Monthly Archives: October 2014

Some State OSHA Fines May Increase Soon

OSHA fines may increase Wyoming’s state OSHA department is considering changing the law to hold companies more responsible for workplace safety incidents, especially those that result in the death of an employee.

Lawmakers are looking to increase the civil penalty for serious violations. Currently, an employer can be fined a maximum amount, or “cap.” But new laws would raise the maximum cost to significantly more – in some cases, up to ten times the current cap. These fines could be on the table if an employer “willfully and knowingly” violates the state law.

For such a sparsely populated state, Wyoming is known as one of the most dangerous and deadly places to work in the country. The statistics back that sentiment up; Wyoming’s rate of worker fatalities is always near the top of the list. “We definitely have seen some improvements recently, but we continue to have workplace fatalities,” said Minority Floor Leader Rep. Mary Throne, D-Cheyenne. “And when a violation results in a fatality, I think there should be an enhanced penalty.” Rep. Throne is not alone in her opinions; Wyoming legislators are looking to make significant changes as quickly as possible.

Another proposed law would not change the current fine schedules. Instead, it would fine companies an additional $50,000 above any other fines for violations “that materially contribute” to the death of a worker. According to Throne, this bill should get through the Legislature.

Instead of increasing Wyoming OSHA fines, lawmakers have, up to this point, suggested that energy and manufacturing companies enact their own internal safety standards. However, the Wyoming OSHA department may be necessary to force changes on unwilling businesses. Wyoming usually deploys “courtesy inspectors,” who identify safety issues but don’t necessarily cite or fine companies with known safety issues.

When state OSHA departments change laws, like this case in Wyoming, it helps to be ahead of the curve. State legislatures are typically more fluid with revisions to existing law, and CertifyMeOnline.net knows OSHA from top to bottom. In fact, our staff includes many OSHA experts. We know when laws change – and how they can impact your business. Along with our aerial work platform training, we offer instruction for scissor lifts, fall prevention, boom lifts and much more.

Interested in keeping one step ahead of your state’s OSHA department? Please visit the CMO contact page for more information, or speak with our safety experts at (602) 277-0615.

Thanks for visiting the CMO blog – stay tuned for more updates that could affect you and your company.

Location Blais Supports Breast Cancer Awareness with Pink JLG Lift

With an estimated 100,000 new cases of breast cancer in women diagnosed each year, Location Blais chose to do something a bit unique to help raise awareness for breast cancer. The Quebec-based JLG dealer painted a JLG 450AJ lift pink to raise money by renting the pink boom lift, in which the proceeds will be donated to the Canadian Cancer Society.

JLG dealer Location Blais painted a JLG 450AJ articulating boom lift pink to raise breast cancer awareness. Standing beside the lift are, from left to right, Christina Bolduc, Denise Racette, breast cancer patient and mother of Serge Blais, Serge Blais, Jr., Location Blais owner, Marc Blais, Location Blais president and general manager, and Olivier Gauthier, development officer with the Canadian Cancer Society’s Quebec Division.

Although the bold move coincides with the company’s 40^th anniversary, the company owner says they have wanted to raise awareness for years after many of his family members were diagnosed with breast cancer.

Due to the location of the small town Rouyn-Noranda, where Location Blais is located, treatment and medical care aren’t always available to breast cancer patients. The local hospital simply doesn’t have the means to treat cancer patients, resulting in extended visits to non-local hospitals. This leads to hardships for those fighting breast cancer and their families.

Location Blais created the pink lift to encourage others to learn more about breast cancer and how it impacts families and communities. By raising awareness, the company hopes to accumulate the funds needed to add a radiation department to the local hospital, allowing patients to remain closer to home.

The construction company isn’t stopping with one piece of pink equipment to raise funds. In fact, they are planning to add 3 additional pieces of pink equipment by the summer of 2015. Location Blais is hoping their move to go pink will encourage other local companies to do the same.

