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One of the most critical components to influence the productivity and the safety of the utility crew on an aerial device is the boom. The boom’s ability to elevate, rotate and position operators into place is the single biggest factor in getting operators from the ground to an aerial worksite. To help keep the boom working efficiently, inspections should be completed on a regular basis – especially daily. The following outlines tips to remember while inspecting a bucket truck boom prior to use.

Walk Around

Frequent boom inspection and tests should be performed by the operator immediately prior to first use of the aerial device at the beginning of each shift. The first thing an operator must do is a visual inspection of the boom — a complete walk-around —for damaged components, cracks, excessive wear, as well as for any loose, deformed, or missing bolts, pins, fasteners, locking devices and covers.

Other Areas to Inspect

Next, operators need to conduct checks on the following:

• The visual and audible safety devices on the boom for proper operation
• The fiberglass and insulating components for visible damage or contamination
• The hydraulic and pneumatic systems for observable deterioration and excessive leakage
• The electrical systems for malfunctions, signs of excessive deterioration, dirt and moisture accumulation
• Look for missing or illegible operational and instructional decals.
  

Functional Tests

After the visual checks are done, the operator needs to perform a series of functional tests on the machine, which includes the complete set-up of the aerial device, including the outriggers. The operator should then perform the controls inspection and cycle the aerial device functions through its complete range of motion from the lower controls. Operators should then check all the boom’s controls and mechanisms for proper operation. Verify boom operation from the lower controls through full range of motion before getting into the platform.  This check includes making sure that the interlocks are all operational, that the controls are not sticking and return to neutral when released, as well as that the control functions and operations are clearly marked.  Finally, the operator must check the functionality of the machine’s emergency controls.

During this entire process, operators should make a note of any suspect items. At the end of the inspection and tests, every item on this list needs to be carefully examined and/or tested and replaced if needed.