Elevated Work Platform Safety Training Tips
The Safe-Tech Elevated Work Platform Training Program is a two-part program consisting of a comprehensive in-class theory session followed by practical operator training and/or testing. Programs cover a broad spectrum of elevated work platform operations focusing on the equipment particular to your operation. (i.e. Scissor Lift, Telescoping Boom (Genie Boom), Articulating Boom, Non-Self Propelled Aerial Work Platform, Self-Propelled Vertical Mast Platform.
Safe-Tech programs meet or exceed all relevant CSA Standards, applicable Federal/Provincial regulations and Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training & Skills Development Guidelines.
On-site Elevated Work Platform Training Programs are available at client’s location in both full or refresher format throughout Ontario including Belleville, Brampton, Burlington, Cambridge, Cobourg, Hamilton, Kitchener, London, Markham, Mississauga, Niagara Falls, North Bay, Oakville, Peterborough, Sarnia, Toronto, Waterloo, and Windsor. Public/Off-site programs are available at several locations throughout the GTA.
The following Safety Rules are used in conjunction with the “Safe-Tech Elevated Work Platform Operator” Training Program”. Each participant is provided with a copy of this booklet and each rule is explained and discussed in detail by the instructor. These rules were derived from relevant CSA Standards or are considered “Best Practice” by Safe-Tech. Please note that these are general safety rules and it should not be assumed that every possible safety rule that may pertain to your particular operation, equipment type and environment is covered herein.
Pedestrian Safety
Watch for pedestrians. Their safety is your responsibility. Expect the unexpected.
Sound horn when approaching pedestrians, doorways and cross aisles etc ...
Keep ground personnel away from the machine and a safe distance from a raised platform.
Do not leave an elevated work platform unattended without locking it or otherwise preventing unauthorized use.
Vehicle Safety
Always perform a visual and operational inspection of your elevated work platform prior to use. Records of inspection must be kept on site.
Never remove, disable or over-ride any safety features on the elevated work platform.
Report mechanical problems to your supervisor immediately. Unsafe equipment should be parked, locked out, tagged and reported.
Never try to repair an elevated work platform unless you are qualified and authorized to do so.
Keep the load below 2/3 of the RWL (rated working load) whenever possible.
Make sure all controls are clearly labelled with action and direction.
Check brakes before descending any incline.
Operators and supervisors must be trained on the use of the emergency lower control systems.
Never smoke or use open flame around charging batteries, when refuelling an IC truck or exchanging or filling propane cylinders. Ensure that your IC truck and battery charging areas are equipped with the correct fire extinguishers.
Propane cylinder replacement must be done at a safe location that is at least 7.5 metres from ignition sources, open pits and underground entrances.
Vehicle Operation
Never operate unfamiliar equipment until you have been trained, authorized and have reviewed the operator’s manual.
You must always wear a full body harness and tie off to the anchor point when on the platform.
Never travel with the platform raised. Manoeuvring while raised is acceptable.
Pulling or pushing on fixed objects while elevated can decrease stability.
Understand that raising the platform raises the centre of gravity and reduces stability.
As platforms are raised, machines may sway. Workers can be pinched between guardrails and a structure. Position the platform so that work takes place above guardrail height.
Never lift anything that is longer or wider than the platform or that overhangs the guardrails.
Read and obey all hazard warning labels.
Never operate any equipment while impaired. Anything that adversely affects your concentration, balance, mobility, vision, depth perception or attention can be considered an impairment. Never text or read texts while operating powered equipment.
Report to your supervisor any medical conditions which may affect your ability to operate safely (i.e. vision, hearing, medications, mobility problems).
Always look up when elevating and down when descending.
Always keep the platform clean and free of debris as it may cause a tripping hazard.
Never tie the platform to adjacent structures or objects for additional stability as this creates a whole new set of hazards.
Always attach the entry chain and/or close the entry gate before operating.
Always maintain a three point stance when climbing in or out of the platform. Do not jump from equipment.
Always keep all body parts, including head inside the confines of the platform when travelling.
Understand that horseplay can be grounds for immediate dismissal.
Never enter or leave the platform by climbing the scissors or the boom. Do not use extension ladders to gain access.
Deploy stabilizers, extendable axles or outriggers according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Never try to push or move a boom truck by telescoping the boom.
Do not leave the machine unattended in the elevated position unless this is approved by the manufacturer.
Never use an elevated work platform as a ground for welding.
Do not place the boom or platform against any structure to steady either the platform or the structure.
Always secure loads and tools on the platform so the machine movement will not dislodge them.
Make sure the extension cords, air hoses, or welding cables are long enough for the full platform height and won’t get pinched or severed by the scissor mechanism.
Work Area
Always inspect the work area for any potential hazards and block the area off from pedestrian access.
Always report any unsafe conditions to your supervisor immediately.
Understand that uneven floor surfaces can affect stability.
Always ensure you have a clear view of the direction of travel. If your view is obstructed, use a trained spotter.
Never travel on a ramp or incline that exceeds the maximum grade allowable for the EWP.
Report injury, damage or near-miss accidents to your supervisor immediately.
Match speed to driving surfaces and workplace conditions. Reduce travel speed in congested areas and always slow down when cornering.
Watch for overhead obstructions at all times, particularly when raising the platform or manoeuvring while raised.
Do not run over loose objects or debris on the floor as they may shoot out from wheels or cause instability.
Do not move a vehicle that has been involved in a critical injury until the M.O.L. inspector has arrived on the scene. The machine may be moved if necessary to access the injured party.
The EWP is not insulated against electrical shock. Coming too close to or in contact with electrical lines or electrical current can cause electrocution. Always check for overhead power lines before moving the machine or operating the platform. The limits of approach from overhead power lines must be observed. If work must be done within these limits, make arrangements for the owner of the utility to have the power line de-energized. Allow for movement or sway of the lines as well as the platform. Be aware of overhanging tools or equipment.
Never operate an elevated work platform in windy conditions. For safe wind speeds, refer to the operating manual.
Equipment Selection
Never use an on-slab EWP on rough terrain.
Never use a scissor lift where the reach of a boom type machine is needed.
Never extend the platform with planks, ladders or other devices because the machine can’t reach the required height.
Never stand on the guardrails to gain extra height.
Never modify an elevated work platform without the manufacturer’s approval.
Never use a boom supported platform as a crane.