Can Aerial Lifts Be Used on Uneven Ground? Safety & Best Practices

AERIAL LIFTS are machines that assist people working high up, repairing lights or painting walls, for example. And sometimes, the ground where you need a lift isn’t level. It might be bumpy or sloped. So, a large question arises: are aerial lifts safe to operate on uneven ground? At Luchang, we understand how imperative it is to keep workers safe and machines steady. Operating a lift on turf is tricky business, but with the right steps it can be done safely. Learn what aerial lift can be used for on rough terrain, some safety advice for buying them wholesale and the best way you can start using these machines in 10 of the places where it’s hardest to work. 

Are Aerial Lifts Safe to Use on Uneven Surfaces? 

Aerial lifts are sturdy machines, but uneven ground can lead to trouble. And when the ground is not level, the lift can tilt or become unsteady. This could result in a crash or damage. So, do they work on uneven ground? The answer is yes — as long as certain rules are followed. First, the lift must have decent stabilizers or outriggers that can adapt themselves to an uneven shape of the ground. These keep the aerial platform machine (reasonably) balanced. For instance, if one side of lift is on a rock or slope then all that needs to be done, is the stabilizers can be pull out to create balance base. Luchang makes some of these aerial lifts with unique features that allow them to stay stable when on non-ideal terrain. But even with these, the operator should carefully check the ground before starting. 

The other key is the size and weight of the lift. Some small lifts may cope better with uneven ground because they are lower to the ground and easier to level. Large lifts may require a flat base or specially designed pads to distribute the weight and prevent sinking into soft ground. In some cases, a spotter is necessary someone on the ground to tell the operator if the lift seems unsafe. Lifting slowly and carefully also avoids accidents. It’s not just the machine but how we use it. 

If the ground is too rough or steep, you may be better off avoiding an aerial lift entirely. Instead the user should select other devices or methods. In Luchang, we care most about safety, so we tell users to report the ground conditions honestly. Bad terrain cannot be fixed by machine, alone. Operators have to understand the limitations and they can never take chances. 

Check out the essential safety guidelines for wholesale purchasers 

Wholesale buyers who purchase aerial lifts must have safety in mind from the very beginning. The location where the lift will predominantly be used is a very important factor during purchase. If a buyer often uses the lift on irregular ground, they need to mention it and Luchang will recommend some models for rough terrain. Some aerial work platform lifts come with add-on safety features, such as automatic leveling systems or stronger stabilizers. These features may be expensive up front, but they save workers from injury and decrease the likelihood of accidents. 

Buyers should also consider training. Any lift is safe if the person using it is practicing all of the safety guidelines. Luchang provides guidance as well as instructional manuals and training materials to teach operators how to check the ground, set up the lift, and operate it safely. For example, operators need to know how to test the ground firmness by walking or tapping on it prior to setting stabilizers. They also have to learn how to read the lift’s control panel and emergency stop buttons. 

Another huge safety point is proper maintenance. Wholesale buyers should verify that the lifts have clear instructions for care. If the machine malfunctions or parts come loose, it can lead to hazardous situations. This is avoided by monitoring tires, hydraulics and controls on a regular basis. Buyers should also consider lifts with parts that are easy to clean, he said, because dirt and mud can raise havoc with uneven ground.  

Insurance is not one of those things you can forget. Aerial lift purchases come with risk but insurance can be there when it goes bad. Buyers should look for policies that cover accidents on uneven ground. It’s an expression of responsibility, and it protects the business. 

Ultimately, purchasers need to consider the surrounding environment in which the lift will be operating. If it’s a muddy field or rocky hill, then special tires or even tracks may be required. For a buyer, Luchang can help select the right tires or accessories for a specific task. This in turn makes said lift both safer and more enduring. 

Aerial Lifts Application Guidelines: How do you Use Aerial Lifts on Uneven Surfaces? 

When working on rough terrain with an aerial work platform, good habits are key. First of all, make sure the coast is clear before you start moving the lift. Go for a walk and search out the soft spots and holes or slopes that could wreak havoc. Or, if the ground appears to be unstable or you’re using stabilizers for heavy equipment on soft ground, put wooden boards or metal plates down so there’s a smooth surface for your stabilizers. It’s a small effort that can keep a lift from either sinking or tipping. 

