Manlift Safety Advice and OSHA Manlift Training Mandates
A Manlift construction piece equipment can take a man up high in a short duration of time. Nonetheless, every team should be completely aware of the OSHA’s manlift requirements and should know the safe usage of the device. In this article, we will guide you about the safety requirements of manlifts.
OSHA’S recommended Safety Rules for using Manlifts
Manlifts always accompany hazards but these risks can be decreased by acting upon the safety tips. Ensure that the people performing manlifts are properly trained for the lifts. The most common safety tips are given below:
1. Ensure training and certification of employees
It should be a strict rule that a person cannot operate the manlift if he is not properly trained. This step will decrease the risk associated with manlifts. In addition to this, follow the regulations specified by OSHA. Every person performing manlift should have certification in using it.
2. Checking the Inspection Record of manlift
Check the vehicles for any problem in addition to looking at the records. The records should be checked for any problems or faults that were not repaired. One should check the operating and emergency controls, tires, outriggers, and guardrails before operating the manlift. Ensure that the Hydraulic fuel, fuel, and air have no leaks. If you already know that the device is not in a good working condition or records show that it is not working properly you should never use the device.
3. Using the protective gear
You should not perform boom lift without having the proper gear. serious injuries can result if the person is not wearing protective gear. this can put the lives of people in danger. When the person is in a high position, the boom lift harness makes sure that the person operating the manlift will not sustain injuries in case if he falls. Manlift harness adds to the protection of the person using it.
4. Inspecting the Surroundings of manlift
The most important factor in manlift safety is the selection of surroundings in which the manlift is being used. You must know the surroundings in which manlift is put. Always check for hills, uneven pavement, slopes, and also the weather at that time. It is not possible to use the boom lift in windy weather. Surroundings in which manlift is being used are a major factor in ensuring the safety of operation.
5. Always stay within the weight limit
The most important and so far the best tip for the safety of the team is that you should not exceed the weight limit. The exact weight limit that is acceptable can be checked in the manual. Always keep in mind the number of people that the manlift can safely carry which may be only one or two people. Never exceed the number of people on manlift as it can put the lives of those people in danger.
6. Knowledge of the shutdown procedures
You should know shutdown operation in detail and all the members of the team should be trained about it. It is an integral component of training that should be provided to the team involved in manlifting. Certified people who have proper training, know the shutdown procedure.
Common Hazards while using manlifts
Manlifts are very helpful in doing some jobs. However, it is associated with some potential hazards. The common hazards which are associated with manlifts are tip-overs, falls, getting crushed, shock, and even collapse. Therefore, it is recommended to properly inspect the manlifts before operating them. Manlift harness plays an important role in preventing people from falling onto the ground if they fall. If manlift is on a hill, then it is common for the tip-overs to happen. That’s why it is suggested to make sure that you are working in a safe surrounding and safe weather. As wind can push the manlift and cause it to fall. Keeping in view the hazards of operating manlifts, OSHA has made some rules and regulations which must be followed.
You should follow the safety procedures no matter which type of manlift you are using. The safety of your team needs to follow the OSHA manlifting safety requirements. In this way, major injuries are prevented and costs are reduced
Tips for inspection of manlifts
It is an important practice to check the manlifts every month for any problem. They should also be checked before every use. Manual should be consulted for any problems. Inspect the lights, horns, floor landings, rails and the tension in the belt. It is very important to check brakes before operating manlifts. Ensure that there are ladders for emergency exit and a fire extinguisher should be there to avoid a dangerous situation.
What to avoid while Operating Manlift
Some practices should be avoided while operating the manlift. For instance, it is very risky to use a manlift if the weather is very windy. It should be avoided to sit on the platform or the rails of manlift. Wearing protective gear is a must while operating the manlift.
OSHA’s Requirements to operate manlifts
According to the OSHA requirements for the safety of the team members, a part of the boom lift which is at risk should not be allowed to use. Incomplete or missing machinery or faulty device will not be allowed to use by the team. It should be an important duty to maintain and check the parts of manlift every month and a specific person should be allotted this duty. Check the limit switches after seven days to ensure safety. All the safety checks should be recorded to track the changes in manlift.