The bucket truck is one of the most complex pieces of equipment a company can own. For this reason, every operator should undergo specialized training to ensure their safety and the security of other crew members with whom they work. For operators to be properly trained, they must read and understand the manufacturer’s manual, maintenance manual, and OSHA safety guidelines. OSHA regulations for safety education and certification are legally enforceable and every business is required to comply.

Furthermore, since OSHA is continually updating their rules and regulations for protection from harm, annual training and re-certification is very important to keep workers continually updated. This also helps drivers evaluate their performance and learn new techniques or technology applications related to bucket truck operations.

Adequate Prerequisite Training

Basic education is very important. Prerequisite training for operators may include but is not limited to the following: first aid education and current CPR certification; basic skills in firefighting; basic skills in automotive mechanics; familiarity with electrical equipment and hydraulic systems; and adequate understanding of the bucket truck control systems.

If the driver does not know enough to properly operate a bucket truck, a very dangerous situation could arise. For example, the driver may know how to drive but is not familiar with the control systems. That person could override the control system through the base control without permission from the person inside the bucket who is working near power lines. The override could cause the person inside the bucket to come in contact with the power line and that could result in electrocution. This is one of the most commonly occurring accidents related to bucket trucks.

Safety Courses

The manufacturer’s manual most likely does not include a section that offers safety education and it may be difficult to find certified training or self-help courses online. There are such tips and ideas available online; they are usually based on OSHA-provided safety outlines.

There will always be hazards that exist in different working environments, so it is imperative that operators find a practical safety training course that offers the following important safety areas:

• Safety Points - Focus on important protection from harm goals.

• Job-Specific Situations - Specific situations that are dangerous and their safe resolution.

• Workplace Checklists - Updated checklists or references to use in the workplace.

• Safety Awareness - Proper training of safety awareness during bucket truck operation.

Common Operator Mistakes

The following are common mistakes untrained drivers or operators make and the common dangers that may result from this negligence during bucket truck operations:

• Improper Maintenance - Poor maintenance and equipment reviews; for example, a damaged boom could collapse, endangering operators and ground crew.

• Improper Outrigger Usage - Improper use of outriggers can result in a vehicle tip-over.

• Improper Equipment Usage - Lack of averting falls by not using lanyards for protection from harm, especially during the aerial lift; a fall from even a height as low as five feet can result in broken bones.

• Improper Awareness - Lack of safety awareness during operation may cause a worker to expose part of their body to danger; for example, fingers could get caught between the truck and fixed structures.

• Improper Parking Clearance - Lack of parking clearance could cause a bucket truck to be struck by another vehicle resulting in falling or knocking down the bucket operator.

• Improper Overhead Clearance - Lack of over-head clearance may result in electrocution should the non-insulated boom come in contact with power lines.

Proper training and re-certification should be done regularly to refresh and update the operator’s knowledge of safety issues. These steps are to ensure the security and protection of the lives of the drivers and work crews from any type of danger in the workplace that may occur due to lack of training!