Serge Blais, Jr., Location Blais owner, says he hopes the pink equipment will cause people to stop to ask questions, bringing awareness to breast cancer and their cause. In addition, he says it’s his way to give back to the community that has supported his company for the past 40 years by raising the funds needed to provide necessary services at the local hospital.

What is OSHA?

(Updated July 2020)

OSHA is a federal agency committed to fostering safe work environments across the United States. To better understand OSHA, let’s answer some of the key questions surrounding the agency.

What Is OSHA, and Why Is It Important?

Somewhere, at this very moment, someone in the United States is violating a safety procedure. It could be something minor, such as not wearing gloves during one final warehouse task. But, it could also be a significant safety mistake — for example, something like driving a forklift with bald tires.

Whenever workplace safety rules are ignored, the possibility exists for on-the-job accidents that can lead to property and personal damage, including severe injuries and even death. OSHA, the U.S. government’s regulatory body for determining workplace safety violations, is responsible for making sure that companies have their own safety plans in place to prevent these potential accidents and tragedies.

What Does OSHA Stand for?

OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Today, OSHA is led by Acting Assistant Secretary of Labor Loren Sweatt. It is part of the U.S. Department of Labor (USDL) and was officially created on Dec. 29, 1970 when President Richard Nixon signed the Occupational Safety and Health Act into law.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, OSHA has a broad range of power in regards to workplace health and safety laws. The agency covers most private sector employers and their workers, along with various public sector employers and workers.

What Is the Purpose of OSHA?

OSHA’s mission was to “assure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.” To accomplish this goal, OSHA supports private and public sector employers and workers in several areas, including:

Training and Certification:

OSHA creates standards that require employers to teach workers how to safely perform daily tasks in a variety of industries.

Employer Assistance:

OSHA is available to explain how employers can comply with safety mandates and keep their workers safe against on-the-job accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Information for Workers:

OSHA encourages workers to reach out to report unsafe work conditions; in the event that an employer ignores workers’ complaints about an unsafe work environment, OSHA can inspect a workplace and evaluate and address dangerous work practices.

Does My Business Need to Comply with OSHA Requirements?

U.S. businesses must comply with OSHA requirements. Failure to do so may result in OSHA penalties and fines, along with workplace accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Furthermore, OSHA penalties and fines may damage a business’ reputation, cause revenue losses, and make it difficult for a company to retain employees and customers.

Is OSHA Effective?

OSHA is effective as a workplace safety regulatory agency, but it can only do so much. Instead, employers must take action to ensure their workers understand best practices to maintain safe, productive workplaces.

Employers should follow OSHA guidelines and stay up to date on them. They can also provide workers with training to help employees minimize risk day after day.

How Can I Ensure That My Business Complies with OSHA Requirements?

Employers should be proactive, particularly when it comes to workplace safety. By reaching out to OSHA and learning about its safety guidelines, any business can implement measures to limit risk and comply with federal guidelines.

Additionally, CertifyMeOnline.net offers safety training courses for businesses that want to ensure their aerial lift workers comply with OSHA mandates. Our courses are intended for workers of all experience levels and make it simple to quickly become a certified aerial lift operator.

We are happy to provide additional details about our safety training courses. To learn more or to sign up for one of our courses, please contact us online or call us today at (602) 277-0615.

Don’t Load Down: Aerial Lift Tips

Aerial lift Tips When operating an aerial lift, some tasks will require you to use aerial platforms. When doing so, there are a number of risks involved that can easily lead to a dangerous situation. When working at an elevated height, you’ll need extra training and need to utilize special safety procedures to ensure everyone stays safe. With the proper training, you’ll reduce the risk for falling and dropping objects. There are also a number of tips you can use to ensure everything runs smoothly.

