Is fall protection required when operating a man lift?

“Man lift” is a generic term used to reference various types of equipment used to lift a man. Most often, this term refers to aerial lifts (e.g., bucket trucks). If utilizing an aerial lift (as defined under 1910.67), OSHA views fall protection for these pieces of equipment differently than for scissor lifts. The fall protection requirements for aerial lifts are outlined in 1910.67(c)(2). OSHA says that belting off to an adjacent pole, structure, or equipment when working from an aerial lift is not allowed. Workers have to be tied-off to the boom or the basket via a personal fall arrest or travel restraint system.

Also, workers must always stand firmly on the floor of the basket, and can’t sit or climb on the edge of the basket or use planks, ladders, or other devices for a work position.