Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
According to both OSHA and HRSDC, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial equipment capable of raising heavy and big cargo that are well balanced. They are responsible for transporting employees and their supplies to and from high elevations efficiently and safely. As these mobile heavy machines are categorized as heavy machinery, there are numerous safety standards that apply to the maintenance and use of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts can be moved on wheels or driven around to make them able to access a variety of areas. These pieces of machines have been designed to transport heavy cargo, people and equipment up or down from height. For safety reasons, employees are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift during the relocation process. Usually, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the equipment while it is being used. All staff working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the equipment should be informed regarding its movement prior to the operator releasing the safety brake in order 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 in an effort to make sure that workers do not fall from the lift when they are operating it. Even though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features like guard rails placed around the lift perimeter as well as a lock which should be engaged on the lift platform entrance every time 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 certain that all cargo are fastened safely prior to any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.