The construction industry is full of modern advances and the best safety practices to date, yet hazards still exist that can result in serious and unfortunate outcomes. It’s essential to place safety at the top of your priority list, as no project is worth more than the safety of an individual. From project managers running the job site to surveyors laying stakes, safety should be on everyone’s mind at all times. When you’re working with new or used construction equipment, it’s equally important to know the safest practices for operating each piece of machinery. If you’re looking to buy construction equipment in the Throckmorton area, One Source Equipment can help! Our company proudly offers quality construction equipment for sale to customers in Abilene, Odessa, Midland, and beyond. Our employee-owned company strives to deliver the best equipment and support in the industry, delivering the machines and financing you need to get your job done.
One Source Equipment is here to serve as comprehensive your source for used construction equipment, and we’re proud to be a Genie Lift authorized dealer. From boom lifts to scissor lifts, you can find the perfect aerial platform to enhance the efficiency of your work. Our focus on supplying quality machinery revolves around safety, which is why today’s blog will look into a few guiding safety practices to help you operate your aerial lift. If you’re in need of any sort of construction equipment, be sure to give us a call! If we don’t have the machine you’re looking for, our experienced team can work to procure it for you.
Comprehensive Training
If your crew is planning on utilizing an aerial work platform, it is vital to undergo the proper training before attempting any task. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and proper training programs can help you to save yourself from a metric ton of problems! It is important to examine and explain each and every feature involved with your aerial lift, including general and hands-on training for to maximize your workers’ safety and efficiency. One way to ensure comprehension of the rules and regulations of working on an elevated platform is to schedule time for your workers to become familiar with your new machine. Taking the time to double-check their understanding of safety measures can help to save you from serious concerns and possible damages down the road.
Following Manufacturer’s Instructions
Switching between a skid steer and a boom lift will illuminate one fact for you: every piece of machinery is different. As such, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on operating and maintaining your new construction equipment. In most cases, manufacturers can serve as a comprehensive resource for proper safety measures and training initiatives. Genie Lifts, for example, offers online operator training called LiftPro.
Setting the Safety Checks
Minor movements can have big consequences if you’re working from an elevated position, making it essential to secure your aerial lift before getting into the basket. Before jumping in, especially on inclines, be sure to set the brakes and chock your wheels. If your lift equipment provides outriggers, make sure to set these devices up before lifting off the ground. It is also important that you never exceed safety parameters set by the manufacturer. Your lift equipment will come with a number of electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical safety devices that all work to minimize the risk of equipment failure and injury.
Pre-Work Inspections
Before you step foot into your new or used construction equipment, it’s important to perform a safety check on the vital components to ensure compliance with safety regulations. This should be second-nature for you at this point, as pre-shift checks are common for all types of machinery present on site. Be sure to inspect vital components, safety devices, and the tires, and also do a cursory check to ensure that no fluids are leaking and that everything is right where it should be. A large number of falls and crushing accidents are sourced from a failure to pre-check your equipment, so take the time to make sure that everything is as it should be!
When it comes to safely operating your “new” aerial lift, it’s important to focus on safety first and foremost. Construction sites can become very hectic with numerous crews working on various tasks ranging from utility line backfills to framing and more. It is entirely necessary to take the time to be safe in order to create an optimal outcome for everyone involved. Next time, we’ll continue this blog by looking into a few more safety tips that can help optimize the efficiency and quality of your construction services. If you’re in need of quality construction equipment in Throckmorton or the surrounding areas, be sure to work with One Source Equipment for the best outcome. Our experienced staff can help you to find the equipment you need at a price you can afford. Contact us today to learn more or to ask any questions you may have!
