

Solution: Aerial and Scissor Lift

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	Description:	An aerial lift, or aerial work platform (AWP), is an engineering control that can reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders from overhead work. These mechanical devices can provide temporary access to elevated work sites and may be manually-propelled (push-around), self-propelled (driveable), or vehicle-mounted. They can mechanically function in two different ways such that some can usually only elevate vertically (i.e. scissor lifts) whereas some are situated on an articulating arm that can also allow horizontal movements (i.e. boom lifts). Aerial work platforms can mechanically function in two different ways and are categorized as either "scissor" lifts or "boom" lifts. Scissor lifts usually have work platforms that can only elevate vertically whereas boom lifts have work platforms situated on an articulating arm that can also allow horizontal movements. Some may be more suitable than others in certain work conditions and environments. Further, there are also different types of aerial work platforms. This list generally includes: Manually-propelled AWP These are the typical push-around aerial platforms since they are not capable of moving under their own power. Usually, these are one-occupant vertical lifts (scissor lifts) commonly called "Genies," although there are other manufacturers that make them. In some cases, boom lifts can also fall under the manually propelled type such as a trailer-mounted AWP. Self-propelled AWP These are driveable lifts in which operators (workers) can operate while the job is in progress. This type of AWP also covers both scissor and boom lifts. Vehicle-mounted AWP This type of AWP covers articulating boom lifts, which are usually mounted on a vehicle. More Detail
	Risks Addressed:	Performing tasks with the hands at or above shoulder height can cause musculoskeletal disorders of the: shoulders, neck and back such as shoulder tendonitis, tension neck syndrome and also low back pain, respectively. Shoulder tendonitis is the inflammation of the rotator cuff, which is linked to four muscles in the shoulder. Lifting the arms cause the front part of the shoulder bones to rub on the rotator cuff. Tension neck syndrome occurs when the shoulder muscles are contracted for long durations, this overloads the shoulder-neck muscle fibers. Tilting forward or backward carrying weight overhead can stress the lower lumbar and result in low back pain. An aerial lift or work platform, adjusted to an appropriate height, can reduce overhead work by preventing working at or above shoulder level.
	How Risks are Reduced:	AWP are generally the best choice for performing extensive work at heights. However, any deviation from the prescribed maintenance and operational requirements may present safety risks. Lifts are designed to operate safely within the limits imposed by the manufacturer and under the conditions specified by OSHA and ANSI.
	Quality of Evidence (Risk Reduction):	Safety and health experts believe there is a risk reduction.
	Quality of Evidence Explanation (Risk Reduction):	Workers report that they do not have to stretch or overreach while performing tasks utilizing AWP thereby reducing the risks for strains and injuries, and making their jobs more comfortable and safe. Assuming the AWP will have guardrails, this may also in turn minimize the likelihood of falling if workers attempt to stretch or overreach beyond their capabilities.
	Effects on Productivity:	Scissor lifts provide a large, mobile, guarded and stable work area that can usually be occupied by more than one worker. Boom lifts can elevate a worker into positions that would be difficult to reach safely using a ladder. The use of lifts may eliminate the erection of stationary scaffolding or repeated movement of ladders.
	Quality of Evidence (Effects on Productivity):	Safety and health experts believe there is an increase in productivity.
	Quality of Evidence Explanation (Effects on Productivity):	Workers performing tasks utilizing AWP may carry out their tasks three times more efficiently than using other access methods such as podium steps, ladders, A-frame stepladders and scaffold towers. In one case study conducted by Crown House Technologies, comparing the productivity of workers using an AWP versus a mobile tower scaffold, the workers were observed and timed on setting up, ascending/descending, working and storing the equipments. After extrapolation and standardized calculations, it will take more than 3 times longer to use the mobile tower scaffold to complete the same project. Please see our ROI calculator Aerial Work Platform example for more details.
	Return on Investment:	To find out the potential return on investment (ROI) for this solution, please visit our Return on Investment Calculator. “Click to Begin", then “Load an Example” and select "Scissor Lift/Aerial Lift - Per Project".
