Safety Tips When Operating Aerial Equipment - “Do’s & Don'ts”

Training: Only those authorized and who have received general instructions, regarding the inspection, application and operation shall operate such equipment.

Operator of equipment must familiarization themselves with the manufactures Operators Manual prior to the use of equipment. Particular reference must be made to the operator responsibility.

Work-site Safety: Before equipment is used, the work-site shall be surveyed for hazards such as:

• Un-tamped earth fills
• Ditches
• Drop offs
• Debris
• Overhead obstructions
• Weather conditions

Safety: The two main risks associated with operating aerial equipment.

• Electrocution caused by operating too close to power lines.
• Injuries caused by falling as a result of equipment failure or the operator performing an unsafe or unstable maneuver.
• A safe attitude is very important when operating equipment.

The Do’s and Don’ts: The following illustrates unsafe conditions that may occur during the use of aerial equipment.

Hydraulic System Cleanliness

The cleanliness of a hydraulic system on mobile equipment is as important as the care of the engine and chassis oils. Contamination in a hydraulic system will wear pumps, valves and cylinders prematurely. The accumulation of particles will wear the system. This in turn will breed more wear and shorten service life.Sources of contamination could be some residual left in the system from manufacturing or normal component wear, but more likely from the tool circuit, tank breather or fill cap.

Most filters have a built in bypass to protect the filter from rupturing and spilling all trapped particles into the system. If the filter is not serviced, new particles pass the filter and circulate throughout the system.

Water is a contaminant. It can lead to rust in the system and a breakdown of the oil properties. More importantly it will effect the dielectric properties. Other contaminants could be gas content or acidity.

Oil sampling on a periodic basis is a good idea to assure a clean system, as well as regular filter service.

Regular filter service, proper oil levels and oil sample tests will insure a long serviceable hydraulic system. If you need parts such as filters or hydraulic oil, you can order online at our parts & accessory store: http://store.versalifteast.com.