Determine the correct fall protection approach when connectors use an aerial lift versus climbing/working directly off the steel during erection

Steps

1. If using a boom-supported aerial lift (per the ANSI A92.2 definition incorporated in 1926.453), confirm workers remain tied off with a body harness/lanyard attached to the boom or basket per 1926.453(b), not to the adjacent structure.
2. Recognize that belting off to an adjacent structure while working from an aerial lift is generally prohibited under 1926.453(b), except in narrow circumstances OSHA has treated leniently (e.g., tying to a fully bolted-up completed structure).
3. If the worker transitions off the lift platform onto the steel itself to perform connecting work, they fall under the connector fall-protection provisions of 1926.760(b) rather than the aerial lift rules, and must re-anchor accordingly.
4. Confirm the aerial lift itself meets applicable inspection, load limit, and operational requirements under 1926.453 independent of the steel erection standard.
5. Train crews on the specific transition point between 'aerial lift occupant' and 'connector on the structure' so the correct fall-protection system and anchor point is used at each phase.