	Availability:	The following are examples of aerial lifts that are commercially available: Genie Industries For purchasing information visit http://www.genieindustries.com/ or contact Genie Industries at 1-800-536-1810 or email them here by your region. Allwest Equipment Sales, Alexander Equipment JLG For purchasing information visit http://www.jlg.com/en-US/Home.html or contact JLG at 1-877-JLG-LIFT Allwest Equipment Sales, Alexander Equipment SkyJack For purchasing information visit http://www.skyjack.com/default.aspx or contact SkyJack at 1-800-536-1810 or email them here by your region. Alexander Equipment Terex For purchasing information visit http://www.terex.com/main.php or contact Terex at 1-203-222-7170 or info@terex.com Alexander Equipment UpRight / Snorkel For purchasing information visit http://www.upright.com/ or contact UpRight / Snorkel at 1-785-989-3001 or email them here by your region. Alexander Equipment
	Additional Considerations:	Although an aerial work platform may serve as safer alternative to ladders and scaffolds, these must be carefully selected to match the work being performed and must be maintained and operated in strict conformity with the manufacturer's manual and with OSHA and ANSI standards. Federal OSHA and ANSI standards address AWP. Since, scissor lifts are considered to be "mobile scaffolds" they are subject to the requirements of: OSHA - 1926.452(w), - 1926.451(g)(1) ANSI - A92.3 Manually Propelled Elevating Aerial Platforms (push-around) - A92.6 Self Propelled Elevating Aerial Platforms (scissor lifts) Articulating and extensible platforms (e.g. bucket trucks and booms) are also subject to the requirements of: OSHA - 1926.453 ANSI - A92.2 Vehicle Mounted Elevating and Rotating Aerial Devices (trailer-mounted boom lifts) - A92.5 Boom-supported elevating work platforms (boom lifts) The AWP manufacturer's operations and maintenance manual is an important reference and must accompany the lift and be read and adhered to by the operator. According to the ANSI A92 Standards, there are two types of training to help ensure safe operations: 1) general training which enables a trainee to become a qualified person (one having general knowledge on AWP, its functions and working conditions) and 2) familiarization which enables the qualified person/operator to become familiar with a model-specific AWP. Users (the contractors, employers and/or owners) and operators (workers that control the movement of the AWP) each have specific duties related to aerial lift safety. Users must ensure that: The equipment that they buy, lease, rent or borrow is built and maintained in accordance with OSHA and ANSI requirements The operator of the AWP is trained by a qualified person before being assigned to operate the aerial platform The operator is familiarized with the aerial platform to be operated The operator is retrained, if necessary, based on the user’s observation and evaluation of the operator Each piece of equipment is provided with an operation and maintenance manual that is maintained on that piece of equipment; usually in a weather resistant compartment (not in the office) Operators must: Be trained by a qualified person before operating any lift Read, understand and follow the manufacture's operating instructions for the specific piece of equipment being used Read all decals, warning and instructions on the work platform Conduct a work area inspection prior to using each lift Conduct a thorough equipment check for defects such as cracked welds, hydraulic leaks, damaged control cables, loose wire connections and tire damage, and inspect functional controls for proper operation prior to work on a daily basis Operate the AWP within the safe limits as specified by the manufacturer and ensure that any provided stabilizing devices, such as outriggers, are used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions Guardrails are kept completely in place, including entry opening chains or gates Properly wear and attach fall arrest systems (workers on guarded scissor lifts are not required to use personal fall arrest systems unless they leave the lift's guarded area) Before each elevation the operator must check: For overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors. A minimum of ten feet must be maintained at all times between any conductor and the operator and work platform. It is recommended that this distance be marked on the ground to aide operators. That the platform is elevated only on a firm and level surface (unless the equipment is specifically designed for unlevel surfaces, in which case the manufacturer's directions must be strictly followed). That the load is configured on the platform in conformance with the manufacturer's recommended load limits That any required outriggers or stabilizers are deployed That guardrails are installed and that entry gates or chains are securely closed For boom and bucket trucks, that all occupants are wearing properly attached full-body harnesses While driving the elevating work platform (under the conditions specified by the manufacturer) the operator must: Look in the direction of travel Ensure that the path is clear, firm, and level Maintain a safe distance from obstacles, drop-offs, holes, personnel and other hazards. Maintain a safe distance from overhead obstacles Maintain a safe speed Safe operation includes steps to prevent the tip-overs, falls, electrocutions and crushing injuries that result in about 26 construction worker deaths each year. Users must ensure that operators are trained by a qualified person, and must understand and adhere to all requirements of the manufacturer's operations manual. Tip-Over Prevention Scissor lifts, like other scaffolds, must be maintained in a level and plumb configuration. Indoor or "slab" machines are required by ANSI to be tested for stability at 5 degrees greater slope than the machine is rated for. Manufacturers, however, usually treat this as a safety margin and clearly mark the equipment for use on level surfaces only. These lifts must not be used on uneven surfaces or where they may be driven into holes or depressions greater that 4 inches. Scissor lifts specifically designed for rough terrain are available. Any outrigger or stabilizing device provided by the manufacturer must be used in strict compliance with the operations manual. No exceptions may be made for brief jobs. Fall Prevention Either a guardrail or a personal fall arrest system must be used by workers on a scissor lift. A properly maintained and closed guardrail system best serves this purpose. Attachment points may be provided for lanyards, but should only be used for fall restraint since fall arrest could cause the lift to tip over if the lift has not been specifically designed to accomodate the resultant force. Although a body belt may be used for a fall restraint (not fall arrest) system, it is a better practice to use a full body harness. A fall arrest system may be required if the worker exits the guarded area of the scissor lift. In that case the lanyard must be attached to a suitable exterior attachment point, not to the guardrail. Workers must not be attached to an external anchorage point while working on the lift. Workers in an aerial lift (boom or bucket truck) MUST be protected by both a guardrail and a fall arrest system. Using a railing, ladder, planks or any other devise for gaining additional height is not permitted on any elevated work platform. Workers must maintain a firm footing on the platform at all times, except for workers on a scissor lift who are wearing a fall arrest system attached to an external anchorage point while exiting the guarded area of the lift, or who are attached to a manufacturer approved hardpoint. Boom lifts are not designed to elevate materials and may collapse or tip over under excessive loads. Always use a crane or telehandler to raise materials. Scissor lifts should not be operated in high winds, especially if materials that may act as sails are on the lift. All-terrain fork-lifts require specialized operator training that meets OSHA requirements for fork lift operators. This training is different that that usually provided to aerial lift operators.