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Discover detailed occupational safety guidelines for using boom lifts. This document provides important information on safe operation, accident prevention measures, and the key factors for success in using these types of personnel lifts. Ensure a safe and efficient work environment with this complete and detailed document.

Table of Contents

PART I: CURRENT STATUS OF SAFETY WORK RELATED TO BOOM LIFTS

I. General Situation

The Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs informs sectors and localities of the occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 and outlines key solutions to proactively prevent incidents and accidents in the last 6 months of 2024. According to reports from 61 out of 63 centrally governed provinces and cities, in the first 6 months of 2024, there were a total of 3,201 occupational accidents nationwide (a decrease of 227 cases, equivalent to 7.09% compared to the same period in 2023), resulting in 3,065 victims (a decrease of 197 people, equivalent to 6.04% compared to the first 6 months of 2023), including both employees under labor contracts and those working without labor contracts. Specifically:

Number of fatal occupational accidents: 320 cases, a decrease of 25 cases (7.25%) compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 245 cases in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 28 cases or 10.3%; and 75 cases in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 3 cases or 4.2% compared to the first 6 months of 2023);
Number of deaths due to occupational accidents: 346 people, a decrease of 7 people or 1.98% compared to the same period in 2023 (including 268 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 13 people or 4.63%; and 78 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 6 people or 8.33%).
Number of people seriously injured: 810 people, an increase of 26 people or 3.32% compared to the first 6 months of 2023 (including 710 in areas with labor relations, a decrease of 5 people or 0.7%; and 100 in areas without labor contracts, an increase of 31 people or 44.92%).

Download the PDF file Occupational Accident Report – First 6 Months of 2024 issued by the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs.

The occupational accident situation in the first 6 months of 2024 in both sectors with and without labor relations saw a decrease in the number of deaths and fatal accidents compared to the same period in 2023.

II. Some Occupational Accidents While Operating Boom Lifts

The use of personnel lifts, also known as Boom Lifts, is an important part of many construction and maintenance jobs. However, numerous occupational accidents have occurred during the operation of these lifts. Below are some common accidents when using Boom Lifts:

Falls from height: One of the biggest risks when operating Boom Lifts is the risk of falling from a height. Employees may lose their balance, work carelessly, or fail to secure their safety harnesses, leading to falls to the ground, causing serious injury or even death.
Collisions with structures or other objects: When operating Boom Lifts, the risk of collision with surrounding structures or other objects is very high. Inattention, careless steering, or failure to recognize the work environment can lead to collisions, causing injury to the operator or damage to the lift.
Loss of control of the Boom Lift: Controlling a Boom Lift requires skill and a high degree of attention. Some accidents occur when the operator loses control of the vehicle, possibly due to inexperience, unfamiliarity with the equipment, or unstable technical conditions.
Electric shock: Boom Lifts are often used in work environments with electricity, increasing the risk of electric shock. Using unsafe equipment or failing to ensure necessary protective measures can cause electric shock accidents.
Fire and explosion: Some serious accidents can occur if the Boom Lift encounters technical problems or collides with flammable materials. Fires and explosions can cause severe injuries to the operator and damage to property.

To minimize the risk of accidents when operating Boom Lifts, employee training, adherence to safety rules, and regular maintenance of the lift are extremely important. At the same time, a thorough understanding of the manufacturer’s safety regulations and instructions also plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of everyone involved in the work.

PART II: OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH WHEN OPERATING BOOM LIFTS

I. Introduction

A. Overview of the importance of occupational safety when operating Boom Lifts

Occupational safety when operating Boom Lifts plays an extremely important role in any work environment. Adhering to safety rules and measures not only protects the health and lives of employees but also ensures the stability and efficiency of the work.

First and foremost, occupational safety helps prevent accidents and injuries that can occur during the operation of Boom Lifts. Training employees on how to use and maintain the equipment, along with applying preventive measures such as wearing safety harnesses and conducting regular technical inspections, will minimize the risk of accidents and protect workers.

Secondly, occupational safety also helps maintain work performance and production. When employees feel safe and confident in the work environment, they will work more effectively and focus more on their tasks. This not only minimizes downtime due to accidents but also increases overall labor productivity.

