Staying Safe on Aerial Lifts

Aerial Lift Safety Starts Before You Ever Leave the Ground

Aerial lifts are a game-changer on job sites – replacing ladders and scaffolding with speed, reach, and mobility. But with that power comes risk. Each year, preventable aerial lift accidents result in serious injuries—and it often starts with something as simple as skipping a pre-use inspection.

If you’re responsible for crew safety, your role starts long before anyone touches the controls.

Before You Power Up: The Safety Steps That Save Lives

Only trained, authorized professionals should ever operate an aerial lift. But training alone isn’t enough – operators must also recognize and manage on-site hazards before every use.

That includes:

• Inspecting the lift for mechanical or structural issues
• Checking for environmental hazards (e.g., power lines, weather conditions, unstable ground)
• Confirming fall protection systems are in place and used correctly

Overlooking these basics could mean the difference between a productive day and a life-altering accident.

Avoid the Unexpected: How to Spot Hazards Before They Strike

The good news? Most accidents are preventable. Our free Aerial Lift Safety guide outlines practical steps for reducing risk and building a culture of safety around lift use.