Employee was operating an aerial lift, with an extendable boom rotating aerial work platform. He was thrown from the basket while moving the machine. The boom was fully extended and the machine apparently ran over some bricks, causing the boom to flex or spring, throwing the employee from the basket. The fall was about 37 feet to a concrete surface. The employee died from severe head and chest injuries. 
Unfortunately, these types of accidents happen all too  often. 

Aerial lifts include boom-supported aerial platforms, such as cherry pickers or bucket trucks. OSHA regulates scissor lifts as mobile scaffolds, not as aerial devices.  The major causes of fatalities are falls, electrocutions, and collapses or tip overs.  The major causes of injuries and fatalities involving aerial lifts are falls, electrocutions,

and collapses or tip-overs.

Safe Work Practices

·       Ensure that workers who operate aerial lifts are properly trained in the safe use of the equipment.

·       Maintain and operate aerial lifts in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.

·       Test the controls and inspect the aerial lift before use each day.

·       Never override hydraulic, mechanical or electrical safety devices.

·       Always stand firmly on the basket floor. Do not sit or climb on the edge or rails of the basket. Never use planks, boxes or other items inside the basket to extend your reach.

·       Ensure that all wheels of an elevated lift are on a solid base. Use outriggers, if provided.

·       Do not exceed the load limits of the equipment. Remember to allow for the combined weight of the worker(s), tools and materials.

Working  Near Power Lines

Maintain a minimum clearance of at least 10 feet away from the nearest overhead line.

Training

OSHA requires that aerial lift training be provided by a qualified person.  Training must cover:

·       Electrical, fall, and falling-object hazards.

·       How to operate the lift correctly (including maximum intended load and load capacity).

·       Manufacturer requirements

·       The user must demonstrate how to use the lift safely.

Even though aerial lifts allow elevated work tasks to be performed with ease, comfort and safety, improper lift operation can quickly result in injury and death, so never compromise safety when using aerial lifts.