Boom Lift Safety Regulations for Renters

Hiring or renting a boom lift can be the perfect solution for reaching those high places, but ensuring the safety of the operation is vital. Whether you’re a first-time or regular hiring company, there are specific regulations, guidelines, and practices you need to follow to keep your workforce safe.  

In this piece, we dive into the world of boom lift hire and the boom lift safety regulations for renters, helping your business navigate the sometimes-confusing landscape of renting and operating these powerful machines. 

What is a boom lift? 

First, what is a boom lift? Boom lifts are a type of aerial work platform (AWP) used to elevate workers and equipment to reach new heights that would otherwise be unreachable. These machines are designed to give your workforce both vertical and horizontal reach, making them ideal for construction, maintenance, and other high-access jobs. 

Types of boom lifts that fall under safety regulations for renters 

There are various types of boom lifts available for hire, and choosing the right one depends on your project needs. Here are the most common types that the boom lift safety regulations for renters will apply to: 

Telescopic boom lifts 

These offer a straight arm that extends out, giving you great horizontal reach. They’re perfect for accessing hard-to-reach areas in projects like construction where there’s lots of open space.  

Articulating boom lifts 

Also known as knuckle booms, these lifts are perfect for indoor projects such as warehouses and shopfitters due to the lifts having multiple sections that “bend,” allowing for more flexibility to move around obstacles.  

Key safety Boom Lift Safety Regulations for Renters to know

Before renting a boom lift, renters must be aware of key boom lift safety regulations for renters that come from various governing bodies. 

Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 

The usage of Boom lifts or ‘cherry pickers’ falls under the scope of The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. These are a set of boom lift safety regulations for renters are standards employers must follow to ensure all workers receive the correct training and guidance they need to prevent risks when operating boom lifts.  

Training and competence  

The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) is the accreditation body that promotes safe and effective use of powered access equipment worldwide. With most projects now requiring workforces to obtain a ‘Pal card’ (Powered Access License) before even using a piece of equipment, it’s crucial to make sure your project follows this guidance too.  

Through companies such as Webb’s Training, companies will be able to organise the necessary training required for their workforce before operating a boom lift.  

Things to do before renting a boom lift 

Hiring/renting a boom lift isn’t as simple as calling a company and getting your equipment. There are pre-safety steps your business must take before even touching the controls to meet the boom lift safety regulations for renters.

Pre-rental safety checklist 

Carry out a site inspection 

Ensure the ground is stable and clear of obstacles. 

Understand the load capacity of your hired boom lift 

Never exceed the weight limits of the boom lift. 

If working outdoors, check weather conditions  

Wind, rain, and ice can make operating a boom lift hazardous. Many diesel models are preferred for outdoor usage, whereas electric is better suited for indoor usage in projects like warehouse maintenance and shopfitting.  

Operational dos and don’ts 

Operating a boom lift safely isn’t just about your workforce knowing what buttons to press, it’s about following a set of practices that will keep you and everyone around you safe. Using Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs) guidance from The Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, here are some dos and don’ts your business can implement:  

Do’s 

• Perform a pre-operation inspection. 

• Barrier off the area around the platform to prevent the risk of objects, such as tools, falling 

• Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE). 

• Follow the manufacturer’s operational manual. 

Don’ts 

• Don’t overload the lift. 

• Never use a boom lift when ground conditions are poor or there is bad weather.  

• Avoid driving the lift when elevated unless it’s designed for it. 

How to handle emergency situations 

Despite all precautions, emergencies can still happen. Knowing how to respond can make all the difference. 

Power failure 

Familiarise yourself with manual controls in case of a power outage. 

Tipping 

Stay calm and alert emergency services immediately. Never try to jump from the lift. 

What to wear when operating a boom lift 

Personal protective gear can be the difference between a minor accident and a serious injury. 

Hard hats 

To protect against falling objects. 

Harnesses 

Most boom lifts require you to wear a safety harness. 

Non-Slip Footwear 

Prevents you from slipping while entering or exiting the lift.