Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machinery are referred to as "moveable scaffolds," based on the OSHA. These industrial machinery are capable of raising heavy and large loads that are balanced well. They are responsible for moving employees and their supplies to and from high places in an efficient and safe way. As these mobile heavy machines are classified as heavy equipment, there are many safety requirements which apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts sit upon a wheeled base so they can move around to access a wider variety of areas. These pieces of equipment have been designed to move heavier cargo, equipment and even workers down and up to work areas. For safety reasons, employees are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Typically, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the machinery while it is being utilized. All employees working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the machine should be informed regarding 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 people in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several stringent safety rules to follow about the safety standards for the scissor lifts with a purpose to make certain that employees do not fall from the lift when they are using it. Even if scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like guard rails positioned around the lift perimeter as well as a lock that should be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
Another safety habit that employees must consider is to make sure that all loads are fastened securely prior to any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anyone to be injured.