Mast-Mounted Lift Work Platforms are essential equipment for modern building exterior wall construction. Their safety is directly related to the safety of operators and those working at height. Similar to construction hoists, a systematic pre-operation inspection is the cornerstone for preventing accidents and ensuring smooth daily operations. The following is a comprehensive pre-operation safety inspection checklist.

1. Work Area and Foundation Inspection

Before operating the equipment, it is important to first assess its operating environment.

Surroundings: Check for obstructions in and around the platform's path, such as scaffolding, construction materials, power lines, or trees. Ensure adequate clearance, especially when the platform is raised.

Ground Conditions: Check the platform's foundation or supporting surface. The surface must be firm, level, of sufficient load-bearing capacity, and free of water, oil, or other potential instability hazards. Verify that the travel wheels (if any) are fully raised and the outriggers are properly and fully extended and secured with standard pads.

Fall Prevention Zone: Install clear warning signs and fences on the ground to prevent unauthorized personnel from entering the danger zone below during platform lifting and operation.

II. Mechanical and Structural System Inspection

This is a core step in ensuring the integrity of the equipment itself.

Platform Structure: Inspect the work platform and guardrails (including intermediate rails and toeboards) for bends, cracks, damage, or unauthorized modifications. Ensure that all connecting bolts and pins are complete and tightened.

Mast and Rails: Visually inspect the mast structure, rails, and racks. Verify that they are free of visible deformation, damage, or severe corrosion. Check that the connecting bolts between standard sections meet the specified torque.

Drive System: Inspect the drive unit (motor and gearbox) for secure installation and oil leaks. Visually inspect the meshing between the gears and racks for excessive wear or damage.

Safety Devices:

Guardian Doors: Inspect the guard doors at the platform entrance and exit to ensure they close properly and that the interlocking devices are effective (i.e., the platform cannot operate unless the doors are closed).

Anchorage System: Check that the building attachments (anchor points) are intact, correctly installed, and secure. They are the lifeline for preventing overturning and ensuring overall stability.

III. Electrical and Control System Testing

After power is applied, a functional test must be performed without leaving the ground.

Operation Panel: Test the ground control station and the control panel on the platform. All buttons, switches, emergency stop buttons, and indicator lights must function properly. The emergency stop button must immediately shut off power.

Limit Switches: With the platform unloaded and low to the ground, test the upper and lower limit switches. When triggered, the platform should automatically stop.

Overload Protection Device: If present, check that its indicator lights or alarms are functioning properly. Operators must be aware of the maximum load of the device and strictly adhere to them.

Emergency Function: Understand and verify the operation of the manual lowering function (emergency lowering device) to ensure that the platform can be safely lowered in the event of a power outage.

IV. Final Operation Verification and Recording

After completing the static inspection, perform a dynamic test.

No-Load Test Run: Raise and lower the platform once with no load. Listen for any unusual noises, observe smooth operation, and observe proper starting and braking.

Leveling Check: During the lifting process and after stopping, check that the platform remains level. Platform tilt is a serious safety hazard and must be reported immediately.

Final Verification: Verify that all tools and materials are evenly placed and secured to the platform deck to prevent falls.

Finally, the operator must record the inspection results, including any defects found and actions taken, in detail in the equipment's daily inspection log. Any malfunctions must be reported immediately to a supervisor and repaired by a qualified technician. Operating the equipment while it is faulty is strictly prohibited.