Lift Inspections
Forest Electric has recently adopted a new safety procedure for inspecting lifts prior to use. It is mandated by OSHA, and we are now enforcing strictly on all our lifts. Inspecting lifts prior to use helps prevent injuries and accidents from occurring. The lift operator performs these inspections. They’re a visual inspection, covering everything related to the machinery’s day-to-day operations. A pre-start inspection is mandatory to ensure the machine safe to use.
The platform should be inspected for slip and trip hazards. It’s one of the key scaffold components and the area where most accidents occur. Visible defects might involve incomplete fall protection or slip hazards such as dirt. The emergency controls, such as backup alarms, should be checked to ensure the equipment is safe to use, even in the case of intense loads.
The motor functions should be inspected routinely. If it has been a while since the equipment was moved, a qualified mechanic should inspect its internal workings and provide proper servicing to ensure the equipment is in good working order. If the equipment passes inspection, you sign off on the lift inspection tag prior to use for the day. If something is wrong, take the lift out of service and have a certified technician troubleshoot the issues. Inspecting lifts prior to use make them much safer and eliminate many of the hazards encountered while working from lifts.
Contributed by John Lambertson, Forest Electric Safety Manager, CSP, DOB SSM