Prestart Inspection
Perform a prestart inspection before each shift as de-
scribed in Chapter 8. Do not use the aerial platform on
the job unless you are trained and authorized to do so.
Work Place
Inspection and Practices
Do not use the aerial platform as a ground connection
when welding. The welding ground clamp must be at-
tached to the same structure that is being welded. Elec-
trical current flow can be very intense, causing serious
internal damage to some components.
Inspect the area before and during aerial platform use.
The following are some potential hazards that may be in
the work place.
●
Debris
●
Slopes
●
Drop-offs or holes
●
Bumps and floor obstructions
●
Overhead obstructions
●
Unauthorized persons
●
High voltage conductors
●
Wind and weather conditions
●
Inadequate surface and support to withstand load
forces applied by the aerial platform in all operating
configurations
Before using the aerial platform in any hazardous (clas-
sified) location, make certain it is approved and of the
type required by ANSI/NFPA 505 for use in that particu-
lar location.
Know and understand the job site traffic-flow patterns and
obey the flagmen, road signs, and signals.
While operating the aerial platform, a good safety prac-
tice is to have qualified personnel in the immediate work
area to:
●
Help in case of an emergency
●
Operate emergency controls as required
●
Watch for loss of control by platform operator
●
Warn the operator of any obstructions or hazards
that may not be obvious to them
●
Watch for soft terrain, sloping surfaces, drop-offs,
etc. where stability could be jeopardized
●
Watch for bystanders and never allow anyone to be
under, or to reach through the scissors structure
while operating the aerial platform
Pinch points may exist between moving compo-
nents. Death or serious injury can result from be-
coming trapped between components, buildings,
structures, or other obstacles. Make sure there is
sufficient clearance around the machine before
moving the chassis or platform. Allow sufficient
room and time to stop movement to avoid contact
with structures or other hazards.
Always look in the direction of movement. Drive with
care and at speeds compatible with the work place con-
ditions. Use caution when driving over rough ground, on
slopes, and when turning. Do not engage in any form of
horseplay or permit riders any place other than in the
platform.
Secure all accessories, containers, tools, and other ma-
terials in the platform to prevent them from accidentally
falling or being kicked off the platform. Remove all ob-
jects that do not belong in or on the aerial platform.
Never steady the platform by positioning it against an-
other platform. Do not use boards, or other temporary
means to support or level the aerial platform.
Do not operate the aerial platform if it is damaged or not
functioning properly. Qualified maintenance personnel
must correct the problem before putting the aerial plat-
form back into service.
Operation
Use three points of support when entering or exiting the
platform. For example, use two hands and one foot
when climbing into the platform.
Make sure the area below the platform is free of person-
nel before lowering.
Keep both feet positioned firmly on the platform floor.
Operate the controls slowly and deliberately to avoid
jerky and erratic operation. Always stop the controls in
neutral before going in the opposite direction.
Do not dismount while the aerial platform is in motion or
jump off the platform.
Properly stow the aerial platform and secure it against
unauthorized operation at the end of each work day, be-
fore transporting, or if it is left unattended.
Tip-Over and Falling Hazards
Operate the aerial platform only on a firm, flat, level sur-
face capable of withstanding all load forces imposed by
the aerial platform in all operating conditions. Refer to
the General Specifications chart for the maximum
wheel load, maximum floor pressure, and drive/lift level
sensor interlock information. Raise the platform only
when the aerial platform is on level ground.
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Chapter 3. Safety
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