Construction sites are most always an organized chaos. Equipment and materials are all over the place and the terrain is rough at best. One of the most frequently used pieces of equipment is a mobile elevated work platform (MEWP), also known as an aerial lift or boom lift in the U.S. These work horses are typically selected for their ease of use, maneuverability and the ability to safely lift workers to perform tasks at height.
Equipment Explained: Oscillating Axle Lock System
The stability of the machine when moving around on uneven/rough terrain can be a challenge. That is why many aerial lifts are equipped with an oscillating axle lock system. This safeguard ensures stability when the boom is rotated over the side and ensures the lift maintains capacity. Unfortunately this simple feature may not be known or is overlooked by operators and maintenance staff.
The oscillating axle system works in two ways:
- It allows the axle to pivot (or oscillate) during travel on uneven ground with the platform in the standard travel position (centered over the end).
- It creates increased stability by locking the axle so it cannot pivot when the boom is rotated away from the standard travel position.
What does this ultimately mean? It will help to ensure that when traveling (with the boom inline) that all wheels remain on the ground even as one encounters uneven terrain. If traveling with boom over the side, the axle will remain locked in place to compensate and to keep the lift from tipping.
What Do You Need To Do About It?
Operators should be trained how to safely use the aerial lift and be aware of how the oscillating axle lock system works. The system should be checked as a part of the pre-use inspection. Refer to the equipment manufacturer’s instructions on how to perform this periodic check for your unit. An improperly working oscillating axle lock system creates an unsafe aerial lift and introduces unnecessary risk into your operations. Any deficiencies must be corrected before further use of the machine.
Remember, if you need training on how to properly operate and understand aerial lifts, Crane Tech offers classes through on-site training and scheduled classes. After all, Safety through Education is more than our tagline, it is our guiding principle!
P.S. Do you have a piece of equipment you’d like us to explain? Let us know by posting a comment below.
