The very nature of the boom truck places the safety of drivers, operators and bystanders at risk. To address this concern and protect personnel from any risks, these vehicles must be safely handled which can only be done through professional training. Such training should include: proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE); learning about OSHA rules and regulations; maintenance of the vehicles; hazard identification; functional differences of the various types of boom trucks; emergency response handling; and using the fall arrest system. Knowledge of all of these things is critical to be free from danger and avoid accidents.
This article will highlight the importance of professional training in safe handling of these vehicles as well as OSHA and ANSI standards that must be a part of education concerning safety practices.
Training Importance
Some operators may not acknowledge the importance of professional training or even think it essential because the job is simply a routine task for many. Up-to-date training is a reminder that hazards and risks do exist and no one is immune to possible injuries. For that reason, all field workers must understand the usefulness and purpose of training as well as the effect of not following rules and regulations or neglecting proper operating procedures. After each training class, employees should demonstrate safe practices through the application of any newly acquired knowledge and skills.
The main benefits of such programs include reducing: serious injuries and fatalities; property damage; compensation claims; legal liability; and absenteeism. Proper education is the key to avoiding hazardous and risky situations when performing day-to-day tasks using these vehicles.
Rules and Regulations
The boom truck falls under the auspices of OSHA rules and regulations which must be followed. According to such standards, the following safety measures must be instituted:
-
Fall Protection – Encourage every employee always use the proper fall protection system.
-
Design – Modify the vehicle to match any intended application.
-
Position – When working in the bucket, feet must be firmly planted on the floor to establish a strong base of support.
-
Proper Distance – Establish accurate distance when working near power lines.
-
Movement – Restrict device movement while workers are still in the bucket.
-
Controls – All controls must be accurately labeled according to function.
-
Inspections – Inspection should be done before and after each working shift.
-
Capacity – Reaching and lifting capacity should be checked prior to operation to avoid allowing any operation that exceeds its rated limit.
-
PPE – Appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn at all times.
-
Stability – Prior to beginning a job, outriggers must be engaged to stabilize the vehicle.
Aside from the aforementioned rules, OSHA mandates that a thorough inspection be conducted before using these vehicles to detect possible hazards. It must include checking for hydraulic leaks, tire pressure, corrosion, rust, damaged components and overall engine condition.
When problems occur and project deadlines approach, it may be enticing to compromise safety. Pressure to finish a task on time is actually what makes the aforementioned precautions so vital. Falling and electrocution are the main reasons for occupational fatalities with boom trucks, so the hazards of handling these vehicles must be thoroughly addressed. To avoid unwanted accidents and severe injuries, comprehensive training and safety programs must be instituted. Boom trucks certainly need safe handling in order to have a safe and efficient boom truck fleet!
