We do need to discuss some of the dos and don’ ts of aerial-lift safety, but those with a safety state of mind will view these as timely reminders instead of just what we do because it is a requirement of the job. Rod covered several of the high points, but let’ s look at some of them in a little more depth. Keep in mind that, although all operators should have these precautions well in mind, it is particularly incumbent upon employers and superintendents to ensure that a truly safe environment is provided for their employees and that all safety procedures are followed. Because the winter season is fast approaching, we are going to focus particularly on cold-weather safety.
Personal Safety Remember to“ dress for safety.” Dressing in layers greatly adds to the insulating effect. A properly dressed operator will have at least three layers of clothing. An inner layer of wool, silk or synthetic material will wick moisture away from the body, and it will hold the heat better than cotton. A middle layer of similar material helps to provide insulation even when wet. A vented outer layer will provide protection from the wind
and rain while preventing overheating.
All clothing should be loose-fitting to aid movement and allow for good blood circulation. And don’ t forget insulated gloves, knit mask, waterproof boots and properly insulated head covering( including a hard hat liner, if needed).
Machine Safety
Before the onset of cold weather, get the equipment ready for the season. Make sure that the machine is properly lubricated with the recommended engine, transmission and hydraulic fluids. This may include switching to“ arctic oil,” if the expected conditions warrant it. Ensure that the filters are clean and in good condition. Since hydraulic hoses are particularly subject to damage during extremely cold weather, ensure that they are not cracked and are leak-free. Be sure to check the tires or treads for proper wear.
When the workday begins, follow a start-up routine. After firing up the machine, allow it ample time to fully warm up. When the oil gets warm, it will flow through the system and warm the engine, transmission and hydraulics. Among other things,
It’ s time to start thinking about winter safety before the ground is covered in snow.
this will help prevent the intake and exhaust valves from sticking and remove some of the brittleness from wires and hoses.
Besides improving efficiency and safety, pre-warming will cut down on fuel costs. Just as we do some stretching before starting heavy exercise, put the equipment through a few“ stretching” exercises before it begins its heavy workday. Cycle through all of the machine’ s functions and rotate the hydraulic drive motors slowly. This will help the cylinders to move and the hydraulic fluids to flow properly. Then put the machine in gear and move slowly forward for a few feet. Do the same in reverse. Although all of these exercises take up some time( in reality no more than 10 to 15 minutes), they will bring the equipment up to operating temperature and condition and reduce down time.
At the end of the work day, the fuel tank should be filled up. This will reduce the amount of air in the tank that could freeze, which could lead to fuel freezing. The vehicle should be parked inside, if possible. If not, park it on some kind of raised surface, such as planking. Doing so will keep the tires or tracks from freezing to the ground. Frozen tires pose a particular hazard. Pulling them out of frozen water or mud could not only damage the tires but also overtax the cold drivetrain. Depending on the degree of nighttime cold, the use of block, pan, freeze plug and hydraulic tank heaters, as well as battery blankets, should be used to ease the machine out of its frigid sleep and get it back on the job as quickly as possible.
Site Safety
Apply a generous layer of grit or deicer over any area that the equipment will be running. Besides the
Fall 2024 | Telecom & Utility Construction 9