Aerial Lift Maintenance

All maintenance performed on an aerial lift must be done in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations. Maintenance records should be maintained for at least three years. All replacement parts or components must be identical or equivalent to the original parts or components. A manual listing repair and parts information will be available from the manufacturer.

For maintenance safety, the following precautions must be taken before repairs and adjustments are started:
• The power must be stopped, and the means to start must be inoperative.
• All controls must be off, and all operating systems must be secured by brakes, blocks, or other means.
• The elevating platform and assembly must be lowered to the full down position or otherwise secured to prevent dropping.
• The hydraulic oil pressure must be relieved from hydraulic circuits before hydraulic components are loosened or removed.
• Where applicable, safety props or latches must be installed.
• Other precautions should be taken as specified by the manufacturer.

If an aerial boom lift is found to be defective or damaged during an inspection or routine use, then appropriate measures should be taken to tag the equipment and remove it from service. The safety issue must be immediately brought to the supervisor's attention.

If mechanical failure occurs during operation of the aerial boom lift and the operator is stranded in a raised lift, take immediate action to notify emergency rescue personnel.

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