Aerial lifts, including boom lifts, scissor lifts, and other elevated work platforms, are vital tools in many industries, including construction, maintenance, and warehousing. These machines allow workers to reach high places safely and efficiently, making them essential for tasks such as building repairs, electrical work, HVAC work, and window cleaning. However, just like any other heavy machinery, aerial lifts require regular maintenance to keep them operating safely and efficiently.
Whether you’re renting or owning aerial lifts, keeping them in top shape is essential for safety, longevity, and performance. In this blog post, we’ll dive into why regular maintenance is crucial for aerial lifts and outline the key maintenance tasks to help you keep your equipment running smoothly.
Why Regular Maintenance is Crucial for Aerial Lifts
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Safety First
Safety is always the number one priority when operating aerial lifts. These machines are designed to elevate workers to significant heights, and any failure in the lift’s operation could result in serious injury or even fatal accidents. Regular maintenance ensures that all safety features, such as emergency controls, guardrails, brakes, and stabilizers, are functioning correctly. A well-maintained lift reduces the risk of mechanical malfunctions that could lead to accidents, providing workers with peace of mind as they perform their tasks.
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Equipment Longevity
Just like any other machinery, regular maintenance can significantly extend the life of your aerial lift. Neglecting maintenance can lead to unnecessary wear and tear, resulting in costly repairs or even the need for early replacement of the equipment. Routine checks, part replacements, and proper lubrication help ensure that your lift performs optimally and lasts longer, ultimately saving you money in the long run.
If you own your equipment and haul it on a trailer in the winter, the salt on the roads can wreak havoc on electrical connections, controllers and other vital parts of the scissor lift or boom lift. Best practice would be to haul the equipment in an enclosed trailer when there is salt on the roads. If that is not possible, you should regularly clean the salt off your lift to avoid unnecessary and costly repairs.
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Increased Productivity
When aerial lifts are well-maintained, they perform better, which directly translates to increased productivity. Fewer breakdowns, smoother operation, and reliable performance mean that workers can complete tasks faster and more efficiently. On the other hand, frequent mechanical failures due to poor maintenance can lead to downtime, delays, and disruptions in your work schedule.
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Compliance with Regulations
ANSI requires all mobile elevated work platforms undergo regular inspections and maintenance. Keeping up with these standards not only ensures the safety of your crew but also helps avoid legal issues or fines associated with non-compliance. By following recommended maintenance schedules, you can ensure your equipment meets all necessary legal requirements.
Key Maintenance Tasks for Aerial Lifts
While annual inspections should be completed by a qualified mechanic, there are some basic items that everyone can check. Note: Any repairs needed should be done by a qualified mechanic.
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Visual Inspections
Before using the lift, always conduct a thorough visual inspection. Check for any visible damage to the platform, tires, or undercarriage, and ensure all guardrails and safety features are intact. Look for any signs of oil leaks or cracks in the lift’s frame. Regular visual inspections help catch minor issues early before they become major problems.
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Hydraulic System Checks
Aerial lifts rely heavily on their hydraulic systems to move the boom or platform. It’s essential to regularly check the hydraulic fluid levels and look for any signs of leaks in the system. If you notice a drop in fluid levels or any visible leaks, it’s crucial to have them addressed immediately to avoid damage to the lift’s moving parts.
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Battery Maintenance (For Electric Lifts)
For electric aerial lifts, the battery plays a critical role in powering the lift. Regularly check the battery’s charge, clean any corrosion from the terminals, and inspect the cables for wear. Make sure that the battery is properly charged and that there are no signs of malfunction. If you use the lift frequently, it’s also a good idea to replace the battery every few years to ensure optimal performance. Note: Some lifts require you to check the distill water level in the batteries on a regular basis. Allowing the batteries to run “dry” significantly reduces the lifespan of the batteries.
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Tire Checks
Tires are essential for stability and traction, especially for all-terrain aerial lifts. Regularly check the tire pressure and ensure that the tires are in good condition, with no cracks, cuts, or bulges. For lifts that are used outdoors or on rough surfaces, it’s important to inspect the tires frequently to avoid flat tires or issues that could cause the machine to become unstable.
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Lubrication of Moving Parts
Aerial lifts have many moving parts, such as arms, joints, and pivot points, that require proper lubrication to function smoothly. Failing to lubricate these components regularly can lead to increased friction, wear, and eventual failure of the parts. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the appropriate lubricants and intervals for greasing moving parts.
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Brake and Stabilizer Functionality
The brakes and stabilizers are crucial for safely positioning and stopping the lift, especially on uneven terrain. Regularly inspect the brake system to ensure that it’s in good working condition, with no wear or fluid leaks. Similarly, check the stabilizers or outriggers to confirm they are functioning properly and that they can securely stabilize the lift on all types of terrain.
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Electrical System Inspections
The electrical system controls a variety of lift functions, including the platform’s movement and power systems. Regularly inspect the wiring, connections, and electrical components for any signs of wear or malfunction. Make sure all buttons and switches are responsive, and check for any warning lights or malfunction indicators on the lift’s control panel.
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Functionality of Emergency Systems
It’s crucial to test all emergency systems, including the emergency lowering function and backup controls, on a regular basis. These systems are in place to ensure that workers can safely descend in case of an emergency or mechanical failure. Always verify that these systems work as intended before using the lift.
When to Call a Professional
While many of the tasks mentioned above can be handled by operators or technicians, it’s always a good idea to have a professional technician perform more in-depth inspections and maintenance on a routine basis. An experienced service technician can identify potential problems that might not be immediately obvious to the untrained eye and can perform repairs or replacements as necessary to keep your lift in peak condition.
If your lift is overdue for a service or if you notice any unusual performance issues, don’t hesitate to call our office at 612-900-7738 to schedule service today. It’s always better to address small problems early rather than waiting for them to turn into costly repairs or safety hazards.
Conclusion: Keep Your Aerial Lift Running Smoothly
Aerial lifts are a critical part of many businesses, but they only remain effective when they are properly maintained. Regular maintenance not only ensures the safety and productivity of your workers but also prolongs the life of your equipment and keeps your project timelines on track. By keeping up with inspections, lubrication, and checks, you can avoid costly repairs and minimize the risk of downtime.
If you need assistance with aerial lift maintenance or are interested in renting equipment, our team at Want A Lift Rental Equipment is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services and rental options and let us help you keep your equipment running safely and efficiently.
