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Are Boom Lifts Safe? Essential Safety Tips for Rental Companies
Boom lifts are a critical tool in many industries. However, rental companies often worry about the safety of boom lifts. Understanding the risks and taking precautions can help prevent accidents and ensure safe operation.
When a boom lift is extended very high, the wind can pose a substantial safety concern. If the wind is strong enough, it can knock a boom lift over completely. One should avoid using boom lifts in extremely windy conditions or in other adverse weather to avoid the risk of a boom lift potentially falling over.
Let’s look at the key aspects of boom lift safety and some practical tips to help you use them safely.
How Common Are Boom Lift Accidents?
From 1992-1999, 26 construction workers died from boom lift accidents. There were also 69 electrocutions from improper aerial lift use. During that time, there were 64 falls, 46 collapses/tip-overs, 23 caught in/caught between, and five other deaths related to aerial lifts. These stats show why it’s important to follow safety procedures to avoid these types of accidents.
What Are the Dangers of Boom Lifts?
Boom lifts are used frequently for infrastructure and power line maintenance. However, they pose a risk of electrocution, falling from heights, and tipping over. It’s important to train operators to understand these risks.
Are Boom Lifts Stable?
Boom lifts are designed to be stable, but they can become top-heavy when you’re working at heights, which increases the risk of tipping. Never use ladders or planks or anything else on the platform of a boom lift to try to stabilize it.
How Often Do Boom Lifts Tip Over?
According to the Electronic Library of Construction Occupational Safety & Health, one-third of boom lift accidents are caused by tip-overs. So, it happens. Make sure you’re trained, you know the load limits, and you don’t operate in adverse weather conditions.
Boom Lift Safety Checklist
- Inspect the Equipment: Regularly inspect the boom lift before using it to make sure it’s in good working order.
- Weather Conditions: Don’t operate the boom lift in high winds or other adverse weather conditions.
- Training: Make sure operators are trained and certified.
- Fall Protection: Use fall protection, such as harnesses and lanyards, and make sure they’re tied off correctly.
- Stability: Always operate the lift on a stable, level surface and don’t overload it.
OSHA Boom Lift Safety Requirements
OSHA has specific requirements for the safe operation of boom lifts. These include operator training, personal protective equipment (PPE), and regular equipment inspections. Following these requirements can greatly improve safety.
Boom Lift Hazards and How to Control Them
Common hazards associated with boom lifts include electrical hazards, falls, and tip-overs. You can control these hazards by maintaining a safe distance from power lines, using fall protection, and making sure the load is properly distributed.
Do You Need a Spotter for a Boom Lift?
You don’t always need a spotter, but having one can be beneficial. They can help the operator by watching out for hazards and communicating with them. This is especially important in congested areas or areas with a lot of activity.
Summary
By following these safety tips and understanding the hazards associated with boom lifts, rental companies can help ensure safer operation and prevent accidents. Safety should always be the number one priority to protect both the operator and the equipment.
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