Is separate training required for each type of aerial lift in general industry?

OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1910.67(c)(2)(ii) says, “Only trained persons shall operate an aerial lift.” The agency does not go further and prescribe training elements for aerial lifts in general industry. However, in a still-active July 17, 1975, letter of interpretation, OSHA explains: “Employers have the responsibility of devising methods to train their operators in the safe operation of aerial lifts. Only competent and careful operators should be assigned these duties. The operator shall be trained in safe operations and made familiar with the manufacturer’s manual, especially those parts which relate to operation, maintenance, and safety of aerial devices.”

Voluntary standards from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) also say that employers must train both operators and maintenance personnel in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s recommendations, as well as those recommendations outlined in applicable ANSI standard(s).

It is advisable to follow the recommendations of the manufacturer, as well as those prescribed in the applicable ANSI standard(s), to ensure that operation, maintenance, and safety features specific to each aerial lift are clearly understood by operators as instructed in the above OSHA letter of interpretation.

If an aerial lift is used for construction work, employers must comply with 29 CFR 1926.453, Aerial lifts, and 1926.454, Training requirements, as explained in a February 23, 2000, OSHA letter of interpretation.