Be Cautious When Storing Your Aerial Lift for Safety

Storing Your Aerial Lift: Avoiding Injuries and Damage

Storing an aerial lift isn’t just about finding a parking spot; it’s about safety, caution, and a little bit of common sense. You might think this is a no-brainer, but the reality is that improper storage can lead to injuries and damages that no one saw coming. So, let's chat about what it really takes to keep both your equipment and your team safe when it’s time to tuck your aerial lift in for the night—or day.

Watching Out for Personnel and Obstructions

Here’s the thing: when you’re putting your lift away, the most pressing concern is actually the personnel and any obstructions around. If the area is cluttered or bustling with people, you’re setting the stage for potential accidents. Imagine a busy worksite where the lift is parked in a place people frequently move through. Not good, right? Ensuring that the storage area is clear of personnel minimizes the risk of bumping into a busy technician or a distracted laborer.

But don’t just stop at clearing people; watch for obstructions too. Equipment, tools, or even loose cables that might be lying around can lead to accidents or damage when maneuvering the aerial lift. So, a designated storage area that’s both clear and marked can save you—and your equipment—from unforeseen trouble. A little proactive thinking here goes a long way.

Other Factors to Keep in Mind

Of course, it’s not just about the folks around. Several other factors come into play when thinking about your aerial lift's home sweet home.

Weather Woes

Excessive weather conditions are one of those things you should also keep on your radar. If you’ve got rain, snow, or extreme heat, they can wreak havoc not just on the equipment’s exterior but on its inner workings, too. Ultimately, you wouldn’t park your precious ride out in the open during a hailstorm, so why would you do that with a heavy-duty lift? Look into options like using a shed, garage, or other sheltered area to protect your equipment.

Vehicle Proximity

Speaking of protective measures, let’s chat about vehicle proximity. When storing any type of heavy equipment, keeping it a respectful distance from other vehicles is recommended. You wouldn’t want a chance hit-and-run situation between your lift and a delivery truck, would you? A little space can mean a lot in preventing accidents—and can save you from costly repairs down the line.

Ground Do’s and Don’ts

Let’s not forget about surface conditions. Rough ground surfaces can create some serious challenges when you’re trying to park your aerial lift. Imagine shaking and rattling as you bring the lift to a station that’s less than stable—no thank you! Uneven or loose ground can make for a tricky storage scenario, increasing risks of tipping or extricating equipment that gets stuck. Always aim for a flat, solid surface unless you’re feeling extraordinarily lucky.

The Bottom Line

Navigating the storage of an aerial lift is all about taking those necessary precautions. The primary takeaway? Personnel and obstructions should be your number one concern. Clear the area of anyone who might get hurt or get too close for comfort, and remove any tools or equipment that could become a hazard.

Making sure the area is safe can make a difference between a smooth operation and an accident waiting to happen. You’ve invested in this vital equipment, after all—so why cut corners when it comes to storing it?

To wrap things up, a little bit of foresight can keep both your team safe and your equipment well taken care of. You know what they say: Better safe than sorry! Let’s keep our aerial lifts ready for action, ensuring they’re stored thoughtfully out of harm’s way.