B. Important safety protocols and regulations when operating Boom Lifts

Training and certification: All employees must be trained in the use and operation of personnel lifts before performing the work. They must have appropriate certificates or qualifications to demonstrate their ability to operate the equipment safely.
Protective equipment: Boom Lifts must be fully equipped with protective devices such as safety harnesses, collision sensors, and emergency stop systems to minimize the risk of accidents.
Regular technical inspection: Personnel lifts must be inspected technically on a regular schedule to ensure that all systems are operating correctly and safely.
Operating rules: Operators must adhere to operating rules such as load limits, safe speeds, and proper conduct in all situations.
Safety when working at heights: Employees must be trained in occupational safety when working at heights, including the use of safety equipment such as safety harnesses and helmets.

II. Components and Functions of Boom Lifts

A. The different components of Boom Lifts

Boom: This is the arm that is extended or raised to provide the ability to move people up and down from a height. The boom is usually made of high-strength steel, capable of withstanding high loads and ensuring user safety.
Work platform: This is where the operator or worker stands when using the lift. This platform usually has enough area for comfortable and safe movement.
Lifting system: The lifting system is used to raise or lower the work platform vertically. Typically, it consists of hydraulic cylinders or a mechanism that is controlled to perform the lifting and lowering operations.
Steering and control system: Boom Lifts have steering and control systems so that the operator can control the vehicle accurately and safely. This system usually includes a steering wheel, pedals, and electronic controllers.
Safety system: Boom Lifts are equipped with safety systems such as safety harnesses, collision sensors, and emergency stop systems to ensure the safety of the operator and other workers in the work area.

B. Structure and operating principle of Boom Lifts

Boom: This is the main part of the vehicle, usually a high-strength steel arm that can move up and down. The boom can often be extended or retracted to adjust the working height of the platform.
Work platform: This is the area where the operator or worker stands when performing work at a height. This platform is usually designed to have enough space for safe movement and work.
Hydraulic lifting system: Boom Lifts use a hydraulic lifting system to raise or lower the work platform. This system includes hydraulic cylinders connected to a hydraulic pump to create the necessary pressure for lifting or lowering.
Control system: The operator can control the Boom Lift through a control unit, which usually includes buttons or joysticks. The control system helps the operator to accurately adjust the height and position of the Boom Lift.
Safety system: Boom Lifts are also equipped with safety systems such as safety harnesses, collision sensors, and emergency stop systems to ensure the safety of the operator and other workers in the work area.

C. Applications in the construction industry of Boom Lifts

Building construction and maintenance: Boom Lifts allow workers to access high locations on a building easily and safely. They are used to perform tasks such as painting, plastering, installing electrical systems, installing windows, and building maintenance.
Installation of lighting systems and lamps: Boom Lifts help workers install lighting systems and lamps in high areas, such as street lights, indoor lights, or public lighting systems, without having to use unsafe ladders.
Repair and maintenance work: Boom Lifts provide a safe and easy means for repair and maintenance work on high and hard-to-reach structures such as bridges, utility poles, or piping systems.
Construction and installation of steel structures: In the construction and installation of steel structures, Boom Lifts help workers access hard-to-reach locations and perform tasks such as installing structural frames, column systems, and pipelines, without having to rely on other means of transport.

D. Risks associated with operating Boom Lifts

Risk of falling from a height: One of the main risks when operating Boom Lifts is the risk of falling from a height. Failure to use a safety harness or to follow safety measures can lead to serious accidents or even death.
Collision with structures or other objects: Boom Lifts often operate in complex construction environments, with the risk of colliding with structures, equipment, or other objects. Collisions can cause damage to the lift or injury to workers.
Loss of control of the vehicle: Loss of control of a Boom Lift can occur for many reasons, such as incorrect control, technical failure, or unfavorable environmental conditions. This can lead to serious accidents.
Risk of electric shock: Boom Lifts often operate near power lines and other electrical systems, increasing the risk of electric shock. Carelessness when working near power sources can cause serious accidents.
System failure: Some accidents can occur due to technical failure of the Boom Lift system, including failure of the lifting system, steering system, or emergency stop system.

