Posted in Materials Handling
At Koke Inc., our engineers and fabricators know the gold standard for safety is OSHA compliant construction equipment. When any product leaves our facility it meets compliance standards, but the responsibility for using it safely at the worksite ultimately lies with the customer. Here are a few ways to promote OSHA materials handling standards.
In addition to inspecting the basket’s condition, OSHA requires trial lifts to test how the basket handles the weight (load capacity should be marked on the data plates) being used for the job. The materials handling or safety man basket should be loaded to its expected weight and raised to the anticipated height needed to get the job done. Safety devices and controls on the basket should also be checked.
Also, once a worker enters the basket it should only be lifted a few inches initially to gauge stability and ensure the lift path is clear of any obstacles. OSHA also demands that materials and tools are secured and spread uniformly on the basket’s floor to avoid tipping.
If there are any issues during the lift or the inspection reveals structural flaws, the basket needs to be taken out of service. It’s also important to note that OSHA requires certified engineers to sign off on any repairs or modifications.
When inspecting construction man baskets, in addition to looking for structural issues, it’s critical to make sure all safety components meet OSHA materials handling standards. The following parts of the materials handling or safety man basket should be closely examined along with any other key parts depending on the type of materials handling construction equipment being used. Make sure your safety checklist includes:
Workers are on the front line for promoting safety. That’s why OSHA requires employers to meet with employees to review safety regulations before any safety man basket lifting starts. The agency also makes it clear that companies need to train new workers on safety regulations whenever they join a job site.
OSHA standards emphasize that training needs to cover proper work practices, equipment, and controls —which can help reduce workplace accidents involving mechanized lifts, OSHA materials handling, and storage. Whether moving materials manually or mechanically, workers should understand how to spot potential hazards and work in a way that minimizes danger. Everyone on the job site needs to work together to be on the lookout for potentially unsafe conditions, practices, or equipment and know how to quickly take corrective action.
Koke’s materials handling and construction man baskets are designed by certified engineers and meet OSHA’s strict standards. If you have a question about fabrication, safety features, load capabilities, or need help with a custom build, contact us today.
