Using a basket lift on a trailer – 7 most common mistakes

Basket lifts on trailers are universal devices that facilitate work at great heights. However, in order to ensure safety while performing tasks, they must be used properly. What are the most common mistakes made when using basket lifts?

1. Incorrect selection of the lifting capacity and height of the basket lift on the trailer

Trailer basket lifts are available in many versions. In order for work to take place in comfortable conditions, they must be appropriately selected for the place where they are to be used. It is crucial to determine the desired arm length in advance and calculate how much the workers weigh including construction materials or tools. Using the device contrary to the manufacturer's recommendations may be dangerous for people in the basket, the operator and passers-by.

2. Improper installation of the basket lift on the trailer

Trailer mounted basket lifts require a trailer only for transportation. When carrying out work, place it directly on the ground. These devices are equipped with special stabilizers that resemble spider legs. 

To properly position the basket lift, it is worth making sure that the ground is as even as possible and that all supports are as stable as possible. This task belongs to the machine operator.

If the terrain is uneven, it may be necessary to individually adjust the length of the individual stabilizers. These devices allow you to freely adjust the most important parameters, which is why they are so popular, including: on construction sites.

3. Lack of regular service of basket lifts on the trailer

Basket lifts on trailers have a quite simple design. They are less reliable than large machines with complex construction. However, like all other equipment used when working at heights, they must be serviced regularly. They should undergo inspections to detect possible faults before they become dangerous to equipment users.

Basket lifts must also be inspected always before starting work. The operator should check the equipment for leaks or damage to important structural elements. If it detects any failure, work on the equipment in question should be suspended until the failure is repaired.

4. Failure to follow the manufacturer's recommendations of the basket lift on the trailer

To everyone basket lift on a trailer instructions are included. It indicates the operator's responsibilities and safety standards that must be kept in mind when working with a given machine. Failure to comply with these rules may endanger employees, the operator and people staying in the area of ​​operations. Doing so may also lead to faster damage to the lift. These machines are not cheap, so it is worth taking care of them.

5. Failure to adapt the parameters of the basket lift on the trailer to the work

Individual basket lifts differ not only in terms of arm length and maximum lifting capacity. Some devices of this type can be used for continuous operation, even for several dozen hours without any break. There are also models with a driving function and additional software that allows remote management of the most important machine parameters.

6. Using a basket lift on a trailer without permission

Basket lifts are supervised by the Office of Technical Inspection. This means that in order to operate them legally, you must have certain permits. They can be obtained after completing appropriate training and obtaining a positive result in the state examination. Such authorizations also need to be renewed regularly.

Using basket lifts without the required permits may result in serious financial penalties. Such action also poses a significant threat to all persons working at heights or staying near the device.

7. Using a basket lift on a trailer without a valid inspection

The inspection of basket lifts is similar to that for passenger cars, delivery vans and trucks. From time to time, the devices must undergo inspection under the supervision of authorized persons designated by the Office of Technical Inspection. The dates of subsequent inspections are indicated in the documentation attached to the lifts. It is illegal to use the device without repeating the technical inspection, so it is worth remembering the set date.

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