Hazards/risks
These portable devices require experience in their placement before use to minimise risk to the operator.
Associated risks include the sudden fall of vehicles due to overbalancing, incorrect use of jacking points, poor maintenance or leaking hydraulic fluid, and use of jacks on surfaces that are not level or firm.
Safety solutions
Train operators in the correct and safe use of the equipment, including ensuring that:
• jacks are based on a firm, level and secure surface (preferably concrete)
• vehicle stands are used when a vehicle is raised and wheels are chocked
• nobody remains in a vehicle that is being jacked
• nobody places any portion of their body under a vehicle supported by a jack.
Prominently display equipment operating and maintenance instructions, as well as the safe working load.
Conduct daily pre-operational equipment inspections.
Inspect and maintain the jack at least every 3 months, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions, to ensure it can be manoeuvred effectively.
Record all inspections, servicing and maintenance in a log book which is available for all users, maintenance or inspection personnel.