Aerial work platform: 13 safety rules!

The term lifting work platform denotes a category of construction equipment used in the context work at height ... These machines facilitate access to hard-to-reach places and allow workers to work in complete safety. Also known as Mobile Personnel Lifting Platform (MEWP) , they are designed to accommodate one or more people. Lifting work platforms can replace scaffolding if the situation is right.

When using the platform, it is important to adhere to certain safety regulations ... Indeed, even if they have a guardrail that partially protects against the risk of falling, working a few meters above the ground remains particularly hazardous for workers. With this type of machine, the danger can come from both the air and the ground. Often accidents, often fatal, can be caused by negligence, lack of vigilance or lack of preparation. Although the numbers show a decline in the number of deaths from MEWP, in 2017 66 people all over the world were killed using a lifting platform. The main causes of death are falls from a height (38%) ,electric shock (23%) и rollover (12%) ... To prevent accidents and further reduce the risk of accidents, here are 13 safety guidelines you should add to your to-do list before using the carrycot.

1. Make sure the operator is a CACES holder.

While not required, it is highly recommended that lifting operators platforms had CACES R486 certificate (formerly R386). This is, in particular, the recommendation of the National Fund for Medical Insurance for Wage earners (CNAMTS) and the National Institute for Research and Safety (INRS) in order to avoid accidents. Since new rules have been introduced since January 1, 2020, the CACES of the gondola is divided into three different categories :

• Category A, which includes all vertical lifting platforms (scissor lift, toucan, etc.)
• Category B, which includes multiple elevation MEWPs (articulated, spider, etc.)
• Category C, which includes non-production operation of devices (loading, unloading, etc.)

Please note that this the certificate is valid for 5 years.

On the other hand, the employer is obliged to train and test the behavioral skills of his employees in the ways he wishes. CACES is one way to fulfill this obligation prior to the issuance of a driver's license.

Please note: A company that forces its employees to work without a driver's license is subject to significant fines in the event of an accident, and this may sometimes not be covered by collective bargaining agreements.

2. Check the documents of the machine.

In the case of renting a platform, it is necessary to check the availability on the car mandatory documents ... So you must have a guide platform user , booklet by maintenance и report о periodic checks after 6 months ... Finally, you need to make sure that everything Reservations removed.

3. Carry out all normal checks before putting the machine into operation.

Regardless of the type of lifting work platform, it is important to walk around the machine to detect possible problems. First of all, inspect the car itself ... Check fluid levels (fuel, oil, coolant, etc.) as well as tires, headlights and hazard warning lights. After checking the car, we can proceed to check articulated arm ... The hydraulic and electrical systems must function properly, as well as the operational and emergency controls.

4. Inspect the surroundings of the work area.

It may be that workspace poses more risks than the platform. When you are indoors, you should inspect the ceiling and especially make sure that it is of sufficient height. The floor can also be a source of danger. There should be no holes or dents that could jeopardize stability cars.

On the street, the main danger comes from the sky. In fact, you must be extremely careful when working near power lines or communication lines ... Even if the lines appear to be out of power, it is important to remain vigilant. As with indoor use, the floor should not be unstable or have holes that could compromise the balance in the machine.

5. Do not exceed the allowed weight.

All lifting platforms, regardless of their type, have the maximum load that cannot be exceeded. This load represents aggregate weight operator, tools and materials in the platform basket. Therefore, before starting work, you must know the maximum load that the machine you are using can withstand, and accurately calculate the weight of all the elements that will be in the basket.

This known maximum load depends on the type of basket (spider, telescopic, scissors, toucan, etc.) and the size of the machine.

It is a manufacturer the boat is responsible for setting a weight limit. Therefore, it is necessary to refer to the manual user machines to avoid unpleasant surprises.

