There has been a recent alert concerning a JLG 2632ES Fork Lift Pocket Failure on a Turner project. The JLG scissor was being relocated on the job with a Rough Terrain Forklift. When the forks were positioned under the body of the lift and raised approximately 6 inches the metal framework of the lifting pocket failed on one side causing the scissor lift to fall against a doorway while still on the forks of the Rough Terrain Forklift.
Upon further inspection of the lifting pocket under the MEWP it was discovered that one side of lifting pocket was welded with a continuous bead and the side that failed was spot welded in 3 places.
When the incident occurred, this was the first time that the JLG 2632ES was attempted to be moved with a Rough Terrain Forklift on the project.
The JLG 2632ES involved in the incident was a new lift to the Sunbelt Rentals fleet. The lift was manufactured on September 27th, 2016 at a new JLG manufacturing facility.
Because of this, all projects with a JLG scissor lift on site should inspect the welds of the lifting pocket to ensure a proper continuous weld on both sides of the lifting pocket. If a defect is found; Red Tag the scissor lift and take the equipment out of service and have the appropriate company repair the lift.
As with all program requirements, a risk assessment should be completed for equipment loading and unloading operations on site. Other safety measures include:
- Ensure the project has a current site logistics plan clearly identifying controlled access or restricted access zones for truck loading and unloading, required traffic controls, and best practices for unloading and loading materials.
- Ensure a competent person is assigned for materials handling and rigging operations.
- Verify the appropriate equipment is being utilized for the loading and unloading tasks.
- Verify that inspections are completed by a qualified person of equipment and that the load is rigged in a manner to ensure balance and stability during the lifting activity.
- Verify that the controlled access zones or restricted access zones with barricades are in place and kept clean and clear of non-essential materials and personnel.
- Ensure that materials handling equipment requirements and loading and unloading tasks are identified on the pre-task plan with the workers.
For more safety information, contact our offices at Diversified Safety Services.
