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Bucket (Aerial Devices)

What are items to check during the daily inspection?
What should you do when using a bucket or other aerial device?
What should you not do?


What are items to check during the daily inspection?

  • Check all welds between cylinders and booms for cracks or wear.
  • Inspect all pivot pins for security of their locking devices.
  • Check all exposed cables, sheaves and levelling devices for wear and secure attachment.
  • Inspect hydraulic system for frayed hoses and leaks.
  • Check lubrication and fluid levels.
  • Inspect boom and basket for cracks or abrasions.
  • Check for the load capacity posting.
  • Operate boom from ground controls through one complete cycle. Check for unusual noises and uncontrolled movements.
What should you do when using a bucket or other aerial device?

  • Wear a safety harness connected to the boom. Do not attach safety harness to adjacent pole or structure.
  • Ensure that no one is in the area before lowering stabilizers, outriggers or the boom.
  • Ensure that each axle is horizontal when vehicle is parked on a hill. Work with the boom pointed uphill beyond the vehicle centre.
  • Protect a roadway job site with traffic warning signs, lights and barricades. Determine if extended boom movements will interfere with traffic.
  • Secure all tools when not in use.
  • Maintain the recommended distance from electrical wires unless you and the bucket are certified for electrical work.
  • Face the direction of travel.
  • Operate hydraulic controls slowly for smooth platform motion.
What should you not do?

  • Do not stand on top of a bucket or use planks or ladders to gain extra height.
  • Do not enter or leave a bucket by walking on the boom.
  • Do not exceed the rated load limit.
  • Do not ride from one job to another in the bucket.
  • Do not climb from bucket to another elevated position without being secured to new position.
  • Do not work above other workers. Clear the area below.
  • Do not throw tools to or from an elevated bucket.
  • Do not attempt to slow any air or hydraulic leak by using your hand or body.

Document last updated on December 17, 2002

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