Aerial Lift Safety
A safety talk focused on aerial lift hazards, including falls, tip-overs, overhead hazards, platform controls, ground conditions, struck-by risks, and safe operation.
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Key Hazards
- Falls from the platform or basket
- Tip-overs from unstable ground, slopes, or improper setup
- Contact with overhead power lines or obstructions
- Workers struck by moving lifts, falling objects, or nearby equipment
- Crush or pinch hazards between the platform and structures
- Improper use of controls, gates, guardrails, or fall protection
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Aerial lifts are useful for elevated work, but they create serious hazards when they are not inspected, positioned, or operated correctly.
Before use, workers should inspect the lift, platform, controls, guardrails, gates, tires, outriggers, alarms, emergency lowering system, and fall protection equipment.
Ground conditions matter. Soft soil, slopes, holes, debris, grates, curbs, and uneven pavement can affect stability and increase tip-over risk.
Workers should stay inside the platform with both feet on the floor. Climbing on guardrails, leaning out, or using ladders inside the basket creates fall hazards.
Overhead hazards must be checked before raising or moving the lift. Power lines, beams, pipes, ceilings, doors, tree limbs, and other structures can create contact or crush hazards.
Fall protection requirements should be followed for the specific lift type and site procedure. Harnesses, lanyards, anchor points, and gates should be used correctly.
Workers below should be protected from dropped tools and materials. The lift area may need cones, barricades, or spotters to keep people clear.
Safe aerial lift use depends on inspection, stable setup, trained operation, overhead awareness, and stopping work when conditions change.
Safety Reminders
- Inspect the lift before use.
- Check ground conditions before raising or moving.
- Keep both feet on the platform floor.
- Use fall protection when required.
- Stay clear of overhead power lines and obstructions.
- Keep tools and materials controlled at height.
- Do not move or operate the lift beyond its rated limits.
Ask the Crew
- Has the aerial lift been inspected before use?
- Are ground conditions stable enough for the lift?
- What overhead hazards are near the work area?
- Is fall protection required and being used correctly?
- Are workers below protected from the lift and dropped objects?