Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machines are called "moveable scaffolds," according to the OSHA. These industrial machinery are capable of raising heavy and large cargo that are balanced well. They are responsible for moving workers and their supplies to and from high elevations efficiently and safely. As these mobile heavy equipment are classified as heavy machines, there are a lot of safety requirements which apply to the use and maintenance of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts can be moved on wheels or driven around to make them able to access a variety of places. These pieces of machinery have been designed to move heavy cargo, individuals and equipment up or down from height. For safety reasons, workers are not allowed to ride on a scissor lift while relocating. Typically, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the machine while it is being used. All employees working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the machine must be informed about its movement prior to the driver releasing the safety brake to be able to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy machines helps keep the working environment and all people in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several stringent safety regulations to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts in an effort to make sure that employees do not fall from the lift when they are utilizing it. Though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features such as guard rails placed around the lift perimeter in addition to a lock which should be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another safety habit which workers must think about is to make sure that all loads are fastened securely before any lifting. This should ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.