– When using aerial lifts, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent overtraining hydraulics, mechanical issues, and electrical devices.
– Unless the equipment’s manufacturer specifies, don’t operate the lift while with workers on the platform.
– Keep the aerial lift free from objects that can cause a problem. Ensure there is at least a 10 foot clearance around you, including any overhead lines.
– Be sure to use brakes, chokes, and outriggers at appropriate times, such as when at an incline.
– Don’t exceed the load limits of the equipment. You’ll need to take the weight of employees, tools, and materials into consideration when using the equipment.
– Prior to using the lift, inspect it each time to ensure everything is working properly.
– Do not walk under the lift and pay careful attention employees don’t either.
– Keep your eyes focused in the direction that the machine is moving.
– Use the safety harnesses provided by the manufacturer as an anchorage point, even while the lift is lowered.
– Ensure all limbs are away from the lift when raising and lowering it.
– Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in the event of an emergency.

OSHA has certain requirements that must be met when operating an aerial lift. By abiding by these requirements and the above tips, you’ll reduce the risk for a workplace hazard. To become properly certified to operate aerial lifts, contact CertifyMeOnline today!

Beginner Aerial Lift FAQ’s

aerial lift frequently asked questions

Are you new to aerial lifts? Looking to get a job in the industry? We’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) for anyone curious about these essential maintenance and construction machines.

What Is an Aerial Lift?

An aerial lift is defined as any vehicle-mounted device used to help workers complete tasks at heights. It can be a bucket truck, cherry picker, or other lift that is used to access elevated areas.

Aerial lifts are supported by a boom, which is different from a scissor-type lift mechanism. A boom can either be a telescopic lift, which is a straight arm or an articulating boom lift, which is able to bend, making it useful for jobs that require extra movement to avoid hazards or provide better accessibility.

Is a Bucket Truck an Aerial Lift?

Yes, a bucket truck is just another type of aerial lift.

What Types of Aerial Lifts Are Available?

Common aerial lift options include:

✓ Extendable boom lifts
✓ Articulating boom lifts
✓ Vertical towers

Aerial lifts can be constructed from metal, plastic, and other strong, durable materials. They offer exceptional stability in comparison to ladders, and as such, represent top choices for businesses across a wide range of industries.

Is a Scissor Lift an Aerial Lift?

OSHA considered scissor lifts a type of aerial lift. Even though scissor lifts don’t have their mobile work platform extend beyond the wheel base, they’re classified as an aerial work platform (AWP) – the same category as other aerial lifts (cherry pickers, telescopic boom lifts, etc.).

What Is a Boom Lift?

A boom lift is another name for an aerial lift. You’ll also see mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), mobile elevating work platform and aerial work platform (AWP) used, as well. All boom lifts fall under two different categories: articulating or telescoping. Boom lifts are not scissor lifts, which have their own type of lifting mechanism.

Can a Boom Lift Be Used As a Crane?

OSHA guidelines prohibit the use of a boom lift as a crane. A boom lift and crane are used for different jobs and are designed to handle specific tasks. If you use a boom lift as a crane, you’re putting personal safety at risk – and the safety of your co-workers.

If you are unsure about OSHA regulations regarding safe use of boom lifts and other types of lifts, there is no need to stress. An aerial lift training and certification program offers insights into OSHA safety requirements. The program is designed for workers of all skill and experience levels and helps them become OSHA-compliant aerial lift operators.

Can Aerial Lifts Hold More Than One Person?

Large lifts are available that are built to accommodate multiple workers. But, most lifts usually are designed for use by one person.

Where Are Aerial Lifts Used?

Aerial lifts can be used indoors and outdoors. They are utilized in a variety of industries, including:

• Agriculture and landscaping
• Construction
• Demolition
• Energy
• Retail

The ideal aerial lift varies based on the jobsite. As such, it is paramount to evaluate different types of aerial lifts to find one that allows operators to safely and effectively perform work at heights.

How High Do Aerial Lifts Get?

Most aerial lifts are typically designed to lift workers anywhere from 20-60 ft. off the ground. However, there are some aerial lifts that go hundreds of feet up in the sky! An aerial lift’s range in height depends upon the type of work being done. For indoor construction projects, an aerial lift may only be required to reach 30-40 ft. But for large-scale projects which require extensive range, it’s not uncommon to have an aerial lift extend 100, 150, or 200 ft. and beyond.

