Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures are a complex and varied subject for heavy equipment and material handling. Aerial lifts are one of the more difficult subjects for this safety requirement.
Due to the variety in controls, applications, and designs of aerial lifts, creating a single lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure for all machines is challenging. For instance, a truck-mounted aerial lift would require different LOTO procedures for malfunctioning brakes than for a boom lift cylinder leak. However, there are basic steps that apply to all aerial lifts, which can then be customized to fit the specific needs of each machine and its application.
Aerial Lift Lockout Tagout Steps
- If possible, park in a safe, approved area under cover or indoors that is away from any traffic or congested areas. Block the wheels, if needed.
- Fully lower booms or elevating assemblies into the aerial lift’s normal stowed position, considering axle orientation and rotation.
- If equipped with transport pins, locks, or straps for elevating or rotating assemblies, always position in the transport or locked positions.
- Always push in an e-stop, at least one ground or upper controls.
- Turn the key or control position selector into middle (off) position – not ground or upper controls. Remove key, if applicable.
- Disconnect and remove the upper controls on units equipped with removable upper controls.
- Disconnect or turn off, and padlock if available, any battery disconnects or doors to battery disconnects. Not all aerial lifts are equipped with battery disconnects that are lockable.
- Tagout both upper and lower controls with an approved tag firmly attached that lists the problem, date and person tagging the machine. Choose a weather resistant tag is the aerial lift is kept outside.
- Always inform responsible management or supervisors in the area of the situation and document required paperwork or reporting systems for the site.
Our aerial lift safety training classes meet OSHA guidelines for classroom and hands-on evaluation. Contact ProLift to speak to our safety specialist for training options and pricing.
