Aerial Lifts & Fall Protection
The Aerial Lift Training program is designed to ensure the proper and safe operation of bucket trucks, JLG lifts, and Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs) across campus. This comprehensive program provides essential education on equipment operation, hazard awareness, and safety protocols for both operators and ground support personnel. Additionally, the training covers the basics of fall protection, equipping participants with the knowledge to prevent fall-related incidents and ensuring they have the proper type of fall protection for the task at hand. By addressing the roles and responsibilities of everyone involved, the program minimizes risks and ensures the well-being of our university community. Participation in this training is mandatory for all individuals who operate or support the use of this equipment, reflecting our dedication to workplace safety and regulatory compliance.
Participation in the Aerial Lift Training program is based on job duties, newly assigned responsibilities, or supervisor requests. Employees whose roles require the operation of aerial lifts, such as bucket trucks, JLG lifts, or Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs), must complete the training. Additionally, individuals assigned new duties that involve the use of this equipment or those recommended by their supervisor are required to participate to ensure safe and compliant operations on campus.
Currently, there are no prerequisites for participating in the Aerial Lift Training program. However, the program includes two key components: an in-person classroom portion and a hands-on skills course. Participants must successfully complete the classroom portion before proceeding to the hands-on skills test. Upon completion of the hands-on course, participants receive color-coded certification cards. These cards reflect the level of competency demonstrated during the skills test, ensuring that each individual is recognized for their proficiency and readiness to safely operate aerial lift equipment. Due to the hazardous nature of aerial lift operations, ongoing mentorship and guidance may be necessary to further develop skills, address unique operational challenges, and ensure sustained safety in the field.
This program covers the safe operation of bucket trucks, JLG lifts, Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPs), and articulating equipment. This includes both telescopic and articulating boom lifts, ensuring participants are familiar with the unique safety considerations and operational protocols for each type of equipment. The program also includes training for ground support personnel to promote safe and efficient teamwork during aerial lift operations.
Fall protection equipment is required for all individuals operating or working in aerial lifts to prevent fall-related injuries. This includes wearing a properly fitted full-body harness that is securely connected to an appropriate anchor point on the aerial lift. The connection must use a lanyard or self-retracting lifeline designed to limit fall distance and force. Operators and ground support personnel should ensure the equipment is inspected before each use and is compliant with OSHA standards. Proper training on the use and limitations of fall protection equipment is also mandatory to ensure effective and safe usage.