Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Based on both OSHA and HRSDC, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial equipment capable of lifting heavy and big cargo that are well balanced. They are responsible for moving employees and their materials to and from high places safely and efficiently. Since these mobile heavy equipment are classified as heavy equipment, there are numerous safety standards which apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts sit upon a wheeled base so they could move around to access a wider variety of places. These pieces of equipment have been designed to move heavier loads, equipment and even workers up and down to work areas. For safety reasons, workers are not allowed to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Generally, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the machinery while it is being utilized. All staff working directly with as well as around the machinery should be informed regarding its movement prior to the driver releasing the safety brake to be able to make the lift move. Constant communication around heavy equipment helps keep the working place and all individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several stringent safety regulations to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts with a purpose to make certain that employees do not fall from the lift when they are utilizing it. Although scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like guard rails placed around the lift perimeter as well as a lock that needs to be engaged on the lift platform entrance each time the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another safety habit which employees must consider is to make certain that all cargo are fastened safely before any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.