Head Protection While Operating Lifts – Ask The Expert

PPE is important on any job site – but what type of head protection is required when employees are operating lifts?

Ensure everyone working on or near an aerial lift on your worksite is wearing the proper protective equipment, including head protection like hard hats.

Question

Are there regulatory requirements for workers to wear Safety hard hats while operating aerial lifts?

Answer

If you want to protect your workers and avoid potentially fatal accidents, you must require employees who are operating aerial lifts to wear hard hats. Safety is paramount when operating aerial work platforms. Following best practices can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Explanation

Workers and supervisors who work at heights, like those operating aerial lifts, must be provided with the appropriate equipment to work safely at heights. This includes fall protection equipment, like harnesses, lanyards, and hard hats, in addition to other safety equipment like gloves and safety glasses. You must ensure that all equipment is maintained and used correctly. Aerial work platform training is governed by both federal and provincial regulations is Canada, and the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) provides guidelines for safe operation, including wearing hard hats.