GET, LLC currently has for rent a Genie TZ-50. We have been proud to be able to put this specialty lift into the Guam and Micronesia marketplace and spend much time with our customers going over the safety features of this trailer-mounted lift when delivered to a respective job site. We can never forget that safety is key in using all aerial work platforms (AWP)-including the TZ-50. More importantly we should pay close attention when using an aerial lift outdoors, especially around overhead power lines.
This important issue was highlighted recently by the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) who called on aerial work platform operators and managers to always be aware of and keep safe distances when working near power lines. The IPAF used the CONEXPO in Las Vegas, Nevada earlier this month to highlight this important safety message.
The IPAF says that a fully extended boom should always be at least 50 feet from electrical pylons, and 30 feet from cables on wooden poles. These recommended safe distances meet or exceed those specified in American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards and Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) requirements.
IPAF reiterated that electrocutions are one of the largest causes of AWP-related fatalities in the United States.
“Operators or supervisors are often not in a position to know the voltage in the power source,” said IPAF North America Manager Tony Groat. “it is possible to work closer to power lines than the IPAF-recommended safe distances, but this should only be undertaken after seeking expert advice from the power supplier and implementing extra safety precautions.”
The IPAF's Accident Reporting Project and Powered Access Rental Market Reports found that in 2013, all seven reported cases of electrocution worldwide occurred in the U.S., where the AWP rental fleet is estimated at 510,000, which is 54 percent of the world rental fleet.
“AWPs are probably the safest way of doing temporary work at height, so the onus is on managers and operators to stay safe when working near to power lines/conductors," said IPAF Technical Officer Chris Wraith. "Electrocutions can be prevented through proper planning, risk assessment and management of work at height, including thorough operator training and familiarization."
Bottom line: Be safe when using an aerial work platform.
If you have any aerial lift needs and would like to discuss potential solutions, including the rental of our TZ-50 or the purchase of equipment or parts for any of Terex or Genie's AWP Products, please drop GET, LLC a line via our website at www.get-guam.com or give us a call at 671-797-0789-your authorized Terex/Genie Representative for Guam and Micronesia.