An aerial device can be an effective tool to complete jobs quickly and safely. When operating an aerial device, there are a few important safety concerns of which owners and operators should be aware to enhance the safety of the equipment and the workers.
Purchase and Maintenance
A main safety concern involving aerial devices is the history of a used vehicle. A pre-owned aerial device can be a great way to purchase equipment without making a significant investment; however, buyers should be aware that since the unit is used, it could have been exposed to some sort of misuse. To protect yourself from buying a damaged and, therefore, potentially risky aerial device, it is important to request documentation from the previous owner that states that the unit is fit for service. This information should include evidence that the periodic maintenance schedule of the truck is up to date and that major components requiring scheduled replacement, such as cables, have been replaced at the required intervals. A buyer may also be interested in documentation of any major repairs made in preparation for sale. New aerial devices purchased directly from the manufacturer have already undergone a thorough inspection in accordance with ANSI 92.2, which sets the standard for building and testing aerial devices before they are sold. It is important to have a used piece of equipment similarly inspected and tested before placing it into service.
Altec NUECO is the sole supplier of Certified Used Altec Equipment. NUECO takes great care to ensure used equipment will be safe and high-performing for many more years of quality work and reliability.
Once you have purchased the equipment, maintenance should be performed regularly. An aerial device has many moving parts that must be properly maintained to prevent premature wear and potentially unsafe operation. To reduce the risk of malfunctions and to extend the life of the truck, follow the maintenance schedule as directed by the manufacturer.
Altec Service has service center locations throughout the United States and Canada, equipped with the technicians, tools and equipment needed to get units up and running. Our extensive fleet of mobile service vehicles and technicians covers the entire United States and is available 24/7.
Standards and Regulations
Because of the inherent risks involved in performing work above ground, aerial devices are regulated under OSHA’s standards for employers, which outline the best practices for operation. These regulations cover the various applications for this equipment, as well as ways to improve safety whenever operating an aerial device. Be sure to visit www.OSHA.gov to read their rules and guidelines. In addition to OSHA’s standards, the D.O.T. has a set of regulations for operating aerial devices on roadsides and highways.
Altec Sentry offers OSHA and ANSI compliant training programs that emphasize the proper use of equipment, as well as critical safety rules that help keep your crews safe on the job. Be sure to review the ANSI 92.2 Manual of Responsibilities included with the unit for detailed information about operator training and other safety requirements.
Safety Strategies
Employer work practices, OSHA/ANSI safety rules and the manufacturer’s instructions help keep aerial workers safe during the operation of aerial devices. Operators must be trained to recognize the hazards of aerial operation and to follow the applicable rules which ensure their safety. Before each job, conduct a job briefing to ensure operators and workers understand safety risks present at the worksite, as well as how to avoid them. Some possible hazards to discuss during a job briefing include energized electrical conductors, overhead obstructions, jobsite or roadway traffic, poor supporting surfaces and excessive slopes. With safety guidelines clearly communicated, it is finally up to the worker to utilize those best practices when operating an aerial device.
Altec continues to improve worker safety and develop new features. In the hands of a properly trained operator, Altec aerials are safe, reliable and effective tools for working high above ground. Stay alert for hazards, understand the safety features on your Altec aerial and follow the safety rules and precautions that apply to each job. These best practices will help ensure your workers return home safely at the end of every day.
