Aerial Lift Type Information

Articulating lifts not only sway during use, but bounce as well, and may result in the operator being ejected from the work platform. Because of this inherent quality, personal fall protection systems (i.e. full body harness with connecting device attached to the designated anchor point) are required to be used by the operator. Refer to the operator's manual for more information. In addition to bouncing hazards due to traveling, the possibility of heavy materials at the work location falling onto the platform/basket and resulting in a springing motion are also possible. The lanyard or connecting device should only be attached to the manufacturer approved designated anchor point, or to an alternate anchor point approved by a safety representative, such as a boom strap.

Articulating lifts are often used on construction sites, and may involve traveling from one work location to another. Always lower the platform to approximately 3 feet or less above the ground when traveling. If you must travel on roadways, such as on campus, an escort vehicle traveling behind the lift is highly recommended.

Fall Protection

Boom trucks not only sway during use, but bounce as well, and may result in the operator being ejected from the work platform. Because of this inherent quality, a personal fall protection system (i.e. full body harness with connecting device attached to the designated anchor point) is required to be used by the operator. In addition to bouncing hazards due to general use, the possibility of heavy materials at the work location falling onto the platform/basket and resulting in a springing motion are also possible. The lanyard or connecting device should only be attached to manufacturer approved designated anchor point, or to an alternate anchor point approved by a safety representative, such as a boom strap.

Surface conditions

Due to the weight of boom trucks, special consideration should be taken when selecting the set up location. Soft soil conditions, underground steam tunnels, etc. can result in sudden shift or movement of the lift, possibly resulting in tip over or operator injury. Sidewalks on campus often follow or cross over sections of steam tunnel. Always consult knowledgeable personnel prior to set up where such conditions may be present. Use outriggers in accordance with the operator's manual for additional stability. 

Special features

Boom trucks which are also designed to lift materials (i.e. have a crane feature), or to dig holes (ex. digger derricks) must be used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. Refer to the operator's manual for details.

Boom trucks with insulated booms must be maintained in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and insulating qualities verified by annual dielectric testing. Records of testing must be maintained by the department. 

OSHA considers scissor lifts to be mobile supported scaffold work platforms, and requirements may vary slightly from those specified for aerial lifts. General information on mobile scaffods can be found in 29 CFR 1926.451 and .452(w). Refer to the operator's manual for manufacturer's requirements for safe operation.

Telescoping lifts typically sway during use, but it is unlikely that the operator would be ejected from the platform or basket as with articulating lifts. Refer to the operator's manual for fall protection requirements. It is critical that telescoping lifts are properly leveled and set up on a firm surface prior to use, and that outriggers are used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions specified in the operator's manual.