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680 Aerial and Serial Lift Safety Skip to main content

Pre-Use Inspections

Operators must conduct a thorough inspection of the lift, checking for any signs of wear, damage or malfunction. This includes:

Aerial Lift Inspection

Vehicle Components

  • Proper fluid levels (oil, hydraulic, fuel and coolant)
  • Fluid leaks
  • Wheels and tires
  • Battery and charger
  • Lower-level controls
  • Horn, gauges, lights and backup alarms
  • Steering and brakes

Lift Components

  • Operating and emergency controls
  • Personal protective devices
  • Hydraulic, air, pneumatic, fuel and electrical systems (fluid levels are not low and fluids are not leaking)
  • Fiberglass and other insulating components
  • Missing or unreadable placards, warnings, or operational, instructional and control markings
  • Mechanical fasteners and locking pins
  • Cable and wiring harnesses
  • Outriggers, stabilizers and other structures
  • Loose or missing parts
  • Guardrail systems

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

3-3. Why is it important to check for leaks in fluid systems during a pre-use inspection?