Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machines are known as "moveable scaffolds," according to the OSHA. These industrial machines are capable of lifting heavy and large loads which are balanced well. They are responsible for transporting workers and their materials to and from high areas in an efficient and safe way. As these mobile heavy machinery are categorized as heavy equipment, there are many 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 employees up and down to work areas. 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 utilized. All employees working directly with as well as around the machinery must 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 those in it safe.
Fall Protection
To be able to guarantee that workers prevent falling when utilizing the machine, there are some safety rules to think about regarding forklift safety standards. Although scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features such as guard rails placed around the lift perimeter in addition to a lock that should be engaged on the lift platform entrance each time the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
One more safety habit which employees must think about is to make certain that all cargo are fastened securely prior to any lifting. This must ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.