Authored by Ed Davidson and originally posted on LinkedIn:
There ya have it folks...
Fall protection...
It's better to have it and not need it, than it is to need it and not have it!
A handful of accident scenarios are responsible for the vast majority of these injuries and deaths.
Tip-Overs
If your scissor lift or aerial lift isn’t properly balanced or overloaded, tip-overs can happen. This common aerial lift accident is the root cause of a handful of scissor lift fatalities every year in the United States. More common in aerial lifts, since they’re mostly used outdoors, tip-overs can also occur with scissor lifts. Even in an indoor setting, tip-overs are the primary cause of scissor lift accidents.
Defective Equipment
Everything from malfunctioning pneumatics to frayed wires to inadequate safety restraints lead to scissor lift accidents. Defective equipment is detected before it becomes a problem with a thorough maintenance program.
Trapped on Lift
Careless operation can result in scissor lift accidents and aerial work platform accidents where the operator is pinned between the lift and other objects. Trees, bridges, walls and overhead hazards have to be accounted for. The best way to avoid this danger? OSHA compliant certification, courtesy of ALC!
Falls
This is the most common cause of aerial lift and scissor lift fatalities. Serious injuries also result from falls. Falls happen due to operator negligence, carelessness, and not using proper safety restraints. OSHA recommends the use of safety harnesses, and of course your operators should always stay within the safety guardrails when working on AWPs.
Ignoring Operational Guidelines
By “operational guidelines,” we mean a combination of the aerial lift manufacturer’s manual and your organization’s own safety recommendations. To avoid aerial lift accidents, all operators must have a solid understanding of their equipment and surroundings. With proper hands-on training and certification, your employees are more likely to adhere to these important guidelines!
Unstable Ground Conditions
To avoid aerial lift & scissor lift accidents, it all starts from the ground up – literally! From cherry pickers to telescopic boom lifts to scissor lifts, any aerial work platform requires a solid, stable foundation to work on. For outdoor work especially, ensure your employees always operate aerial lifts and MEWPs on flat, even surfaces. Mud, water, inclines and other hazards should be avoided at all costs.
Power Lines
Always be aware of overhead power lines. Electrocutions and serious injuries occur when workers or equipment come in contact with live electrical wires. Before working, ensure the general aerial lift work zone is free of dangerous power lines. If your job requires workers in close proximity to power lines, extra training & instruction is recommended.
Remember, accidents always step from hazards that might not seem serious at first glance, but can cause accidents, injuries or even fatalities.
** SEE THE VIDEO IN THE EMBEDDED POST BELOW. **
