Safe Bucket Truck Operation

COURSE DESCRIPTION

This course covers several aspects of bucket truck safety, including how to inspect a bucket truck prior to use, how to plan a job with safety in mind, and how to avoid shock hazards associated with working on or near bucket trucks.

COURSE GOALS

• Explain how to perform a pre-use inspection on a bucket truck.

• Describe some of the basic safety considerations associated with using a bucket truck at a job site.

• Explain how personnel can protect themselves from shock hazards associated with working on or near bucket trucks.

SUBJECTS AND OBJECTIVES

Pre-Use Inspections

• Explain why a bucket truck should be inspected before it is used.

• Describe a basic procedure for inspecting a bucket truck’s boom and bucket.

• Describe a basic procedure for checking a bucket truck’s hydraulic system.

• Describe a basic procedure for performing an operational check on a bucket truck’s boom, bucket, and hydraulic system.

Job Planning

• List factors that can affect how a bucket job is done.

• Describe safety considerations associated with setting up a bucket truck at a job site.

• Describe ways that a crew can prepare for a bucket truck related emergency.

• Describe general actions that crew members can take to ensure that a job is performed safely and efficiently.

Truck Shock Hazards

• Describe how the insulating ability of a typical boom is checked and maintained.

• Describe methods used to protect personnel from shock hazards.