III. Safety Inspection and Maintenance Before Operating Boom Lifts

A. Safety inspection before operating Boom Lifts

Before operating a Boom Lift, performing a safety inspection is a crucial step to ensure that the lift is operating in the best and safest condition possible. Inspection steps may include:

Pre-operation inspection: Before starting to use, conduct a general inspection of the personnel lift. Ensure there are no concerning issues such as cracks, breaks, or damage on major parts like the boom, work platform, wheels, and control system.
Check the electrical and control system: Ensure that the electrical and control system is functioning normally by checking all switches, control panels, and other controllers. Make sure that all functions such as raising, lowering, moving, and stopping are working correctly.
Check the hydraulic system: Check the hydraulic system to ensure there are no leaks or other problems. Make sure the oil level is sufficient and there are no signs of oil spills or pressure loss.
Check the safety system: Check all safety systems such as safety harnesses, collision sensors, and the emergency stop system. Ensure that all safety devices are functioning normally and are ready for use.
Check the maintenance schedule: Check if the personnel lift has been regularly maintained. Ensure that all maintenance has been performed correctly and on time according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Performing a safety inspection before operating a Boom Lift helps ensure that the lift is in optimal condition and minimizes the risk of accidents for workers.

B. Guide to periodic maintenance of Boom Lifts

Check the hydraulic system: Check the oil pressure in the hydraulic system to ensure it is sufficient to perform lifting and lowering operations safely. If necessary, add oil or replace the oil filter according to the maintenance schedule.
Check the electrical and control system: Check all electrical and control components such as the controller, control panel, and wiring to ensure they are functioning normally. Replace or repair damaged or worn parts if necessary.
Check the mechanical system: Check all mechanical parts such as wheels, suspension system, lifting mechanism, and boom to ensure they are not damaged or worn. Replace or repair necessary parts to ensure safe and efficient operation.
Check the safety system: Check safety systems such as safety harnesses, collision sensors, and the emergency stop system to ensure they are functioning normally and are reliable.
General cleaning and maintenance: Clean the personnel lift and perform general maintenance tasks such as cleaning, lubricating, and overall inspection to ensure that the lift operates in the best condition.

IV. Safe Operating Procedure for Boom Lifts

A. Step-by-step guide on the safe operating procedure for Boom Lifts

Pre-use inspection: Before starting, conduct a thorough inspection of the personnel lift to ensure there is no damage and all parts are functioning normally.
Training and certification: Make sure the operator is trained and has the appropriate certification to use the lift. They need to have a clear understanding of safety rules and accident prevention measures.
Fasten safety harness: Before getting on the work platform, the operator must fasten the safety harness to their chest and tighten it to ensure safety.
Use the control panel: Use the control panel to adjust the height and position of the Boom Lift. Be sure to only perform operations after careful inspection.
Moving and working: When moving or working on the platform, ensure that there are no objects or other people within the danger zone and always adhere to a safe speed.
Stop and park correctly: When finishing the job, ensure that the Boom Lift is parked correctly and safely before leaving the work platform.
Report incidents: If any problems or incidents are encountered, the operator must report them immediately to the manager or technical department for timely assistance and repair.

B. Emergency handling measures and incident response mechanisms when operating Boom Lifts

Stop operation immediately: In case of an incident or risk, the operator must stop the operation immediately and move the personnel lift to a safe position.
Report the incident: The operator must immediately notify the manager or the occupational safety department about the incident and provide detailed information about the situation for appropriate action.
Check and assess the situation: After stopping operation, check and assess the situation to determine the cause of the incident and the level of danger.
Temporary solutions: Apply temporary measures such as using auxiliary safety equipment, moving trapped people to a safe location, or stopping hazardous activities.
Call for rescue if necessary: In case of a serious incident, it is necessary to call for rescue and provide detailed information about the location and situation to the rescue team.
Create a report and learn from it: After handling the incident, a detailed report on the incident and the handling measures should be created to learn from the experience and improve work processes in the future.

