What Are The OSHA Standards for Man Lift: A Guide to Safety Compliance

What Are The OSHA Standards for Man Lift: A Guide to Safety Compliance

Meta Description: Learn about OSHA’s mechanical inspection and operational requirements for man lifts to safely transport personnel between floors, inspection guidelines, manufacturer, and operating rules.

This article provides an overview of vital safety guidelines for operating man lifts or boom lifts. It analyzes OSHA regulations and requirements for running man lifts, lift inspections, training, personal protective pole structure or equipment, and operating procedures.

Properly implementing these safety protocols is vital for equipment manufacturer employees and rental businesses to safely carry out high-altitude tasks while protecting employees and complying with occupational safety tips, regulations, and standards.

Key Takeaways

• Follow OSHA training requirements and always ensure operators are certified before using man-lifts
• Inspect the equipment thoroughly, check for issues, and ensure the surroundings are safe before operating
• Wear proper safety gear, do not exceed weight limits, and always be aware of potential hazards

What is a Man Lift?

A man lift, also known as a boom lift, an aerial lift device, or a boom lift, is a mechanical device that provides temporary access to elevated heights for workers for inspection, maintenance, and construction tasks. Man lifts help complete jobs more efficiently and safely than other means of ladders or scaffolding.

Types of Man Lifts

• Scissor lifts have a work platform mounted on extending beams that fold like a scissor mechanism. They provide adjustable heights up to 28-30 feet.
• Boom lifts have a work platform at the end of a hydraulically operated boom. Boom lifts can reach heights from 20 feet to 120 feet and beyond.
• Spider lifts use a system of articulating arms rather than a single boom. They can access hard-to-reach areas, and their low transport height allows navigation under low ceilings and through narrow openings.

Parts of a Man Lift

The key components of a man lift include:

• Platform: The work area where workers stand. It is equipped with railings and fall protection.
• Controls: Buttons or levers to raise, lower, extend, or retract the lift. Controls are located on the platform or at ground level.
• Power source: Usually electric but can also run on batteries or internal combustion engines.
• Mast/boom: A vertical mast or horizontal boom is used to raise and position the platform and is made of steel or aluminum alloy for strength and durability.
• Wheels/tracks: Allows moving the lift to job sites. Scissor lifts have wheels, while boom lifts may have wheels or tracks.
• Safety devices: Includes alarms, lights, and limit switches to prevent tip-overs and ensure safe operation.

OSHA Regulations for Man Lifts

OSHA has established clear guidelines, practices, training, and standards to ensure the safety of workers using man lifts, also known as aerial lifts or boom lifts. Following these regulations is crucial to prevent any accidents at height.

Design and Construction Requirements

OSHA specifies requirements for the design and construction of man lifts. Floor openings must be an appropriate size for the belt width. Landings and emergency landings need to be included within the required travel distance. Guardrails and toeboards are mandatory at all floor openings and landings. Conical or floating guards below floor openings protect workers.

Man lifts must have front brakes, self-engaging brakes, emergency stop devices, and limit switches to stop the lift at the top automatically or if a step passes the landing. Instructions and warning signs informing users of common hazards and how to operate and exit the lift safely are essential.

Operating Procedures and Restrictions

OSHA stipulates operating rules like prohibiting the transport of materials or freight. Only trained, certified, and authorized personnel are permitted to manlift. They shall not be operated. Periodic inspections by competent individuals must occur at least every 30 days to ensure all safety components like steps, handholds, ladders, guardrails, and warning lights are fully functional.

Setting up a Man Lift Safely

Setting up a man lift safely is crucial to how employees avoid workplace accidents and hazards. Proper safety protocols must be followed diligently during the entire process.

Securing the Work Area

The first step of the shutdown procedure involves securing the entire work area where the man lift will be operated. The area underneath and all adjacent regions must be cordoned off to ensure no risk of unauthorized entry. Clear demarcations using safety cones, warning signs, or barrier tapes should be placed around the perimeter to warn others regarding the danger of an ongoing operation. Pedestrian or vehicle movement must be barred in that secured zone until operations are complete.

Setting Outriggers and Guardrails

Once the work area adjacent to the pole structure is secured, the man lift needs to be positioned carefully. Its outriggers must be extended fully on each lifting arm to provide the structure with a stable base before any work at height begins. The manlift outriggers should be set upon solid, level ground wherever possible to avoid tipping risks. Guardrails must be installed surrounding the work platform at the appropriate height as an additional safety measure before the platform is raised.

Several checks of the aerial lifts are essential before the commencement of work. This includes inspecting the belt tension to ensure the safe functioning of the boom lift. Electrical and hydraulic systems, emergency stops, and safety devices must be tested. Proper belt tension should be applied, and safety tips like using fall protection gear or a fall arrest system may need review.

Safely Operating a Man Lift

Safely operating a man lift requires proper operator training and understanding of pole structure, equipment control, hazards, and safety features. Following guidelines for controlling, loading, moving, and responding to emergencies helps the operator minimize risks.

Controls and Safety Features

Man lifts have various controls and safety features to allow for safe operation. Controls include buttons or levers to raise, lower, and drive the boom and basket. Emergency stop buttons immediately cut power if engaged. Safety railings surround the basket perimeter, and fall arrest harness attachments are provided. Limit switches prevent over-travel, and two braking systems stop all movement. Proper belt tension and adjacent pole safety are also necessary.

Proper Loading and Movement

Only trained and authorized personnel working properly should operate aerial lifts. Before use, inspect for defects according to the Osha requirements. Floor landings must be clear of obstacles and lighting adequate. Load the basket evenly and ensure the weight limit is not exceeded. Move smoothly and avoid sudden movements to keep the weight limit at the lift level. Maintain stable contact with the ground or surface at all times.

Responding to Emergencies

If issues arise, respond carefully following safety tips. Press the emergency stop button if the lift malfunctions or hazardous conditions appear. Do not attempt repairs without proper training. Do not operate the lift in high winds; lower the boom to the ground instead. If power fails, climb the ladder with a fall arrest harness. Otherwise, wait calmly in the basket for assistance. With awareness of common hazards, proper gear, and care, aerial lifts can be operated safely.

Common Hazards and Accident Prevention

Manlifts can be very useful for tasks that require working at heights, but they also present some inherent risks that operators must be aware of. Taking proper precautions is necessary to avoid accidents and injuries. Some of the main hazards include:

Tip-overs and Falls

Tip-overs and falls are serious risks associated with operating man and aerial lifts. They can be caused by over-reaching, overloading the equipment, using it on uneven or unstable ground, or encountering adjacent poles or overhead obstructions. Following the safety manual instructions regarding capacity, set-up, and guardrails is essential.

Struck-by Injuries

Being struck by falling objects is another potential hazard. When working in the lift, operators must be aware of the danger of their surroundings and watch out for any loose materials, tools, or other items that could fall from above.

Electrocution and Fire Hazards

Manlifts require electricity and pose electrocution risks if the machine or any part of the operator’s body comes into contact with power lines. It is essential to inspect for damaged wiring or loose connections, keep a safe distance from overhead lines, and avoid using lifts in stormy conditions. Fuel-powered lifts also carry a fire risk that can be mitigated through proper maintenance and refueling safety practices. Storing fuel appropriately away from heat sources and having an empty fire extinguisher somewhere nearby are sensible precautions.