6. Do not remove from basket during use.

This may seem obvious, but under no circumstances should you attempt to leave the platform or climb up the fence while the machine is running. The basket of the basket itself is collective remedy ... The lifts are not designed to allow the basket to be removed during use. Even if you want to reach an object that is slightly out of reach, it is better to move the basket a few meters rather than risk falling.

If a worker has to leave the platform to complete a task, it is because it is not suitable for the situation.

7. Observe the number of operators recommended by the manufacturer.

for each type of platform there is a limited number of operators that can be present in the basket. It is a gondola builder who is responsible for specifying the number of operators required.

• MEWP type 1
• MEWP type 2
• MEWP type 3

8. Put on your seat belts and helmet.

This category includes scissor lifts и articulated lifts ... For these cradles, the platform can be moved in the upper position directly from the basket. They require two people to maneuver, one in the basket that controls the controls, and the other on the ground to direct and intervene in an emergency.

When using a lifting platform, it is not only the operator who is at risk. Any person on earth within reach machines may be in danger. Therefore, ground workers and pedestrians must be kept out of reach. Work performed using the platform may result in falling objects or materials and injury to those below.

It is also important and mandatory to indicate the presence of the machine using warning signs. Respect for marks on the ground by pedestrians is responsible for the operators leadership ... He must ensure that the signs are in place and do not allow passers-by to enter the work area. Correct signaling of the presence of a construction site is very important, especially in the event of a pedestrian accident. Responsibility for the accident would be at the discretion of the ships and then the company would have to demonstrate that its signs and markings were adequate.

10. Be careful with platforms!

Gondola and lifting machine used for finishing works (painting, electricity, insulation, heating, etc.) Or even stock. For indoor work, you can rent an electric and diesel aerial platform for outdoor work. When renting a Manitou, haulotte or genie aerial platform, it is important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations.

Care should always be taken when using the lifting platform, whether you are on the ground or in a basket. Indeed, the ability of these machines to move and climb vertically can lead to very serious accidents if the gondola hits an obstacle. Therefore, the area of ​​the platform must always be free to prevent overturning.

The fall of the operator can be caused by the so-called catapult effect ... The impact of the wheel on an obstacle or falling into the pit is reflected along the mast and leads to a sharp movement of the basket. If the operator does not have a seat belt, it may be thrown away.

To move the platform, the mast must be fully folded down before moving the machine. Traveling with the machine unfolded may result in the machine tipping over.

Finally, you must also take into account the protection of the machine. Indeed, when the site is no longer operational, you must provide protection against theft of your site's computers.

11. Do not use the carrying basket.

Lifting work platforms are machines designed only for work at height and for lifting people and tools. This is by no means material handling equipment. Therefore, they cannot be used to move objects or materials. By using the basket as a loading and unloading machine, you run the risk of exceeding the maximum load without even realizing it. This could cause the machine to tip over and endanger bystanders.

For any kind of loading and unloading work, Tracktor offers the possibility of renting forklifts and telescopic handlers in the main cities of France, and soon throughout the country. These machines are available with or without a driver to lift or move all of your materials.

12. Do not use the platform in strong winds.

Using the lifting platform in bad weather or in strong winds is sheer madness! V risers negotiations of the French standard EN280 are designed for stable in wind conditions up to 12,5 meters per second, that is 45 km / h ... The maximum permissible speed must be indicated on a plate affixed to the machine by the manufacturer. For some capsules that can be used indoors, such as electric toucans, the maximum speed may be zero.

Therefore, before starting work, you must learn about the climatic conditions. Some companies even have anemometers to check wind speed on site.

13. Do not disregard any safety instructions !!

All of the above safety instructions should not be taken lightly. Even if time is running out or your site is delayed, there is no reason to neglect your own safety and that of your colleagues or employees. Climbing accidents are often fatal due to the high altitude they can reach. An accident can happen quickly, lead to company closure and jeopardize dozens, even hundreds, of jobs.

Using high platform Like all other machines, it is fraught with risk. But by following these few instructions and staying vigilant as you work, you can work with peace of mind.