V. Risk Assessment and Hazard Management When Operating Boom Lifts

A. Identifying potential risks and hazards in operating Boom Lifts

Risk of falling from a height: Working at a height on a Boom Lift has a very high risk of falling if safety rules are not followed, such as not using a safety harness or being careless when moving on the work platform.
Collision with other objects or structures: Boom Lifts often operate in a construction environment with many other objects and structures. The risk of collision with these objects can lead to damage to the vehicle or injury to workers.
Loss of control of the vehicle: Loss of control of a Boom Lift can occur for many reasons, such as incorrect control, technical failure, or unfavorable environmental conditions. This can lead to serious accidents.
Risk of electric shock: Boom Lifts often operate near power lines and other electrical systems, increasing the risk of electric shock. Carelessness when working near power sources can cause serious accidents.
System failure: Some accidents can occur due to technical failure of the Boom Lift system, including failure of the lifting system, steering system, or emergency stop system.

B. Effective hazard prevention strategies when operating Boom Lifts

1. Regular inspection and maintenance of Boom Lifts for safe operation

Overall inspection: Conduct an overall inspection of the personnel lift to identify any abnormal issues. This includes checking the exterior, lifting mechanism, steering system, and control system.
Check the hydraulic system: Check the hydraulic system to ensure that the oil pressure is sufficient to perform lifting and lowering operations safely. If necessary, add oil or replace the oil filter according to the maintenance schedule.
Check the electrical and control system: Check all electrical and control components such as the controller, control panel, and wiring to ensure they are functioning normally.
Check the mechanical system: Check mechanical parts such as wheels, suspension system, and lifting mechanism to ensure they are not damaged or worn.
Check the safety system: Check safety systems such as safety harnesses, collision sensors, and the emergency stop system to ensure they are functioning normally and are reliable.

2. Adherence to occupational safety regulations for safe operation of Boom Lifts

Training and certification: All employees involved in operating Boom Lifts must be fully trained and have appropriate certification. This training includes understanding the hazards and safety measures during operation.
Use of protective equipment: All workers involved in operating Boom Lifts must ensure they use full protective equipment such as helmets, non-slip shoes, and safety harnesses.
Adherence to operating instructions: Operators must adhere to all operating instructions and rules issued by the manufacturer and the construction site manager.
Pre-use safety check: Before each use, the personnel lift should be thoroughly inspected to ensure it is in a safe operating condition.
Incident reporting: Any incident or safety issue that arises must be reported immediately to the manager or the occupational safety department for timely resolution.

3. Identifying and marking safe zones when operating Boom Lifts

Identify safe zones: Clearly identify and mark safe zones around the Boom Lift’s work area. This includes identifying hazardous areas such as falling materials from a height, the path of other vehicles, and fixed objects in the work area.
Use signs and safety markings: Place warning signs and safety markings at strategic locations to warn workers and vehicle operators of potential hazards and safe zones.
Determine the fixed position of the Boom Lift: Before starting operation, ensure that the Boom Lift is placed in a fixed and safe position. This helps minimize the risk of collision with surrounding objects and creates a safe condition for working on the platform.
Instruct the operator: Provide specific instructions to the operator on maintaining a safe distance from objects and other people in the work area. Ensure they have a clear understanding of the safe zone and hazard prevention measures.
Inspect and maintain the safe zone: Conduct periodic inspections and maintain the safe zone to ensure that safety measures remain effective and do not lose their effectiveness. This includes removing unnecessary objects and updating warning signs if necessary.

4. Use of personal protective equipment when operating Boom Lifts

Helmet: A helmet is specially designed to protect the head from objects falling from a height or unexpected impacts.
Safety glasses: Safety glasses help protect the eyes from dust, debris, and other objects that can cause injury when operating the lift.
Anti-slip gloves: Anti-slip gloves help protect the hands from injury and improve grip when controlling the equipment.
Safety shoes: Anti-slip safety shoes with a steel toe help protect the feet from the risk of impact and slipping on the work surface.
Safety harness: A safety harness is an important piece of equipment for workers to wear when working on the lift platform, helping to prevent the risk of falling from a height.
Protective clothing: Protective clothing can help protect the body from sharp objects or liquids during work.

