Setting Up a Bucket Truck or Digger Derrick on a Sloped Surface

Lineworkers face different challenges in the field when it comes to operating digger derricks or bucket trucks. That is why it is imperative to conduct a job site survey that identifies the risks so certain precautions and steps can be made. 

One item that lineworkers consider is the slope of the ground and how the slope will impact the truck. Ideally, the truck should be parked on a slope of five degrees or less; then leveled according to the units requirements. However, there are times when it is necessary to set-up the truck with a larger slope present. If only equipped with one set of outriggers or no outriggers then the tires and axles are critical components in the stability and not fully addressed here. Digger derrick capacities are determined on level ground so they will have reduced capacity if not set up level.