Manlift Safety 101: How to Operate A Lift Like a Pro
When working at heights, a boom lift (or manlift) is one of the most efficient and safe ways to get the job done—if used correctly. Whether you’re a contractor, a landscaper, or a DIY enthusiast tackling a home improvement project, understanding manlift safety is essential to prevent accidents and ensure efficiency on the job site.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about safe boom lift operation, including key safety checks, best practices, and common mistakes to avoid.
1. Pre-Operation Safety Checks
Before you even step onto a boom lift, performing a thorough safety inspection is crucial. Here are the key steps to take:
✅ Inspect the Equipment: Check for visible damage, including hydraulic leaks, cracks, worn-out tires, and frayed electrical connections.
✅ Verify Safety Features: Ensure emergency stop buttons, limit switches, and warning alarms are functioning correctly.
✅ Check Fluid Levels: Confirm that hydraulic fluid, oil, and fuel (if applicable) are at the proper levels.
✅ Test Controls: Run a quick check of the lift controls to confirm smooth operation before beginning work.
✅ Assess the Work Area: Look for hazards like uneven ground, power lines, overhead obstructions, and strong winds that could impact safe operation.
Many accidents occur due to poor pre-operation checks, so take your time with this step.
2. Proper Harness & Fall Protection Usage
Working on an aerial lift requires proper fall protection gear to reduce the risk of injury. Follow these best practices:
✅ Wear a Full-Body Harness: Always use a properly fitted safety harness with a lanyard that attaches securely to the manufacturer-approved anchor point.
✅ Use the Correct Lanyard: For boom lifts, a short lanyard or self-retracting lifeline is recommended to prevent excessive movement.
✅ Never Attach to Unapproved Areas: Do not tie off to guardrails or other non-approved parts of the lift.
✅ Inspect Your Gear: Before each use, check your harness and lanyard for frays, tears, or signs of wear.
Fall protection isn’t just a recommendation—it’s an OSHA requirement that can save your life.
3. Safe Driving & Elevation Practices
Once you’ve completed safety checks and secured your harness, it’s time to operate the lift safely. Keep these guidelines in mind:
✅ Drive on Stable Ground: Avoid steep inclines, potholes, and soft terrain that could cause the lift to tip.
✅ Use Slow, Controlled Movements: Sudden jerks can destabilize the platform or throw off your balance.
✅ Never Move the Lift While Elevated: Always lower the boom before repositioning the base.
✅ Mind Overhead Hazards: Watch out for power lines, tree branches, and low ceilings when raising the platform.
✅ Maintain a Safe Distance: If working near roads or active work zones, set up cones or barriers to prevent collisions.
Pro Tip: Strong winds can cause instability—if winds exceed 20 mph, it’s best to delay work until conditions improve.
4. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
Even experienced operators can make mistakes that lead to accidents or costly damages. Here are some of the most frequent errors and how to prevent them:
❌ Skipping the Pre-Operation Check: Always inspect the lift before use.
❌ Not Properly Leveling The Lift: Always ensure the lift is properly leveled and it’s fully DISCONNECTED from your truck hitch.
❌ Exceeding Weight Limits: Overloading the platform with too many people or heavy tools can compromise stability.
❌ Not Using Fall Protection: A moment of carelessness could lead to a serious fall—always wear a harness.
❌ Ignoring Ground Conditions: Uneven surfaces, mud, or ice can cause tip-overs.
❌ Operating in Unsafe Weather: High winds and storms make aerial work extremely risky—know when to pause operations.
By being aware of these common mistakes, you can make sure your job is completed safely and efficiently.
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Final Thoughts
Manlifts are powerful tools that, when used correctly, can increase productivity and keep workers safe. By following proper pre-operation checks, wearing the right safety gear, practicing cautious driving, and avoiding common mistakes, you can confidently operate a boom lift while staying compliant with industry safety standards.
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