5. Emergency procedures and response in case of an incident when operating Boom Lifts

Stop operation immediately: As soon as an incident is detected, the operator must stop the operation of the personnel lift immediately to prevent the accident from spreading.
Protect life and health: Ensure the safety of everyone by moving them out of the danger zone as safely as possible.
Call for rescue and report the incident: Immediately contact the rescue team and report the incident to the manager or the occupational safety department so they can provide timely help and support.
Resolve the incident and mitigate the consequences: Act based on the trained procedure to resolve the incident quickly and mitigate its consequences. This may include using auxiliary safety equipment or assistance from the rescue team.
Prepare a report and evaluate: After the incident is under control, prepare a detailed report on the incident and the remedial measures. Conduct an evaluation to find out the cause and learn from it to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.

6. Participate in occupational safety training courses when operating Boom Lifts

Occupational safety and health training is not only a legal requirement but also a commitment to the safety and health of workers. It helps employees recognize and deal with risks and dangerous situations, thereby reducing accidents, injuries, or deaths in their daily work.

The risk of accidents is always present and can happen at any time in the work environment due to the possibility of human error and the inability to anticipate all situations. This emphasizes the need for occupational safety training and constant vigilance.

When participating in occupational safety training at Nam Viet Safety Training Center, workers will be trained systematically from theory to real-life risk scenarios. Accordingly, there will be measures to identify and prevent occupational accident risks that may occur during work. After the training course, trainees will take occupational safety tests in order to obtain a occupational safety certificate. From there, workers will have a clear understanding of safety knowledge as well as a valid certification for employment.

VI. Factors Affecting Occupational Safety When Operating Boom Lifts

A. How weather conditions affect the operation of Boom Lifts

Rain and snow: In rainy or snowy conditions, the work surface can be slippery, increasing the risk of slipping and falling from a height. In addition, rain and snow also reduce the operator’s clear visibility and can cause incidents when moving.
Strong winds: Strong winds can cause the Boom Lift to sway and create a risk of losing control, especially at heights. It can also increase the risk of collision with surrounding structures or other objects.
Extreme high or low temperatures: Extremely high temperatures can increase the risk of exhaustion for workers and cause health problems. Meanwhile, extremely low temperatures can affect the operation of the system and reduce the flexibility of mechanical parts.
Fog and salt spray: Fog and salt spray can reduce the operator’s visibility and increase the risk of collision with unwanted objects.
Strong sunlight: Strong sunlight can blur the operator’s vision and cause fatigue, especially when working at heights.

B. How the work environment affects the operation of Boom Lifts

Work terrain: A work environment with complex terrain such as uneven ground, poor quality soil, or narrow areas can create challenges in moving and operating a personnel lift. This requires the operator to have the skills and experience to handle difficult situations.
Climate and weather conditions: Harsh climates such as hot and humid tropics, cold, or rain and snow can affect the safety and performance of operating a personnel lift. This is especially important when working at heights and under the influence of strong winds.
Confined work environment: In confined work areas, such as in workshops or construction areas, operating and moving a personnel lift can be difficult and requires care and skill.
Toxic or contaminated environment: Work environments containing toxic or contaminated substances can pose a risk to the operator and need to be handled carefully to ensure the safety of everyone.

C. How the technical condition of Boom Lifts affects their operation

Operating performance: The mechanical and electronic components of the lift need to operate strongly and accurately to ensure operating performance. Technical failures such as damage or wear can reduce performance and increase the risk of accidents.
Operating safety: A poorly maintained personnel lift can cause safety problems, such as a malfunctioning brake system, an unstable lift, or a faulty electrical system.
Reliability: The technical condition also affects the reliability of the personnel lift. Using an unreliable lift can lead to downtime and interruptions in work.
Maintenance costs: A personnel lift needs to be regularly maintained to ensure the best technical condition. Failure to maintain or improper maintenance can lead to technical problems and higher repair costs.

