How should a suitable work site be selected when using an aerial work platform?

How should a suitable work site be selected when using an aerial work platform?

For selecting a work site for aerial work platforms are "flat and solid, free of obstacles, and safe environment." This needs to be assessed from three key dimensions: ground conditions, surrounding environment, and available space. Specific requirements are as follows:

1. Ground conditions: Ensure stable support for the equipment.

The ground must be flat and have sufficient load-bearing capacity to support the full weight of the work vehicle (including the platform, personnel, and tools), avoiding soft soil, pitted areas, or backfilled sites.

If the ground is not hard enough (such as grass or mud), steel plates, mats or sleepers need to be laid down to increase the bearing area and prevent the outriggers from sinking and the vehicle body from tilting.

The ground slope must be controlled within the rated range of the equipment (usually ≤3°). Before operation, use a level to confirm that the vehicle body is level. It is forbidden to force operation on steep slopes.

2. Surrounding environment: Avoid all kinds of safety hazards.

Keep away from high-voltage lines. The working radius must meet the safety distance (≥1.5 meters for 10kV and below lines, ≥3 meters for 35kV and above lines, and follow the specifications). It is strictly forbidden to work directly under live lines.

Avoid obstacles such as building edges, billboards, and trees, and leave enough space for operation and turning to prevent collisions when the equipment is raised, lowered, or turned.

Keep away from major traffic routes and densely populated areas. If necessary, set up warning signs, fences, or arrange for personnel to guide traffic to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the work area.

3. Space and environment adaptation: Meeting operational requirements while mitigating risks.

The working space must meet the maximum working height and radius of the equipment, ensuring that the platform can reach the work point smoothly and there are no overhead obstructions (such as bridges or pipelines).

Avoid areas affected by severe weather. Do not work in open-air areas during strong winds, heavy rain, thunderstorms, or dense fog. For indoor work, ensure good ventilation and the absence of flammable and explosive gases.

The underground environment needs to be investigated to avoid working above underground pipelines (gas, electricity, water pipes), manhole covers, or underground cavities, in order to prevent ground subsidence or damage to pipelines.