Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
According to both OSHA and HRSDC, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial equipment capable of raising heavy and big loads that are well balanced. They are responsible for moving employees and their supplies to and from high elevations in an efficient and safe way. Since these mobile heavy machinery are categorized as heavy equipment, there are numerous safety standards that apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts sit upon a wheeled base so they could move around to access a wider variety of areas. These pieces of equipment have been designed to move heavier loads, equipment and even employees down and up to work locations. For safety reasons, workers are not allowed to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Usually, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the machine while it is being utilized. All employees working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the equipment need to be informed regarding its movement prior to the operator releasing the safety brake in order to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machines helps keep the working environment and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
In order to ensure that employees prevent falling when utilizing the machine, there are several safety rules to consider regarding forklift safety standards. Though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter along with a lock that should be engaged on the lift platform entrance each and every time the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another safety habit which workers should think about is to make sure that all loads are fastened safely prior to any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.