D. How the safety knowledge and skills of workers affect the operation of Boom Lifts

Knowledge of safety: Workers need to have a clear understanding of safety regulations and the correct operating procedures for personnel lifts. This knowledge helps them identify and deal with potential hazards, minimizing the risk of accidents.
Operating skills: Accurate and confident operating skills are an important factor in controlling a personnel lift safely and effectively. Workers need to be trained and skilled in using the controls and safety equipment.
Ability to assess situations: Safety knowledge also includes the ability to assess situations and make quick decisions in dangerous situations. Workers need to know how to respond to unexpected problems effectively to prevent accidents.
Safety mindset: A safety mindset is the ability to recognize and assess risks in the work environment. Workers need to be safety-conscious and always adhere to safety rules and procedures when operating a personnel lift.

VII. Occupational Safety Training on Safe Operation Skills for Boom Lifts

A. Why operators of Boom Lifts need to be trained in occupational safety

Understanding of safety procedures: Training helps operators understand the safety procedures to follow when operating a personnel lift, from pre-use checks to accident prevention measures.
Reducing the risk of accidents: Safety training helps operators recognize and deal with potential hazards when operating a personnel lift, from handling emergency situations to safely controlling the vehicle at heights.
Protecting health and life: Safety training helps protect the health and lives of operators and those around them by minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries during work.
Compliance with legal regulations: Safety training helps ensure that operators fully comply with legal regulations related to the operation of personnel lifts, minimizing legal risks for both individuals and organizations.
Increasing work efficiency: Safely trained operators are often able to work more effectively, as they have the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the job safely and accurately.

B. Where to get occupational safety training for operating Boom Lifts?

An Toan Nam Viet is a reputable and high-quality occupational safety training center in Vietnam today. With occupational safety training sessions held continuously at production workshops, factories, or construction sites throughout the country (63 provinces in Vietnam).

To ensure that the training is effective, An Toan Nam Viet prepares carefully and meticulously, down to the smallest detail. From preparing tools, instruments, teaching equipment to curriculum, materials, sound, and lighting.

The occupational safety training instructors at An Toan Nam Viet are experts with many years of experience in the field. They even have research projects on identifying hazards in all industries and how to prevent them.

The instructors’ lectures are drawn from practice and conveyed in the most vivid and easy-to-understand way to the workers. These factors help workers feel comfortable during the learning process and absorb the teaching knowledge well. Of course, the knowledge conveyed always adheres to Decree 44/2016/ND-CP. From there, they will grasp many measures to prevent hazards and how to protect themselves. At the same time, they will also apply it in the most appropriate way in their actual work.

VIII. The Significance of Occupational Safety in Operating Boom Lifts

A. The importance of maintaining occupational safety in operating Boom Lifts

Protecting workers: Occupational safety not only ensures personal safety but also protects the lives and health of all employees. Implementing safety measures reduces the risk of accidents and injuries during work.
Enhancing labor productivity: A safe work environment creates favorable conditions for workers to work more effectively. When they feel safe and protected, they will work with more enthusiasm and confidence, thereby increasing labor productivity and work quality.
Minimizing risks and costs: Maintaining occupational safety helps minimize the risk of accidents and related costs, such as medical expenses, legal costs, and damage to the company’s image.
Compliance with the law: Maintaining occupational safety is an important factor in complying with legal regulations related to occupational safety and health. Non-compliance can lead to serious legal consequences for the business.

B. Important safety measures to be aware of before operating Boom Lifts

Pre-use inspection: Before starting operation, thoroughly inspect the personnel lift to ensure that all components and systems are functioning correctly, including the brake system, lifting system, and control system.
Use of personal protective equipment: Always ensure that the operator and surrounding personnel are using full personal protective equipment such as helmets, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots.
Adherence to instructions and safety symbols: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety symbols and specific local safety regulations.
Training and education: Only trained and certified workers are allowed to operate a personnel lift. Ensure that all employees are fully trained and have sufficient skills to perform the job safely. Complete an occupational safety training course to be issued an occupational safety card by the training center to supplement your records in accordance with work regulations.
Always be vigilant: During operation, always remain vigilant and pay attention to the surrounding environment, especially potential hazards such as power lines, confined work areas, and unforeseen weather conditions.