Safe Lift Practices: Training Tools to Protect Asphalt Plant Crews
BY Sandy Lender
Niftylift offers safety training to augment “high” HMA plant maintenance
Many of the articles discussing plant maintenance remark on the importance of lockout/tagout protocol. Without minimizing the need to train workers on that vital step in plant maintenance, let’s also talk to workers about lift safety and fall-arrest protection. The team at Niftylift Ltd., headquartered in Europe, prepared a document to address the risks associated with uneven terrain when using a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP), and that discussion is relevant today.
Niftylift has therefore created the NiftyPRO mobile app to deliver accessible training and support.
The team explained “that many accidents are entirely avoidable if proper training has been given.” This extends to how and where an operator uses a MEWP in addition to the safety training he employs while using the equipment.
For example, the engineers at Niftylift have devised what they call the ToughCage platform. It comprises an impact-resistant, composite base and a large cross-section steel cage designed to protect the operator. In the event of an impact, the ToughCage is designed to absorb much of the force; damage to the boom is minimised as well.
Along with protecting the worker, the team at Niftylift have addressed educating the worker. The company provides its inclination sensing technology to address the risks associated with uneven terrain and its load sensing system to actively monitor a MEWP’s platform weight. These are only two of the technologies in place to help the operator with performance and safe operation, and the company provides training videos that address these risks and more.
The ToughCage from Niftylift is designed to absorb much of the force in the event of an impact.
The company shared that mistakes surrounding the use of personal fall protection equipment (PFPE), most notably harness and/or lanyard, are also an issue. So, the company offers its ClipOn system, which features red and green LED indicators and an audible alarm, as an intuitive means of ensuring operators correctly attach their harnesses before beginning operations.
A press release from Niftylift stated, “The fact remains, however, that many accidents are entirely avoidable if proper training has been given. Niftylift has therefore created the NiftyPRO mobile app to deliver accessible training and support for operators, fleet managers and technicians. With well over 100 video tutorials, covering Quick Start Guides, machine operation and recovery procedures, the app helps to bridge the gap between theoretical training and practical application. Accessible anywhere, anytime, this immediate access enhances on-site efficiency and safety, making learning and troubleshooting more convenient than ever.”
“Niftylift is synonymous with innovations in operator safety, introducing technologies over the years that have redefined safety standards, addressing critical risks in working at height, including entrapment, overloading, harness misuse and unsafe tilting,” concluded Tom Hadden, technical sales manager, Niftylift. “Together, they enhance operational efficiency and provide operators with the confidence they need to work safely at height. We are committed to continuing to lead the industry in promoting safer working practices worldwide.”