The use of a cherry picker to access elevated platforms posses the risks of accidents mainly due to unsuitable ground conditions, falling from the working platform, mechanical failure of some of the device's parts or collision of the equipment with another vehicle. Harnesses are commonly used as the main form of fall protection system, even though they are not sufficient. To avoid such mishaps, the following safety precautions should be employed when using different types of mobile elevated work platforms (M.E.W.P).
The first safety issue that should be considered is mechanical failure of the cherry picker while at work which may lead to fatal injuries to the workers. This can be curbed thorough inspection of the cherry picker before it is deployed to the work site. The machine should have an attached inspection sheet on delivery that clearly stipulates all the inspection procedures it has undergone and passed. Some of the safety checks that can be made include checking if all bolts and screws are tightened, checking the oil level, tyre condition, control panel and perfect working of emergency stop.
Another major safety risk is falling from the working platform. This is the number one cause of major fatalities when using M.E.W.Ps and should always be carefully considered. Safety guidelines for fall protection include making sure there are no oily or wet parts on the platform that may lead to sliding, using harnesses that are tightly anchored to the platform, and always holding firmly on the guardrail while working. Every worker should also wear the appropriate safety gear and protective equipment whenever they are working on the platform. You should also take care not to overload the platform as it may lead to tipping over of the cherry picker.
The conditions of the work site are also a major issue. For example uneven or sloping ground at the work site may result into an accident. Overhead obstacles such as trees and balconies may also be an issue. The area should be properly surveyed before employing the use of a cherry picker. A cherry picker should never be used near power lines, on soft or muddy ground, on slope areas that are inclined over 5 degrees, in areas with poor ventilation, in freezing or stormy weather and in dark places. The load should also never exceed the maximum stipulated weight.
The workers need to also employ the use of barricades, safety lines or other safety measures to mark the area within which the cherry picker is being used. This should be done so as to minimize the chances of the machine colliding with any other vehicle. Pedestrians should also be restricted. The operator has to be well trained on how to operate a cherry picker to limit any accidents that may occur.
Source by Lee Schraner