GET, LLC is a very proud partner of Terex and
Genie.
We continue to appreciate their advocacy to help lift owners like us and
others prevent workplace accidents and encourage our customers and end users
further safety advice when working at height.
On the eve of National Fall Prevention Stand Down Week, GET, LLC and Terex Aerial
Work Platforms (AWP) offer up the following:
"1) Make sure that you have received proper
training (both general training and hands-on practical training) as well as
familiarization on the AWP you will be using. Thoroughly read the operator’s
manual and safety signs on the machine, and understand the function and
location of all safety devices and controls before beginning operation.
2) Always read, understand and obey employer’s safety
rules and worksite regulations, as well as all applicable local, governmental
or provincial regulations that apply to AWP operation before operating the
machine.
3) Always perform a pre-operation inspection and
function tests on the AWP before each shift. A level sensor, alarm or any other
safety device cannot do its job if it has been disabled or has malfunctioned.
If the machine fails any of these tests, make sure it is immediately tagged and
removed from service until it can be repaired by a qualified service
technician.
4) Always perform a workplace risk assessment prior to
moving the AWP to the jobsite. Look for drop-offs and holes, slopes, slippery
or unstable surfaces, overhead obstacles, power lines and any other hazards
that may exist. Then consciously think about and avoid those hazards through
all phases of machine operation. A full list of hazards you need to be aware of
can be found in the operator’s manual for the machine you are operating.
5) Always wear the proper fall protection when
operating either a telescopic or articulating boom. A properly fitted full body
harness and appropriate lanyard or self-retracting lifeline is an absolute
requirement. Most operators do not understand the potential for being
catapulted from the platform of a boom. The slightest jar at the base of the
machine can equate into a sudden and powerful whiplash at the platform that may
have the potential to toss the operator into the air. If this were to happen, wearing
the proper fall protection may reduce the chances of serious injury or even
death.
6) Never sit, stand or climb on the platform
guardrails for any reason. The guardrails on an AWP provide fall protection
only if the operator maintains a firm footing on the platform floor at all
times. If an operator is required to reach an overhead work area that is too
small for the platform guardrails to allow access to, the use of a
manufacturer-approved device that has been specifically designed to provide
additional access to confined spaces is recommended.
7) Never exit an elevated boom or scissor lift
platform unless you have been properly trained to do so, maintain 100 percent
tie-off at all times, and are in possession of an approval letter from the
manufacturer that provides the proper guidance.
8) Never climb down from the platform when it is
raised. Whenever possible, keep a cell phone or two-way radio with you while
you are in the platform. Always have a rescue plan in place in the event that
the MEWP is not equipped with an auxiliary lowering system or if that system
malfunctions. Rescue plans should at a minimum include steps to ensure that
other personnel are aware that you are operating the MEWP and that they have
been trained and familiarized to operate the machine from the ground controls.
9) Always keep the platform floor clear of debris.
Scrap materials, buckets, large tool boxes and other items can cause a serious
tripping hazard. You should remove any item from the platform that is not
absolutely necessary to do your work. Utilize special manufacturer-approved
attachments such as fluorescent tube caddies or panel cradles (where
applicable) to lift large or bulky items.
10) Always lower the platform entry mid-rail or close
the entry gate before operating the AWP. The entry mid-rail or gate is an
integral part of the platform guardrail. Never tape or prop the entry open and
never use a AWP if the gate does not properly latch."
Be safe everyone.
If you have any
aerial lift needs and would like to discuss potential solutions, 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.