Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
According to both HRSDC and OSHA, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machinery capable of raising heavy and large loads which are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting employees and their supplies to and from high areas in a safe and efficient manner. Because these mobile heavy machinery are categorized as heavy machinery, 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 various areas. These pieces of machinery have been designed to move heavy cargo, people and equipment up or down from height. For safety reasons, workers are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Typically, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the equipment while it is being utilized. All staff working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the machinery have to 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 equipment helps keep the working environment and all people in it safe.
Fall Protection
In order to guarantee that workers prevent falling when using the machinery, there are some safety rules to consider regarding forklift safety standards. Though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like for example guard rails placed around the lift perimeter in addition to a lock which must 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 should consider is to make sure that all cargo are fastened safely prior to any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.