Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Based on both HRSDC and OSHA, scissor lifts or "movable scaffolds" are industrial machines capable of lifting heavy and big cargo that are balanced well. They are responsible for moving employees and their materials to and from high places safely and efficiently. Since these mobile heavy machines are classified as heavy machines, there are numerous safety requirements which 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 a variety of areas. These pieces of machines have been designed to transport heavy loads, individuals and equipment up or down from height. For safety reasons, employees are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift while relocating. Generally, this is to help make certain that no one falls from the equipment while it is being utilized. All employees working directly with as well as around the machine need to be informed about 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 individuals in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are several stringent safety regulations to follow about the safety standards for the scissor lifts with a purpose to make sure that workers do not fall from the lift when they are using it. Even though scissor lifts are not required to be enclosed, there are features such as guard rails placed around the lift perimeter along with a lock which should be engaged on the lift platform entrance whenever the lift is being utilized. There are also slip guards in place for added safety.
One more safety habit that employees should think about is to make sure that all loads are fastened securely before any lifting. This should ensure that nothing on the lift platform causes anybody to be injured.