Work Platform Safety Guidelines

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Questions and Answers

What should be done with torn or damaged signs?

They must be replaced (correct)

They should be painted over

They should be repaired immediately

They can remain as long as they are readable

What must a manufacturer's operating manual contain regarding the hydraulic or pneumatic system?

Instructions for loading and unloading

Details about the company manufacturing the equipment

A list of authorized operators

The operating pressure of the system (correct)

What is a recommended practice before operating the equipment near power lines?

Always check for overhead power lines (correct)

Notify the workers to operate without hesitation

Consider moving the equipment closer to the power lines

Prefer to use the equipment during low power usage hours

What is required to be stored on the equipment in a weatherproof storage container?

The manufacturer's operating manual Signup and view all the answers

What should operators wear while the machine is moving?

A full body harness Signup and view all the answers

What should be the maximum load on the platform relative to its Rated Working Load (RWL)?

Whenever possible, below 2/3 of the RWL Signup and view all the answers

Why must all controls be clearly labeled?

To ensure correct operation and direction Signup and view all the answers

What should be done before moving the platform in regards to guardrails?

Ensure that the guardrails are in good condition and the gate is securely closed Signup and view all the answers

What is required for elevating work platforms equipped with powered elevating assemblies and having a platform height exceeding 60 inches?

They must have safe emergency lowering means. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum spacing allowed between the rungs of a ladder used to access an elevating work platform?

12 inches Signup and view all the answers

What must be provided at the upper controls of elevating work platforms?

An emergency stopping device Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following features is NOT required on elevating work platforms?

Uniform color coding for controls Signup and view all the answers

What condition applies to the use of elevating work platforms on inclined surfaces?

They should not be used unless recommended by the manufacturer. Signup and view all the answers

Which feature must be included on powered elevating work platforms to prevent accidental operation?

Guarded control devices Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum height required for toeboards on elevating work platforms?

4 inches Signup and view all the answers

What safety feature must be easily reachable by the operator on an elevating work platform?

Upper control device Signup and view all the answers

What is required before moving an aerial device for travel?

Get permission from the employee in the device Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited for use as part of a personal fall arrest system?

Safety belts/body belts Signup and view all the answers

How much free fall can a safety belt/body belt allow when rigged as part of a positioning device system?

2 feet Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum arresting force allowed on an employee using a body harness in a fall arrest system?

1,800 pounds Signup and view all the answers

What safety device must be used with a body harness in a fall arrest system?

Deceleration device Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if equipment needs repair?

Do not operate the equipment Signup and view all the answers

What equipment is necessary for securing an employee in an elevated aerial device?

Body harness and lanyard Signup and view all the answers

How should safety belts/body belts be rigged in a positioning device system?

To prevent more than 2 feet of free fall Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Signage and Manuals

Signs and decals must remain free of dust and grease for readability.
Torn or damaged signs require immediate replacement.
Manufacturer must provide a manual detailing:
- Description, specifications, capacities of the platform
- Operating pressure for hydraulic/pneumatic systems
- Operation and maintenance instructions including daily, weekly, monthly inspection checklists
- Information on replacement parts
- Manual must be stored in a weatherproof container on the equipment

Operator Familiarity and Safety Practices

Operators must know:
- Manufacturer’s operating manual
- Warning and caution signs on the equipment
- Locations of emergency controls and procedures
- Daily maintenance checks to conduct
General safety guidelines for Electronic Work Platforms (EWPs) and Aerial Devices:
- Check for overhead power lines before movement; coordinate with utility owners for de-energization if necessary.
- Wear full-body harness and tie off to designated points while in motion.
- Do not leave machines unattended without securing or locking them.
- Avoid exceeding rated working load (RWL); keep load below 2/3 of RWL when possible.

Equipment and Structural Safety

Ensure all controls are clearly labeled indicating action and direction.
Keep guardrails in good condition; secure gates before moving platforms.
When guardrails are below 39 inches, use an approved personal fall protection system.
Ladders used to access platforms must have rungs no more than 12 inches apart.
Platforms exceeding 60 inches in height require safe emergency lowering mechanisms.
Powered elevating platforms must feature upper and lower control devices, clearly marked and guarded against accidental activation.
Emergency stop devices are mandated at upper controls.

Platform Specifications

Elevating work platforms must have:
- Toeboards at least 4 inches high on sides and ends (except at access openings).
- Hinged trap access doors where applicable.
- Minimum platform width of 16 inches.
Guard and stability requirements apply to all rotating shafts, gearing, and moving parts.
Usage on inclined surfaces is only permitted if manufacturer-approved; stability procedures must be documented in the manual.
Lower-level controls should only operate with permission from on-device personnel, except in emergencies.

Aerial Device Movement and Safety

Inspect booms and outriggers before moving aerial devices to ensure they are cradled and stowed.
Employees in elevating aerial devices must be secured with safety belts, body belts, or harnesses attached to safety straps or lanyards.
Safety belts/body belts may be used for positioning or fall restraint, but not in fall arrest systems. They must limit free fall to no more than 2 feet.
Body harnesses in fall arrest systems must utilize lanyards with deceleration devices, limiting arresting force to 1,800 pounds and maximum free fall to 6 feet.

Daily Inspections

Conduct daily inspections and use specific checklists for aerial lift equipment and scissor lifts.
Only operate equipment confirmed to be in safe working order; do not use defective machinery.

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Description

This quiz covers the essential safety guidelines and maintenance standards for work platforms, including requirements for signs and manuals. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication and regular inspections to ensure safe operation. Test your knowledge on effective maintenance practices and safety protocols.