Can I Operate an Aerial Lift in High Winds and Other Inclement Weather Conditions?

The weather can put aerial lift operators in danger. As such, it is important to account for weather conditions before using a lift.

OSHA requires workers to receive training that teaches them how to identify dangers relating to extreme temperatures, heavy winds, and other inclement weather conditions. This training offers immense value, as it teaches workers how to identify weather hazards that can otherwise affect their ability to safely use an aerial lift.

Can Aerial Lifts Tip Over?

Yes. This is one of the most common types of aerial lift accidents. Properly trained aerial lift operators are aware of the different hazards that can cause an aerial lift tip over. The main causes of aerial lift tip overs include uneven surfaces, unstable and/or heavy loads, and failure to properly understand the operational requirements for the equipment.

When Should an Aerial Lift Be Used Instead of a Ladder?

There are many different circumstances where an aerial lift is preferable over a ladder. Aerial lifts are more mobile than ladders and can hold more weight. What’s more, they can also accommodate fall protection equipment. Plus, aerial lifts are stronger and more stable than ladders.

Are Aerial Lift Workers Well-Compensated?

Because the job has risks from falling and other hazards, aerial lift workers usually make a higher hourly rate than other workers. Of course, it depends on the employer, type of work, union considerations and other factors. Perhaps the biggest factor that determines an aerial lift worker’s pay is the local job market.

It often helps to discuss your career aspirations with an employer before you pursue a career as an aerial lift operator. This allows you to gain insights into what aerial lift work opportunities are available and find out if they align with your career goals.

Do I Need to Wear a Harness on an Aerial Lift?

It depends on the work requirements for your jobsite. OSHA always recommends wearing a safety harness.

Is Any Special Training Required to Operate an Aerial Lift?

It is recommended that anyone looking to work on an aerial lift has the most recent OSHA compliant instruction. CertifyMeOnline.net is a great place to get started. We offer a comprehensive training program that teaches workers how to safely operate an aerial lift.

What Is Aerial Lift Certification?

Workers can become OSHA-certified aerial lift operators by completing a safety training program. OSHA certification verifies that workers understand how to safely operate and maintain an aerial lift.

Does OSHA Require Aerial Lift Training?

It is mandatory for aerial lift operators to complete a safety training program. Failure to do so can result in OSHA fines and penalties. In addition, untrained aerial lift operators can inadvertently put themselves or others at risk of accidents or injuries.

Do Aerial Lift Certifications Expire?

Aerial lift certification lasts three years. Thus, if a business has aerial lift operators on staff, it should monitor their certification status. This ensures that the company can help its operators keep their certification up to date.

How Much Time Is Required to Complete an Aerial Lift Certification Training Program?

The amount of time required to complete an aerial lift certification training program varies. With CertifyMeOnline.net, workers can earn OSHA aerial lift certification in as little as one hour.

How Can I Learn More About Aerial Lift Certification Training?

CertifyMeOnline.net has friendly, knowledgeable aerial lift certification training experts on staff. We are happy to respond to any concerns or questions regarding aerial lift safety training. That way, we can help you evaluate your aerial lift safety training options and make an informed decision.

Which Aerial Lift Certification Training Program Is the Best Option?

There is no shortage of aerial lift certification programs, but none can match the effectiveness of CertifyMeOnline.net’s program. With our program, your workers can learn how to safely use a scissor lift, boom lift, and other types of aerial lifts. Plus, our learning materials are fully accessible anywhere an internet connection is available and lets your workers finish the program at their convenience.

Enroll Your Workers in CertifyMeOnline.net’s OSHA Aerial Lift Certification Training Program

CertifyMeOnline.net makes it easy to enroll your workers in OSHA aerial lift certification training program. For more information, please contact us online or call us today at (602) 277-0615.