test the aerial lift before each use. Check for leaks, hydraulic issues, and ensure all parts are functioning correctly. Report any unsafe conditions immediately and do not operate the equipment until it is repaired. [1]
Proper Training: Ensure that all operators are well-trained in the safe use of the equipment. Training should cover the specific make and model of the aerial lift, as well as general safety procedures. [1]

Hazard Identification

Electrocution: Contact with overhead power lines can result in severe burns, cardiac arrest, or death. [1]
Tip-Overs: Unstable ground, exceeding load capacity, or operating on slopes can cause the aerial lift to tip over, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. [1]
Falls from Height: Failure to use fall protection equipment or standing on guardrails can result in falls, leading to fractures, head trauma, or death. [2] [2]
Struck by Traffic: Being struck by passing vehicles while working in or around the aerial lift can cause severe injuries or fatalities. [1]
Crushing Injuries: Being crushed between the work platform and overhead objects can result in serious injuries or death. [2]

Control Measures

Use Full Body Harness and Lanyard: Ensure the harness fits properly and the lanyard is attached to an approved anchor point. Inspect the equipment before each use. [1]
Conduct Pre-Use Inspections: Follow the manufacturer's checklist to inspect all critical components, including controls, safety devices, and structural elements. [2]
Establish a Safe Work Zone: Use cones, barricades, and signage to create a clear and visible work zone around the aerial lift. [1] [1]
Maintain Safe Distances from Power Lines: Always maintain a minimum of 10 feet from overhead power lines. Use a spotter to monitor distances if necessary. [1]
Ensure Proper Training and Certification: Only allow trained and certified personnel to operate aerial lifts. Training should be specific to the type of lift being used. [1]
Assess Ground Conditions: Check the ground for stability before operating the lift. Avoid uneven surfaces, slopes, and soft ground. Use outriggers or stabilizers as needed. [1]

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

Hard Hat: Wear a hard hat to protect against head injuries from falling objects or collisions. Ensure it fits properly and is in good condition.
Safety Glasses: Use safety glasses to protect your eyes from dust, debris, and other hazards.
High-Visibility Clothing: Wear high-visibility clothing to ensure you are seen by other workers and vehicle operators.
Safety Boots: Wear safety boots with slip-resistant soles to provide traction and protect your feet from injuries.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

What are the potential consequences of not wearing a harness and lifeline in an aerial lift?
How do you ensure the ground is stable before operating an aerial lift?
What steps should you take if you encounter a power line while operating an aerial lift?

Emergency Procedures

In case of electrocution, immediately call emergency services and do not touch the equipment or the victim until the power is shut off.
If the aerial lift tips over, brace yourself and hold on tight. After the tip-over, assess injuries and call for help.
For falls, immediately call emergency services and provide first aid until help arrives.

Summary

Recap of main points:

Always wear a harness and lifeline and ensure it is properly attached. [1]
Ensure the aerial lift is on stable ground and avoid slopes or uneven surfaces. [1]
Maintain a safe distance from power lines and establish a safe work zone. [1] [1]
Conduct regular inspections and ensure proper training before operating any aerial lift. [1]

Remember: Safety First: Elevate Responsibly!

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.