Aerial Lift Safety Responsibilities

EHS

EHS is responsible for developing, implementing, and administering the Aerial Lift Safety Program. This involves:

• Training all operators in the associated hazards and general safe work practices of aerial lifts.
• Maintaining centralized records of training and certification records.
• Providing technical assistance and resources to university personnel.
• Evaluating the overall effectiveness of the program on a periodic basis.

Departments

Departments are expected to maintain a safe and healthy living, learning, and working environment for faculty, staff, students, and visitors to our campus. Departments must ensure equipment provided is of a safe design, appropriate for the work task and location, and in good condition. It is recommended that departments designate a responsible person(s) to coordinate the requirements of this program with employees.

Supervisors must ensure that machine-specific operational training is provided to potential operators, and that pertinent sections of the Operator's Manual (i.e. safety, limitations, proper set up and operation, inspection, etc.) have been reviewed by the operator prior to EHS observation and certification.

Employees

Employees are expected to:

• Complete EHS general awareness level training - Aerial Lift Training.
• Review the Operator's Manual(s) for the lift(s) to be operated.
• Wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.
• Operate the equipment in a safe and responsible manner.
• Perform pre-use inspections and function tests in accordance with the Operator's Manual.
• Report any defects or deficiencies with the equipment to their supervisor for repair.

Contractors

Contractors must comply with all local, state, and federal safety requirements, and assure that all of their employees performing work on Virginia Tech properties have been suitably trained. Contractors must also comply with the requirements outlined in Virginia Tech's Contractor Safety Program.