Why must a boom lift occupant wear a harness and lanyard even though the basket has guardrails?
- A bump or sudden boom movement can throw the occupant out
- The guardrails are only rated to hold tools and materials
- The lanyard keeps the basket from tipping forward
- The harness is needed to climb between basket and structure
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A. A bump or sudden boom movement can throw the occupant out
A long boom whips when a wheel drops in a hole or the lift is struck, and that catapult effect can launch a person over the rails. The lanyard keeps the occupant in the basket; it is not for climbing out.
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.453(b)(2)(v); ANSI/SAIA A92.22
A worker in a lift basket cannot quite reach the work. What is the correct action?
- Stand on the mid-rail
- Lower and reposition the lift
- Set a stepladder in the basket
- Lay a plank across the rails
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B. Lower and reposition the lift
Occupants must stand firmly on the platform floor; climbing rails or using ladders and planks for extra height is prohibited because it defeats the guardrails and shifts the load. Repositioning the machine is the only acceptable way to gain reach.
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.453(b)(2)(iv)
How often must the controls of an aerial lift be tested?
- Each day before the lift is used
- Once a week by the operator
- Once a month by a qualified mechanic
- Only after repairs are made
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A. Each day before the lift is used
Lift controls are function-tested every day before use to confirm they are in safe working condition. A weekly or monthly check lets a fault go unnoticed through many shifts.
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.453(b)(2)(i)