What should be done before moving an aerial lift for travel?

Before moving an aerial lift for travel, inspecting the booms is crucial to ensure the safety and functionality of the equipment. The booms are key structural components that extend and retract, and their integrity is vital for the stability and operation of the lift. Any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction can lead to accidents or mechanical failures during use. This inspection helps to identify any potential hazards that could compromise the safety of the operator and others in the vicinity while the lift is in motion.

While checking safety harnesses, notifying a supervisor, and ensuring the load is lowered are important safety procedures too, they do not specifically address the immediate readiness of the aerial lift itself for movement. The booms must be in sound condition before any of these other steps can be effectively undertaken or before the lift can be safely operated. Proper maintenance and pre-operation checks are fundamental practices in ensuring a safe work environment in aerial lift operations.