What Are The Occupational Health & Safety Regulations Of Using Boomlift Rentals?
Many people utilize a boomlift rental when there is no other safe way of raising workers and materials to the desired height. Even so, there are a number of safety hazards associated with the use of these machines and there is always the chance that an accident will occur. To help lower this, Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) regulations have been put in place for boomlifts.
- Design: According to OH&S regulations, the bucket of the boomlift should be able to support its own weight plus five times the maximum intended load (these weights should be outlined on the bucket). The machine should also feature a guardrail to prevent workers and tools from falling, and all access gates should open inwards with safety latches.
- Load: When using a boomlift, it is important that workers do not exceed the maximum load designation (as outlined on the bucket). OH&S regulations also state that any tools and materials being lifted should be spread evenly across the floor of the bucket, as this helps to prevent tipping. Only trained workers should be allowed to use the machine.
- Rigging: Some boomlift rentals may feature bridles, links and shackles as a part of the rigging system that attaches the bucket to the machine and prevents it from tipping. These features should always be in place to ensure the safe use of the machine and any hooks that are a part of the system should be able to be closed and locked.
- Inspections: Before using the machine, it is of the utmost importance that it is properly inspected for safety. All of the controls and safety devices should be checked for optimal working. It is also recommended that you should load the bucket with the weight that you intend on lifting and raise it to the desired level to check that it is moving freely.
As well as ensuring the safety of the boomlift rental itself, OH&S regulations are also in place to ensure the safety of the workers using the machine. All persons must keep their limbs inside the bucket whilst it is being moved, for example, and they should be wearing the proper safety equipment (such as a hard hat and a harness that is attached to the bucket).