Aerial Lift Definition: 10 Key Terms

Your business uses aerial devices — but can your aerial lift operators define the terms associated with them?

Without a clear understanding of aerial lift definitions, it can be tough for aerial lift operators to perform their day-to-day duties. With aerial lift certification training, your workers can learn relevant aerial lift terms and definitions, so they are well-equipped to complete myriad tasks to the best of their ability, every day.

Aerial Device Definition: Terms Every Aerial Lift Operator Needs to Know

During aerial lift certification training, your workers can learn how to safely use and maintain an aerial lift. They can also receive insights into the following aerial lift terms and definitions. Be sure to explore the linked supporting blogs in each definition – they’re sure to round out your education on aerial lift definitions and help you understand the greater context of these amazing tools. 

1. Aerial Lift

An aerial lift, sometimes referred to as an aerial device, refers to any vehicle-mounting device. Common types of aerial lifts include cherry pickers, personnel lifts, and articulating boom lifts, and these machines enable workers to safely perform tasks at heights.

Aerial lifts are frequently used at construction sites, warehouses, and other industrial worksites. Regardless of where aerial lifts are utilized, all aerial lift operators must receive certification. Otherwise, unauthorized aerial lift operators can put themselves and others in danger. They can also put a business at risk of receiving OSHA violations.

2. Fall Arrest System

A fall arrest system helps prevent falls from heights and minimize the risk of associated accidents and injuries. The system includes an anchor point, full-body harness, and a connecting device. Understanding the factors in play with these systems can help you better understand exactly what is an aerial lift and what risks are associated with them. Useful in jobs ranging from tree trimming to surveillance, window cleaning and bridge repairs, fall arrest systems are some of the most useful tools available. 

3. Anchor Point

An anchor point refers to a secure point of attachment. It is paramount when using an aerial lift, as the anchor point ensures a lifeline, lanyard, or deceleration device is safely attached to the lift. This kind of aerial device is essential to the health and safety of operators. Without a full understanding of the importance of anchor points, workers could put their lives at risk.

4. Connecting Device

A connecting device is another aerial device that helps link a body harness to a lifeline or anchor point. It is flexible and secure and works as a part of a fall arrest system. Connecting devices are what keep workers safe when they’re working at great heights. Proper training in these devices can help everyone on the job site avoid unnecessary hazards.

5. Fall Restraint

A fall restraint is any equipment designed to help limit the risk of falls. This equipment is required for aerial lift operators any time they perform tasks at heights. Falls are some of the most common types of aerial lift accidents, which is why these restraints are so necessary. They become even more vital when employees are working over water. When one wrong move could jeopardize your safety, you’ll be grateful for this kind of aerial device.

6. Outrigger

An outrigger is an aerial device that helps increase aerial lift stability. Outriggers are often used in combination with scissor and boom lifts and help prevent lift tip-overs. Tip-overs are among the most dangerous types of aerial lift accidents, and tools like outriggers are instrumental to preventing such incidents. Whether your lift comes with an outrigger attached or you add one on as an accessory, you won’t want to use an aerial lift without this important tool.

7. Extendable Boom Platform

An extendable boom platform refers to an aerial device, with the exception of ladders. It has a telescopic boom, which provides aerial lift operators with greater horizontal reach in comparison to other types of boom platforms. The standards for elevated work platforms like these are constantly changing, which can be a challenge for workers to stay abreast of. Regular training and updated certification opportunities can help keep employees in the loop.

8. Maximum Load Capacity

Maximum load capacity refers to the total load that an aerial lift can handle. The capacity accounts for the weight of the aerial lift operator, along with any tools or equipment on the lift. If an aerial lift exceeds its maximum load capacity, the machine is susceptible to tip-overs. Lift size can have a significant impact on the maximum capacity. By understanding the limitations of aerial devices, workers can mitigate the odds of a tip-over accident. 

9. Scissor Lift

A scissor lift consists of a hydraulic platform used to raise or lower workers. There are three types of scissor lifts: slab, rough-terrain, and single-man. Scissor lifts may use electrical power or feature an internal combustion engine. Certification can make all the difference when it comes to scissor lift operation. Before sending workers into the field, make sure they’re educated on the various types of lifts and their uses.

10. Boom Lift

A boom lift is similar to a scissor lift. However, a boom lift tends to reach higher than a scissor lift, and it enables workers to complete a wide range of tasks at high elevations. This type of aerial device is frequently used to paint ceilings, perform maintenance duties, and lift workers to conduct any number of repair jobs. Articulating and telescopic versions offer versatility and efficiency for operators – but only after they’ve been trained, of course.

Aerial Lift Definition: Teach Your Workers Important Terms

Aerial Lift Certification offers extensive aerial lift certification training to employees of all skill and experience levels. Our OSHA-certified aerial lift training program enables workers to quickly learn aerial lift terms and definitions. It also teaches workers about aerial lift accidents and injuries, best practices for operating and managing aerial devices, and other aerial lift safety topics. To learn more or to enroll your workers in our aerial lift certification program, please contact us online or call us today at (888) 278-8896.