Powered Platforms

 

Overview

Maintaining a safe work atmosphere on a powered platform involves proper inspection and maintenance of the powered platform, as well as a thorough understanding of emergency procedures.

Operation and use

Follow the manufacturer's guidelines when operating and using a powered platform. Some basic rules to follow for any type of powered platform include the following.

·         Do not exceed the load rating for the powered platform, as found on the load rating plate. ·         Clear platforms of ice, snow, and other slippery materials. ·         Protect the platform, its components, wire ropes, and life lines from damage. ·         Do not use the platform in winds exceeding 25 miles per hour. ·         Keep the platform free of debris, unused tools, and materials.

Inspection

To ensure the proper operation of a powered platform, it must be inspected at regular intervals by competent persons. Inspections of a powered platform consist of the following.

·         Checking the platform and its components for visual defects in a daily inspection before use.

·         Inspecting and testing the governors and secondary brakes according to manufacturer's guidelines at least yearly.

·         Inspecting all suspension wire ropes visually after each use and after each incident that might affect the rope's integrity.

·         Examining all ropes that have not been in service for more than 30 days.

·         Inspecting all parts of the powered platform according to manufacturer's guidelines at least yearly.

Personal fall arrest system

Another factor in safe powered platform work is the use of personal fall arrest systems. A personal fall arrest system limits the fall of a worker from the platform. The personal fall arrest system consists of a full body harness, lanyard, rope grabs, lifeline, lifeline anchorage points, and rig.

This information is provided by Assurance Agency https:www.assuranceagency.com