What type of fall protection is required when using a boom lift?

When using a boom lift, the requirement for fall protection centers around the use of a harness and lanyard. This equipment is vital because it provides a personal safety system that secures the operator to the boom lift, significantly reducing the risk of falling from heights. The harness is worn by the operator and connects to the lanyard, which is then anchored to the boom lift itself. This setup ensures that in the event of a slip or loss of balance, the operator remains attached to the lift, preventing a fall.

While other forms of fall protection exist, they may not be suitable or sufficient for operation within a boom lift. A safety net, for example, is typically used in construction sites for fall protection from higher elevations but cannot be effectively deployed or relied upon while operating a boom lift. A life vest is specifically designed for water activities and does not apply in an aerial work context. A guardrail system may be present on some machines, but it does not provide the same level of personal protection as a harness and lanyard system. Therefore, using a harness and lanyard is the most effective and compliant method for ensuring the safety of operators when working at elevated heights with a boom lift.