Safety should always be the top priority when using elevated work platforms like a Genie Lift. These machines are essential in construction, maintenance, and industrial settings for lifting people and materials to height. But without the right precautions, the risk of incidents increases. Below are six essential safety tips to help ensure safe, efficient operation.
1. Proper Training and Certification
Before operating a Genie lift, make sure all operators are trained and certified for the specific type of equipment (e.g., scissor lift or boom lift). Training should cover equipment controls, hazard identification, fall protection, pre-start inspections, safe operating practices, and emergency procedures (including emergency lowering).
Provide regular refresher training and evaluate operators after any significant incident, equipment change, or process update. For additional guidance, see manufacturer safety resources and operator manuals from Genie (Safety | Manuals) and jurisdictional guidance such as OSHA’s Aerial Lifts or WorkSafe Victoria: Elevating work platforms.
2. Inspect Equipment Regularly
Perform a thorough pre-use inspection before every shift and after any incident. If defects are found, tag the lift out of service and have it repaired by qualified personnel. Key checks include:
- Structural and mechanical: platform, guardrails, entry gate/chain, scissor/boom components, tires/wheels, outriggers/stabilizers, and pothole protection devices.
- Hydraulic, electrical, and batteries: leaks, hoses, wiring, connectors, battery charge and electrolyte levels (if applicable).
- Controls and safety systems: emergency stop, tilt and load sensors, alarms, emergency lowering, limit switches, brakes, and steering.
- Labels and documentation: capacity plate, decals, warning labels, logbook, and a current operator’s manual on the machine.
3. Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Wear appropriate PPE for the task and environment, such as a hard hat, safety footwear with non‑slip soles, gloves, hi‑vis clothing, and eye/hearing protection as required.
Fall protection must follow local regulations and the manufacturer’s instructions:
- Boom lifts: a full-body harness with a lanyard or self-retracting lifeline attached to the designated anchor point is typically required.
- Scissor lifts: guardrails are the primary fall protection; harness use should follow site policy and relevant regulations.
Ensure all PPE fits correctly and is inspected before use. For more on working at height, see OSHA Fall Protection or relevant local guidance.
4. Follow Load Capacity Guidelines
Never exceed the rated platform capacity. Check the capacity plate and include the combined weight of personnel, tools, materials, and approved attachments. Observe the machine’s occupancy rating and avoid side loads, overreaching, or leaning on guardrails. Distribute loads evenly and keep heavy items low and centered on the platform.
5. Practice Safe Operating Procedures
Operate the lift according to the manufacturer’s instructions and site rules to minimize risk:
- Set up on firm, level ground; use outriggers/stabilizers correctly and engage brakes before elevating.
- Observe wind and weather limits specified by the manufacturer; postpone work in high winds, rain, lightning, or poor visibility.
- Maintain required clearances from overhead hazards and power lines; never work within prohibited approach distances.
- Keep entry gates/chains closed; never climb or stand on guardrails or use ladders on the platform.
- Travel with the platform lowered where possible; only drive elevated if the manufacturer permits and the area is controlled.
- Use a spotter where visibility is limited and cordon off the work area to separate pedestrians and other plant.
- Do not override, bypass, or modify safety devices. If a fault occurs, stop work and report it immediately.
6. Communication is Key
Establish clear communication before and during every task. Agree on roles, hand signals or radio use, and emergency procedures. Conduct a quick pre-task briefing to review hazards, access routes, and exclusion zones, and keep checking in as conditions change. Ensure a rescue plan is in place and that all personnel know how to initiate emergency lowering.
Conclusion
Operating a Genie Lift safely requires competent training, disciplined inspections, the right PPE, strict adherence to load limits, sound operating practices, and clear communication. By following these six essential tips—and the manufacturer’s and regulator’s guidance—you’ll reduce the risk of incidents and help maintain a productive, compliant, and safe work environment.
