Why Construction Managers need to Master RMS Course
The ImporThe Importance of Aerial Lift Safety
The construction process for government contracts often involves using various machines and equipment, including ladders and scaffoldings. However, safety is a top concern on these sites. That’s why the Aerial Lift Safety course is essential. It addresses the increasing use of aerial lifts as a safer alternative to ladders, helping to reduce the risk of serious injuries from falls.
OSHA Safety Rules for Aerial Lift Operation
OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) enforces strict guidelines to ensure workplace safety, especially regarding falls. Aerial lifts, including boom lifts and scissor lifts, help workers reach elevated platforms. Boom lifts move sideways but can entangle with power lines. Scissor lifts travel straight up and down but risk tipping over.
Aerial Lifts on Federal Projects
Federal government construction projects often involve complex tasks. Aerial lifts have replaced traditional ladders and scaffolding on many USACE (US Army Corps of Engineers) projects. Their easy mobility and flexible reach make them ideal for various elevated positions.
Common Safety Issues with Aerial Lifts
Despite their advantages, aerial lifts can still cause injuries. OSHA has noted fatalities and injuries related to aerial lifts and has developed safety and training programs to address these issues. Common safety concerns include:
- Falls from lifts or elevated platforms
- Falling objects
- Tripping hazards
- Electrocution
- Entanglement with wires
- Contact with overhead objects
Why the Aerial Lift Safety Course is Essential
Titan University offers a specialized Aerial Lift Safety course for onsite workers, lift operators, SSHO, and Superintendents. This course covers:
- Types of aerial lifts
- Safety precautions
- Risks such as falls
- Identifying and avoiding unsafe conditions
- Inspecting aerial lifts and implementing safety measures
- Minimizing, controlling, and removing hazards
Course Details and Certification
The Aerial Lift course is a 2-hour online program, allowing flexibility to complete it at your own pace. Short quizzes at the end of each lesson help reinforce learning. To earn certification, you need to achieve at least 70% on the final exam. This certification is valid for three years, after which renewal is required.
Important Safety Steps
OSHA specifies several crucial safety steps for using aerial lifts:
- Ensure the lift is on flat, solid ground
- Clear the area around the lift to avoid entanglements
- Only trained and certified workers should operate the lift
- Wear a harness with a lanyard at all times
- Avoid leaning over guard rails
- Check weather conditions, especially wind
- Maintain and inspect the lift regularly
- Do not exceed the maximum load capacity
- Inspect hydraulic, electrical, and air systems
The Future of Safety Equipment
As the construction industry evolves, so does safety equipment. New wearable sensors can alert operators to potential falls. Titan University offers affordable online courses to help you stay compliant with OSHA guidelines and ensure a safe work environment.
RMS can be a bit overwhelming for a first time user. It’s great to see a course like this that simplifies it all and tells you exactly what you need to know. It’s not worth accidentally missing something or using something incorrectly, resulting in delays to your project.