Cherry Picker 101 – 4 Safety Tips That All Operators Must Know

You’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone in the construction industry or the building maintenance business that doesn’t make use of cherry picker. After all, not only do these machines allow us to get to areas that would otherwise be impossible to reach. But their flexibility in use makes them an invaluable asset to have as well.

However, not unlike any heavy equipment, these aerial lifts and the nature of their associated work makes their users prone to potential hazards. And even with all the safety regulations, it’s easy to overlook the precautions and make ourselves more susceptible to injuries as a result. So to keep the risks of danger to a minimum, here are a few safety tips that all cherry picker operators should know.

1.  Choose a reputable cherry picker supplier

It’s not uncommon for many to use cherry picker hire rather than to buy the equipment outright. After all, very few businesses can afford to commit a considerable amount of financial resources to these heavy machines. But before you start spending, however, it’s crucial to choose a reputable supplier. Taking the time to check testimonials and read through reviews might sound like a tedious task. But doing so will give you peace of mind that the equipment you hire is rigorously maintained and unlikely to break down during use.

2. Make sure that your workers undergo training

Cherry pickers, not unlike other machines, require a level of knowledge and expertise to operate. And as such, it’s crucial to ensure that your operators undergo the necessary training. After all, not only will this ensure that the machinery is handled as it was intended. But you’ll also avoid any mishaps and costly mistakes that can cause delays for your project.

3. Don’t overlook the safety gear

There’s a good reason why safety gear is mandatory for cherry picker operators. After all, it can make all the difference in the event of an accident. So when operating these aerial lifts, make sure that you use the right equipment. From safety harnesses and gloves to wearing the necessary uniform, doing so can go a long way in keeping you safe and protected while using the cherry picker.

4. Always follow all the instructions

Even with the proper training, you’ll remain at risk of danger if you don’t follow all of the directions on how to operate the cherry picker. As such, it’s vital never to deviate from the instructions when operating the machine. In this way, you’ll minimise – if not mitigate – the chances of any accidents or breakdowns from occurring during the use of the equipment.

When it comes to handling any heavy machinery, it’s a general rule of thumb always to take all the safety measures. And cherry pickers are no different. Whether it’s wearing the right gear like helmets or gloves to being aware of the loading capacity of the machine, staying vigilant and leaving no stone unturned will help you avoid any unfortunate accidents.