Aerial Lifts OSHA Fall Protection Regulations

Under 29 CFR 19.26.453, OSHA requires that a body belt is worn and that a lanyard is attached to the boom or basket whenever an employee is working from an aerial lift. The lanyard must be attached to the aerial boom lift's anchor point. Otherwise, a body harness must be used that meets the requirements of a fall arrest system outlined in 29 CFR 1926.502. OSHA does not regulate which type of fall protection equipment should be used, just that it protects an employee from a free fall of more than six feet and from contact with any lower level.

When you are choosing a personal fall protection system, the specific aerial boom lift must be considered because anchorage point locations vary from model to model. OSHA requires that if an anchorage is intended for use with a fall arrest system, it must be capable of withstanding a force of 3,600 pounds for each person attached.

To learn more about Aerial Lifts visit our OSHA Aerial Boom Lift Safety Online Training web page.