How to Operate a Boom Lift?

At some point during construction, elevated work will be almost unavoidable. Sometimes, ladders will not suffice in attaining some heights that need to be reached. Instead of shying away from learning the basics of operating a boom lift, discover what it takes to control a boom lift, and you’ll be well on your way to your job being easier.

Take a Look in the Manual

There are lots of different boom lifts, so familiarizing yourself with your own will be a great starting point to learning how to operate your boom lift. The manual is usually attached to the boom lift platform. If you cannot find it, call the manufacturer for another one.

Do a Safety Check

Quickly survey the tires and maintenance of the boom lift to insure that it will operate correctly. Make sure that the safety devices are working correctly in case of a situation arising, and also be sure to inspect that fluids are not leaking from the boom lift.

Enter the Boom Lift

Be sure to put on the safety harness, and examine the lanyard for any damage. Make your way into the boom lift platform and connect the safety rail chain. Affix the lanyard’s hook to the anchor point located on the platform. Perform a few checks by testing out the turn/drive functions of the boom lift, and inspect each boom arm and articulating arms found around the base. Before ascending, make a quick examination above to insure that you do not run into any obstacles.

Operating the Boom Lift

Start to ascend the lift up until you can see the boom lift’s front wheels. Now you can begin moving the boom lift in different directions. Slowly operate the driving control to begin moving. Always keep a look out for obstacles or people when driving the boom lift. Also, you should never intentionally nudge or move obstacles with the boom lift. While driving, it is advised that you never jerk the driving controls because this could potentially throw you from the lift resulting in possible serious injuries.

Exiting the Boom Lift

Once the boom lift has completely descended, press the red stop button to cease power in the controls. Unfasten the harness, and you can now safely exit the boom lift.