Skip to main contentSkip to main navigationSkip to footer content

702.1 - Aerial Lift Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish procedures regarding all aerial work platforms, also referred to as “lifts,” to protect the University of Arkansas-Fort Smith (UAFS) employees, faculty and students, and ensure safe operation of aerial and scissor lift equipment.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees and subcontractors working within UAFS controlled worksites and provides training and qualification guidelines for the safe operation of aerial lifts and powered manned platforms.

3. Qualification Requirements

All aerial lift operators must be fully qualified and competent in the operation of equipment. New operators must:

  1. Provide proof of training or experience within one (1) year and pass an examination, or
  2. Successfully complete the Aerial Lift Training Program.

Acceptable proof includes:

  • Previous employer certification
  • Verification of classroom training
  • Safety Council training documentation

4. Aerial Lift Training Program

The training program includes:

  1. OSHA standards overview
  2. Manufacturer operation manual review
  3. Training video
  4. Written examination
  5. Field evaluation by a qualified person

Completion Requirements:

  • Classroom instruction
  • Written exam:
    • 70–100%: review and correction to 100%
    • Below 70%: retraining required
  • Field evaluation

5. OSHA Standards

Standards 29 CFR 1910.67 and 1926.453 govern aerial lift operation and outline requirements for construction, modification, safe use, and operator training. Contact the Site Safety Supervisor or OSHA for more information.

6. References

  • Manufacturer’s Operation and Safety Handbook
  • Manufacturer’s Training Video

7. Aerial Lift Vocabulary & Parts

  • Auxiliary Power: Lowers basket in emergencies
  • Basket: Operator work area
  • Deadman Switch: Must be engaged for controls to work
  • Emergency Stop: Stops equipment immediately
  • Outriggers: Stabilizing supports
  • Lift Up/Down: Raises or lowers boom
  • Telescope In/Out: Extends or retracts boom

8. Operating Procedures

  • Follow manufacturer training video
  • Follow operating and safety handbook

9. General Safety Rules

  1. Only trained and authorized employees may operate lifts
  2. Lower basket before entering or exiting
  3. Maintain at least 10 ft clearance from power lines
  4. Inspect controls before use
  5. No tying off to external structures
  6. Stand firmly in basket at all times
  7. Wear full body harness and lanyard
  8. Do not exceed load limits
  9. Use outriggers and wheel chocks when needed
  10. No climbers while operating lifts
  11. Do not modify equipment
  12. Do not move lift with boom extended (unless necessary for positioning)
  13. Always maintain awareness of surroundings
  14. Restrict personnel below raised platform
  15. Remove defective lifts from service immediately

Appendix A: Equipment List

  • Genie Aerial Lift – AWP 405
  • Genie Boom Lift – Z34/22N
  • Genie Scissor Lift – GS 1930

Appendix B: Acknowledgement Form

By signing this form, the operator acknowledges awareness of equipment manuals, training requirements, and responsibility for safe operation.

Print Name: ____________________________

Department: ____________________________

Signature: ____________________________

Date: ____________________________