05 Aug Aerial Lifts Toolbox Talk

Aerial Lifts – Working at Elevations

Injuries from falls are one of the most common and severe workplace accidents. Employees must understand how to identify fall hazards and the ways they can protect themselves.

Areas Where Fall Hazards Exist:

Any height greater than 4 feet is considered a hazard and must be protected. This includes:

• Roofs Floor Openings              · Loading Docks               · Work Platforms

Ways to Protect Employees from Fall Hazards:

The most effective way to protect employees from falls is by eliminating the hazard. Passive systems such as guardrails and covers remove the employee’s exposure to the hazard.

	Passive Systems	Administrative Controls	Active Systems
	Guardrails Covers	Boundary Lines Signs / Access Control	Fall Arrest Systems Positioning Systems
Protection Level	Best	Fair	Fair
Training Needed	Low	High	High
Maintenance	Low	Medium	High
Employee Effort	Low	High	High

Fall protection equipment must be used and cared for properly:

Guardrails

• Always work within the confines of the guardrail
• Must meet design requirements (spacing, height, ) of OSHA CFR 1910.23

Floor Hole/Opening Covers

• Must support the intended load or at least 400 (20,000 lbs. if vehicle traffic)
• Must lay even with the floor; protruding covers create a tripping hazard

Boundary Lines System

• Must be erected 6 feet from the edge of the roof or fall
• Only used in certain roofing activities; not approved by OSHA
• Must be 34 inches high and visible in all weather conditions

Safe Work Distances

• Minimum distance of 15 feet to the edge – travel within 15 feet will require fall protection
• Pathway must be clearly marked and employees need to be trained
• This is a best management practice

Personal Fall Arrest System

• Inspect lanyard, harness, rings and other components before each use
• Inspect anchors annually and have them tested every 10 years
• Ensure the lanyard is the correct length for the height you will be working at
• Must train employees on how to use, inspect and maintain fall arrest equipment
• Replace equipment that is damaged or subjected to loads from a fall