Best Practices When Handling Transformers with Your Bucket Truck, Part 4: Understanding Proper Set Up

Locate the truck so it does not interfere with traffic; or barricade and close the traffic lane(s) to prevent working over traffic or the elbow of the boom getting hit according to your companies work practice. Set the truck up in a location that will support the stabilizers and truck. If in doubt, crib or use mats to provide support. The further extended the load line is from the basket shaft the less capacity you will have. 

Operating on a Slope 

The truck must be level as indicated near the outrigger controls. Some must be level and others on a maximum of 5-degree slope. Follow the instructions in the manual for setting the outriggers. If the unit has only one set of outriggers, they can’t be used to level the vehicle, the tires must be cribbed to less than 5-degree slope. Level the truck using cribbing as needed. It is possible to stack multiple outrigger pads to gain height if needed. Always position the outrigger foot in the center of the outrigger pad. If only equipped with one set of outriggers the tires are the other stabilizing support and leveling with the outriggers may decrease stability and capacity. 

Lifting the Load: 

Inspect the load line and any slings being used before lifting. When connecting the load line to the load or transformer use slings rated for the load. Do not use the load line as a sling, it will cause internal damage to the rope. The load line can be equipped with a hook with a safety latch or a clevis with a threaded pin to connect to the sling or load. Be aware of how the load line is spooling on the winch drum to prevent stacking up where it can slip down causing a shock load.  

If working near energized lines maintain minimum approach distance or use insulating covers including ground or static lines, they are current carrying conductors. Finally, Terex Utilities recommends always using an insulating section or link when lifting conductors to prevent energizing the boom tip. The jib and load line must be considered conductive. The conductor lifter insulation or insulating link must be treated as a hot stick, inspected, and cleaned before use, and stored properly. The clear span distance of the insulating tool depends on the voltage. Users should follow OSHA 1926 subpart V and maintain minimum clear insulation distances required. 

Lifting transformers is part of the everyday tasks conducted by utility crews. Bucket trucks equipped with jibs have made this work easier and more productive. In some cases, bucket trucks with material handling capability can also reduce the amount of equipment needed on the job site. Most important, they can also improve safety when used properly. The next time your crew changes out a transformer, consider best practices for equipment selection, inspection, setup and load handling.