Second, fine tune the lift. Utilize the stabilizers completely and take in their shape to the ground. Remember to use the bubble level of if the lift is fitted with digital sensors, those. These tools inform you whether the lift is counterbalanced. Operators must stand well clear of the lift when it is in motion so they won't get hurt if anything tips suddenly. 

Three, go slow and refrain from sudden turns or stops. A lift is capable of shaking on rough terrain. Going steady keeps the machine balanced and helps ensure everyone is safe in the basket. Also, don’t load up the lift too much. Understand weight limits and never do any lifting if you have too much in the way of tools, personnel or extra mob members (such as janitors). Overloading the lift means it's more likely to tip over if used on rough terrain. 

Fourth, keep communication open. If there is a squad working, everyone should use radios or hand signals to pass on warnings. For instance, if the ground seems treacherous or the lift seems to be wobbling, that’s something the operator should be hearing about at once. At Luchang, we emphasize team work as safety is not just one person’s responsibility. 

Last, be prepared to shut down if the weather turns. Water on the ground, or even wind, can turn uneven terrain into greater threat. Most wet soil is slick, and a heavy wind can nudge you off balance on the lift. Operators are to monitor the weather and stop if necessary. 

What Safety Features You Should Look for in Rough Terrain AWP? 

Safety is extremely important when using aerial lifts on rough terrain. Not all aerial lifts were built to perform over rough or uneven surfaces. If you’d like to rent or own an aerial lift and use it safely on loose ground, we recommend looking for certain safety features. For starters, if it’s an boom lift, then its outriggers or stabilizers must be sound. These function like additional legs that extend down from the bottom of the lift to stabilize it. On uneven surfaces, they act as stabilizers to prevent the lift from tipping over. Luchang aerial lifts are equipped with powerful and easy-to-use outriggers that adjust to fit the shape of the ground. 

A level sensor is also a critical safety feature. This device is what shows the operator if they are tilting the lift too much. If the tilt is a cause for concern, the lift could stop working altogether or give an alert. It's this that keeps accidents from occurring. Plus: Keep an eye out for aerial lifts with wide, ’bout 16-inch-ish chunky-tread tires or tank tracks. These aid the lift in traveling across rough terrain without becoming hung up or slipping. Luchang constructs lifts with tires ready for rough terrain and thus its machine remains stable and secure. 

Most Aerial Lifts On Uneven Ground And How To Avoid Them

Aerial lifts on uneven ground can become a little tricky if you are not careful. One point of failure is that the lift may topple over or become unstable. The reason you can’t set it down is the ground isn’t flat so the lift’s base is resolutely unsteady. To prevent this from happening, always verify the ground before you start installing the lift. Ensure there are no large holes, rocks or any incline that will make it will tip too far. Luchang aerial lift has an automatic sensor if the lifts are not of level putts you in safe conditions. 

Another issue is that the lift’s wheels or tracks may slip or become mired in mud or soft ground. This can result in a difficult-to-control lift and time lost. To avoid this, use lifts with wider tires or tracks that displace weight over a greater area and decrease the likelihood of sinking. Also clear the work area of any loose dirt or debris and, if necessary, lay down boards or mats to make the surface solid. Machines extracted to handle rough ground better by Luchang, but preparation is always key. 

Aerial Lifts: Inspect and Maintain For Safe Use on Uneven Terrain

Regular maintenance and inspections help uncover problems before they lead to accidents. If using a Luchang scissor lift inspection against tires or tracks first. Inspect for wear, cracks ot low pressure. Rough ground could cause an unstable lift when the tires are damaged or worn. Inflate tires to their proper pressure, and never use a tire if it is worn out. 

Next, check the outriggers or stabilizers. Ensure they slide freely and the lock into position is solid. If these sections are damaged or don’t function well, the lift can be too easily overturned. Whenever possible, dirt or debris should be removed from the outriggers to prevent jams. Make sure the level sensors and safety alarms function properly. These components indicate to you when the machine is tilted too far or improperly in some way. If there is a break in these sensors, the lift may not stop before an accident occurs.