It’s common for companies to seek out a lifting equipment hire option when they need a Mobile Elevating Work Platform (CHERRY PICKER) for a once off job or time period. It’s more convenient than investing money into equipment and training for a machine that you won’t be using forever. The one potential shortfall of rental over ownership is that only the qualified and trained operator will most likely have in-depth knowledge of the pre-start inspections required for using one. Ideally, every person who interacts with the machine (or an employee nominated person) needs to know this for safety reasons. While you should always refer to your machine’s specific manual prior to use, here are a few points worth observing:
- Do it in the right location
A pre-inspection should be done away from other machinery and people. Make sure that there’s enough space surrounding the machine and that there are no overhead obstructions.
- Follow the order
Most CHERRY PICKERs come with a checklist of elements to examine during an inspection. It’s important to undertake these checks in the specified order. Most start with the machine with its vertical lowered with the inspection continuing in a clockwork direction.
- Conduct a visual inspection
It might seem obvious to look for visible damage, but it will save you time as it’s the biggest indicator something’s wrong with the machine, and its location will help you pinpoint the cause of the problem.
- Look underneath
Check the area underneath your CHERRY PICKER for a potential oil leak. This should be immediately obvious if you are inspecting out of the area it’s normally stored in.
- Check your levels
Always double check your fuel and hydraulic fuel levels in your pre-inspection. It should have enough to last for the duration of the trip. If you detected a leak in step four, it’s probably coming from here.
- Cover your bases
Once you’ve completed all the checks as mandated by your training and the manual of your CHERRY PICKER, make sure you sign off on the machine and make notes where necessary, so that your observations are on record.
Keep in the mind the above tips (in conjunction with your training) and you’ll not only get a better understand of safety, but of your CHERRY PICKER as well. Talk to us today!
