Aerial Work Platforms: Best Basket Safety Practices
Most modern aerial work platforms are built to be safe and secure – for both operators, as well as the environment they are in. In fact, advanced models come with remote controls to make the operation much easier and safer for everybody involved.
However, it is still valid for you to take your safety seriously when working in a lift’s basket. Especially when navigating through the varying terrains and climate of Canada. Maintaining balance at heights in such challenging conditions requires consistent discipline and the strategic use of best safety practices.
With decades of experience in designing the most secure and operator-friendly lifts, Platform Basket Canada brings you the best basket safety practices that contractors in Ontario need to know. Let’s begin!
Why Basket Safety Matters When Using Aerial Work Platforms?
An integral part of all aerial work platforms, the basket is going to be your primary control and working zone. It is where operators stand and carry out the maximum amount of work – from maneuvering the equipment itself to getting the task done and managing the tools needed for it.
Since practically every core action involving a typical working at heights job takes place in the basket, you need to be careful of how you use it. The slightest mistake can compromise the machine’s stability and control, thus creating a potential hazard for both you and the people on the ground surrounding you.
However, you can avert accidents and make the most of your platform’s exceptional reach, precision, and positioning by following simple basket use protocols. Consider them the key to smooth performance and job-site incident prevention.
How To Maintain Basket Safety During Aerial Work Platform Operation
Maintaining basket safety is not as difficult as it sounds. Platform Basket Canada’s experts have listed a few useful strategies that you can use to operate your lift safely and confidently, irrespective of your worksite’s conditions.
Keep a secure stance always
Once inside the basket, you must stay in it till you are back on the ground. Make sure your feet are firmly planted on the platform’s floor and that you are never sitting on it. You must also not lean against its guardrails or try to climb them. The primary purpose of the rails is to protect you from a fall, but they are not built to withstand heavy loads – especially at height. Maintaining a secure stance can help you keep the machine stable on all surfaces, including uneven ones.
Wear approved fall protection gear
When using the basket of an aerial lift, make sure you are wearing CSA-approved harness and lanyard systems at all times. The harness you use must be securely attached to its designated anchor point within the basket of your lift. Do not attempt to attach it anywhere else – such as the rails or external structures, as that can hamper the stability of the entire machine.
Secure your tools properly
Tasks that require elevated access also require the use of tools for their successful completion. However, loose tools can quickly turn into a hazard when you are working at heights. To prevent injuries or mishaps, you must either secure your tools with the help of lanyards or keep them in a storage bag when not in use. If your lift comes with a designated compartment for tools, you can use that to keep your equipment and yourself safe.
Be aware of your boom’s position
Being inside the basket can make every movement feel small or negligible. However, even a small shift can potentially impact your aerial lift’s stability. So when you are in the basket, you must avoid sudden motions or abrupt leaning at all costs – especially if your boom is fully extended. Your lifts need precise balance to function and any unnecessary weight shift can be problematic.
Practice other safety tips
A few other things you can do to ensure your experience in the basket is as safe and secure as possible include following your basket’s rated load capacity limit, keeping the basket free of ice, snow and other debris, and never overriding your machine’s in-built safety features. If they trigger an alarm, you must cease use immediately.
Conclusion
Engineered for accuracy, control, and safety, modern aerial work platforms are truly a class apart. However, maintaining basket safety remains largely in the hands of operators. By following the protocols we have listed above, you can work at heights confidently without worrying about accidents or mishaps.
Platform Basket Canada is committed to providing contractors across Ontario with aerial work platforms that feature industry-leading, built-in safety systems. Contact us to get industry-leading lifts designed for safer, reliable operation across various terrains.
FAQs
What is the maximum number of people allowed in an aerial lift’s basket?
A maximum of one or two operators are allowed in the basket of a lift. However, be sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines before hopping in.
Can the basket’s rails be used to gain extra height?
No. Under no circumstances should the guardrails be used to gain extra height as that can destabilize your platform.
What to do if the basket’s tilt alarm gets activated?
In such circumstances, you must stop all operations, lower the boom if it is safe to do so, and reposition your lift so it can get stable again.
