Man Lift – Unsafe Use

HAZARD:

Operator / Sprinkler fitter is attempting to lift the 20ft section of 8” stand pipe with Sky Jack. Operator
had planned to tie a lifting strap around pipe and secure it to the top handrail of lift.

The manufacture does not approve of the equipment used in this manner. The hand rail is rated at 200 lbs. The pipe weighs about 300 lbs. The weight capacity of this lift is 500 lbs. – inside the walking surface of the lift – within the center of balance. The lift is not equipped with outriggers. The pipe could cause the lift to tip over resulting in serious injury to the operator. The pipe, if dropped, could also damage the elbow and pipe protruding from the wall. The lift or pipe could also fall on the co-worker standing below the lift on the ground.

Preventive Measures:

  • Use the fork lift on site with appropriate rigging, or a chain hoist can be attached to an I beam directly above the pipe.
  • When lifting or hoisting pipe, keep sky jack and pipe at same rate of elevation so operator will not be beneath suspended load.
  • Review VSC’s Powered Platforms & Vehicle-Mounted Work Platforms Safety Policy for additional safety requirements and advice.