Safety Requirements for Scissor Lifts
Scissor lift machines are called "moveable scaffolds," according to the OSHA. These industrial machines are capable of raising heavy and big loads that are well balanced. They are responsible for moving workers and their materials to and from high elevations in an efficient and safe manner. Since these mobile heavy equipment are categorized as heavy equipment, there are many safety requirements that apply to the use and maintenance of scissor lifts.
Movement
Scissor lifts can be driven around or moved on wheels to make them able to access various areas. These pieces of machines have been designed to move heavy loads, individuals and equipment down or up from height. For safety reasons, workers are not permitted to ride on a scissor lift when relocating. Generally, this is to help make sure that no one falls from the machine while it is being utilized. All employees working around a scissor lift as well as directly with the machine should 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 people in it safe.
Fall Protection
There are some strict safety regulations to follow regarding the safety standards for the scissor lifts with a purpose to make sure that employees do not fall from the lift when they are using 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 that should be engaged on the lift platform entrance every time the lift is being used. There are also slip guards in position for added safety.
Another good safety habit employees must make is ensuring that heavy loads or anything on the lift platform is fastened down in a safe manner prior to moving the lift to be certain that nothing causes anyone on the lift platform to become injured.