Whether you are renting a boom lift or purchasing one, you need to be careful about operating it. All staff must be trained to ensure the utter safety of the crew and the equipment. Boom lifts are complex. They have different specifications, which must be considered before the operation begins. When you rent a boom lift, you need to learn everything about the equipment or hire an operator, who has worked with such a machine before.
Below is a short list of practical reminders on what to do when using a boom lift.
1. Pre-Operation Inspection
Even if you have just purchased a new lift, you need to run a pre-operation inspection. Walk around the equipment, check hydraulic hoses and fittings to ensure there are no leaks. Tires must be properly inflated.
2. Starting The Boom Lift
Start the lift and choose “ground” on the active input control panel. Start operating the boom lift in this position to ensure all functions are in good order. Then switch the panel from “ground” to “platform”.
3. Climbing Into The Lift
Put on the safety gear and climb into the basket. Depress the safety switch so platform controls are activated. Look around to make sure the area is safe for working with the boom lift. Once you are sure that obstacles don’t exist, allow the boom lift to extend.
4. Adjust The Lift
You can adjust the height and angle of the equipment in order to get as close to the target as possible. While doing that, continue checking the area. Wires and other obstacles are potential hazards for the worker. If you are working in a tight area, pay close attention to the order you adjust the lift arms. This will help you when you are leaving the area.
5. Shut Down The Lift
Once you are done, lower the arms into the locked position. Lower the basket to the safe height so you can get out easily. Shut the lift down Working with a boom life on your own is possible. However, it’s always better to have a team backing you up.
This is especially important when you are working in such potentially hazardous weather conditions as heat or wind. Ideally, you should have a boom lift operator controlling the lifting and lowering of the basket while the worker focuses on the job.
Alpha Platforms is the pioneer in operated boom lift rentals and height access service in the 150-300-ft range. Our precise German-made lifts have become the favorite height access method for those who try them once, as they combine unmatched productivity, safety, and reach.
