Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Based on both OSHA and HRSDC, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machinery capable of lifting heavy and large loads which are well balanced. They are responsible for moving workers and their materials to and from high elevations safely and efficiently. Because these mobile heavy equipment are classified as heavy machines, there are many safety requirements that apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts could be driven around or moved on wheels to make them able to access a variety of areas. These pieces of equipment 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. Usually, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the machinery while it is being used. All staff working directly with as well as around the equipment should be informed about its movement prior to the operator releasing the safety brake to be able 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 using the machine, there are some 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 in addition to a lock which should be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
One more good safety habit workers must make is ensuring that heavy cargo or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a secure manner prior to moving the lift to be certain that nothing causes anyone on the lift platform to become injured.