In any workplace, safety is of utmost importance. Ensuring the safety of people who take on high-risk jobs, such as in construction, is on a higher level. Heavy equipment operators are always at risk while on the job.
A cherry picker falls under the heavy equipment category. An elevating platform carries a person on its carriage to do repairs and maintenance at higher elevations. The nature of the work cherry pickers do, and operating the unit itself, contribute to the hazards people in this type of profession face most of the time.
Despite knowing the regulations concerning the safety of cherry picker operators, there are instances when the operator disregards them because of the situation he finds himself in, or because he wants to finish the job instead of coming back the next day. Here are some of the tips that an operator of a cherry picker should not forget.
Take the required training
Proper training is critical for people who will be working with complicated machines or heavy equipment. Operating a cherry picker involves training on how to handle it, and the safety measures to take for the unit’s maintenance, or if the equipment fails. An operator of larger and heavier cherry pickers must have a certification from the International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) and the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS). His driver’s license should allow him to drive heavy equipment, including vehicles with moving and elevating platforms.
Follow operating instructions
The operator should always remember what he learned from the training. Moreover, he should strictly follow the instructions, which will ensure his safety, as well as help him render work of high quality. Likewise, it is one of the best ways to prevent accidents.
Inspect the cherry picker
Even if you are hiring a cherry picker, see to it that you inspect the unit before you leave the company. Ensure that you find services for cherry picker hire from a reputable company. See to it that the equipment is in good condition. Inspect all the parts of the cherry picker to make sure that each is working correctly. Inspecting the unit ensures that the company will not charge you for any existing defective part or damage to the vehicle when you return it.
Observe safe clearance all the time
When you are high up in the air, there are still hazards to avoid. There are power lines, tree branches, and things that jut out from homes and buildings. It is advisable to keep a distance of about one metre from power lines. Remember to treat them as “live” to avoid endangering yourself.
Use safety devices
See to it that you wear safety devices such as work gloves recommended for the job you need to do, and keep your helmet on all the time. Be aware of the loading capacity of the cherry picker, and do not take up any unnecessary load with you.
It is better to be safe than sorry, as the saying goes. Observe all the safety rules to prevent any mishaps.
