Disadvantages of Using Scissor Lifts
Scissor lifts are a type of "mobile scaffolding", with a wheel-mounted machine which gives power to a work platform which moves up and down. The lift can be powered by electricity, propane, diesel or gas. Scissor lifts are characterized by various scissor-like joints that lift the machinery by collapsing and expanding. Numerous safety features are built into modern scissor lifts, especially the newer models. As with any safety features, they may not be able to guarantee safety and several features could be manually overridden by operators or they could sometimes malfunction.
Accidental Elevation
Normally, construction workers utilize scissor lifts to work on higher aspects of the jobsites or on ceilings. The workers will need to raise the platforms just to right below the level of the ceiling. The problem with accidental elevation can happen if the workers bump into the elevation controls inadvertently when working. In the ceiling scenario, the controls could be accidentally activated and the platform can rise up and accidentally crush them into the ceiling.
Electrocution
Another way workers need to be really cautious is to be sure they know the surroundings they are in while using the machinery in order to ensure they don't unintentionally electrocute themselves. If, for instance, the operator accidentally touches or makes direct contact with an electrical conductor or an induction field, tragic outcome can occur.
Lateral Loads
While using a scissor lift, it is vital know the loading restrictions in the guidebook of your scissor lift. Very serious consequences could take place if the platform is mis-loaded. A lateral-load is amongst the possible issues which could happen if the entire lift overturns. This situation happens when a heavy tool or material such as a concrete slab that hangs over the side of a scissor lift platform, causing the entire machine to become instantly unbalanced and greatly prone to dangerously tipping over.