Fleet Maintenance - S7

SAFETY & BEST PRACTICES

10 steps to promote lift safety in shops
Considerations to enhance vehicle lifting performance and safety.
By Dr. Jean DellAmore

esigning and equipping a modern
service facility to support trained
technicians with the latest, safest
equipment is imperative.
With this in mind, there are 10 essential steps to evaluate, select, and use
heavy duty vehicle lifts to boost safety and
performance in fleet maintenance shops:

1. Certification counts

The Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) Lift
Certification Program has made it easy for
lift buyers to choose lifts that have been
third-party tested and proven to meet
safety and performance requirements
outlined in the safety standard ANSI/
ALI ALCTV (current edition). Testing
includes verification of the structural
integrity of all lift model systems and
components, proper function of its controls and load-holding devices, the proper
lowering speeds, and overload protection.

2. Weight and height matters

Know in advance the weight of the heaviest vehicle a shop intends to lift, and make
certain that the lift selected is certified to
meet or exceed that capacity. In terms of
height, always measure the height clearance of the building and tallest vehicle
before selecting a lifting system.

3. Vigilance during setup

When ready to operate the lift, technicians
should check the perimeter of the lift to
confirm nothing is obstructing its path
and there are no hazards. Then, lift the
vehicle no more than 12" off the ground,
pause, and do another sweep of the area.
Also, make sure that the vehicle being
lifted is level.

4. Authorized use

Ensure only fully trained and authorized
personnel operate the lift. Select a lifting
system that prevents unauthorized access
to operate lift. This could be a locked control box, or a secure key or "wand" required
to activate the lift system before use.

A high-lift wheel dolly allows wheel removal without back strain.
Photo courtesy of Stertil-Koni

5. Keep it stable

Before operating a mobile column lift, always be sure each column is placed on a
firm foundation and level ground. When
lifting outdoors, be aware of wind loads.
Also, make certain the vehicle's wheels are
properly engaged with the forks on the lifts.

6. Proper positioning

For in-ground lifts, operators should always
ensure the contact points are properly positioned. Further, select a lift with an "electronic synchronization" system. In this way,
as the lift goes into motion and continues
through the full range up to its maximum
height, vehicles will lift smoothly, even those
with unequal weight distribution.

7. Technician protection

At all times, lift vehicles to the proper
height. This allows technicians to move
about freely and work comfortably underneath the vehicle. Some lifts, such as all
Stertil-Koni lifts, feature an independent
mechanical locking system that can be
heard locking into place.

8. Strict maintenance schedule
Make certain that all lifts are subject to a regular program of scheduled maintenance by
following the manufacturer's recommended

schedule and receive an annual lift inspection by an ALI certified lift inspector.

9. Use ergonomic accessories

Stertil-Koni suggests using shop equipment and accessories specifically designed
for particular lifts to ensure operator
safety and proper ergonomics. Examples
include a high-lift wheel dolly for wheel
removal and proper alignment of dual tire
assemblies and brake drums, or support
stands to help facilitate a broad range of
maintenance procedures.

10. Create a culture of safety

Service bulletins, safety messages, and
continuous technician training are vital to
a smooth-running maintenance facility.
Safety and performance can work to
elevate vehicle maintenance facilities to
new levels of efficiency, particularly when
a well-conceived game plan is at the core of
selecting and using vehicle lifting systems.
Dr. Jean DellAmore, president of
Stertil-Koni, has been in the
heavy duty lift industry for
more than 30 years.
DellAmore has several
academic degrees including
an MBA and MA from George
Washington University, and a
doctorate from UMUC.

AUGUST 2019 | Vehicle Lift Guide |

Fleet Maintenance

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