The bucket truck is a powerful vehicle used in many different industries. It also has many different types of tools necessary to accomplish various tasks efficiently; however, these tools can be very dangerous for untrained employees who do not know how to safely use them.

Operators of bucket trucks need to know how protection from harm extends to the tools that they use. Following are some essential things to know about these specific tools: the importance of safety; protective protocol for bucket trucks; hydraulic tool hose safety; and rescue techniques.

• Operational Safety - When operating bucket truck equipment, the most important requirement is protection from harm. Manufacturers try to provide their customers with well-designed equipment built for this purpose. Business owners are also obligated to provide the highest level of safety training to those who operate bucket trucks. This is also a requirement of the governmental agencies implemented to oversee the safety and health of all workers.

• Protective Protocol - Operators must recognize the importance of safety while working and be willing to learn as much as possible about this subject when operating a bucket truck and its equipment. A knowledgeable operator will be able to identify safety hazards and know the necessary precautionary measures to be taken while operating the vehicle. When put into practice, this knowledge can greatly contribute to eliminating risks and lowering overall business costs.

• Lifting Safety - Two of the biggest hazards that the bucket poses to its operators are tip-over accidents and falls. To avoid a tip-over accident, operators must ensure that there is nothing in the way while raising the boom. They must halt lifting operations if they notice any material being carried, pulled or pushed by any action. To prevent a tip over, operators must never overload the lift; it must not exceed the weight capacity limit. To prevent falls from the bucket, operators must be sure that both feet are kept on the floor at all times. This means that the personnel must not use any other tools or material to try to add reaching height nor attempt to climb or sit on the edge or rim.

• Hose Safety – These vehicles use hoses that are connected to the hydraulic system for all of its tools. Operators must ensure that each hose is thoroughly checked before any operation. Inspection for any problem with the hose that could lead to failure must be performed daily. These hoses must also be non-conducive to electricity. Nothing metal should be used to reinforce the lines as any time the hose crosses electrical lines that could create an electrocution and/or fire hazard.

• Rescue Techniques - There are instances when tool hoses could ignite and result in a fire, stranding workers inside the bucket. The workers, as well as the ground crew, must be properly trained to respond and perform rescue techniques in order to save the lives of the workers inside the bucket.

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